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The
mission of the Allen County Health Department is to protect and
improve the health of all Allen County citizens by preventing
disease and promoting good health and access to quality health care.
What
Does the Local Health Department Do in Your Community?
Your
local health department or “public health department” - is a leader
in improving the health and well-being of your community. Your
health department is responsible for:
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Protecting
you from health threats.
Your
health department works to prevent disease outbreaks and
makes sure the tap water you drink, the restaurant food you
eat and the air you breathe are all safe. It’s also ready to
respond to any health emergency—be it bioterrorism, SARS,
West Nile Virus or an environmental hazard.
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Educating
you and your neighbors about health issues.
Your
health department gives you information about making healthy
decisions, like exercising more, eating right, quitting
smoking or simply washing your hands to keep from spreading
illness. During a public health emergency, your health
department also provides important alerts and warnings to
protect your health.
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Providing
healthy solutions.
Your health department offers the preventive care you need
to avoid disease and maintain your health. It provides flu
shots for the elderly and helps mothers get prenatal care to
give their babies a healthy start. Your health department
also helps provide children with regular check-ups,
immunizations, and good nutrition to help them grow and
learn.
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Advancing
community health.
Your
health department takes part in developing new policies and
standards that address existing and emerging challenges to
your community’s health while enforcing a range of laws to
help keep you safe. Your health department works through
research and staff training to maintain expertise and
deliver up-to-date, cutting-edge health programs. |
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