Harrisburg, PA — The Pennsylvania Department of Health (DOH) is commemorating its 120th Anniversary this week, reflecting on a legacy of safeguarding the public’s health, and strengthening its commitment to improving health outcomes for all Pennsylvanians.
“Our work to prevent the spread of disease over the past 120 years has saved countless lives while our focus on prevention has helped people to live healthier lives,” said Secretary of Health Dr. Debra Bogen. “Thank you to all the past and current dedicated public servants who have contributed, and continue to contribute, to the public health legacy of Pennsylvania. We are committed to making the vision of the Department — A Healthy Pennsylvania for All — a reality.”
Established on April 27, 1905, DOH was created to protect the health of Commonwealth residents and communities from infectious diseases and other public health threats. Through close partnerships with health care providers, federal, state and local governments, community-based organizations and others, DOH follows a science-based approach to reduce the number of serious illnesses, injuries, and deaths due to major health threats including tobacco-related diseases, infectious diseases, and accidental injuries.
Over the years, the Department has evolved to address critical public health areas such as chronic disease prevention, emergency preparedness, and substance use. One thing, however, has not changed: the dedication and professionalism of DOH staff to provide top-quality programs and services that benefit the health, safety and well-being of all Pennsylvanians.
In 2019, DOH earned national accreditation status through the Public Health Accreditation Board, an important step toward protecting and improving the public’s health and safety. As the Department seeks reaccreditation this year, it reaffirms its commitment to promoting healthy behaviors, preventing injury and disease, and supporting the safe delivery of quality health care.
Governor Josh Shapiro continues to advance the Department’s mission by advocating for strategic investments to improve public health services across Pennsylvania, focusing on workforce development and retention, access to care in rural communities, and improvements to maternal health for mothers and babies, including:
Expanding Health Care Workforce: Governor Shapiro’s proposed 2025-26 budget includes $5 million to educate, train, and recruit nursing professionals to help sustain a strong health care work force across Pennsylvania.
Enhancing Health Care Access: Recognizing the unique challenges residents face in rural communities, Governor Shapiro’s budget proposes an additional $5 million to expand DOH’s Primary Care Loan Repayment Program to offer loan repayment for more health care providers, including those serving rural communities.
Advancing Maternal Health: To address maternal mortality and help more mothers and babies, especially Black mothers, the Shapiro Administration proposes investing another $5 million to enhance maternal health services, including implementing postpartum depressions screenings for all moms, and educating doctors and nurses to identify signs of pregnancy-related depression more quickly to speed up referrals to mental health professionals.
The Department has consistently proven itself a reliable partner in responding to public health and public safety emergencies. From stemming the tide of tuberculosis 120 years ago to countering the spread of H5N1 avian flu this year, DOH is an unwavering frontline defender wherever disaster strikes. As DOH celebrates its 120th anniversary, it remains steadfast in its mission to protect communities and help improve the health of all Pennsylvanians.
More information about the Department of Health’s programs and initiatives is available online.
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