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1. Can I come to Public Health if I am sick (for primary care)?

At this time, Public Health does not provide primary care services. This includes visits for illnesses such as the common cold and flu or for the maintenance of chronic issues such as hypertension and pain management. Please see the "Health Department and the Community" portion of this FAQ or our Community Resource page for information on where underinsured or uninsured individuals can receive these services.

2. Does Public Health administer travel vaccines?

The Health Department offers some travel vaccines, but does not have a travel clinic at this time. Most travel vaccines are not covered by insurance, so payment will be required on the date of service. 

3. Does Public Health provide any no cost services?

Normal routine childhood immunizations and certain adult immunizations (TD boosters and others if criteria are met) are provided by the State Immunization Program and may be at no cost to those eligible. Testing and treatment for sexually transmitted diseases and tuberculosis (if contact/suspect/case) are also provided at no cost, but insurance can be billed for those services. Patients may have blood lead levels for children up to the age of 5 as well as repeat newborn screenings such as sickle cell screening may be drawn at no charge.

4. Does Public Health provide dental care?

At this time, Public Health provides dental services through our Mobile Dental Unit only to children ages 3 to 18 who are uninsured, receive Medicaid or Health Choice insurance, are in need of lost cost dental care, or have issues getting to and from dental appointments. For more information on this service please call 910-512-3113 or visit our Children and School Services page.

If you do not meet the above criteria and require dental care, please visit our Community Resource page for a list of local low-cost dental providers.

5. What services can I receive at Public Health?

The New Hanover County Public Health offers a wide variety of services such as Family Planning and Sexually Transmitted Disease clinics, childhood and adult Immunizations, Travel Vaccinations, WIC Services, Limited Physicals, as well as Male Health and Vasectomy service.

6. When can I come for a Tuberculin (TB) skin test?

TB skin testing is offered on Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, and Friday from 8 am to 4 pm (Not available on Thursdays) with no appointment necessary. Services are provided through the lunch hours and on Tuesdays until 5:30 pm. Please be prepared to return for a reading in 48 to 72 hours (2 to 3 days).