## Overview and Mission The New York City Department of Health and Mental Hygiene (DOHMH) is one of the largest and oldest public health agencies in the world, with a mission to protect and promote the health of all New Yorkers, regardless of background or neighborhood[4]. Serving over 8 million residents across the five boroughs, the department operates with an annual budget of approximately $1.6 billion and employs more than 7,000 staff[4]. Its work spans a broad spectrum—from inspecting restaurants and issuing birth certificates to tracking disease outbreaks and managing mental health crises[4][5]. ## History and Evolution Founded over two centuries ago, DOHMH has evolved from a traditional public health department into a comprehensive agency integrating physical health, mental health, and social determinants of health[4]. The department’s roots in mental hygiene trace back to state-level reforms in the 19th century, but its current structure reflects a modern, integrated approach to health and wellness[2]. Today, DOHMH not only responds to immediate health threats but also works proactively to prevent illness and promote equity[3][6]. ## Key Achievements DOHMH has been at the forefront of numerous public health milestones, including the city’s response to the COVID-19 pandemic, where it coordinated disease surveillance, distributed medical equipment, and managed vaccination efforts in partnership with NYC Health + Hospitals[1]. The department also launched initiatives like Mental Health for All to address the surge in mental health needs during the pandemic[1]. Its public health campaigns—ranging from tobacco control to chronic disease prevention—have set national benchmarks[4]. ## Current Status and Notable Aspects DOHMH continues to innovate, employing a public health approach that emphasizes prevention, equitable access, and stigma-free care[3]. The department contracts with community-based organizations to deliver mental health, developmental disability, and substance use services, ensuring a decentralized yet coordinated response to complex health challenges[1]. It