New Putnam County Health Department Hosts Open House
Friday, August 21, 2009 | 11:40am
COOKEVILLE, Tenn. – Tennessee Department of Health Deputy Commissioner Jim Shulman and Health Services Assistant Commissioner Cathy Taylor, DrPH, MSN, RN, were on hand for a ribbon cutting ceremony and open house today at the new Putnam County Health Department facility in Cookeville. During their visit, they met with county staff members as well as local and state government officials.
The new Putnam County Health Department building is part of a multi-million dollar complex developed to meet the needs of the growing population in Putnam County. The complex, funded by the county and state governments, also includes Putnam County Emergency Services and the Election Commission.
“This is a wonderful day for Putnam County, for all the people who will be served by this new facility and the devoted providers who work there,” said Shulman.
The mission of the Putnam County Health Department is to provide comprehensive primary and preventive health services to the uninsured, the underinsured and the medically underserved populations. The new Putnam County Health Department facility is larger and more efficient than the former clinic building, and the innovative design will enhance patient flow, improving both patient and system outcomes. The new Putnam County Health Department is approximately 30,000 square feet and features 31 examination rooms, three laboratories and a dental clinic with three dental treatment areas.
“This new health department facility is the result of a cooperative effort that has been underway for a long time in this community,” said Putnam County Health Director Lisa Bumbalough. “Our patients have been very appreciative of both the new building and the services we’re able to provide.”
“We are excited to open these new facilities and we want the public to come see what this new complex will allow us to do for overcrowding and to better serve the citizens of our county,” stated Putnam County Executive Kim Blaylock.
The Putnam County Health Department at 701 County Services Drive in Cookeville provides an array of services including primary care, family planning, immunizations, well child/EPSDT screenings, WIC and nutrition services, breast and cervical cancer screening, birth and death certificates, children’s special services, HUGS, HIV testing and counseling, sexually transmitted disease testing and treatment and communicable disease control. Hours for the clinic are 8 a.m. until 4:30 p.m., Monday through Friday. Individuals wishing to make an appointment may contact the Putnam County Health Department at (931) 528-2531.