About the Houston Health Department
Health Services Offered by HHD
- Immunization and Wellness Services
- Environmental Health Services
- Communicable Disease Control and Prevention
- School Health and Wellness
- Healthy Aging and Wellness
Community Health Initiatives
- Healthy Houston Initiative
- Houston Complete Communities Initiative
- Houston Health Equity Action Plan
- Tobacco Free Houston
Emergency Preparedness and Response
- Public Health Emergency Management
- Community Emergency Response Team Program
- Disaster Medical Assistance Team
- Surge Support Team
- Emergency Operations Center
Health Data and Research
- Data and Surveillance Division
- Epidemiology and Public Health Research Program
Community Partnerships and Engagement
- Advisory Committees
- Community Health Improvement Plan
- Houston Health Foundation
- Houston Health Department Volunteers
Career Opportunities at HHD
- Current Job Opportunities
- Internships and Fellowships
Get Involved with the Houston Health Department
- Health Education and Promotion Events
- Volunteer Opportunities
- Community Programs and Partnerships
- Donations and Sponsorships
Contact Information for HHD
- Department Address and Phone Number
- Email and Fax Contacts
- Social Media and Online Resources
The Houston Health Department (HHD) is a government agency that is committed to promoting and protecting the health and well-being of all residents in the city of Houston. The HHD provides a variety of health services for the community, including immunization and wellness services, environmental health services, communicable disease control and prevention, school health and wellness, and healthy aging and wellness programs. These services are available to individuals and families, as well as schools, businesses, and other organizations. The HHD also leads several community health initiatives that focus on improving the overall health and quality of life for everyone in the community.One such initiative is the Healthy Houston Initiative, which aims to reduce the prevalence of chronic diseases such as diabetes, heart disease, and cancer. This initiative promotes healthy lifestyles through education and awareness campaigns, as well as by creating environments that support healthy behaviors. Another important initiative is the Houston Complete Communities Initiative, which focuses on improving the physical, social, and economic conditions in underserved neighborhoods throughout the city. This initiative is designed to promote equity and help ensure that all residents have access to the resources and opportunities they need to live healthy, fulfilling lives.The Houston Health Equity Action Plan is another key program that addresses health disparities and inequities in the city. This plan focuses on identifying and addressing the root causes of these disparities, and works to promote health equity for all residents, regardless of their race, ethnicity, income, or other factors. Additionally, the HHD leads the Tobacco Free Houston initiative, which aims to reduce tobacco use and exposure to secondhand smoke in the city.In addition to these community health initiatives, the HHD also plays a critical role in emergency preparedness and response. The department has a robust public health emergency management program, which includes a community emergency response team program, a disaster medical assistance team, a surge support team, and an emergency operations center. These resources enable the HHD to respond quickly and effectively to natural disasters, disease outbreaks, and other public health emergencies.The HHD also conducts important health data and research activities, which are essential for understanding the health needs and challenges facing the community. The department's data and surveillance division collects and analyzes health data from a variety of sources, including hospitals, clinics, and other health care providers. The epidemiology and public health research program uses this data to identify trends and patterns in disease incidence and prevalence, and to develop strategies for preventing and controlling diseases.Community partnerships and engagement are also a key focus for the HHD. The department works closely with advisory committees, community organizations, and other stakeholders to develop and implement community health improvement plans. The Houston Health Foundation is another important partner, providing funding and support for public health programs and initiatives. The HHD also relies on volunteers to help support its mission, offering a range of volunteer opportunities for individuals and groups.For those interested in pursuing a career in public health, the HHD offers a variety of job opportunities, as well as internships and fellowships for students and recent graduates. These positions provide valuable experience in a variety of areas, including epidemiology, environmental health, emergency preparedness, and community engagement.Finally, for those who want to get involved with the HHD and support its mission, there are many ways to do so. The department hosts health education and promotion events throughout the year, and welcomes volunteers to help with these efforts. Community programs and partnerships are also available for those who want to make a difference in their neighborhoods. Additionally, donations and sponsorships are always appreciated, and can help support the HHD's important work.Overall, the Houston Health Department is a vital resource for the city of Houston, providing a wide range of health services, community health initiatives, emergency preparedness and response, health data and research, and community partnerships and engagement. Whether you are a resident, a business owner, or someone interested in public health, the HHD offers many opportunities to get involved and make a difference in your community.
Frequently Asked Questions about Houston Health Department
What services does the Houston Health Department provide?
The Houston Health Department provides a wide range of public health services, including immunizations, child health and wellness, disease control and prevention, environmental health, and emergency preparedness and response.
How can I get a copy of my birth certificate from the Houston Health Department?
You can request a copy of your birth certificate from the Houston Health Department by visiting their Vital Statistics office in person or by submitting a request online or by mail. You will need to provide proof of identity and pay a fee for the copy.
Does the Houston Health Department offer HIV testing?
Yes, the Houston Health Department offers free and confidential HIV testing at several locations throughout the city. They also offer counseling and referrals for treatment and support services.
What should I do if I suspect a foodborne illness?
If you suspect that you have contracted a foodborne illness, you should contact the Houston Health Department's Bureau of Consumer Health Services. They will investigate the source of the illness and take appropriate action to prevent further outbreaks.
Does the Houston Health Department provide mental health services?
The Houston Health Department does not directly provide mental health services, but they do offer referrals to community resources for mental health care and support.
