HISTORY & MISSION
In 1970, Utah Governor Calvin L. Rampton issued an executive order that fixed the boundaries for eight multi-county districts to provide public health services for residents. The main purpose of establishing district health departments was to provide border-to-border local public health services while strengthening the role of county and municipal officials in executing state and federal public health programs. The Southwest Utah Public Health Department (SWUPHD) was organized in 1972 and is one of thirteen local public health departments in Utah. SWUPHD provides public health services in Beaver, Garfield, Iron, Kane, and Washington counties. Our vision is healthy people in healthy communities.
MISSION STATEMENT
To protect our community’s health through the promotion of wellness and the prevention of disease.
Our Commitment
We are committed to ensuring that all residents in the five-county area have access to personal and environmental health services and education. We work in partnership with individuals, community groups, health providers, and businesses to achieve this goal. Professional services are provided under the direction of the Health Officer and include Clinical Services, Environmental Health, Community Health, and Emergency Preparedness.
Health Officers
The list below includes past Health Officers of the Southwest Utah Public Health Department, listed from most recent to earliest service.
- David W. Blodgett, MD, MPH (2005–Present)
- Gary L. Edwards (1993–2005)
- William J. Coffman (1984–1993)
- Dr. Ray G. Cowley (1978–1984)
- Dr. W. David Trafton (1974–1978)