The
Cook County Department of Public Health works to protect and promote
health and to prevent illness, disability and premature death among
all the residents of Cook County.
The department provides more than 150,000 health service visits each
year, including primary healthcare, family planning, prenatal, diagnostic,
immunization and dental clinics. By working with community partners,
the department maximizes its outreach range and effectiveness. The department
also emphasizes preventive approaches to disease and injury through
innovative programs and educational activities. It protects Cook County
communities from potential environmental health hazards spread through
food, water, animals, insects, and from physical and chemical hazards.
It also maintains public health data that assists in strategic planning
for the county’s healthcare needs.
The Department of Public Health is the Bureau’s lead affiliate
for implementing the Access to Care Program, in conjunction with the
suburban Primary Health Care Council. Access to Care provides subsidized
health services to suburban Cook County residents with limited financial
resources. Through a partnership with private physicians, care is provided
to more than 13,000 suburban residents at private clinics located throughout
the suburbs.