About local public health
The Snohomish County Health Department provides public health services for all of Snohomish County. The Department joined Snohomish County government in January 2023. Prior to that, local public health services were provided by the Snohomish Health District, an independent special purpose district. Former Health District staff and programs were integrated into the county, becoming the Health Department.
Public health is the science and art of promoting health and preventing disease and premature death of a population by systematic efforts of society, communities, or individuals. Our work strives to do that through a blend of health protection, health promotion, and disease prevention efforts. The Health Department focuses on:
- communicable disease control
- chronic disease prevention
- environmental health
- family health
- emergency preparedness and response
Snohomish County Public Health History
Board of Health
The Snohomish County Health Department has a 9-person Board of Health. The Board develops, approves, and revises countywide policy on public health issues such as opioids, immunizations, and climate change. It evaluates yearly budget recommendations, recommends new programs, and reviews Health Department activities. The Board meets monthly, and members will be assigned to subcommittees and various ad hoc task groups.
Learn more on the Board of Health webpage.