Highlands County

About DOH-HIghlands 

The health department in Highlands County was established in February of 1937, serving a population of 10,912.  Today, the Florida Department of Health in Highlands County (DOH-Highlands) serves a permanent population of approximately 102,152, which increases by about 35,000 during the winter months as our seasonal residents arrive.

Our Role

DOH-Highlands' mission is to protect, promote, and improve the health of all people in Highlands County through integrated state, county, and community efforts.  We hope to improve the quality of life for all residents and visitors by providing access to quality health care to everyone in Highlands County, regardless of their ability to pay. 

Our primary focus is on people without a medical home. A "medical home" is not a place but a special relationship you have with the health care professionals who provide for you and your family.  We continue to build partnerships within the community to make the most of available health care resources.

We offer quality public health services provided by Board Certified, credentialed, qualified and dedicated staff who are held to the highest professional standards:

• Dental Hygienists
• Advanced Practice Registered Nurses (APRNs)
• Registered Nurses (RNs)
• Licensed Practical Nurses (LPNs)
• Registered Dieticians (RDs)
• Environmental Specialists
• Administrative and other support staff

The Florida Department of Health in Highlands County strives to ensure services are available to all.  The cost of service depends on each person's ability to pay, with fees applied on a sliding scale.

We accept Medicaid, Medicare, and most private insurances.

Some services are available to everyone and have no eligibility requirements, although fees may apply.