The Watauga County entity accountable for public well being companies within the Boone, North Carolina space supplies a spread of packages and initiatives geared toward defending and bettering neighborhood well-being. These companies embody areas corresponding to illness prevention, well being training, environmental well being, and scientific care. An instance of their work contains administering vaccinations, conducting restaurant inspections, and offering assets for maternal and youngster well being.
The group’s efforts are very important for making certain a wholesome inhabitants and stopping the unfold of illness inside Watauga County. Its advantages lengthen to selling wholesome life, addressing well being disparities, and responding to public well being emergencies. Tracing its roots to state and county-level public well being mandates, it has developed to deal with the particular well being wants and challenges of the local people over time.
This established entity is a crucial part of the native healthcare infrastructure. Its obligations are quite a few, starting from offering direct medical care to broader community-level interventions. Subsequent data will elaborate additional on the particular companies and packages provided, specializing in key initiatives designed to boost the well being and security of native residents.
1. Vaccination clinics
The story of safeguarding neighborhood well being regularly unfolds throughout the partitions of vaccination clinics, with the “boone nc well being division” serving as a central determine on this narrative. These clinics, quite than being mere factors of medical service, stand as cornerstones of proactive public well being protection. A cause-and-effect relationship is clear: the implementation of standard vaccination clinics leads on to lowered incidence of preventable ailments inside Watauga County. For instance, throughout a latest measles outbreak scare, the power of the “boone nc well being division” to quickly arrange and execute vaccination clinics successfully contained the unfold, stopping a possible public well being disaster.
The significance of vaccination clinics as a core perform throughout the construction of the “boone nc well being division” can’t be overstated. They aren’t merely an added service; they embody a dedication to preventative care. Take into account the influenza season. The “boone nc well being division’s” seasonal flu shot clinics provide a vital service, significantly to weak populations such because the aged and people with compromised immune programs. These clinics present not solely vaccinations, but in addition very important details about influenza prevention and administration, additional empowering the neighborhood to guard themselves.
Understanding the sensible significance of this connection is paramount. A well-functioning vaccination program, coordinated by the “boone nc well being division,” interprets instantly right into a more healthy, extra resilient neighborhood. Challenges stay, together with addressing vaccine hesitancy and making certain equitable entry to companies throughout the county. But, the continued dedication to those clinics represents a elementary funding within the long-term well being and well-being of Watauga County, demonstrating a dedication to proactive public well being administration.
2. Environmental security
The narrative of neighborhood well being in Watauga County is deeply interwoven with the vigilance surrounding environmental security, with the “boone nc well being division” enjoying a crucial function as its guardian. Each stream monitored, each restaurant inspected, each septic system permitted contributes to a bigger story: the safeguarding of the atmosphere to guard the well being of the residents. When pollution seep into the water provide, or unsafe meals dealing with practices endanger diners, the “boone nc well being division” acts as the primary line of protection, investigating and mitigating the hazards. The cause-and-effect is obvious: a proactive method to environmental security instantly leads to fewer situations of waterborne sicknesses and meals poisoning outbreaks.
Take into account the instance of a latest heavy rainfall that led to considerations about potential effectively water contamination in rural components of Watauga County. The “boone nc well being division” instantly mobilized, offering water testing companies and providing steerage on disinfection procedures. This fast response not solely prevented a possible outbreak of waterborne illness but in addition fostered belief and confidence within the organizations dedication to defending public well being. The environmental well being specialists conduct routine inspections of meals service institutions, making certain compliance with sanitation rules and educating restaurant employees on secure meals dealing with practices. With out these preventative measures, the danger of foodborne sickness would considerably enhance, impacting the well being and financial system of the county.
In essence, the “boone nc well being division’s” dedication to environmental security is just not merely a regulatory perform; it represents a profound funding within the long-term well-being of the neighborhood. Whereas challenges stay, corresponding to addressing rising environmental threats and making certain equitable entry to wash assets, the continued dedication to those important companies underscores its unwavering dedication to constructing a more healthy and extra resilient Watauga County. It is a steady effort to guard the land, water, and air that maintain the neighborhood, recognizing {that a} wholesome atmosphere is key to a wholesome inhabitants.
3. Illness surveillance
Inside the quiet mountain neighborhood, an unseen enemy lurks: the refined creep of illness. Defending the inhabitants from this menace is the diligent work of illness surveillance, with the “boone nc well being division” performing as its eyes and ears. This isn’t a passive statement, however an lively investigation. When a cluster of bizarre signs seems on the native hospital, or absenteeism spikes on the elementary college, it’s the “boone nc well being division” that steps in. The trigger and impact are plain: efficient surveillance permits for early detection, enabling fast response to include outbreaks earlier than they spiral uncontrolled. With out this vigilance, a localized concern may shortly escalate right into a widespread disaster.
The significance of illness surveillance as a core perform of the “boone nc well being division” is rooted within the understanding that prevention is paramount. Take into account the annual influenza season. The “boone nc well being division” displays flu exercise by native clinics and hospitals, monitoring an infection charges and figuring out strains circulating locally. This data is then used to tell vaccination methods and public well being messaging. When a novel pathogen emerges, the surveillance system turns into much more crucial. Throughout a latest outbreak of a drug-resistant bacterial an infection, the division traced the supply to a particular healthcare facility, implementing strict an infection management measures that prevented additional unfold to weak populations.
In essence, the effectiveness of this monitoring system isn’t just an instructional idea; it has tangible penalties for the well being and well-being of all the neighborhood. Challenges stay, together with securing enough funding for assets, defending affected person privateness whereas gathering knowledge, and addressing public skepticism about public well being interventions. But, the dedication to steady surveillance underscores a elementary precept: that defending the well being of Watauga County requires fixed vigilance, fast response, and a deep understanding of the ever-evolving panorama of infectious illness. This proactive method is the bedrock of a wholesome and resilient neighborhood.
4. Well being training
Inside the rustic appeal of the Appalachian Mountains, the narrative of neighborhood well being unfolds not solely in clinics and hospitals, but in addition in lecture rooms, neighborhood facilities, and thru the outreach efforts. Right here, “Well being training” emerges as a vital instrument within the fingers of the “boone nc well being division,” a software not only for treating sickness, however for stopping it. The connection is clear: empower the neighborhood with information, and the direct result’s more healthy selections, fewer preventable ailments, and a extra resilient inhabitants. The absence of this data, alternatively, leaves residents weak to misinformation and unhealthy practices. Think about a situation the place native farmers are unaware of the perfect practices for stopping foodborne sicknesses when promoting their produce on the farmers market, or when younger dad and mom lack the information to correctly care for his or her newborns.
The significance of well being training as a cornerstone of the “boone nc well being division” is finest illustrated by tangible examples. Take into account the division’s initiative to teach youngsters in regards to the dangers of substance abuse. By collaborating with native faculties and neighborhood organizations, the “boone nc well being division” developed evidence-based prevention packages that equip younger folks with the abilities to withstand peer strain and make knowledgeable selections about their well being. In one other occasion, in response to rising charges of diabetes within the county, the division launched a sequence of workshops on wholesome consuming and lively residing, empowering residents to handle their situation and forestall problems. Throughout these workshops, participant find out about diabetes administration by medical vitamin, bodily exercise, medicine, and monitoring and problem-solving expertise. The division’s employees of registered dietitians and authorized diabetes educators play very important roles throughout these packages. These aren’t remoted incidents; they characterize a sustained effort to enhance the well being literacy of the neighborhood and foster a tradition of wellness.
The sensible significance of this understanding extends far past particular person conduct. When the neighborhood is well-informed about well being points, it’s higher outfitted to advocate for insurance policies and assets that assist public well being. It fosters a way of shared accountability and collective motion. Whereas challenges persist, corresponding to reaching underserved populations and addressing deeply ingrained well being behaviors, the dedication of the “boone nc well being division” to well being training stays unwavering. Its efforts echo the idea that information is energy, and that empowering the neighborhood with data is the simplest technique to construct a more healthy future for all.
5. Maternal assist
Within the lives of expectant and new moms residing inside Watauga County, a silent ally exists within the type of accessible assist. Inside the “boone nc well being division,” maternal assist emerges as a beacon of hope, providing crucial assets and steerage throughout a transformative interval. This connection, nonetheless, is just not merely transactional; it represents a concerted effort to domesticate wholesome pregnancies, secure deliveries, and thriving households. The impact of devoted maternal assist reverberates throughout generations, breaking cycles of poverty and selling a brighter future for each mom and youngster. When moms obtain the care and data they want, the direct end result is improved delivery outcomes, lowered charges of postpartum despair, and strengthened household bonds. The absence of this assist leaves weak moms remoted, rising their threat of problems and jeopardizing the well-being of their infants.
The significance of maternal assist as a crucial part of the “boone nc well being division” is illuminated by tales of native ladies. Take into account the case of a younger, first-time mom dealing with surprising challenges throughout her being pregnant. By means of the division’s house visiting program, she obtained personalised assist from a registered nurse, who supplied training on prenatal care, vitamin, and childbirth preparation. This assist helped her navigate the complexities of being pregnant and empowered her to advocate for her personal well being and the well being of her child. Through the nurse’s go to, she was capable of assess the mom’s bodily and psychological well being. She seen that the mother was displaying indicators of despair. Nurse instantly referred her to psychological well being specialist. The nurse gave her all types of help that she wants. In one other occasion, a refugee mom who lacks the assets to assist her new born child was linked with the supplemental vitamin program for Ladies, Infants, and Youngsters (WIC), making certain she had entry to wholesome meals for herself and her child. These interventions not solely addressed fast wants but in addition constructed a basis for long-term success.
In the end, the efficacy of this assist isn’t just a theoretical idea; it interprets into more healthy moms, more healthy infants, and a stronger neighborhood. Whereas challenges stay, corresponding to reaching rural populations and addressing systemic inequities, the dedication of the “boone nc well being division” to maternal assist is a testomony to the idea that each mom and youngster deserves the chance to thrive. It’s a steady effort to nurture the following technology and create a extra equitable and compassionate society, one mom and one youngster at a time.
6. Neighborhood outreach
Within the mountainous terrain of Watauga County, the place communities are sometimes separated by winding roads and cultural nuances, the “boone nc well being division’s” attain extends far past its bodily partitions. Neighborhood outreach is the bridge, connecting the division’s very important companies with the people and households who want them most. With out this lively engagement, assets would stay untapped, data unshared, and the promise of public well being unfulfilled. The trigger and impact are stark: a strong outreach program leads to elevated entry to care, improved well being outcomes, and a extra equitable distribution of assets. The reverse is equally true restricted outreach perpetuates well being disparities and leaves weak populations behind. Take into account a situation wherein a senior citizen, remoted in a rural neighborhood and missing transportation, struggles to entry crucial medical care. With out proactive outreach efforts, this particular person could stay unaware of obtainable assets, resulting in a decline in well being and high quality of life.
The significance of neighborhood outreach as an integral perform of the “boone nc well being division” is clear in its sensible functions. As an example, the division’s cellular well being unit travels to underserved communities, offering on-site well being screenings, vaccinations, and training. These efforts are tailor-made to the particular wants of every neighborhood, taking into consideration cultural sensitivities and language obstacles. Through the COVID-19 pandemic, the division’s outreach groups performed a pivotal function in disseminating details about testing and vaccination, reaching people who could not have had entry to mainstream media. In some instances, groups had been even capable of arrange vaccination alternatives at native shops and markets, additional permitting residents to soundly and correctly deal with themselves and their households. Additional examples embody partnerships with native church buildings and neighborhood organizations to host well being gala’s and workshops, bringing well being training on to the folks. These initiatives aren’t merely add-ons; they’re important to making sure that public well being companies are accessible to all residents of Watauga County.
In the end, the effectiveness of this technique is just not merely a matter of statistics; it’s about constructing belief, fostering relationships, and empowering communities to take management of their very own well being. Whereas challenges persist, corresponding to securing enough funding and overcoming logistical obstacles, the dedication of the “boone nc well being division” to neighborhood outreach stays unwavering. It’s a recognition that public well being isn’t just about treating sickness, however about making a society the place everybody has the chance to thrive. It’s a steady journey, pushed by the idea that by reaching out to each nook of Watauga County, a more healthy future will be constructed, one neighborhood at a time.
7. Emergency preparedness
Inside the serene panorama of Watauga County, the significance of meticulous planning and coordinated response turns into undeniably clear. The “boone nc well being division,” because the vanguard of public well-being, shoulders the accountability of getting ready the neighborhood for unexpected crises. It isn’t a query of if, however when, an emergency will strike, demanding a proactive stance to mitigate potential devastation and safeguard the well being and lives of the county’s residents. From pure disasters to public well being emergencies, the division’s readiness shapes the neighborhood’s resilience.
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Strategic Planning and Coordination
The division engages in complete planning periods, collaborating with native, state, and federal businesses to develop emergency response protocols. This contains creating detailed plans for varied eventualities, corresponding to extreme climate occasions, illness outbreaks, and acts of terrorism. An actual-world instance can be the collaborative effort throughout a possible hurricane menace, the place the division coordinates with native hospitals, shelters, and regulation enforcement to make sure a seamless evacuation and provision of medical companies. The implication is a structured, coordinated response that minimizes chaos and maximizes the effectiveness of emergency companies.
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Useful resource Allocation and Administration
The “boone nc well being division” maintains a strategic stockpile of important medical provides, tools, and personnel. This useful resource allocation is crucial within the fast aftermath of a catastrophe, making certain that healthcare suppliers have the instruments they should deal with the injured and forestall the unfold of illness. For instance, through the COVID-19 pandemic, the division was accountable for distributing private protecting tools (PPE) to healthcare employees and administering vaccines to the general public. Efficient useful resource administration is a direct determinant of the neighborhood’s capacity to deal with the health-related penalties of an emergency.
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Communication and Public Schooling
Efficient communication is paramount throughout any emergency, and the “boone nc well being division” performs a central function in disseminating correct and well timed data to the general public. This contains offering updates on the character of the emergency, issuing well being advisories, and providing steerage on easy methods to keep secure. Take into account the situation of a water contamination occasion, the place the division would use varied channels, together with social media, press releases, and neighborhood conferences, to tell residents in regards to the dangers and supply directions on easy methods to get hold of secure ingesting water. Clear and constant communication helps to scale back panic, promote knowledgeable decision-making, and make sure that residents take acceptable protecting measures.
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Coaching and Drills
Preparation is greater than coverage. To make sure environment friendly practices are in place, the well being division organizes common coaching periods and drills for its employees and neighborhood companions. This contains simulated emergency eventualities that check the response capabilities and determine areas for enchancment. Think about a full-scale train simulating a mass casualty occasion at an area college, the place the division collaborates with first responders, hospitals, and volunteers to apply triage, therapy, and evacuation procedures. Recurrently scheduled and completely performed coaching enhances the division’s readiness and improves the effectiveness of its response to real-world emergencies.
These coordinated efforts exemplify the “boone nc well being division’s” dedication to safeguarding the well being and well-being of Watauga County’s residents. Emergency preparedness is just not merely a guidelines of duties; it’s an ongoing means of planning, coaching, and collaboration. The group constantly strives to adapt and enhance its capabilities, recognizing that the neighborhood’s security will depend on its vigilance and preparedness.
8. Scientific companies
Inside the framework of Watauga County’s healthcare system, the “boone nc well being division” stands as an important supplier of scientific companies, making certain entry to care for people who would possibly in any other case fall by the cracks. The story of those companies is one in every of filling gaps, addressing disparities, and selling wellness inside a neighborhood the place assets will be restricted. The causal hyperlink between the supply of scientific companies and improved public well being is plain: when people have entry to preventive care, therapy for continual situations, and household planning assets, the general well being of the neighborhood improves. Within the absence of the division’s scientific choices, many residents would face vital obstacles to care, resulting in poorer well being outcomes and elevated pressure on the broader healthcare system.
One instance of the division’s impression will be seen in its household planning clinic. For low-income ladies in Watauga County, this clinic supplies entry to important reproductive well being companies, together with contraception, screenings for sexually transmitted infections, and prenatal care. These companies not solely empower ladies to make knowledgeable selections about their reproductive well being, but in addition cut back charges of unintended pregnancies and enhance maternal and toddler well being outcomes. Equally, the division’s immunization clinic performs a crucial function in stopping the unfold of vaccine-preventable ailments. By providing vaccinations to youngsters and adults, the division protects the neighborhood from outbreaks and ensures that Watauga County stays a wholesome place to stay. In sure conditions, well being officers had been capable of create a cellular clinic the place they will attain a wider vary of the inhabitants as effectively.
The success of those efforts is just not with out its challenges. The “boone nc well being division” continuously navigates problems with funding, staffing, and entry to care in a rural and infrequently underserved neighborhood. Regardless of these obstacles, the division stays dedicated to offering high-quality scientific companies to all residents of Watauga County, no matter their earnings, insurance coverage standing, or background. It’s a story of dedication, resilience, and a profound perception within the energy of public well being to remodel lives. The dedication exemplifies the understanding that wholesome people make up a wholesome neighborhood, and that entry to scientific companies is a elementary proper, not a privilege.
Continuously Requested Questions Relating to Native Public Well being
The next addresses widespread inquiries surrounding the availability of public well being companies inside Watauga County. These questions characterize considerations usually voiced by residents, and the solutions purpose to make clear the function and obligations of the native company. Understanding these factors is essential for knowledgeable engagement with neighborhood well being initiatives.
Query 1: Why does the entity implement rules concerning meals security at eating places? Is that this an overreach of presidency energy?
The safeguarding of public well being mandates that sure requirements be maintained in meals preparation and dealing with. Historical past bears witness to the devastating penalties of unchecked foodborne sicknesses. These rules aren’t arbitrary; they’re born from classes realized from previous outbreaks and purpose to stop future tragedies. Routine inspections, whereas maybe inconvenient for some institutions, are crucial to make sure that meals is ready and served in a way that minimizes the danger of contamination and sickness for all patrons.
Query 2: Why is it crucial for the group to trace and monitor instances of infectious ailments throughout the neighborhood? Is not this a violation of non-public privateness?
Illness surveillance is a cornerstone of public well being safety. Whereas particular person privateness is paramount, the crucial to stop the unfold of infectious ailments necessitates the gathering and evaluation of information. This data is used to determine outbreaks, monitor tendencies, and implement management measures. The company adheres to strict protocols to guard the confidentiality of people whereas fulfilling its obligation to safeguard the broader neighborhood from potential epidemics. The stability between particular person privateness and collective security is a fragile one, however the historic report clearly demonstrates the need of illness surveillance in stopping widespread struggling and loss of life.
Query 3: What’s the reasoning behind the company’s involvement in selling vaccinations? Ought to people not have the liberty to decide on whether or not or to not be vaccinated?
Vaccinations are a cornerstone of preventative medication and have demonstrably eradicated or managed quite a few devastating ailments all through historical past. Whereas particular person autonomy is revered, the choice to forgo vaccination has implications not just for oneself but in addition for the broader neighborhood, significantly weak populations who can’t be vaccinated. The company’s promotion of vaccinations relies on scientific proof and a dedication to defending the collective well being of the neighborhood, not infringing upon particular person rights. It’s a matter of understanding the interconnectedness of public well being and the shared accountability to guard each other.
Query 4: What particular companies can be found to low-income households in Watauga County?
Recognizing the well being disparities affecting weak populations, the entity provides a number of packages tailor-made to low-income households. These embody entry to inexpensive or free vaccinations, maternal assist companies, dietary help by packages like WIC (Ladies, Infants, and Youngsters), and sliding-scale charges for sure scientific companies. The objective is to make sure that financial hardship doesn’t change into a barrier to accessing important healthcare and selling well-being. Reaching out to the company instantly is the easiest way to find out eligibility and entry these very important assets.
Query 5: How does the native division coordinate with different healthcare suppliers within the space?
The effectiveness of neighborhood well being efforts hinges on collaboration. Recognizing this, the “boone nc well being division” works in partnership with native hospitals, clinics, physicians, and different healthcare suppliers. These collaborative relationships contain sharing knowledge, coordinating take care of sufferers, and growing joint initiatives to deal with urgent well being wants locally. This contains taking part in neighborhood well being assessments, growing strategic plans, and dealing collectively throughout public well being emergencies. This cooperative method goals to supply a seamless and complete healthcare system for all residents.
Query 6: How can one change into extra concerned in supporting public well being initiatives inside Watauga County?
Neighborhood engagement is the lifeblood of efficient public well being. Alternatives exist for people to contribute their time, skills, and assets to advertise well being and well-being. Volunteering at native clinics or well being occasions, taking part in neighborhood well being assessments, advocating for insurance policies that assist public well being, and donating to native health-related organizations are all precious methods to get entangled. A robust public well being system depends on the lively participation and assist of an knowledgeable and engaged citizenry.
In summation, a complete understanding of how the group protects the wellness of residents requires greedy its objective and operation. Its operations are rooted in historic learnings, tailor-made to current wants, and proactive to make sure a more healthy future.
Subsequent data will delve into avenues for residents to collaborate with neighborhood wellness packages.
Safeguarding Neighborhood Well being
The next steerage arises from years of expertise, derived from firsthand statement of neighborhood wants and a devoted dedication to the well-being of Watauga County. These aren’t merely recommendations, however quite actionable steps to bolster particular person and collective well being.
Tip 1: Embrace Preventative Care. Annual check-ups and really helpful screenings are cornerstones of well being upkeep. The “boone nc well being division” provides assets to navigate these preventative measures. Detectable illnesses discovered by these screenings are simpler to deal with.
Tip 2: Prioritize Immunizations. Vaccinations shield in opposition to preventable ailments, not solely safeguarding oneself but in addition shielding weak members of the neighborhood. Keep knowledgeable about really helpful vaccination schedules by the division’s assets. One much less sickness is one much less burden on native assets.
Tip 3: Follow Meals Security. Adhere to correct meals dealing with methods, each at house and when eating out. Correct storage, cooking, and sanitation decrease the danger of foodborne sicknesses. The “boone nc well being division” routinely conducts restaurant inspections to make sure compliance with security requirements.
Tip 4: Keep Knowledgeable About Public Well being Alerts. Stay vigilant concerning potential well being threats, corresponding to outbreaks of infectious ailments or environmental hazards. The “boone nc well being division” serves as a trusted supply of knowledge throughout public well being emergencies. An knowledgeable public is an empowered public.
Tip 5: Interact in Common Bodily Exercise. Incorporate common train into day by day routine, even in small increments. Bodily exercise strengthens the physique, improves psychological well-being, and reduces the danger of continual ailments. Watauga County provides quite a few alternatives for out of doors recreation and neighborhood health packages.
Tip 6: Search Psychological Well being Help When Wanted. Psychological well-being is as essential as bodily well being. Do not hesitate to hunt skilled assist when dealing with challenges corresponding to stress, anxiousness, or despair. The “boone nc well being division” can present referrals to psychological well being companies.
Tip 7: Promote a Smoke-Free Surroundings. Tobacco use poses vital well being dangers, each to people who smoke and people uncovered to secondhand smoke. Help smoke-free insurance policies and encourage cessation efforts throughout the neighborhood. A smoke-free atmosphere protects everybody.
Tip 8: Be Ready for Emergencies. Develop a plan for responding to potential emergencies, corresponding to extreme climate occasions or energy outages. The “boone nc well being division” supplies assets and steerage to assist households put together for varied eventualities. Preparedness could make all of the distinction in occasions of disaster.
These eight factors, although easy, characterize a steadfast dedication to well being. Proactive selections construct a stronger, more healthy, and extra resilient neighborhood. The well being division is a associate on this endeavor. These rules, carefully utilized, contribute considerably to the well-being of Watauga County.
Subsequent discussions will additional emphasize particular person actions to raise high quality of life for all.
A Legacy of Care
From the tranquil peaks surrounding Boone, North Carolina, a story of public well being unfolds. This exploration has ventured into the multifaceted realm of the entity, inspecting its function in vaccination clinics, environmental security, illness surveillance, neighborhood outreach, and past. It has highlighted the dedication to maternal assist, the essential facet of well being training, the fixed state of preparation for emergencies, and the essential scientific companies provided. Every initiative, every program, stands as a testomony to the group’s dedication to the well-being of Watauga County’s residents.
The story doesn’t conclude with phrases on a web page, however continues within the day by day lives of the neighborhood. It persists with each youngster inoculated, each restaurant inspected, and each house go to performed. It’s an everlasting dedication to foster a spot the place well-being thrives, regardless of background or circumstance. Let each resident acknowledge and assist the necessary contributions of this native asset. It’s important {that a} collective effort of prevention and care ensures a vibrant, safe, and thriving future for the folks of Watauga County.
