Florida Department of Health

Florida Health logo

Florida Department of Health

150px
Agency overview
Formed	1996
Jurisdiction	Florida
Headquarters	Tallahassee, Florida

The Florida Department of Health (DOH) is a state agency responsible for protecting and promoting the health of all residents and visitors in the state of Florida. The department was established in 1996 and operates under the jurisdiction of the state government of Florida. The headquarters of the Florida Department of Health is located in Tallahassee, Florida.

History

The Florida Department of Health was created in 1996 following the merger of several health-related agencies and programs. The department was established to streamline health services and improve the efficiency and effectiveness of public health initiatives in the state.

Functions and Responsibilities

The Florida Department of Health is tasked with a wide range of responsibilities, including:

• Public health surveillance and disease control
• Health education and promotion
• Environmental health services
• Emergency preparedness and response
• Licensing and regulation of health professionals and facilities
• Maternal and child health services
• Chronic disease prevention and management
• Infectious disease prevention and control

Divisions and Programs

The Florida Department of Health is organized into several divisions and programs, each focusing on specific areas of public health. Some of the key divisions include:

• Division of Disease Control and Health Protection
• Division of Community Health Promotion
• Division of Emergency Preparedness and Community Support
• Division of Medical Quality Assurance
• Division of Public Health Statistics and Performance Management

County Health Departments

The Florida Department of Health operates county health departments in all 67 counties in Florida. These local health departments provide essential public health services to residents and visitors, including immunizations, disease screenings, and health education programs.

Leadership

The Florida Department of Health is led by a State Surgeon General, who is appointed by the Governor of Florida. The State Surgeon General oversees the department's operations and ensures that public health policies and programs are effectively implemented.

See also

• Centers for Disease Control and Prevention
• United States Department of Health and Human Services
• Public health in the United States
• Florida Agency for Health Care Administration