To build the capacity of local health departments for the delivery of essential public health services by providing leadership, technical support, and funding for the development of public health workforce competencies, public-private partnerships and coordinated service models, public health information and communication networks, and standards of performance which assure quality public health services and improved community health.

The Division of Local Public Health Practice and Regional Systems Development is responsible for enhancing public health services and activities provided by New Jersey’s local health departments. Objectives for this Division include:

• building local health capacities and core competencies through the continuing education and training of public health professionals;

• providing consultative services and technical assistance to local health departments to improve efficiency and effectiveness of public health services;

• assessing the performance of local health departments to ensure the provision of quality health services and programs in accordance with State Public Health Practice Standards;

• leading a process which defines the role of local health departments in protecting the community’s health;

• providing Public Health Priority Funding (PHPF) to eligible local health agencies to support the provision of priority health services and core functions of public health;

• assisting in the development of a statewide electronic information system, NJLINCS (Local Information Network and Communications System) to improve communications and share public health data and information; and

• responding to the public’s interest and need for information about or obtaining assistance from their local health departments. Refer to the Directory of Local Health Departments in New Jersey.