The Imperial County Public Health Department is proud to announce that it has earned national accreditation through the Public Health Accreditation Board (PHAB). PHAB accreditation is a voluntary, rigorous process that recognizes health departments that meet national, evidence-based standards for delivering public health services.  

“Achieving national accreditation is a significant milestone for our department and for Imperial County,” said Janette Angulo, Director of the Imperial County Public Health Department. “This recognition shows our community that we are committed to quality, accountability, and continuous improvement. It confirms that our services are responsive and meet foundational public health standards. I am grateful for the dedication of our staff and the support of our community and partners.”  

Director Angulo added, “This accreditation lasts five years. During this period, we will continue strengthening our programs, responding to community needs, and working toward a healthier future.” 

What is PHAB accreditation? 
PHAB is the only national organization that accredits governmental public health departments, whether state, local, tribal or territorial. The accreditation process assesses a department’s capacity to deliver the full spectrum of public health services, including adherence to the nationally recognized framework of the 10 Essential Public Health Services and required foundational capabilities. Achieving accreditation means the department has demonstrated, through documentation and a site review visit, that it meets PHAB’s standards. This process is voluntary but widely regarded as a mark of public-health excellence.

What does this mean for Imperial County? 

• Stronger programs and services: Accreditation shows that the Public Health Department carries out high-quality quality services, from assessment and planning to disease prevention, health promotion, emergency preparedness, and community engagement.  

• Accountability and transparency: Since accreditation involves formal documentation and periodic reporting over the five-year period, the community can be assured that public health services are being delivered in a consistent, standardized, and accountable way.  

• Continuous improvement: Accreditation encourages a culture of ongoing evaluation and quality improvement, ensuring that the department continually strengthens its programs to better meet the needs of Imperial County. 

To learn more about the Public Health Accreditation Board, visit www.phaboard.org, and for information about the Imperial County Public Health Department, visit www.icphd.org.