The Public Health Department works to protect the wellbeing of communities across Choma District through disease prevention, environmental health management, education, and enforcement of public health laws. The department operates through several specialized units, each with specific roles.

1. Disease Prevention & Community Health Unit

Overview:
Focuses on preventing illness through surveillance, community engagement and early detection.

Key Functions:
• Community health screenings and vaccination support
• Monitoring disease patterns and responding to outbreaks
• Providing technical advice to partners and health facilities
• Delivering health education in communities and schools

2. Environmental & Port Health Unit

Overview:
Ensures safe environments by enforcing environmental, food safety, and port health standards.

Key Functions:
• Regulation of waste handling and sanitation services
• Inspections of waste facilities, water sources, and public spaces
• Border and transit-point health checks
• Supporting emergency and epidemic preparedness
• Promoting safe food, water, and environmental practices

3. Public Health Inspectorate Unit

Overview:
Enforces compliance with public health requirements in businesses, institutions, and public areas.

Key Functions:
• Routine and follow-up inspections of food premises and workplaces
• Sampling and testing food and water for safety
• Addressing public health nuisances such as stagnant water and refuse
• Issuing compliance certificates and monitoring corrective actions

4. Health Promotion Unit

Overview:
Drives public awareness and behaviour-change initiatives to improve health outcomes in Choma.

Key Functions:
• Producing and distributing IEC materials
• Community outreach programmes and school sensitisation
• Radio, social media, and community campaign coordination
• Surveys to assess public knowledge and impact of programmes