The City of Paterson, Division of Health is the lead public health institution in the City of Paterson, and is tasked with the delivery of Public Health services, care and treatment to the residents of Paterson and some surrounding towns. All activities are based on the three core functions of public health (Assessment, Policy Development and Assurance) and the ten (10) essential functions of public health.
Paterson Division of Health, very often referred to as the “Board of Health” can be traced back to its creation on November 13, 1882 by ordinance. The original Board of Health consisted of ten (10) members, all appointed by the Mayor and approved by the Board of Aldermen for a term of four (4) years. At that time the functions of the Board of Health included the power to enact ordinances and rules and to prescribe the penalties for violations.
The first sanitary code for the city was passed on January 24, 1905, and since that time there were numerous changes and amendments. On July 1, 1974 with the advent of the Faulkner Act, Mayor – Council form of government, The Division of Health replaced the Board of Health.
Today, the Division of Health provides core public health services such as vital statistics, communicable disease investigation, sexually transmitted diseases, HIV/AIDS/PrEP clinic, child immunizations, childhood lead poisoning prevention, environmental health, health education, tuberculosis clinic, well baby clinic, podiatry clinic, ect.
The Division of Health is staffed with some of the most dedicated, highly trained and competent individuals in the area of public health. Our scope of services extends far beyond the City of Paterson.
What is Public Health?
Public Health is the healthcare field that seeks to protect and improve health at the community level. It emphasizes disease prevention, health promotion, policy development, health education and emergency control.
Vision
A premier provider of public health care, treatment and prevention services in the state of New Jersey
Mission
To deliver quality public health care, treatment and prevention services to our target population on a daily basis
Core Values
Health Equity: Enable access to public health services for all Paterson residents
Quality: Constantly strive to improve the delivery of the quantity and quality of public health services
Science: Implement evidence based public health practices
Diversity: Recognize and respect the diversity of our target population, and provide culturally competent public health services
Excellence: Aim to achieve the highest quality of services
Motivation: Constantly motivate our staff to perform to the best of their abilities at all times, and recognize the efforts of those that are outstanding in their job performance.
The Division of Health is constantly seeking to augment public health services. This site will serve as one of the vehicles to market public health services and to keep our residents informed.