Greetings:

Welcome to the Department of Health web site. I hope that you find our web site a helpful resource – one that provides you with a better understanding of public health.

Public health touches the lives of everyone in our state. It has a key role in protecting and improving the health of Arkansans. In fact, public health measures have been responsible for many of the major improvements in the health of Arkansans. Controlling epidemics, ensuring safe food and water, and maternal and child health services are a few of the public health activities that have improved our quality of life.

Many of our services are provided at the local level through a statewide service network. Our public health workforce is working every day to promote prevention services and to defend against threats to the public’s health. "Keeping Your Hometown Healthy" is more than a slogan for us.

I hope you find what you are looking for here and will add our web site to your list of favorites. Technology can help us be better informed about your needs. Please give us your suggestions and ideas for improvement.

Paul K. Halverson, DrPH, FACHE
Director, State Health Officer