Florida Department of Health

The Florida Department of Health is a state agency dedicated to protecting, promoting, and improving the health of people throughout Florida through coordinated state, county, and community efforts. Its public health work spans individual and family health, community and environmental health, health certificates and records, licensing and regulation, statistics, and information about diseases and conditions. The department connects residents with services and resources through its statewide network of county health departments.

For children and families, its programs address health needs at different stages of childhood and provide specialized support. Early Steps offers early intervention for eligible infants and toddlers with developmental delays, disabilities, or conditions that place them at risk. Children’s Medical Services coordinates family-centered care for children with special health care needs through a statewide network of health professionals. Other resources include Medical Foster Care, Bright Expectations, newborn screening, school health, behavioral health, and child nutrition programs. The department also provides case management and resource facilitation for eligible people with traumatic brain or spinal cord injuries, along with information and support for families seeking care and services.