Camden County unveils unified health department facility in St. Marys

Camden County is set to enhance its public health services with the upcoming opening of a new health department facility, a significant step towards unifying health services across the county. During a recent sneak peek tour, officials highlighted the impressive features of the 12,500 square foot building, which boasts a total investment of over $6 million, with $3 million funded by the state.

City Manager Robbie Horton emphasized the importance of this facility, stating it will consolidate various health department functions currently spread across three locations in Woodbine and St. Marys. The new site, strategically located near Southeast Georgia Health System, aims to create a "health mecca" for the community, fostering collaboration between health services.

The facility will house both environmental health and clinical services, including a dedicated area for inspections related to restaurants and septic systems. Notably, the environmental health wing will feature expanded office space and a lab for testing, doubling the capacity of current operations.

The clinical side of the health department will offer a spacious area for patient check-ins and services such as vaccinations and the Women, Infants, and Children (WIC) program. The facility also includes an impressive storage area for medical records, ensuring efficient management of patient information.

With a ribbon-cutting ceremony scheduled in the coming month, this new health department is poised to significantly improve access to public health services in Camden County, benefiting residents and visitors alike.