Health Department Programs and Services During Covid-19
While the Health Department has expanded in-person, APPOINTMENT-ONLY services, we continue to offer many services virtually. Please note for any in-person services: we ask that only the person receiving the service enters the building. We cannot accommodate more than 2 people in a group for any appointment. Interpretation services will be provided.
Birth Certificate Services:
- Birth Certificates available on-site at the Health Department Monday - Friday, 8:30am - 3:30pm.
- You can also obtain application forms and detailed information for ordering vital records or requesting amendments here: www.health.maryland.gov/vsa
- You can visit www.vitalcheck.com
- You can order by mail by sending forms to:
Division of Vital Records, P.O. Box 68760, Baltimore, MD 21215
- You can call MDH Vital Records at 410-764-3038, push 1.
Access to Healthcare:
- In-person services available by appointment only. Call 410-313-5845 for appointment.
- Medicaid – Use the online portal at www.marylandhealthconnection.gov or call 1-855-642-8572
- MA Transportation Program – Continue to call 1-877-312-6571 to schedule a ride.
Behavioral Health:
Clinical Services:
- STI/HIV, Reproductive Health, Immunizations, Tuberculosis: clinics will be open by appointment only. Call 410-313-7500.
- WIC: all appointments will be conducted via phone through September. Call 410-313-7510.
Health Promotion:
- Cribs for Kids & Kids in Safety Seats (KISS) Programs: A referral is required for these programs. Distribution available one day a month after completing online classes. Call 410-313-6295.
Environmental Health:
- Appointments available on Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday from 9:00am – 12:00pm. For customers who have plans/blueprints/documents to submit for review, there will be a contact-less drop box located outside the building entrance. This will be monitored daily by staff from 8:30am - 3pm. No appointment necessary to drop plans off.
- Food Protection Program: 410-313-1772
- Well & Septic Program: 410-313-1771
- Community Hygiene Program: 410-313-1773
Lung Disease Associated with E-Cigarette/Vaping Use
Electronic smoking devices (ESDs) contain harmful chemical that cause lung disease and possibly death. They also contain addictive nictoine that can damage your brain. For more information about the dangers of vaping and the effects it can have on teens and young adults, visit our Tobacco Control Program page.
***For clinician information, visit our Tobacco Control Program page.***
Breaking the Cycle of Youth Suicide in Howard County
Youth Suicide Prevention Program Created - Uses Multiple Tactics to Help Save Lives
Suicide was the second leading cause of death for people ages 10-24 in 2017. In Howard County, suicide was the leading cause of death for youth ages 15-19 between 2014-2016. According to the Maryland Youth Risk Behavior Survey, 1 in 6 high school students and 1 in 5 middle school students have “seriously considered attempting suicide”.
An evidence-based Youth Suicide Prevention Plan, accompanied by an “It’s OK to Ask” outreach campaign, was created to encourage both youth and adults to talk openly about suicide and suicide prevention. Learn suicide warning signs and get tips about how to start a conversation by visiting teenhealthmatters.org
Phase Two: Sources of Strength
The second phase of the Youth Suicide Prevention Program began in November 2019 with the implementation of the Sources of Strength Program. Sources of Strength is a best-practice youth suicide prevention project. Student peer leaders and adult advisors design and share Hope, Help and Strength-based messages with youth in the community to prevent suicide, bullying and substance use.
How does Sources of Strength work?
- Creates an interactive peer leadership program that influences positive social change
- Empowers students to create networks of connection and resiliency
- Increases help-seeking behaviors
- Promotes positive connections between peer leaders and adults
Follow the HCHD Sources of Strength Program on Facebook and Instagram. Watch a video about Sources of Strength in action in Howard County here.
“It’s OK to Ask” and Sources of Strength campaign materials, information, resources and training are available at teenhealthmatters.org, or by contacting Colleen Nester, Health Department Youth Suicide Prevention Coordinator at 410-313-0613.
If you, or someone you know is in crisis, contact: Grassroots Crisis Intervention Center 24/7 at
410-531-6677 or text HOME to 741741 (Crisis Text Line)