Programs and Services

History

The Department of Health (DOH) is responsible, under Florida Statutes (Chapter 252 and Chapter 381), for the state's public health system.

DOH's traditional role has been identifying, assessing and controlling the presence and spread of communicable diseases, and preparing for and responding to natural disasters and other public health hazards that could jeopardize the health and safety of residents and visitors of the state.

Following the September 2001 terrorist attacks, and the anthrax incident in south Florida, the Legislature expanded DOH's responsibilities to include terrorism preparedness and response. The Offices of Emergency Operations (OEO) and Public Health Preparedness (PHP) were tasked with coordinating resources, planning, and response activities within Florida's healthcare and emergency response system.

During an emergency where state assistance is needed, DOH has the lead role in health and medical response activities and oversees the emergency management functions of preparedness, recover, mitigation and response with all agencies and organizations that carry out health or medical services. This function is called Emergency Support Function 8 (or ESF-8).

During 2007 – 2010, PHP and OEO will work with subject matter experts across the state to improve Florida's health and medical preparedness and response to disasters. Those who would like to participate in this strategic planning process are encouraged to review the teams (pdf. 21.44kb/4pages) (and their responsibilities) and fill-out the online application