Where would you go to find out what immunizations you need and actually get those immunizations before taking a trip overseas? Who could help you become more physically active in your community and your workplace? Who would you turn to for nutrition advice if you were expecting a baby or newly diagnosed with high blood pressure or diabetes? Where could you find information and support for quitting tobacco use? Who would help your loved ones evacuate a long-term care facility during an emergency or disaster situation? Despite the wide variety of issues, all of these questions can be answered with the same response, “Start Here: at your local public health department.”
The theme for Public Health Week, April 7-13, 2014, is “Start Here,” which focuses on how public health keeps our community healthy and safe during these changing times in health care. Recognizing this week gives all North Dakotans a chance to better understand and appreciate the services provided by their local public health departments. “Public Health Departments often operate behind the scenes, but the services they provide can benefit virtually every citizen in the communities they serve,” according to Renae Moch, Director at Bismarck-Burleigh Public Health. “We are here to serve all residents in Bismarck and Burleigh County, from the newborn babies to the elderly and homebound,” added Moch.
Learn more about Bismarck-Burleigh Public Health and the services we provide by visiting us at 500 E Front Ave in Bismarck on April 7-11 from 8-5 for a free blood pressure screening during Public Health Week. Residents can also check out our website anytime at www.bismarck.org/publichealth.