Who we are: The Galveston County Health District (GCHD) is a distinct, non-taxing governmental entity. GCHD is a public health district (not to be confused with a taxing hospital district), addressing the ten (10) essential public health functions outlined in state statute. As a district, the public health services under GCHD's umbrella are governed by a policy-making board, the Galveston County United Board of Health (UBOH). Representative board members are appointed by Galveston County and cities. It is important to note that UBOH members do not oversee Coastal Health & Wellness (the primary care services also under GCHD's umbrella) which have a separate governing board by federal funding requirements.

Where we came from:
GCHD was first created in 1971 through an agreement between the county, seven cities and one water district, under section 4436b of Vernon's Civil Statutes, to address public health needs. In 1981, GCHD was restructured under Chapter 121 of State of Texas Health and Safety Codes to provide a diverse array of public health services to citizens through an inter-local agreement between Galveston County and 13 member cities. GCHD underwent a Sunset Review, initiated by the County in 2000, which concluded that its public services were essential, yet made recommendations for improvement. The recommendations included adding two city representatives to the board as well as charging the District to work more closely with cities and better educate the public about its services. Since 9/11/2001, the District has expanded to meet needs of a growing population, and has assumed many additional responsibilities to include activities to address health security risks from intentional acts of terrorism to petrochemical and other natural disasters. In 2003, the organization initiated a strategic health planning process, with extensive public participation, which set priorities for the organization. Since that time, many health plan goals have been accomplished, and a new Strategic Health Plan was approved by both boards for 2010 - 2015.

What we do:
GCHD plays a key role in informing and educating the public on important health matters as well as issuing official health alerts and health advisories for emerging health threats, disease outbreaks, and disasters. GCHD also provides:

Where are we going?
GCHD is an agent of change - ever evolving to address new and emerging health threats and needs in Galveston County and cities. The new 2010-2015 Strategic Health Plan identifies key public health priorities, including: (1) Improving access to care for the indigent and uninsured, (2) Improving the health of our community and environment, and (3) Preparing for and responding to public health emergencies. Other organizational priorities include the need for adequate facilities, modernized technology systems to achieve efficiencies; and improvements in workforce development and public relations. Per a voter approved bond issue in 2008, several offices and public services are expecting to relocate to the new Mid-County annex in Texas City during the latter part of 2011. After years of planning, the new facility will provide for improvements in public services, including disaster responsibilities. Similarly, a new Galveston County Animal Resource Center will be ready for public service in 2011.

Dr. Harlan "Mark" Guidry
Chief Executive Officer