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Department Of Public Health Texas

  • Introduction
  • History of the Department of Public Health Texas
  • Mission and Goals of the Department of Public Health Texas
  • Services provided by the Department of Public Health Texas
  • Public Health Programs offered by the Department of Public Health Texas
  • Public Health Services provided by the Department of Public Health Texas
  • Public Health Statistics and Data provided by the Department of Public Health Texas
  • Public Health Resources and News offered by the Department of Public Health Texas
  • Career Opportunities within the Department of Public Health Texas
  • Contact Information for the Department of Public Health Texas

Introduction

The Department of Public Health Texas is an essential state agency that is committed to promoting and protecting the health and well-being of all Texans. The department provides a wide range of public health services, including disease prevention and control, health promotion, and environmental health. It offers various programs and resources that aim to improve the overall health status of individuals and communities across the state.

History of the Department of Public Health Texas

The Department of Public Health Texas was established in 1903 as the Texas State Board of Health. Over the years, the department has undergone several name changes and restructuring efforts to address the changing needs of the population it serves. In 2017, the department merged with the Texas Department of Aging and Disability Services to form the Texas Health and Human Services Commission.

Mission and Goals of the Department of Public Health Texas

The mission of the Department of Public Health Texas is to promote and protect the health of all Texans through leadership, partnerships, and innovation. Its primary goals are to prevent the spread of communicable diseases, reduce chronic disease risk factors, promote healthy lifestyles, and ensure access to quality healthcare.

Services provided by the Department of Public Health Texas

The Department of Public Health Texas provides a wide range of services to Texans, including immunizations, disease surveillance and investigation, family planning, HIV testing and counseling, and tuberculosis screening and treatment. It also offers environmental health services, such as food safety inspections and water quality monitoring, and emergency preparedness and response services.

Public Health Programs offered by the Department of Public Health Texas

The Department of Public Health Texas offers various public health programs that aim to improve the health status of Texans. These programs include the Texas WIC (Women, Infants, and Children) Program, which provides nutrition education and support to low-income women, infants, and children; the Texas Health Steps program, which offers preventive healthcare services to children under the age of 21; and the Texas Tobacco Prevention and Control Program, which works to reduce tobacco use and its related health risks.

Public Health Services provided by the Department of Public Health Texas

The Department of Public Health Texas provides a broad range of public health services to Texans, including disease prevention and control, health promotion, and environmental health. It works closely with local health departments, healthcare providers, community organizations, and other stakeholders to ensure that these services are accessible and effective.

Public Health Statistics and Data provided by the Department of Public Health Texas

The Department of Public Health Texas collects, analyzes, and disseminates public health data and statistics to inform policy and decision-making at the state and local levels. It publishes various reports and publications, such as the Texas Public Health Annual Report, which provides an overview of the state's public health status and priorities, and the Texas Health Data website, which offers access to a wide range of health-related data and statistics.

Public Health Resources and News offered by the Department of Public Health Texas

The Department of Public Health Texas offers a variety of resources and news to Texans on various public health issues. Its website provides information on topics such as emergency preparedness, immunizations, healthy living, and infectious diseases. It also offers various educational materials, such as brochures, fact sheets, and videos, on these topics.

Career Opportunities within the Department of Public Health Texas

The Department of Public Health Texas offers a wide range of career opportunities for individuals interested in working in the public health field. These include positions in epidemiology, health education, environmental health, healthcare administration, and emergency preparedness and response. The department provides various training and development opportunities to help employees grow and advance in their careers.

Contact Information for the Department of Public Health Texas

For more information about the Department of Public Health Texas, including its services, programs, and career opportunities, visit its website at www.dshs.texas.gov or call its toll-free hotline at 1-888-963-7111. The department also has regional offices located throughout the state that can provide assistance and resources to local communities.

Department of Public Health Texas - Frequently Asked Questions

What services are provided by the Department of Public Health Texas?

The Department of Public Health Texas provides a wide range of services including immunizations, STD testing and treatment, TB testing and treatment, maternal and child health services, environmental health services, and emergency preparedness and response.

How can I get a copy of my birth certificate from the Department of Public Health Texas?

You can order a copy of your birth certificate online, by mail, or in person through the Texas Vital Statistics Unit, which is part of the Department of State Health Services. Fees and processing times vary depending on the method you choose.

What should I do if I suspect an outbreak of a disease in my community?

If you suspect an outbreak of a disease in your community, contact your local health department immediately. They will investigate the situation, identify the disease and take steps to prevent it from spreading further.

What are the requirements for getting a food handler's permit in Texas?

To get a food handler's permit in Texas, you must complete an approved food handler training course and pass a test. The training can be taken online or in person, and the permit is valid for two years.