Dirk Wilke Health and Human Services Interim Commissioner | North Dakota Department of Health and Human Services
Dirk Wilke Health and Human Services Interim Commissioner | North Dakota Department of Health and Human Services
North Dakota Health and Human Services (HHS) is marking the 30th anniversary of National Public Health Week from April 7 to 13. The event celebrates the work of public health professionals across various sectors, who strive to enhance health and quality of life within North Dakotan communities.
The workforce of public health professionals includes a diverse group such as physicians, nurses, nutritionists, epidemiologists, and emergency response professionals. Their efforts focus on reducing risks of infectious and chronic diseases, strengthening health systems, and promoting public health preparedness and response.
“We are grateful for the dedication and expertise of the public health professionals on our team and to our local public health partners for the health and safety services, support, education and outreach they provide to North Dakotans,” expressed HHS Interim Commissioner Dirk Wilke.
HHS plays a crucial role by offering financial aid to local public health units, which currently number 28 across the state. These units provide essential health services tailored to local needs.
Public health efforts extend to offering health screenings, nutrition education, chronic disease management, routine vaccines, and injury prevention measures. Efforts to reduce alcohol abuse, opioid overdoses, and tobacco-related issues are also part of their focus.
HHS public health professionals are responsible for health surveillance, data collection, and providing both routine and emergency support to health systems and communities. They respond in emergencies by supplying staff to understaffed facilities and addressing facility infrastructure issues.
The agency's State Laboratory conducts essential testing services, catering to the needs of clinical labs across North Dakota. These include microbiology, water testing, and mosquito and tick surveillance programs.
The public health system's overarching goal is to ensure that all North Dakotans have the opportunity to achieve optimal health levels in ways tailored to their needs. Further information on local public health services can be found on the HHS website.
Gov. Armstrong's National Public Health Week proclamation details the significance of these efforts and can be viewed online.
Learn more about local public health services and find nearby local public health units at hhs.nd.gov/service-locations/local-public-health.
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