Unpacking the Services Offered by the New Hampshire Department of Health and Human Services
The New Hampshire Department of Health and Human Services (NH DHHS) is an agency that plays a vital role in the health and well-being of the state’s residents. The department is responsible for providing a wide range of services, from health and social services to child welfare and the protection of vulnerable adults.
Services and Programs
One of the critical functions of NH DHHS is administering various health programs for individuals, families, and communities. These programs include Medicaid, New Hampshire Healthy Families, and New Hampshire Employment Program. Medicaid is a publicly funded program that provides health coverage to eligible low-income individuals and families. New Hampshire Healthy Families is the state’s managed care Medicaid program that provides medical, behavioral, and dental services for eligible individuals and families. The New Hampshire Employment Program assists residents in obtaining employment and supports them in achieving self-sufficiency.
Another significant program is the Child and Family Services Division, which is responsible for child welfare services, adoption, and foster care. The division works with families and communities to ensure children’s safety, well-being, and permanent homes.
NH DHHS also manages a host of programs for persons with disabilities, including services such as assistive technology, housing, and vocational rehabilitation. The department also provides behavioral health services, such as substance misuse prevention and treatment, and mental health services.
Community Outreach
NH DHHS has a robust community outreach program where it engages local partners to raise awareness and promote healthy and safe communities. For instance, the department collaborates with health care providers to encourage screenings for breast and cervical cancer, provide dental services to low-income families, and distribute prenatal vitamins to high-risk pregnant women. Additionally, the department partners with organizations to educate the public about drug addiction and substance misuse, as well as eating disorders and mental health issues.
Conclusion
The New Hampshire Department of Health and Human Services plays a crucial role in ensuring residents of the state have access to a wide range of health and social services. The department’s programs and services cater to diverse populations, from low-income families to persons with disabilities, children, and vulnerable adults. The community outreach program further enhances the department’s impact by working with local partners to promote healthy and safe communities. Overall, NH DHHS’s services are contributory to enhancing New Hampshire’s quality of life and well-being.