Each state health department and local health department will be different. National health concerns are the same, but within each individual community there is a greater need for some things than others. For example, in my home state of Louisiana, our state and local health departments are very active and engaged with the public. Many civic groups and Greek letter organizations also contribute, through their community initiatives. Each parish has its own Parish Human Services Authority that contributes to the state's general fund, interagency transfers, and statutory dedications. The Louisiana Office of Public Health has programs that help underserved communities. An example would be the WIC program which represents women, infants and children and helps low-income mothers obtain healthy items for healthy babies. Thanks to this program there has been a reduction in premature birth rates. Children with special needs can also obtain resources, health services and support through this office. The purpose of state and local health departments is to help prevent emerging and re-emerging diseases from damaging healthcare infrastructure and promote healthy living. They respond to disasters and help communities recover. More importantly, they ensure the quality and accessibility of the healthcare system. The purpose of the public health function of state health departments is policy development, resource management, legal compliance, partner engagement, continuous improvement, and oversight. The U.S. Constitution gives states the power to govern themselves and to protect and promote health through population-wide actions. They must develop policies that help improve the promotion and protection of public health. How…at the heart of the paper…policies that serve the public health of the community. Together, these departments play the same critical roles in promoting and protecting the health of their communities in their respective jurisdictions. The Department of State manages disease surveillance, data collection, state laboratory services, public health emergency preparedness, and other population-based prevention and promotion activities. They are the ones who manage all healthcare services, healthcare provider regulations, technical assistance and training. The local public health department monitors health status and understands the health issues facing the community. They protect people from health problems and risks and involve the community in identifying and solving health problems. They enforce public health laws and regulations and ultimately help people receive health services.