L.A. County Health Department (Photo – lacounty.gov)
The Los Angeles County Department of Public Health has been recognized with 20 Achievement Awards from the National Association of Counties (NACo), highlighting its commitment to improving the health and well-being of the county’s more than 10 million residents.
By News Desk
Each year, NACo honors county programs nationwide that demonstrate innovation and excellence in public service. This year’s recognition places Los Angeles County at the forefront of efforts to enhance public health through strategic partnerships, community engagement, and equity-driven policies.
“Public Health’s mission is to ensure that all residents have the resources they need to be healthy,” said Dr. Barbara Ferrer, Director of the Los Angeles County Department of Public Health. “At its core, public health is public safety. Our services and programs support safe communities, healthy options, and prevent the spread of infectious diseases.”
The department’s award-winning initiatives range from emergency response to chronic disease prevention, maternal and child health, and environmental justice. Programs such as the Mobile Vaccine and Testing Team for people experiencing homelessness and the Early Needs Response for Infant and Child Health (ENRICH) Program were among those honored for their life-saving and equity-focused approaches.
Other notable initiatives include:
- Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza H5N1 Surveillance in Animals
- Ending the HIV Epidemic Initiative
- Healthy Brain LA, a collaborative focused on dementia care
- The Los Angeles Smoke Shop Project, targeting illegal tobacco sales
- Parent Ambassador Leaders (PALs) Program, fostering peer support and education
- Establishing the Office of Environmental Justice and Climate Health, underscoring the department’s commitment to addressing the health impacts of climate change
“I am deeply grateful to our staff and programs for their tireless efforts to serve with innovation, impact, and inclusion,” said Ferrer. “We also thank NACo for this honor and for championing public service that uplifts every community, especially those most impacted by health inequities.”
This national recognition reinforces Los Angeles County’s leadership in public health and its continued dedication to building healthier, more resilient communities.
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