Many individuals seeking assistance from the Department Of State Health Services (DSHS) often find their answers within the comprehensive resources provided on the Health and Human Services (HHS) or DSHS websites. To streamline your inquiries, this guide directs you to the appropriate contact points within the DSHS for various services. For topics not explicitly listed, a comprehensive DSHS A-Z Health Topics Index is available for your convenience.
Visiting the DSHS Central Campus: Parking and Accessibility
For those planning an in-person visit, the DSHS Central Campus offers accessible visitor parking conveniently located throughout the grounds. Additional parking is available in designated parking garages. Notably, visitor permits are not required for parking on campus. When utilizing parking ramps, please pay close attention to the “Ramp Open” and “Ramp Closed” indicators to ensure safe and efficient access.
Accessing Vital Records through the Vital Statistics Section
The Vital Statistics Section serves as the official repository for vital records within Texas. This section meticulously maintains records including birth and death certificates, marriage applications, and divorce decrees. For all inquiries pertaining to Adoptions, Paternity, Birth, Death, Marriage, and Divorce records, or any related services, please directly contact Texas Vital Statistics.
For your convenience, you can Check Order Status online. Alternatively, you can reach the Vital Statistics Section via:
- Phone: 888-963-7111
- Fax: 512-776-7711
- Operating Hours: Monday to Friday, 8:00 AM to 4:00 PM
- Mailing Addresses for Applications: Application Mailing Addresses
Immunization Information and Services from the Immunization Section
The Immunization Section at the Department of State Health Services is dedicated to safeguarding public health by preventing the spread of vaccine-preventable diseases across Texas. Their core objectives include achieving widespread vaccine coverage, enhancing public understanding of vaccine-preventable illnesses, and promoting vaccine safety awareness. The section achieves these goals through several key initiatives:
- Texas Immunization Registry (ImmTrac2): Administering and maintaining ImmTrac2, a statewide system providing authorized access to immunization records.
- School Immunization Requirements: Establishing and overseeing immunization regulations for school enrollment to protect students and communities.
- Texas Vaccines for Children and Adult Safety Net Programs: Managing programs that provide affordable vaccines to eligible children and adults, ensuring access to crucial preventative care.
For specific immunization information or requests, you can contact ImmTrac2 Customer Support via email at ImmTrac2@dshs.texas.gov. For general immunization inquiries, please use Immunization.Info@dshs.texas.gov. You can also contact them by phone at 800-252-9152 or fax at 512-776-7288.
Consumer Protection Division: Ensuring Safety in Health Goods and Services
The Consumer Protection Division plays a vital role in safeguarding Texans by overseeing businesses that produce consumer health goods and provide related services. This division’s responsibilities are broad, encompassing:
- Licensing and Regulation: Issuing licenses and establishing rules and standards for various consumer health sectors.
- Oversight and Compliance: Monitoring industries to ensure adherence to regulations and protect public safety.
- Technical Guidance and Communication: Providing expert advice and clear communication to stakeholders and the public.
- Disaster Preparedness and Response: Integrating consumer protection measures into emergency planning and response efforts.
Through these activities, the Consumer Protection Division actively works to maintain the safety and well-being of Texas consumers. For complaints or inquiries regarding specific professions or food establishments, please contact the relevant program within Consumer Protection directly.
Texas Health and Human Services Programs: A Wide Range of Support
The Texas Health and Human Services (HHS) system, of which the Department of State Health Services is a part, offers a vast network of programs and services. The HHS state office headquarters is located at the North Austin Complex, 4601 W. Guadalupe St., Austin, TX 78751-3146 (mailing address: P.O. Box 13247 Austin, Texas 78711-3247). The main HHS phone number is 512-424-6500, and the TTY number is 512-424-6597. For media inquiries specifically related to HHS, please call 512-424-6951.
For assistance in navigating the extensive HHS resources, the Help Finding What You Are Looking For page is an excellent starting point. This page provides direct contact information and support for frequently requested services, including:
- YourTexasBenefits: Assistance with benefits or technical issues related to the YourTexasBenefits.com website, covering programs like CHIP, SNAP, TANF, Medicaid, and PEBT.
- COVID-19 Benefit Information: Up-to-date information on how COVID-19 may impact your benefits.
- Lone Star Card Support: Answers to questions about your Lone Star Card.
- Childcare Licensing: Inquiries related to childcare licensing regulations and processes.
- Certified Nurse Aide Credentialing: Information and support for Certified Nurse Aide credentialing.
- Long-Term Care Provider Licensing: Guidance on long-term care provider licensing requirements.
- Form Downloads: Help with downloading necessary forms.
Additionally, you can utilize the HHS Services and Providers search tools to locate further information and resources. For local community assistance, 2-1-1 Texas is a valuable resource; visit their website to find the phone number for your local information center if you cannot directly connect by dialing 2-1-1.
Media Inquiries for the Department of State Health Services
For members of the media seeking information or to connect with the Department of State Health Services, the dedicated Media Relations team can be reached at pressofficer@dshs.texas.gov or by phone at 512-776-7119. Stay informed about the latest news and updates from the DSHS by visiting the News & Alerts page.
General Customer Service Inquiries
The Department of State Health Services Customer Service office is available to provide information and referral services for general inquiries. If you were unable to locate the specific topic or program you need through the resources mentioned above, please reach out to the customer service team via email at customer.service@dshs.texas.gov.
The DSHS is committed to providing excellent customer service, as outlined in their Compact with Texans. For unresolved issues or complaints regarding a state health and human service agency or program, please contact the Office of the Ombudsman. The Ombudsman’s office facilitates communication, responds to inquiries, and collaborates with leadership and staff across health and human services departments to address concerns.
Contact Information for the Office of the Ombudsman:
HHSC Office of the Ombudsman
Mail Code: H-700
P. O. Box 13247
Austin, TX 78711-3247
Phone (Toll-free): 1-877-787-8999
Fax (Toll-free): 1-888-780-8099
Online Submission Form: Online Submission Form
By utilizing this comprehensive guide, you can efficiently navigate the resources of the Department of State Health Services and connect with the appropriate department for your specific needs.
