"Public health" involves a lot

The term “public health” takes in a lot of territory, and even in relatively less populated Grant County it takes a lot to do the job of watching out for the public’s health.

This is public health week, and Grant County Health District met with local media last week to encourage some coverage and enhance understanding of just what’s involved.

GCHD has a staff of 38 people in several departments, all working to keep our air and water clean, ensure our food is safe, prevent disease, and promote healthier communities.

“From ensuring food safety through inspections to collaborating with community partners on critical health and safety concerns, local public health workers are always working behind the scenes to make sure our communities are safe and healthy,” said Theresa Adkinson, Grant County Health District Administrator. “I am deeply grateful for our staff’s dedication to their work and our community.”

Established in 1967, GCHD is governed by an eight-member board of health.

In 2024 GCHD staff:

• Completed 1,597 inspections and re-inspections of permanent and temporary food establishments in Grant County to ensure food safety.

• Worked with over 650 individuals infected with a sexually transmitted infection (STI). GCHD continues to work on STI prevention initiatives and campaigns to prevent further infections.

• Coordinated weekly food box deliveries in partnership with local organizations, reaching families in Coulee City, Ephrata, Mattawa, Moses Lake, Quincy, Royal City, Warden, and Soap Lake.

• Launched an opioid task force to help address the opioid crisis that affects communities nationwide. 

• Actively participated in various coalitions, boards, and task forces across Grant County.

• Published a community health assessment that identified local health challenges.

“Next time you’re out at dinner with your family, swimming in a local lake, or eating a healthy snack, take a moment to think of public health,” a press release from GCHD stated. “It’s always at work around you — now you know where to look.”

Follow along on GCHD’s Facebook page throughout National Public Health Week as we highlight our community partners and showcase additional public health efforts. To learn more about National Public Health Week and GCHD, visit https://granthealth.org/