Redwood County is located in the southwestern side of Minnesota. With a population of almost 17,000 residents who live on 874 square miles of land, the county and its residents pride themselves in being "committed to stewardship, respect and shared responsibility in providing improved cost-efficient services to all," according to the county's official website. Redwood County takes its commitment to services seriously. If you are a resident, you'll be able to take advantage of these resources for your family to promote your health and wellness.
About Public Health in Redwood County
Redwood County's Public Health services began in 1917 under jurisdiction of a single nurse staff member. The agency continued to be a single-nurse agency until 1976, when the Community Health Services Act prompted the hiring of additional staff.
Today the department operates with the motto "Prevent. Promote. Protect." It is open Monday through Friday to provide educational and nutritional services to county residents. The public health department doesn't refuse services to residents based on their inability to pay.
Overview of Services Offered by Redwood County Public Health
Redwood County Public Health offers a variety of services, programs and resources. The disease prevention and control program provides you with information on how to prevent the spread of diseases such as seasonal influenza, Cryptosporidium, Norovirus or tuberculosis. The county public health department makes a point to investigate outbreaks and follow up with the state of Minnesota's Department of Health. Redwood County Public Health also provide services such as child and teen checkups, immunizations, school nursing and WIC (Womens, Infants and Children), a program that provides nutrition education and healthy supplemental foods for infants and children up to age five and pregnant, breastfeeding and postpartum women.
Family Health Specific Services
The county runs a "Family Health Home Visiting" program in which those up to age 21 who are medically fragile or their caretakers who have questions about nutrition, growth and development or home safety are eligible to receive free home health visits. The public health department also has an "Early Childhood Screening" program for young children in order to detect possible growth, health, development or behavior problems that may affect a child in school.
Health Services for New Parents
The public health department runs a "Nurse-Family Partnership" program in which first-time mothers are connected with a nurse to help them maintain a healthy pregnancy, build positive parenting skills and set family goals. The program also provides support and resources for continuing education and developing job skills. This service is free and is available until the baby is two years old. In the "Maternal and Child Health" Program, the county partners with Walmart to provide blankets and gift packs if you wish to participate in this home visiting service for expecting and new parents.
Environmental Health Services
The public health department has services to ensure your health isn't in danger from external factors. Low-cost water-testing is available if you have a private well. The Redwood Public Health Department also provides services and referrals to find solutions to air or water pollution and lead screening as well as product safety and rodent detection and extermination.
