The Halifax County Health Department has been awarded its state accreditation with honors by the North Carolina Local Health Department Accreditation Board.
“This distinguished recognition highlights the department’s commitment to excellence in public health practice, accountability, and community service,” department Director Cheyenna James said.
James, and Agency Accreditation Coordinator Denise Norman, attended the Accreditation Adjudication meeting in Raleigh last Friday for the official determination of status following their September site visit.
Lead Site Visitor Tommy Jarrell had the opportunity to highlight findings from the visit as well as best practices to share with other leaders in public health.
The agency was able to satisfy 146 out of 147 required activities to meet the honors status through this process.
Accreditation with honors is granted to local health departments that not only meet but also exceed state and national standards in key areas such as leadership, communication, workforce development, and program effectiveness. “This achievement reflects the dedication, teamwork, and professionalism of our entire staff,” James said. “Each department and employee played an important role in reaching this milestone. Together, we’ve shown what it means to serve with purpose and pride for the people of Halifax County.”
North Carolina was the first state in the country to mandate accreditation for its local health departments in 2005.
The accreditation process evaluates local health departments on their ability to deliver essential public health services, respond effectively to community needs, and maintain strong partnerships that promote health and wellness across the region.
State accreditation includes three major components: A self-assessment completed by the agency, a site visit by a multidisciplinary team of peers to review performance standards, and a determination of accreditation status by an independent accreditation board comprised of state and local public health officials, board of health members, county commissioners, and at-large members.
“We are honored to receive this recognition, and it reaffirms our ongoing mission to protect, promote, and improve the health of every resident in Halifax County,” James said. “Our team works hard daily to meet the needs of the community through the promotion of healthy practices, routine preventative measures, and connecting citizens to resources when a need is expressed.”
