Wis Department Of Health
- Overview: Understanding the role and mission of the Wisconsin Department of Health.
- Leadership: Meet the team of professionals guiding the strategic direction of the department.
- Public Health Services: Discover the programs and services provided by the department to promote healthy living.
- Healthcare Quality and Safety: Learn how the department works to ensure the highest level of quality and safety in healthcare delivery statewide.
- Epidemiology and Informatics: Understanding the advanced data analytics and information technology processes utilized to monitor and track population health trends.
- Communicable Disease Control and Prevention: Discover the measures in place to prevent the spread of infectious diseases within the state.
- Environmental Health: Explore the department's mission to ensure the safety of Wisconsin's natural resources and the environment.
- Emergency Preparedness: Learn how the department is equipped to respond to and manage public health emergencies in the state.
- Research and Evaluation: Discover how the department is advancing the field of public health through cutting-edge research and evaluation practices.
- Employment Opportunities: Find information about current job openings and how to pursue a career with the Wisconsin Department of Health.
Overview
The Wisconsin Department of Health is responsible for promoting and protecting the health and well-being of all residents of the state. The department's mission is to provide leadership, guidance, and support to local communities and healthcare providers in their efforts to prevent disease, promote healthy lifestyles, and ensure access to high-quality healthcare services. The department operates under the direction of Secretary-designee Karen Timberlake, who leads a team of dedicated professionals committed to advancing public health in Wisconsin.Leadership
In addition to Secretary-designee Timberlake, the Wisconsin Department of Health is guided by a team of experienced leaders in the fields of medicine, public health, and healthcare administration. These individuals work together to develop and implement strategic initiatives aimed at improving the health outcomes of Wisconsin residents. Some of the key members of the department's leadership team include Deputy Secretary Julie Willems Van Dijk, State Health Officer Dr. Ryan Westergaard, and Division Administrator Jennifer Miller.Public Health Services
The Wisconsin Department of Health offers a wide range of programs and services designed to promote healthy living and prevent disease. Some of the department's key areas of focus include maternal and child health, chronic disease prevention, injury prevention, and tobacco control. The department also provides access to immunizations, cancer screenings, and other preventive healthcare services through its network of local health departments and community partners.Maternal and Child Health
One of the core areas of focus for the Wisconsin Department of Health is maternal and child health. The department works to reduce infant mortality rates, improve access to prenatal care, and promote healthy birth outcomes for all Wisconsin families. This includes providing education and resources to new parents, as well as partnering with healthcare providers and community organizations to ensure that all mothers and babies receive the care they need.Chronic Disease Prevention
Chronic diseases such as heart disease, diabetes, and cancer are major health concerns in Wisconsin and across the country. The Wisconsin Department of Health is committed to reducing the impact of these diseases on individuals and communities through prevention efforts such as education, early detection, and lifestyle interventions. The department also works to address health disparities among populations that are at higher risk for chronic disease.Injury Prevention
Unintentional injuries are a leading cause of death and disability in Wisconsin. The Wisconsin Department of Health works to reduce the incidence of injuries through public education, policy development, and community-based prevention programs. This includes initiatives aimed at preventing falls among older adults, reducing the incidence of motor vehicle crashes, and promoting safe practices in the workplace.Tobacco Control
Tobacco use is a major public health issue in Wisconsin, with significant health and economic consequences. The Wisconsin Department of Health is committed to reducing tobacco use through prevention and cessation efforts, including education campaigns, policy development, and support for tobacco-free environments. The department also provides resources and support to individuals who are trying to quit smoking or using other tobacco products.Healthcare Quality and Safety
The Wisconsin Department of Health is dedicated to ensuring that all residents of the state have access to high-quality healthcare services that are safe, effective, and patient-centered. The department works closely with healthcare providers and facilities to promote best practices in clinical care, patient safety, and quality improvement. This includes providing guidance on infection control, medication safety, and emergency preparedness, as well as monitoring healthcare outcomes and enforcing regulatory requirements.Epidemiology and Informatics
The Wisconsin Department of Health utilizes advanced data analytics and information technology to monitor and track population health trends, identify emerging health threats, and inform public health policy and practice. The department's epidemiologists and informatics professionals work closely with healthcare providers, local health departments, and other stakeholders to collect and analyze data on a wide range of health issues, from infectious disease outbreaks to chronic disease prevalence.Communicable Disease Control and Prevention
The Wisconsin Department of Health is responsible for preventing the spread of communicable diseases within the state. This includes monitoring trends in infectious disease incidence, providing guidance on prevention and treatment, and responding to outbreaks as they occur. The department also works to promote vaccination and other preventive measures to reduce the risk of transmission.Environmental Health
In addition to its work in clinical and public health settings, the Wisconsin Department of Health is committed to ensuring the safety of the state's natural resources and environment. This includes monitoring air and water quality, regulating hazardous waste disposal, and promoting healthy environments for living and working. The department also provides guidance and support to local communities and businesses on environmental health issues.Emergency Preparedness
The Wisconsin Department of Health maintains a robust emergency preparedness program designed to respond to and manage public health emergencies in the state. This includes coordinating with local and state agencies, healthcare providers, and other stakeholders to plan for and respond to natural disasters, disease outbreaks, and other emergencies. The department also works to educate the public on emergency preparedness and response.Research and Evaluation
The Wisconsin Department of Health is committed to advancing the field of public health through cutting-edge research and evaluation practices. The department's research team conducts studies on a variety of health topics, from chronic disease prevention to healthcare quality improvement. The department also evaluates the effectiveness of its programs and services to ensure that they are meeting the needs of Wisconsin residents.Employment Opportunities
For individuals interested in pursuing a career in public health, the Wisconsin Department of Health offers a variety of employment opportunities in areas such as epidemiology, environmental health, healthcare quality improvement, and emergency preparedness. Information on current job openings and application procedures can be found on the department's website. The department also offers internships and other opportunities for students and recent graduates to gain hands-on experience in the field of public health.Frequently Asked Questions - Wisconsin Department of Health
What services does the Wisconsin Department of Health provide?
The Wisconsin Department of Health provides a wide range of services including: disease prevention and control, public health emergency preparedness, healthcare quality assurance, environmental health, and health promotion and education.
How can I obtain a birth or death certificate?
You can obtain a birth or death certificate by contacting the Wisconsin Department of Health Vital Records Office. You can request a certificate in person, by mail, or online.
What is the Wisconsin Immunization Registry?
The Wisconsin Immunization Registry is a confidential computerized database that tracks immunization records for Wisconsin residents of all ages. It is used to ensure that individuals receive the appropriate vaccinations according to their age, health status, and other factors.
How can I report a public health concern?
You can report a public health concern by contacting the Wisconsin Department of Health. You can call their toll-free number or submit an online complaint form. All reports are kept confidential.
