Public Health Department is one of the divisions operated by the government of Catawba County in North Carolina. The department, based in Hickory, N.C., protects, promotes and maintains the health of city residents. It provides a wide variety of public health programs and services for individuals. Public Health Department also provides a range of information related to health issues, bioterrorism preparedness, pollution and strategic health plans. The department offers various clinical services in the areas of adult and children s health, communicable diseases, dental health, immunization and women s preventive health. Its environmental health programs include issues, such as air quality, food, lodging, water sample inspection, and well and septic permits. The department also offers several home health services, including physical and occupational therapies. It operates various community health assessment programs.