Health Department

What do they do? 

The Detroit Health Department works to provide health services and education in partnership with community and neighborhood groups. They ensure there is an adequate provision of health services, both physical and mental, to all Detroit residents. 

Critical Areas of Service

Family Health and Planning
  • Reproductive Health
  • Counseling and support for new parents
  • Women Infants and Children (WIC) food support
 Lead Safety and Water Testing
  • Services
  • Education
  • Testing
  • Oversees rental property compliance
 Environmental Health
  • Licensing and inspections for businesses that can impact public health (e.g. tattoo parlors and hotels)
  • Investigates complaints
Home Health
  • Health clinics
  • Immunizations
  • Hearing/Vision Screening
  • Bed Bugs
 Food Safety
  • Planning for new food establishments
  • Inspections and licensing for food distributors (e.g. restaurants, food trucks, and schools)
  • Investigates foodborne illness and complaints
 Official Identity Documents
  • Birth Certificates
  • Death Certificates
  • Detroit ID program

How is the Department organized? 

Led by the Chief Public Health Officer, the 200 person Department (as of 2020) is segmented into three main areas. Administration and development is where data is collected, programs are analyzed, work structure is formed, and the quality standards of accreditation are pursued. Population health is where maternal and child health, environmental health, animal control, food safety, and chronic disease programs are housed. Clinical services and outreach is the department that directly interacts with Detroit residents around the prevention and treatment of HIV and other communicable diseasesdisease prevention such as the 2020 Coronavirus pandemic, while also providing health care to residents, and emergency health preparation measures. 

How do I get involved? 

If you’re concerned about the health and safety of a restaurant, hotel, or other Detroit establishment, you can file a complaint with the Health DepartmentDepartment of Health.  The Health DepartmentDepartment of Health website has a form to fill out so that you can be a part of keeping Detroit healthy.

Additionally, the Health Department is one of the city departments that often has volunteer opportunities. Explore the website for programs where you can get involved!