MERCED — The Merced County Department of Public Health has been recognized by the Public Health Accreditation Board (PHAB) for meeting rigorous national standards, joining 27 other departments across the country in demonstrating excellence, accountability and ongoing improvement in public health.

The announcement, made Nov. 25 by PHAB in Alexandria, Virginia, included eight departments earning first-time accreditation, 19 receiving reaccreditation, and one achieving Pathways Recognition. Merced County’s inclusion underscores its commitment to strengthening public health systems and ensuring residents benefit from the highest standards of care.

“By achieving PHAB Accreditation, these health departments are showing what it means to lead with excellence and accountability,” said PHAB President and CEO Dr. Joneigh Khaldun. “Their teams’ extraordinary efforts reflect a shared commitment to learning, continuous improvement, and ensuring that their communities benefit from the highest standards in public health.”

Accreditation evaluates departments against evidence-informed standards spanning chronic disease prevention, health equity initiatives and emergency preparedness. The process is designed to drive internal improvement, build trust and ensure systems are responsive and effective.

Merced County’s recognition places it among more than 450 accredited and recognized health departments nationwide. Local officials said the achievement reflects years of work to strengthen infrastructure, expand partnerships and improve services for residents.

“Achieving accreditation is not just about where we are today — it’s a promise to continue improving and ensuring a healthier future for our community,” said Vera J. Dunsmoor, director of public health in Oswego County, one of the departments also recognized. Similar sentiments were echoed by leaders across the country, who emphasized the importance of accreditation in reinforcing accountability and advancing public health practice.

PHAB, the nation’s sole accrediting body for governmental public health departments, provides a framework for excellence through its standards-based process. Departments undergo review every five years to maintain accreditation and align with evolving public health priorities.

With Merced County’s accomplishment, California now counts multiple departments among the accredited and recognized, including Placer County, which became the third in the nation to achieve Pathways Recognition.

The recognition highlights Merced County’s role in a growing network of health departments committed to intentional, accountable systems that prioritize community needs.