As of July 1st, South Carolina will undergo a significant transformation in the management of its public health services. The Department of Health and Environmental Control (DHEC) will be dissolved, with two new state agencies taking its place. One agency will focus on public health, while the other will oversee environmental services. This change was brought about by a bill signed into law by Gov. Henry McMaster last year.
Dr. Edward Simmer, the interim director of the new Department of Public Health, has stated that services such as obtaining birth certificates and requesting immunization records will remain largely unchanged. The office’s phone number will also remain the same, and visitors to DHEC’s website will be redirected to the new Department of Public Health page. Dr. Simmer believes that this reorganization presents an opportunity to improve how health services are delivered in South Carolina, with a focus on increasing outreach and engagement efforts.
Despite these changes, South Carolina’s overall health ranking remains concerning. Dr. Simmer emphasizes the need for improvement and vows to provide consistent service to the state’s residents. While plans for merging six agencies into one did not pass this year, supporters promise to continue their efforts next year.
As these changes unfold, it is crucial for South Carolinians to stay informed and engaged in their state’s health services. The goal is to make improvements that will benefit the community and raise South Carolina’s overall health ranking. By working together, residents and officials can create a healthier future for our state.”
