Accessing West Virginia’s Public Health and Wellness Initiatives

Introduction

West Virginia offers a range of public health and wellness initiatives aimed at improving the health and well-being of its residents. These programs are administered by various state agencies and provide services such as medical assistance, behavioral health support, and preventive care. This article outlines how to access these resources, including contact information and eligibility criteria.

State Programs

Medicaid Program

The West Virginia Medicaid Program provides health coverage to eligible low-income individuals and families. Services include doctor visits, hospital care, prescription drugs, and preventive services.

Contact Information:

  • Phone: (877) 716-1212 (Toll-Free)
  • Website: West Virginia Medicaid Program
  • Eligibility:

    Eligibility is based on income, household size, and other factors. To determine if you qualify, visit the West Virginia Medicaid Program website or contact the Bureau for Medical Services.

    Behavioral Health Services

    The Department of Human Services offers behavioral health services, including substance use disorder treatment and mental health support.

    Contact Information:

  • Phone: (304) 558-0684
  • Website: Department of Human Services
  • Services Offered:

  • Substance use disorder treatment
  • Mental health counseling
  • Crisis intervention
  • Eligibility:

    Services are available to all West Virginia residents. For more information, visit the Department of Human Services website or contact the department directly.

    Local Services

    County Health Departments

    Local health departments provide a variety of services, including immunizations, family planning, and health education.

    How to Find Your Local Health Department:

  • Visit the West Virginia Department of Health website.
  • Select your county from the list to find contact information for your local health department.
  • Example:

  • Kanawha County Health Department
  • – Address: 108 Lee Street East, Charleston, WV 25301
    – Phone: (304) 348-8080
    – Website: Kanawha-Charleston Health Department

    Benefits & Assistance

    Women, Infants, and Children (WIC) Program

    The WIC Program provides nutritious food, education, and support to low-income pregnant women, new mothers, and young children.

    Contact Information:

  • Phone: (304) 558-0030
  • Website: WIC Program
  • Eligibility:

    Eligibility is based on income and nutritional risk. To apply, contact the WIC Program or visit the website for more information.

    Government Agencies

    Department of Health

    The Department of Health oversees public health initiatives, including disease prevention and health education.

    Contact Information:

  • Address: One Davis Square, Suite 100 East, Charleston, WV 25301
  • Phone: (304) 558-0684
  • Website: Department of Health
  • Services Offered:

  • Immunization programs
  • Chronic disease prevention
  • Health education and promotion
  • Public Records

    Public records related to health and wellness initiatives can be accessed through the Department of Health’s Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) request process.

    How to Submit a FOIA Request:

  • Visit the Department of Health FOIA page.
  • Follow the instructions provided to submit your request.
  • Conclusion

    Accessing public health and wellness initiatives in West Virginia involves contacting the appropriate state agencies and local services. By utilizing these resources, residents can receive the support and services necessary to maintain and improve their health.

    Key Facts

  • Medicaid Program: Provides health coverage to eligible low-income individuals and families.
  • Behavioral Health Services: Offers substance use disorder treatment and mental health support.
  • WIC Program: Provides nutritious food and education to low-income pregnant women, new mothers, and young children.
  • Sources

  • West Virginia Department of Health and Human Resources, 2025/https://dhhr.wv.gov/
  • West Virginia Department of Human Services, 2025/https://dohs.wv.gov/
  • West Virginia Department of Health, 2025/https://dhhr.wv.gov/health
  • West Virginia Medicaid Program, 2025/https://bms.wv.gov
  • WIC Program, 2025/https://www.fns.usda.gov/fns-contact/west-virginia-department-health-human-resources
  • Kanawha-Charleston Health Department, 2025/https://kchdwv.org
  • Department of Health FOIA, 2025/https://dhhr.wv.gov/health
  • Recent Developments in West Virginia Public Health:

  • West Virginia’s state health officer resigns but will continue opioid nonprofit work, Published on Tuesday, December 17
  • Justice signs bill splitting up West Virginia health agency, Published on Monday, March 06
  • Local governments in West Virginia to start seeing opioid settlement money this year, Published on Monday, November 06