County Public Health, Human Services Merger Complete

The merger of the Door County Department of Human Services with the Department of Public Health is now complete. The Door County Board of Supervisors resolved to merge the two departments into the Department of Health and Human Services last year.

Over the past four months, Department management and staff have been working to make the merger a reality. 

In addition to the name change, the Public Health Division within the department has new leadership.  Sue Powers, RN, BSN, has been named Health Officer/Public Health Manager.  She reports directly to Director Joe Krebsbach.

The county made the change due to the “substantial crossover in the mission and goals of Public Health and Human Services,” according to a press release.  “Both have at their core an interest in the health and well-being of our community.  It’s true that some, but not all, of Public Health’s focus is population-focused, while much of Human Services work is directed to the individual and/or family level.  However, both entities have programs and services aimed at early childhood intervention and prevention.  Both provide benefits to low income families.  And both are concerned with improving mental health, reducing substance use, and preventing abuse and neglect of children and adults at risk.”

In Wisconsin 28 of 72 counties have similar department organizational structures.

The Public Health Division will continue to have a separate reception desk and maintain a designated phone number. Customers seeking Public Health services should call 920.746.2234.  For all other DHHS divisions in the Door County Government Center people should call 746-7155. 

“Of course, we also like to say there’s no wrong door,” said Director Joe Krebsbach, “If someone happens to call or stop in at the wrong desk, we will absolutely help them get where them where they need to be.”