Georgia Department of Public Health

Georgia Department of Public Health (GDPH) is the primary agency in Georgia responsible for ensuring the health and well-being of the state's residents. The department is headquartered in Atlanta, Georgia.

History

The Georgia Department of Public Health was established in 1875, making it one of the oldest public health agencies in the United States. The department was initially created to combat the spread of yellow fever and malaria.

Structure

The GDPH is headed by a Commissioner, who is appointed by the Governor of Georgia. The department is divided into several divisions, each responsible for a specific area of public health.

Divisions

• Division of Health Protection - This division is responsible for protecting the public from environmental and health hazards.
• Division of Epidemiology - This division is responsible for tracking and investigating disease outbreaks and other public health emergencies.
• Division of Health Promotion - This division is responsible for promoting healthy lifestyles and preventing chronic diseases.

Functions

The GDPH has a wide range of functions, including disease prevention, emergency preparedness, health promotion, and environmental health protection. The department also operates the state's public health laboratories and administers various public health programs.

See also

• Public health
• Centers for Disease Control and Prevention
• Health department

External links

• Official website