Public Health

What is “Public Health”?

Public health promotes and protects the health of people and the communities where they live, learn, work and play. Environmental health is a subset of public health, focusing on the interrelationships between people and their environment. A network of people, organizations, and agencies contribute to, and support improvements in public health. At the municipal level, the local Health Officer is an important component of the network.

Public & Environmental Health A to Z

Public Health System Partners and Resources

Health Officer

The Health Officer is state-appointed upon the recommendation of the Board of Selectmen. The Health Officer works closely with the NH Department of Health and Human Services on a variety of matters including pandemic planning, public health advisories, complaint resolution, daycare licensing, and other public health-related issues. 

Roles and Responsibilities of the Health Officer:

  • Inform and educate the public about public and environmental health issues
  • Investigate health problems and complaints (Request for Investigation form)
  • Coordinate and serve as the liaison with regional and state public health system partners
  • Inspections and Enforcement
  • Participate in emergency response planning

Health Officer Contact Info:

John Edgar

Community Development Department

603-677-4217

jedgar@meredithnh.org