• Identifying, preventing and reducing health risks in the community
• Controlling the spread of disease
• Promoting healthy lifestyles and a safe environment
• Collaborating with the private sector to ensure accessible health care
• Providing quality health care services when not otherwise available

Highlands & Nantahala Clinics
Outreach clinics are sponsored in Highlands and Nantahala communities. Some of the services offered include immunizations, child health clinic, adult health clinic, family planning clinic, blood pressure and blood sugar checks, and WIC.
For information or to schedule an appointment in Franklin or Highlands call 349-2081, or in Nantahala call 321-5961.
For a schedule of services offered in Highlands, Click Here.

Environmental Health
This section protects environmental and public health by assuring compliance with state and local environmental laws. Services include inspections of septic systems, swimming pools, hospitals, daycare centers, schools, food handling, and lodging establishments. Services also include septic system permits. This section also sponsors rabies clinics, food handling sanitation seminars, and training for daycare workers. Fees are charged at the time of application for septic permits and water testing.

Laboratory - Certified High Complexity
The laboratory offers independent clinical and environmental health services for the general public and our clinic patients. Most of these laboratory services require an order from a private physician. The laboratory may file Medicare, Medicaid, and some insurance companies. Charges vary depending on services performed and income.

School Health
School health services are provided by registered nurses. These services include consultation with the school system concerning school health policies, development of care plans, medication policies, and educational programs for students, staff, & parents.

WIC - Women, Infants & Children
WIC is a supplemental food program for pregnant and post-partum women, infants, and children under age five. WIC provides nutrition education and supplies foods such as milk, eggs, cheese, cereal, juice, and infant formula for participants. Eligibility is based on income & residence. Appointments are required.

Tuberculosis Control
Tuberculosis screening tests are provided without an appointment. Tuberculosis medications and other services are provided as needed for all clients with known tuberculosis infection or active disease. No fees are charged for these services and no appointment is necessary for the first visit.

Communicable Disease Services
The Public Health Center investigates contagious disease outbreaks, coordinates control efforts, and provides public information. Call the health center to ask questions or report suspected outbreaks of contagious diseases.

Sexually Transmitted Disease Services
Services are available by walk-in screening or appointment. Services include diagnosis, treatment, education, counseling, and follow-up. All services are kept strictly confidential. Most STD services are free of charge.

HIV & Aids Services
The AIDS blood test (HIV antibody test) is available Monday through Friday from 8:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. There is no charge. An appointment is preferred, but walk-ins will be seen when possible. Counseling, referral, and case management services are available for persons with HIV.

Family Outreach Services

Child Service Coordination - This program assists special needs children (ages 5 and under) by developing a plan to help the family obtain services such as physical therapy, developmental evaluation, and home visits. There are no income requirements to participate.

Health Check - This program provides free health care for Medicaid eligible children, ages 0 - 20. A Health Check Coordinator helps parents locate health care providers and referral services to ensure that each child receives all necessary health services at age appropriate intervals.

Maternity Care Coordination - Medicaid eligible pregnant women receive periodic visits with a Registered Nurse. The nurse provides help in understanding Medicaid benefits; assistance in obtaining medical care, WIC, and transportation services; and education on childbirth preparation and parenting. A newborn home visit and evaluation is also encouraged.

Smart Start - This state program serves children ages 0-5 by providing services that help each child be healthy and ready to succeed when beginning school. Daycare providers and families of young children may receive educational programs, referrals, and consults from Public Health Nurses.

Clinics

Family Planning
This clinic is held several times each month for women of childbearing age. Services include annual exams, birth control supplies, pregnancy tests, and education. Counseling on male and female sterilization is also available. Appointments are required and all services are confidential. Click Here to download a step-by-step walk through of your first Family Planning Clinic Visit,.

Adult Health Screening Clinic
This clinic provides a physical exam and certain tests to aid in early detection of cancer and other chronic diseases. This basic screening does not provide medical treatment or replace a visit to the doctor. Clinic eligibility and fees are based on income since the service is primarily for those who cannot afford private care.A minimum fee is charged and appointments are required.

Breast & Cervical Cancer Control
Free or low cost mammograms, pap smears, clinical breast exams, and nutrition education are provided for eligible women. Please call the health center to determine eligibility or to schedule an appointment.

Child Health Clinic
Child Health Clinics are held monthly for children up to age 21. Physical exams, medical services, and health and nutrition counseling are provided. Charges for the clinic are based on income and appointments are required.

Immunization Clinic
Immunization Clinic is held Monday through Friday from 8:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Routine vaccinations are given free of charge. Immunizations and international travel advice are also available by appointment. The public health center is the only authorized yellow fever vaccination site west of Asheville.

Maternal Outreach
Is a program of support for pregnant women and moms with babies. A Maternal Outreach Worker visits with you in your home to listed to your concerns, answer questions, and provide support and information..More information on Maternal Outreach...

Pediatric Neurology and Development Clinics
Pediatric neurology and development clinics are held periodically for children through age 4. These clinics are available by referral only through the CDSA or a health department Child Service Coordinator.

Prenatal Clinic
Medical care is provided for pregnant women by a health care team that includes medical care. Prenatal education, lab work, counseling, and other testing is also provided. Follow up after delivery may include home visits, nutrition counseling, and referral for other services. Charges are based on income and appointments are required.

Hypertension Clinic
This clinic is held on Mondays from 8:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. and no appointment is needed. Blood pressure checks, screenings, and counseling on diet, medication, and exercise are provided. Charges are based on income. Blood pressure checks are available Monday - Friday, 8am - 4:30pm foa a minimal fee

Health Education

Health education materials including videos and brochures are available at no charge. In addition, health educators provide services for clients, schools, and community groups focusing on the aresa of nutrition, physical activity, tobacco and healthy lifestyle choices.

CPR Training - American Red Cross CPR is offered throughout the year. Call for a schedule, to register, or for fees