Women's Health

Woman

Reaching Illinois women is one of the core activities conducted by the Illinois Department of Public Health's Office of Women's Health and Family Services (OWHFS) (Two-year Strategy 2014 - 2015 - PDF). Established in 1997, the mission of the office was to improve the health of women and girls throughout their lifespan. OWHFS’ responsibilities were expanded in July 2013 through legislative action. Through the Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA) Maternal and Child Health Title V Block Grant (Title V) (MCH Title V Application for public comment - PDF), previously administered by the Illinois Department of Human Services, OWHFS’ expanded responsibilities now include responsibility for the health and well-being of pregnant women, infants, children and adolescents.

Education programs funded by the OWHFS are offered through local health departments, not-for-profit community agencies and schools. The programs include multi-week workshops and/or health promotion activities that address cardiovascular disease, osteoporosis, eating disorders, menopause and other health related issues. The goal is to help women and young girls change behaviors that can lead to healthier lifestyles.

Two other programs administered through the OWHFS include the Illinois Breast and Cervical Cancer Program (IBCCP) and the WISEWOMAN Program (IWP). The statewide IBCCP offers free breast and cervical cancer screenings to women between the ages of 35 and 64 who have low incomes and no health insurance. The IWP is offered in 13 counties in Illinois and is designed to help women enrolled in the IBCCP reduce their risk for heart disease and live a heart-healthy lifestyle.

535 W. Jefferson St., First Floor, Springfield, IL 62761-0001
217-524-6088, Fax 217-557-3326
Women's Health-Line: Toll-free: 888-522-1282
TTY: 800-547-0466

DPH.OWHLine@Illinois.gov