Bradley County Health Department – Complete Guide for Residents and Visitors!

Introduction

The Bradley County Health Department in Cleveland, Tennessee, plays a central role in protecting and promoting public health. From providing vital services like immunizations, family planning, and WIC nutrition support to managing environmental health inspections and public health emergencies, the department is an essential resource for residents of Bradley County.

This guide explores everything you need to know about the Bradley County Health Department, including its history, services, costs, programs, contact details, and ways the community can engage. Whether you are a parent seeking vaccines for your child, a family needing nutrition assistance, or a business owner looking for health regulations, this article will serve as your one-stop resource.

History and Background

The Bradley County Health Department has been serving the Cleveland community for decades, ensuring residents have access to affordable healthcare and preventative services. Initially focused on communicable disease prevention and immunizations, the department has expanded its programs to include maternal and child health, environmental inspections, health education, and emergency response.

Over the years, it has partnered with the Tennessee Department of Health to align with state health goals while addressing local health needs such as rising chronic diseases and access to care for low-income families.

Organizational Structure

The department is overseen by a Health Director supported by medical staff, nurses, administrative teams, and program specialists.

Key divisions include:

WIC Program Staff – handling nutritional support for women, infants, and children.
Environmental Health Inspectors – monitoring food safety, sanitation, and water quality.
Nursing & Clinical Teams – offering immunizations, screenings, and women’s health services.
Community Outreach & Education – engaging schools, workplaces, and the public with preventive health campaigns.

This structure ensures both preventive and primary care needs are met efficiently.

Location, Facilities, and Hours

The Bradley County Health Department is located at:

📍 Address: 201 Dooley Street SE, Cleveland, TN 37311
📞 Phone: (423) 728-7020
🕒 Hours: Monday – Friday, 8:00 AM – 4:30 PM

The facility is fully accessible with parking, wheelchair ramps, and translation services available for non-English speakers. Its central location makes it convenient for both city and county residents.

Services Offered at Bradley County Health Department

The department provides a wide range of services that cover preventive care, nutrition, public health safety, and education. Here are the main services explained in detail:

Immunizations and Vaccines

Vaccinations are available for children, teens, and adults. These include school-required vaccines, flu shots, and other immunizations that protect against serious diseases.

Women’s Health and Family Planning

Services include family planning counseling, pregnancy testing, birth control options, and preventive screenings such as pap smears.

WIC (Women, Infants, and Children) Nutrition Program

This program helps families access healthy foods, nutrition education, and breastfeeding support for mothers and infants.

Disease Testing and Prevention

The department offers testing and treatment for sexually transmitted infections (STIs), HIV, and other communicable diseases. Counseling services and follow-up care are also available.

Environmental Health Services

Inspectors conduct food safety checks, water testing, septic system approvals, and inspections for local businesses to maintain community health standards.

Vital Records

Residents can request official copies of birth and death certificates directly from the health department office.

Public Health Education and Outreach

Programs raise awareness about chronic disease prevention, nutrition, exercise, and mental health. Outreach often occurs in schools and community events.

Cost, Insurance, and Financial Assistance

The Bradley County Health Department ensures affordability by offering many services at little or no cost.

Service	Cost Information	Payment Options
Immunizations	Free for eligible children under VFC program	Insurance, Medicaid, sliding scale
Family Planning	Low-cost or free depending on eligibility	Insurance, Medicaid, cash
WIC	Free for qualified women, infants, children	N/A
Birth/Death Certificates	$15 per certified copy	Cash, card
STD/HIV Testing	Usually free or low-cost	Insurance, Medicaid, grant programs

No one is denied essential services due to inability to pay, making BCHD a lifeline for uninsured and underinsured families.

Community and Educational Programs

Beyond clinical services, the Bradley County Health Department hosts several initiatives to improve overall well-being.

School Health Partnerships – Immunization drives and health education in local schools.
Community Events – Free health screenings at fairs and local gatherings.
Workshops – Nutrition, chronic disease management, and mental health awareness sessions.
Emergency Preparedness – Community drills and communication during health crises.

These programs strengthen the connection between the department and the local community.

Performance and Impact

Each year, thousands of Bradley County residents benefit from BCHD programs. For example:

Hundreds of families receive nutritional assistance through WIC.
Vaccination rates among school-aged children remain high due to affordable immunization programs.
Foodborne illnesses are reduced thanks to regular inspections of restaurants and public facilities.

These measurable outcomes highlight the department’s role in keeping the community safe and healthy.

Policies and Regulations

The Bradley County Health Department enforces state and local health laws. This includes:

Restaurant and food vendor inspections.
Sanitation requirements for businesses.
Reporting and tracking of communicable diseases.
Patient privacy policies aligned with HIPAA.
Emergency health guidelines during outbreaks like flu or COVID-19.

Such rules ensure public health is safeguarded at all times.

Contact Information

Main Office:
📍 201 Dooley Street SE, Cleveland, TN 37311
📞 Phone: (423) 728-7020
🕒 Hours: Monday – Friday, 8:00 AM – 4:30 PM

Residents can also reach out through the Tennessee Department of Health website for forms, applications, and updated alerts.

FAQs About Bradley County Health Department

Q1. Can I walk in for services, or do I need an appointment?

Most services are available by appointment, but some, like immunizations, may allow walk-ins. It is best to call ahead.

Q2. Does the department offer COVID-19 testing and vaccines?

Yes, COVID-19 testing and vaccines are provided as per state and federal guidelines. Availability may vary.

Q3. What documents are required for obtaining a birth certificate?

You will need a valid photo ID and proof of relationship if applying on behalf of someone else.

Q4. Are services available for non-residents of Bradley County?

Yes, some services like vital records are available regardless of residency, but priority is given to Bradley County residents.

Q5. What languages are supported at the facility?

Spanish language assistance is available, and translation services can be arranged for other languages if requested.

Q6. Does the Bradley County Health Department offer travel vaccines for international trips?

Yes, certain travel-related vaccines may be available. It is recommended to call ahead and confirm availability before scheduling an appointment.

Q7. Can I renew or amend a birth or death certificate at the Bradley County Health Department?

Yes, the department can help with renewals and amendments, though some changes may require approval from the Tennessee Department of Health.

Q8. Does the health department provide mental health services?

While direct counseling may not be offered, the department partners with local agencies to provide referrals for mental health and substance abuse support.

Q9. Are school physicals available for children at the Bradley County Health Department?

Yes, back-to-school and sports physicals are offered during certain times of the year. Parents should schedule appointments in advance.

Q10. Can local businesses request food safety training from the Bradley County Health Department?

Yes, the department provides guidance, resources, and sometimes training workshops for restaurant owners, food vendors, and staff to ensure compliance with health codes.

Conclusion

The Bradley County Health Department is more than just a local government office—it is a community partner dedicated to promoting health, preventing disease, and ensuring access to essential services for everyone in Cleveland, TN, and surrounding areas. With affordable care, nutrition support, environmental safety programs, and strong community outreach, BCHD continues to play a vital role in improving the well-being of residents.

Read More:

Bradley County Health Department – Complete Guide for Residents and Visitors!

Introduction

History and Background

Organizational Structure

Location, Facilities, and Hours