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Minnesota Department Of Health Services

  • About Minnesota Department of Health Services:
  • The Vision of MN DHS:
  • Mission & Values of MN DHS:
  • Key Services Provided by MN DHS:
  • Public Health Concerns in Minnesota:
  • Partnerships & Collaborations:
  • Leadership Team of MN DHS:
  • Employment Opportunities at MN DHS:
  • Contact Information for MN DHS:
  • News & Updates from MN DHS:

About Minnesota Department of Health Services:

The Minnesota Department of Health Services (MN DHS) is a state agency that provides public health services to the residents of Minnesota. The agency was established in 1957, and its headquarters are located in St. Paul, Minnesota. MN DHS employs over 5,000 people across the state and is responsible for protecting, maintaining, and improving the health of all Minnesotans.

The Vision of MN DHS:

The vision of MN DHS is to create a healthy, sustainable, and equitable Minnesota. The agency aims to achieve this vision by promoting healthy behaviors, preventing illness and injury, and ensuring access to high-quality health care for all Minnesotans.

Mission & Values of MN DHS:

The mission of MN DHS is to protect, maintain, and improve the health of all Minnesotans. To achieve this mission, the agency operates under the following values:

  • Integrity: we operate with honesty, transparency, and accountability.
  • Collaboration: we work together with our partners to achieve our mission.
  • Equity: we strive to eliminate health disparities and promote health equity for all Minnesotans.
  • Innovation: we continuously seek new and creative solutions to improve health outcomes.

Key Services Provided by MN DHS:

MN DHS provides a wide range of public health services to the residents of Minnesota. Some of the key services provided by the agency include:

  • Health Care Programs: MN DHS administers several public health care programs, including Medical Assistance, MinnesotaCare, and the Minnesota Family Planning Program. These programs provide access to affordable health care for low-income Minnesotans.
  • Public Health Surveillance: MN DHS collects and analyzes data on a variety of health issues in Minnesota, including infectious diseases, chronic diseases, and injuries. This data is used to identify public health concerns and develop strategies to address them.
  • Environmental Health: MN DHS monitors and regulates environmental factors that can impact public health, such as air and water quality, food safety, and hazardous waste disposal.
  • Emergency Preparedness: MN DHS is responsible for coordinating the state's response to public health emergencies, such as natural disasters or disease outbreaks.

Public Health Concerns in Minnesota:

Minnesota faces several public health concerns that are a priority for MN DHS. These concerns include:

  • Opioid Epidemic: Minnesota has seen a significant increase in opioid-related deaths in recent years. MN DHS is working to address this crisis by increasing access to addiction treatment and improving prescribing practices.
  • Tobacco Use: Tobacco use remains a leading cause of preventable death in Minnesota. MN DHS is working to reduce smoking rates and promote smoke-free environments across the state.
  • Obesity: Obesity is a major risk factor for chronic diseases such as diabetes and heart disease. MN DHS is working to promote healthy eating and physical activity to prevent obesity in Minnesota.

Partnerships & Collaborations:

MN DHS works closely with a variety of partners to achieve its public health goals. Some of these partners include:

  • Local Public Health Agencies: MN DHS partners with local public health agencies to deliver public health services at the community level.
  • Health Care Providers: MN DHS works with health care providers to ensure access to high-quality health care for all Minnesotans.
  • Community Organizations: MN DHS partners with community organizations to promote healthy behaviors and address public health concerns.

Leadership Team of MN DHS:

The leadership team of MN DHS is responsible for guiding the agency's strategic direction and ensuring the delivery of high-quality public health services. The current leadership team includes:

  • Commissioner Jan Malcolm: Commissioner Malcolm has over 35 years of experience in health care and public health. She was appointed as commissioner of MN DHS in 2018.
  • Deputy Commissioner Dan Pollock: Deputy Commissioner Pollock has over 25 years of experience in public health and government. He oversees the day-to-day operations of MN DHS.
  • Assistant Commissioner Claire Wilson: Assistant Commissioner Wilson leads MN DHS's efforts to address health disparities and promote health equity across the state.

Employment Opportunities at MN DHS:

MN DHS offers a variety of employment opportunities for individuals interested in public health. Some of the current job openings at the agency include:

  • Public Health Nurse: Public health nurses provide direct care to patients and families in a variety of settings, including clinics, homes, and schools.
  • Epidemiologist: Epidemiologists collect and analyze data on health issues to identify trends and develop strategies to address public health concerns.
  • Health Program Representative: Health program representatives work with health care providers and community organizations to promote public health initiatives and increase access to health care.

Contact Information for MN DHS:

For more information about MN DHS and its public health services, individuals can visit the agency's website at www.health.state.mn.us or contact the agency directly:

  • Minnesota Department of Health Services
  • 625 Robert Street North
  • St. Paul, MN 55155
  • Phone: (651) 201-5000

News & Updates from MN DHS:

MN DHS regularly provides news and updates on public health issues in Minnesota. Individuals can stay up-to-date on the latest news from the agency by visiting the MN DHS website or following the agency on social media:

  • Twitter: @mnhealth
  • Facebook: @MinnesotaDepartmentofHealth
  • YouTube: Minnesota Department of Health

Frequently Asked Questions about Minnesota Department of Health Services

What is the purpose of the Minnesota Department of Health Services?

The purpose of the Minnesota Department of Health Services is to protect, maintain, and improve the health of all Minnesotans. This is achieved through various programs and initiatives aimed at preventing and controlling diseases, promoting healthy behaviors, and ensuring access to quality healthcare.

What services does the Minnesota Department of Health offer?

The Minnesota Department of Health offers a wide range of services, including disease prevention and control, health promotion, environmental health, emergency preparedness and response, healthcare regulation, and public health laboratory testing and analysis.

How do I apply for healthcare programs through the Minnesota Department of Health?

To apply for healthcare programs through the Minnesota Department of Health, you can visit their website or call their toll-free number to learn more about eligibility requirements and application procedures. Some of the programs offered include Medical Assistance, MinnesotaCare, and the Health Insurance Marketplace.

What steps is the Minnesota Department of Health taking to address the COVID-19 pandemic?

The Minnesota Department of Health has implemented various measures to address the COVID-19 pandemic, including testing and contact tracing, vaccine distribution, public education and awareness campaigns, and guidance for businesses and schools. They are also working closely with healthcare providers and local health departments to monitor and respond to the spread of the virus.