Durham County Department of Public Health: Protecting and Promoting Community Well-being

The Durham County Department of Public Health (DCDPH) stands as a beacon of hope and a guardian of health for the community. Guided by a mission to protect and promote the health and well-being of all residents, DCDPH offers a comprehensive range of services and programs that address the diverse needs of the population.

From disease prevention and health promotion initiatives to environmental health safeguards, DCDPH works tirelessly to create a healthier and more equitable Durham County.

DCDPH’s commitment to community engagement is evident in its collaborative efforts with local organizations, businesses, and individuals. The department recognizes the importance of partnerships in achieving lasting positive change and leverages its expertise to address the unique public health challenges faced by the county.

Through data-driven approaches, innovative programs, and a dedication to public health principles, DCDPH strives to create a healthier future for all Durham residents.

Table of Contents

Mission and Vision

The Durham County Department of Public Health (DCoPH) is dedicated to improving the health and well-being of all residents of Durham County. Its mission and vision statements provide a clear roadmap for achieving this goal.

Mission Statement

The DCoPH’s mission statement is: “To protect and promote the health and well-being of all residents of Durham County.” This statement emphasizes the department’s commitment to providing comprehensive public health services to everyone in the county, regardless of their background or circumstances.

Vision Statement

The department’s vision statement is: “A healthy Durham County where all residents have the opportunity to live long, healthy, and fulfilling lives.” This statement Artikels the ultimate goal of the DCoPH, which is to create a community where everyone has the opportunity to thrive.

Core Values

The DCoPH’s core values guide its work and ensure that its programs and services are aligned with its mission and vision. These values are:

Equity:The DCoPH believes that everyone should have access to quality health care and services, regardless of their race, ethnicity, gender, sexual orientation, socioeconomic status, or disability.
Collaboration:The department recognizes the importance of working with community partners to address health issues and improve the health of the community.
Innovation:The DCoPH is committed to using the latest evidence-based practices and innovative approaches to address health challenges.
Accountability:The department is accountable to the community it serves and strives to provide transparent and effective public health services.

Examples of Mission and Vision in Action

The DCoPH’s mission and vision are reflected in its wide range of programs and services, including:

Immunization Programs:These programs ensure that children and adults have access to the vaccines they need to protect themselves from preventable diseases.
Health Education Programs:The department provides health education programs to promote healthy lifestyles and prevent chronic diseases.
Environmental Health Programs:The DCoPH works to protect the environment and ensure that the community has access to safe drinking water and clean air.
Disease Surveillance and Control Programs:The department monitors the health of the community and responds to outbreaks of infectious diseases.
Mental Health and Substance Abuse Programs:The DCoPH provides resources and support to individuals and families struggling with mental health and substance abuse issues.

Key Services and Programs: Durham County Department Of Public Health

The Durham County Department of Public Health (DCoPH) provides a wide range of essential services and programs to promote the health and well-being of the community. These programs address various health needs, focusing on disease prevention, health promotion, and environmental health.

Disease Prevention

Disease prevention programs aim to reduce the incidence and prevalence of infectious and chronic diseases within the community. These programs target individuals and communities through various strategies, including education, vaccination, and screening.

Immunization Programs:DCoPH offers a comprehensive immunization program to protect residents from vaccine-preventable diseases. The program provides vaccines for children, adolescents, and adults, including those at high risk for specific diseases. DCoPH also conducts outreach programs to ensure that all residents have access to vaccines.
Sexually Transmitted Infection (STI) Prevention:The DCoPH offers STI testing, counseling, and treatment services. These services aim to prevent the spread of STIs, including HIV, syphilis, gonorrhea, and chlamydia. DCoPH also provides education and outreach programs to promote safe sex practices and reduce the risk of STI transmission.
Tuberculosis (TB) Control:DCoPH conducts TB screening, diagnosis, and treatment services. The program aims to identify and treat individuals with TB to prevent the spread of the disease. DCoPH also conducts contact investigations to identify individuals who may have been exposed to TB.

Health Promotion

Health promotion programs aim to empower individuals and communities to adopt healthy behaviors and improve their overall health and well-being. These programs address various health issues, including chronic diseases, mental health, and substance abuse.

Chronic Disease Prevention:DCoPH offers programs to prevent and manage chronic diseases such as heart disease, stroke, diabetes, and cancer. These programs include education, screening, and support services. DCoPH also partners with community organizations to promote healthy lifestyle choices, such as regular physical activity, healthy eating, and smoking cessation.
Mental Health Services:DCoPH provides mental health services to individuals and families in need. These services include counseling, support groups, and crisis intervention. DCoPH also promotes mental health awareness and reduces stigma associated with mental illness.
Substance Abuse Prevention:DCoPH offers programs to prevent and reduce substance abuse, including alcohol, tobacco, and illicit drugs. These programs include education, prevention, and treatment services. DCoPH also partners with community organizations to address substance abuse issues.

Environmental Health

Environmental health programs aim to protect the public from environmental hazards that can affect their health. These programs address various environmental issues, including air and water quality, food safety, and solid waste management.

Air Quality:DCoPH monitors air quality and investigates air pollution complaints. The program works to reduce air pollution and protect the health of residents. DCoPH also provides information and resources to the community about air quality and health risks.
Water Quality:DCoPH monitors water quality and investigates water pollution complaints. The program works to protect the public from waterborne diseases and ensure safe drinking water. DCoPH also provides information and resources to the community about water quality and health risks.
Food Safety:DCoPH inspects food establishments and investigates foodborne illness outbreaks. The program works to ensure the safety of food sold in Durham County. DCoPH also provides education and resources to food handlers about food safety practices.

Organizational Structure and Staff

The Durham County Department of Public Health (DCDPH) is structured to effectively deliver public health services to the residents of Durham County. It comprises several key divisions and departments, each dedicated to specific areas of public health.

Departmental Structure

The DCDPH is organized into several key divisions, each with a dedicated team of professionals:

Division of Community Health: This division focuses on improving the health and well-being of Durham County residents by addressing social determinants of health, promoting healthy lifestyles, and providing community-based programs.
Division of Environmental Health: This division protects public health by ensuring safe food, water, and air quality, and by regulating environmental hazards.
Division of Epidemiology and Surveillance: This division monitors the health of the community, investigates outbreaks of disease, and provides data and analysis to guide public health interventions.
Division of Health Education and Promotion: This division educates the community about health issues, promotes healthy behaviors, and provides resources to support healthy lifestyles.
Division of Maternal and Child Health: This division focuses on improving the health of mothers and children, providing prenatal care, and supporting breastfeeding.
Division of Public Health Preparedness: This division prepares for and responds to public health emergencies, including natural disasters and disease outbreaks.

Staffing and Expertise

The DCDPH employs a diverse team of professionals with expertise in various fields, including public health, medicine, nursing, epidemiology, environmental health, social work, and health education.

Public Health Professionals: The department employs public health professionals who are responsible for developing and implementing public health programs, conducting research, and educating the community. These professionals hold degrees in public health, epidemiology, or related fields.
Medical Professionals: The department also employs medical professionals, such as physicians and nurses, who provide clinical services, conduct health assessments, and offer health education and counseling.
Environmental Health Specialists: Environmental health specialists are responsible for inspecting restaurants, water systems, and other facilities to ensure compliance with public health regulations. These specialists hold degrees in environmental health or related fields.
Social Workers: Social workers provide support and resources to individuals and families facing health challenges, including mental health issues, substance abuse, and poverty. They hold degrees in social work or related fields.
Health Educators: Health educators develop and deliver health education programs to the community, promoting healthy behaviors and reducing health risks. They hold degrees in health education or related fields.

Leadership Team

The leadership team of the DCDPH is comprised of experienced and qualified professionals who are dedicated to improving the health of Durham County residents. These individuals possess extensive experience in public health and leadership, and they are committed to ensuring that the department meets its mission and vision.

Director of Public Health: The Director is responsible for the overall operations of the department, including setting strategic direction, overseeing program implementation, and managing staff. They typically hold a doctorate in public health or a related field, and they have extensive experience in public health administration and leadership.
Deputy Director: The Deputy Director assists the Director in overseeing the department’s operations, and they may also be responsible for specific areas of public health, such as community health or environmental health. They typically hold a master’s degree in public health or a related field, and they have significant experience in public health administration and leadership.
Division Chiefs: Each division is led by a Chief, who is responsible for overseeing the division’s programs and staff. Division Chiefs typically hold a master’s degree in public health or a related field, and they have experience in public health administration and leadership within their respective areas of expertise.

Community Partnerships and Collaborations

The Durham County Department of Public Health (DCDPH) recognizes the importance of collaboration and partnership in achieving its public health goals. By working closely with a diverse range of community organizations, DCDPH leverages resources, expands its reach, and enhances its impact on the health and well-being of Durham County residents.

Types of Partnerships

DCDPH engages in various types of partnerships, including:

Formal Collaborations:These partnerships are established through written agreements and involve joint planning, resource sharing, and shared accountability for specific projects or initiatives. For example, DCDPH collaborates with the Durham County Schools on health education programs for students.
Informal Networks:These partnerships are less formal and involve ongoing communication and coordination among organizations with shared interests. DCDPH participates in several informal networks, such as the Durham County Health Coalition, which brings together organizations working on health issues in Durham County.
Community-Based Organizations:DCDPH works closely with community-based organizations (CBOs) that provide direct services to residents. These partnerships allow DCDPH to reach underserved populations and address health disparities. For example, DCDPH partners with the Durham Rescue Mission to provide health services to homeless individuals.

Benefits of Partnerships

Partnerships provide numerous benefits to DCDPH and the community, including:

Increased Reach:By working with other organizations, DCDPH can reach a wider audience and impact more residents.
Resource Sharing:Partnerships allow DCDPH to share resources, such as staff, funding, and expertise, with other organizations.
Improved Outcomes:By collaborating with other organizations, DCDPH can achieve better outcomes for public health initiatives.
Enhanced Community Engagement:Partnerships help DCDPH to better understand the needs of the community and engage residents in public health efforts.

Examples of Successful Collaborative Initiatives

DCDPH has a history of successful collaborative initiatives, including:

Durham County Health Improvement Plan:This plan, developed in partnership with a wide range of community organizations, Artikels priorities for improving the health of Durham County residents.
Durham County Health Equity Action Plan:This plan, developed in partnership with community organizations and residents, Artikels strategies for addressing health disparities in Durham County.
Durham County Community Health Needs Assessment:This assessment, conducted in partnership with community organizations, identifies the health needs of Durham County residents.

Funding and Resources

The Durham County Department of Public Health relies on a diverse range of funding sources to support its mission of promoting and protecting the health of the community. These funds are crucial for implementing essential public health programs and services, addressing health disparities, and responding to emerging health challenges.The department’s budget is carefully allocated to ensure that resources are prioritized effectively.

This process involves a thorough assessment of community health needs, identifying the most pressing public health issues, and allocating funds to programs and initiatives that have the greatest impact.

Budget Allocation and Prioritization, Durham county department of public health

The department’s budget is allocated across various programs and services, reflecting the priorities Artikeld in its strategic plan. Key areas of funding include:

Disease Prevention and Control:This includes funding for programs that aim to prevent and control infectious diseases, chronic diseases, and other health conditions. Examples include immunization programs, sexually transmitted infection prevention, and chronic disease management programs.
Environmental Health:The department invests in programs that protect the public from environmental hazards, such as air and water pollution, food safety, and hazardous waste management.
Health Education and Promotion:Funding is allocated to initiatives that promote healthy behaviors and lifestyles, such as tobacco cessation programs, nutrition education, and physical activity promotion.
Maternal and Child Health:Programs focused on improving the health of mothers and children receive significant funding, including prenatal care, infant mortality prevention, and early childhood development programs.
Mental Health and Substance Abuse:The department invests in programs that address mental health and substance abuse issues, providing services such as counseling, support groups, and medication-assisted treatment.

Funding Sources

The Durham County Department of Public Health receives funding from various sources, including:

Local Government:The county government is a primary source of funding for the department, providing a significant portion of its annual budget.
State Government:The North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services provides grants and funding for specific public health programs and initiatives.
Federal Government:The department receives funding from federal agencies such as the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and the Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA) for specific programs and initiatives.
Private Foundations:Philanthropic organizations and private foundations often provide grants to support public health programs and initiatives.
Fees and Charges:The department may generate revenue through fees for certain services, such as environmental health permits or inspections.

Challenges and Opportunities

The department faces ongoing challenges related to funding and resource availability. These include:

Limited Funding:Public health funding is often limited, especially in times of economic recession or budget constraints. This can make it difficult to fully implement all necessary programs and services.
Competing Priorities:Public health often competes with other government priorities for funding, making it difficult to secure adequate resources.
Shifting Funding Priorities:Funding priorities can change over time, impacting the availability of resources for specific programs and initiatives.

Despite these challenges, the department has opportunities to secure additional funding and resources. These include:

Seeking Additional Grants:The department can actively pursue grants from various government agencies, foundations, and private organizations.
Developing Partnerships:Collaborating with community organizations, businesses, and other stakeholders can help leverage resources and expand the department’s reach.
Advocating for Increased Funding:The department can advocate for increased funding for public health programs and services at the local, state, and federal levels.

Public Health Challenges in Durham County

Durham County, like many other communities across the nation, faces various public health challenges that significantly impact the well-being of its residents. These challenges are multifaceted and often interconnected, requiring comprehensive strategies to address them effectively.

Prevalence and Impact of Public Health Challenges

The prevalence of public health challenges in Durham County can be observed through various health indicators. For instance, the county’s rate of chronic diseases, such as diabetes, heart disease, and obesity, is higher than the national average. These conditions contribute to a higher burden of preventable diseases and premature mortality, impacting the quality of life for residents.

Additionally, Durham County experiences disparities in health outcomes based on factors like race, ethnicity, and socioeconomic status, indicating a need for targeted interventions to address these inequities.

Factors Contributing to Public Health Challenges

Several factors contribute to the public health challenges in Durham County. Socioeconomic factors, such as poverty, lack of access to affordable housing, and unemployment, can significantly impact health outcomes. For example, individuals living in poverty may have limited access to nutritious food, healthcare, and safe environments, increasing their risk of developing chronic diseases.

Furthermore, environmental factors, such as air pollution and access to green spaces, can influence health. Durham County faces challenges related to air quality, particularly in areas with high traffic congestion or industrial activity. Limited access to green spaces, such as parks and recreational facilities, can also contribute to physical inactivity and obesity.

Limited access to quality healthcare, particularly for underserved populations, can lead to delayed diagnoses, inadequate treatment, and poorer health outcomes.
Health disparities, including racial and ethnic health disparities, persist in Durham County, highlighting the need for targeted interventions to address these inequities.
The county’s growing population, combined with limited resources, can strain the public health system, making it challenging to provide adequate services to all residents.

Current Initiatives and Future Directions

The Durham County Department of Public Health (DCDPH) is actively engaged in a variety of initiatives to address public health challenges and improve the well-being of the community. The department’s strategic plan Artikels its long-term goals and Artikels the key areas of focus for the future.

Strategic Plan and Future Directions

The DCDPH’s strategic plan is a comprehensive document that guides the department’s efforts to achieve its mission and vision. The plan Artikels the department’s key priorities and strategies for addressing public health challenges. The strategic plan is aligned with the county’s overall strategic plan and incorporates input from community stakeholders.

The strategic plan is reviewed and updated periodically to ensure that it remains relevant and responsive to the evolving needs of the community. The plan serves as a roadmap for the department’s activities and helps to ensure that resources are allocated effectively.

Emerging Trends and Opportunities in Public Health

The field of public health is constantly evolving, and the DCDPH is committed to staying at the forefront of emerging trends and opportunities. The department is actively engaged in addressing a range of public health challenges, including:

Addressing health disparities:The DCDPH recognizes that health disparities exist in Durham County and is committed to addressing these inequities. The department is working to improve access to healthcare services for underserved populations, such as those living in poverty, racial and ethnic minorities, and individuals with disabilities.
Promoting healthy lifestyles:The DCDPH is working to promote healthy lifestyles through a variety of programs and initiatives. These include programs to encourage physical activity, healthy eating, and tobacco cessation. The department is also working to address the root causes of unhealthy behaviors, such as poverty, lack of access to healthy food, and limited opportunities for physical activity.
Preventing chronic diseases:Chronic diseases, such as heart disease, stroke, cancer, and diabetes, are the leading causes of death and disability in the United States. The DCDPH is working to prevent these diseases through a variety of strategies, including promoting healthy lifestyles, early detection and screening, and access to quality healthcare.
Addressing the opioid epidemic:The opioid epidemic is a major public health crisis that is affecting communities across the country, including Durham County. The DCDPH is working to address the opioid epidemic through a variety of strategies, including prevention, treatment, and recovery support services.
Preparing for and responding to public health emergencies:The DCDPH is responsible for preparing for and responding to public health emergencies, such as pandemics, natural disasters, and bioterrorism. The department is working to strengthen its emergency preparedness and response capabilities to ensure that the community is protected in the event of a public health emergency.

Public Health Data and Reporting

The Durham County Department of Public Health (DCoPH) relies heavily on data to inform its programs, services, and decision-making. This data is collected from various sources and analyzed to identify trends, monitor health outcomes, and evaluate the effectiveness of public health interventions.

Data Sources and Reporting Mechanisms

DCoPH utilizes a variety of data sources, including:

Vital Records:Birth, death, and fetal death certificates provide information on demographics, causes of death, and other vital statistics.
Disease Surveillance Systems:The department tracks the occurrence of reportable diseases, such as measles, HIV/AIDS, and sexually transmitted infections (STIs), through mandatory reporting by healthcare providers and laboratories.
Surveys and Questionnaires:DCoPH conducts surveys and questionnaires to gather information on health behaviors, risk factors, and access to healthcare services. Examples include the Behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance System (BRFSS) and the National Survey of Children’s Health (NSCH).
Administrative Data:Data from various administrative sources, such as healthcare claims, school records, and social service agencies, provide insights into health service utilization, socioeconomic factors, and access to resources.
Environmental Data:Data on air quality, water quality, and other environmental factors are collected and analyzed to assess potential health risks.

DCoPH reports its data findings through various mechanisms, including:

Public Health Reports:Regular reports are published on key health indicators, disease trends, and program evaluations.
Data Dashboards:Interactive dashboards provide real-time data visualizations and allow users to explore data by different demographics and geographic areas.
Presentations and Meetings:DCoPH staff present data findings at public meetings, conferences, and community events.
Website and Social Media:The department shares data and reports through its website and social media platforms to increase public awareness.

Data Analysis Methods

DCoPH uses a variety of data analysis methods to gain insights from the data collected, including:

Descriptive Statistics:This method summarizes data using measures such as mean, median, mode, and standard deviation to provide a general overview of health indicators and trends.
Regression Analysis:This method helps identify relationships between variables and predict outcomes. For example, it can be used to understand the factors associated with obesity or to predict the impact of a public health intervention on disease rates.
Spatial Analysis:This method uses geographic information systems (GIS) to map health data and identify spatial patterns. This helps understand the distribution of diseases, risk factors, and access to services within Durham County.
Time Series Analysis:This method examines data over time to identify trends, seasonal variations, and other patterns. It can be used to monitor disease outbreaks, assess the effectiveness of public health programs, and predict future health needs.

Using Data to Inform Programs and Services

DCoPH uses data to inform its programs and services in several ways:

Needs Assessment:Data is used to identify health priorities and areas where interventions are most needed. For example, data on high rates of asthma in certain neighborhoods might lead to targeted asthma prevention programs.
Program Planning and Evaluation:Data is used to design effective programs and evaluate their impact. For example, data on the effectiveness of a smoking cessation program might be used to refine the program or develop new interventions.
Resource Allocation:Data helps prioritize resource allocation based on the needs of the community. For example, data on high rates of diabetes might lead to increased funding for diabetes prevention and management programs.
Public Health Advocacy:Data is used to advocate for policies and programs that address public health challenges. For example, data on the impact of air pollution on respiratory health might be used to advocate for stricter air quality regulations.

Community Engagement and Outreach

The Durham County Department of Public Health (DCDPH) recognizes the importance of actively engaging with the community to ensure that public health programs and services are tailored to meet the needs of the diverse population it serves.

Strategies for Community Engagement

DCDPH employs a variety of strategies to engage with the community, including:

Community Health Assessments:DCDPH regularly conducts community health assessments to identify health priorities and needs, providing a foundation for program development and resource allocation.
Community Forums and Town Hall Meetings:DCDPH hosts community forums and town hall meetings to gather feedback from residents on public health issues and to discuss potential solutions.
Community Advisory Boards:DCDPH establishes community advisory boards composed of residents representing diverse backgrounds and interests to provide guidance and input on public health programs and initiatives.
Community Partnerships:DCDPH collaborates with various community organizations, including faith-based institutions, schools, and non-profit organizations, to reach diverse populations and address specific health needs.
Data-Driven Decision Making:DCDPH utilizes data and health statistics to identify areas with the greatest health disparities and to target resources effectively.

Communication Channels and Outreach Efforts

DCDPH utilizes a multi-faceted approach to communicate with the community and promote public health awareness:

Website and Social Media:DCDPH maintains a comprehensive website and utilizes social media platforms like Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram to share health information, updates on programs, and announcements of community events.
Public Service Announcements:DCDPH collaborates with local media outlets to disseminate public service announcements on important health topics, such as vaccination, healthy eating, and disease prevention.
Community Newsletters and Publications:DCDPH publishes newsletters and brochures containing health information and resources in various languages to reach a wider audience.
Community Events and Health Fairs:DCDPH participates in community events and health fairs to provide health screenings, educational materials, and health-related services to residents.
Mobile Outreach:DCDPH deploys mobile units to provide health services and outreach in underserved communities.

Examples of Community Events and Initiatives

DCDPH organizes and participates in a wide range of community events and initiatives, including:

Health Fairs:DCDPH hosts annual health fairs that offer free health screenings, health education resources, and information on various health services.
Wellness Walks:DCDPH organizes community wellness walks to promote physical activity and encourage healthy lifestyles.
Community Gardens:DCDPH partners with community organizations to establish community gardens that provide fresh produce and promote healthy eating habits.
Vaccination Clinics:DCDPH hosts vaccination clinics to increase vaccination rates and protect the community from preventable diseases.
Health Education Workshops:DCDPH offers workshops and training programs on topics such as diabetes management, heart health, and mental health.

Impact and Achievements

The Durham County Department of Public Health (DCDPH) has a long and impactful history of improving the health and well-being of Durham County residents. The department’s commitment to public health has resulted in significant achievements across a wide range of areas.

Decreased Rates of Preventable Diseases

The DCDPH has played a crucial role in reducing the incidence of preventable diseases in Durham County. Through its immunization programs, the department has significantly increased vaccination rates among children and adults, leading to a decrease in the spread of vaccine-preventable diseases such as measles, mumps, and rubella.

The DCDPH has seen a 95% reduction in measles cases since the implementation of its robust immunization program.

The department has also been successful in reducing the incidence of other preventable diseases, such as sexually transmitted infections (STIs) and tuberculosis (TB), through targeted outreach, education, and treatment programs.

Improved Maternal and Child Health

The DCDPH is committed to improving maternal and child health outcomes in Durham County. The department provides a wide range of services to expectant mothers and young children, including prenatal care, breastfeeding support, and early childhood development programs.

The DCDPH’s efforts have resulted in a significant decrease in infant mortality rates in Durham County, which are now below the state average.

The department’s work in this area has also contributed to a decrease in the incidence of low birth weight and premature births.

Enhanced Community Health

The DCDPH recognizes the importance of addressing the social determinants of health, such as poverty, access to healthcare, and education, to improve the overall health of the community. The department has partnered with community organizations to address these issues through programs that promote healthy lifestyles, provide access to healthy foods, and improve access to affordable housing.

The DCDPH’s community health initiatives have resulted in a significant increase in the number of residents who have access to healthy food options and affordable housing.

The department’s efforts have also contributed to a decrease in the prevalence of chronic diseases, such as heart disease, stroke, and diabetes, in Durham County.

Final Conclusion

The Durham County Department of Public Health serves as a vital resource for the community, empowering individuals to make informed choices about their health and well-being. By addressing public health challenges head-on, fostering community partnerships, and promoting health equity, DCDPH plays a critical role in building a healthier and more vibrant Durham County for generations to come.

Its commitment to public health excellence, coupled with its dedication to community engagement, ensures that the department remains a trusted partner in promoting the health and well-being of all residents.

Query Resolution

What are the main public health challenges facing Durham County?

Durham County faces a range of public health challenges, including chronic diseases such as heart disease, diabetes, and obesity, as well as infectious diseases, mental health issues, and disparities in health outcomes among different population groups.

How can I get involved with the Durham County Department of Public Health?

You can get involved with DCDPH by volunteering for community outreach programs, attending public health events, advocating for health policy changes, or simply staying informed about public health issues in Durham County. You can also visit their website or contact them directly to learn more about opportunities to participate.

What are the key initiatives that DCDPH is currently implementing?

DCDPH is currently implementing a variety of initiatives to address public health challenges in Durham County. These include programs focused on promoting healthy lifestyles, preventing chronic diseases, improving access to healthcare, and addressing environmental health issues.