Public health, when it is functioning properly, is largely invisible. Therefore, the understanding and support of the general public, the political decision-makers and health care professionals is crucial to the success of public health activities. The mission of a local health department is to take leadership in assuring a healthy community. This is accomplished by promoting, protecting and preserving health through advocacy and organized community efforts. In Long Beach, the Health Department contributes to the health of the community by promoting prevention of disease and injury for all residents of the city.

ANIMAL CONTROL
The Bureau of Animal Control is responsible for enforcing all Federal, State and local laws concerning ownership and treatment of animals within the City of Long Beach and contract cities. The Bureau conducts rabies clinics to assist residents in complying with the licensing laws, provides education and public awareness programs concerning responsible pet ownership and spay/neutering. Annually, the Bureau of Animal Control provided over 22,000 service calls and handled more than 26,000 animals.

ENVIRONMENTAL HEALTH
The Bureau of Environmental Health is responsible for protecting the public’s health by preventing diseases, unsanitary conditions, exposure to toxic substances and other environmental hazards. This is accomplished through routine and complaint inspections, enforcement of municipal, state and federal laws and community outreach and education. Environmental Health staff continually monitors environmental conditions by inspecting restaurants and other food facilities, hazardous waste facilities, multi-unit housing and monitoring recreational water quality. During their routine activities and through community outreach efforts, Environmental Health staff also provides education to Long Beach residents necessary to understanding the importance of maintaining a safe and healthy environment.

HUMAN AND SOCIAL SERVICES
The Bureau of Human/Social Services was created to reflect the City’s commitment to addressing the social services and health needs of the community. Services include alcohol and drug rehabilitation services, the Center for Families and Youth, child care services, social services, homeless assistance, and other facility centers which provide community services specific to the demographic make-up of the surroundings.

PREVENTIVE HEALTH
The Bureau of Preventive Health provides sexually transmitted disease (STD) treatment, HIV/AIDS early intervention services, HIV/AIDS and sexual health education and training programs, teen pregnancy prevention programs, monitoring and reporting of communicable disease, birth and death registration, field epidemiology services and community based health improvement programs. The Bureau also coordinates HIV and STD prevention and care planning efforts for the city.

PUBLIC HEALTH
The Bureau of Public Health provides wellness, prevention, education, and health care services to the community. Public Health services improve the quality of life of the residents of Long Beach by preventing morbidity from chronic diseases and communicable disease. Services include: maternal and child health, public health nursing field services, communicable disease control, health services for older adults, nutrition services, public health laboratory services, family and community health education programs, and health promotion and tobacco education services. The Bureau of Public Health plays a vital role in strategic planning, developing of resources, and implementing citywide services for target populations. The Bureau also conducts annual public health events and information fairs throughout Long Beach.

SUPPORT SERVICES
The Bureau of Support Services provides services to programs and activities within the Health Department. The Bureau has the responsibility of providing assistance in four primary areas: grants and general accounting and budget preparation, facility maintenance and technology support, staff enhancements and special projects.