The Department of Health's mission is to preserve, protect and promote the health of all County residents. In fulfilling its mission, the Department of Health:

• assesses the County's health problems, needs and resources
• organizes effective public and private sector strategies to address the needs
• provides services directly to County residents to meet local health goals

The services and facilities of the Department of Health are available to all without regard to race, color, religion, political affiliation or opinion, national origin, age, sex, sexual orientation or disability.

Through the Department of Health, some personal health services, such as tuberculosis treatment, are free to all. Other services are charged according to a sliding fee scale based on residents' income. Environmental health inspections and permit fees are County-determined.

Successful public health extends beyond clinics and reaches into communities. The Department of Health's outreach programs can be found in County schools, community centers, churches, senior centers and residents' homes.

County residents, private health practitioners and government agencies are partners with the Department of Health in fulfilling its mission.

While residents have primary responsibility for their health, the Department of Health provides education, referrals, screenings and, when needed, treatment for certain conditions to help residents be as healthy as they can be.