​​What is Public Health?
Public health shapes our communities by addressing the root causes of health issues and promoting overall well-being. Through proactive efforts like policy development, education and prevention, public health seeks to create healthier, safer and more equitable environments for everyone. Watch What is Public Health (YouTube) and The California Public Health System (YouTube) to learn more.
The California Department of Public Health (CDPH) in collaboration with your county public health office oversees a variety of research, response and prevention programs to protect your health.​ ​
CDPH Professionals Provide Many Services:
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Preventing the spread of diseases like COVID-19, Ebola, flu, mpox​ and Zika​ by monitoring and tracking epidemics.
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Certifying and licensing various health facilities and professionals to ensure individual and community safety.
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Collecting and using data, technology and innovation to eliminate poor health outcomes that impact our most vulnerable populations.
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Processing vital records such as birth, marriage and death certificates.
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Educating families on the proper use of seatbelts, helmets and child seats.
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Planning the State’s response to disasters such as major floods and earthquakes.
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Monitoring food born illness outbreaks.
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Promoting healthy lifestyles through programs like Champions for Change ( Nutrition and Obesity prevention programs), health screenings for new moms and babies, nutrition programs for Women Infant and Children (WIC) and Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP).