Public Health FAQs

1. Who do I call about food stamps?

Department of Human Services—319-356-6050

2. Where can I get a copy of my birth certificate?

Johnson County Recorder’s Office—319-356-6093

3. Where can I get a copy of my death certificate?

Johnson County Recorder’s Office—319-356-6093

4. Who do I call to file a complaint about my apartment in Iowa City--Coralville?

More information HERE
City of Iowa City-Rental Housing—319-356-5130
Coralville Rental Housing—319-248-1720

1. Where can I get help with applying for health insurance?

For help with the Health Insurance Marketplace at https://www.healthcare.gov/
• Karen Wielert - Navigator for Johnson County
Phone: 319-535-2679 or email: [email protected]
• Most insurance agents can help find health insurance, but only some are approved to assist with marketplace applications which can include financial assistance.
• Johnson County Public Health 319-688-6045 for low income families with children under 21 and pregnant women.

For health insurance outside of the marketplace, visit https://finder.healthcare.gov/.

Applying for Medicaid (e.g., low income, disabled, or pregnant)
• Johnson County Department of Humans Services - Call 319-356-6050 or visit them at the Health and Human Services building in Iowa City at 855 South Dubuque Street. You can also apply or print out an application online at https://dhsservices.iowa.gov/apspssp/ssp.portal. If you need assistance please contact the DHS Contact Center at 1-855-889-7985.

Hawk-I (for children under 19 with moderate low to moderate family income)
• Johnson County Public Health - contact Barb Stannard at 319-356-6045
• Iowa Hawk-I program - visit http://www.hawk-i.org/en_US/index.html or call 1-800-257-8563 for more information.

2. Where can I get adult immunizations?

Johnson County Public Health currently offers adult immunization clinics on Wednesdays. Prices vary by vaccine. Some person may qualify for free or discounted vaccines depending on their situation. Call 319-356-6045 for more information. Many doctors, pharmacies, and quick/urgent care clinics offer at least some vaccines.

3. Where can I get tested for sexually transmitted diseases/infections (STD/STI)?

Johnson County Public Health provides screenings for HIV, Hepatitis-C and Syphilis. Individuals seeking other STI screening services should see a primary care doctor, Planned Parenthood, Emma Goldman, or the Iowa City Free Medical Clinic.

4. Where can I get tested for Tuberculosis (TB)?

JCPH health provides TB skin testing for $20. Call 319-356-6045 to set up an appointment. If an X-ray is needed you will be referred to an outside provider who will determine any further cost. You can also ask your doctor or call a quick/urgent care clinic.

5. What volunteer and internship opportunities do you have in Community Health?

JCPH public health has a variety of volunteer and internship opportunities in Community Health which vary based on current funding and staffing. Contact Dave Koch at 319-688-5883 for more information.

6. Where can I get travel vaccines?

There are two travel clinics in Johnson County: Mercy Towncrest Internal Medicine at 319-338-7862 and University of Iowa Health Care Travel Medicine Clinic at 319-356-8133. Johnson County Public Health has typhoid vaccine as well as many other routine vaccines recommended for travel. University of Iowa Students may be able to get some travel vaccines. Call 319-335-8370 or visit studenthealth.uiowa.edu/services/international-travel/ for more information. Be sure to consult a travel clinic 6-8 weeks before leaving as some immunizations may require two doses. See “Where can I get adult immunizations?” for more information about general immunizations

1. How do I apply for a food license?

Fill out the appropriate application found HERE. All relevant information and fee must be attached to the application before it will be accepted for review.

2. Certified food protection manager (CFPM)? How do I become a CFPM? Why do I need it?

When Iowa changed to the 2009 food code in 2014, having a certified food protection manager on staff is now a requirement for managing a food establishment. Click HERE and use the link labeled ANSI Approved Certified Food Protection Manager Courses for more information and classes available.

3. How do I find ServSafe classes?

JIowa State Extension office has a list of the ServSafe Classes offered in the area. Click HERE.

4. How do I find inspection reports?

Click HERE to find inspection reports on all statewide food establishments. Search the database by restaurant name or jurisdiction. Local Johnson County restaurants will be listed under jurisdiction Johnson County Public Health

5. How do I open a home bakery (formally home food)?

Click HERE to find the link for all home bakery and mobile food information.

6. How do I apply for a new well?

Contact a well contractor to determine best placement of a well on the property (note: specific setbacks need to be met). Submit an application and fee to Johnson County Public Health for approval. Applications can be found HERE.

7. What is the best way to maintain and manage my well?

Check the well annually for a tight cap, no visible cracks in the casing, no openings around the base of the casing, and protect the area around the well against spills and contamination. It is recommended to test your water annually to ensure a safe drinking water supply. Find more information HERE.

8. How often should water from my private water well be tested?

Johnson County Public Health recommends that private water wells be tested annually. Our office offers one free annual bacteria and nitrate test to home owners on private wells. The testing now includes arsenic testing. Find out more HERE.

9. How can I get my well tested for FREE?

The Grants To Counties program allow Johnson County Public Health to offer free private water well testing for Johnson County residence. Testing includes total coliform bacteria, E.coli bacteria, and nitrates testing. New this year; arsenic testing. Find more information HERE.

10. What should I do if my well tests positive for bacteria?

If your well tests positive for bacteria, it is recommended you shock chlorinate your well. Johnson County Public Health recommends calling a certified well contractor for proper chlorination. If you would like to chlorinate your well you can find do-it-yourself instructions HERE. Be sure to re-test your water 7-10 days after chlorination.

11. My water is rusty or smells like rotten eggs. Is it safe?

Those conditions are often caused by bacteria and are unpleasant, but studies have shown that they often do not cause illness. Shock chlorinating your well may help reduce those bacteria. If you have a concern about unsafe water, testing the water supply is always recommended. Find more information about water testing or shock chlorination HERE.

12. Is there financial assistance for fixing/plugging my well?

Yes, the Grants To Counties program provides reimbursement up to $500 to properly plug/abandon water wells. Assistance for plugging a cistern is $300. If you would like to renovate your well (extend casing, bring out of pit, new cap, etc) you may be eligible for up to $1000 reimbursement. For more information call 319-356-6040. Find out more HERE.

13. What do I need to do to apply for a private sewage disposal system?

New applicants should contact a wastewater engineer or soil scientist for a site evaluation and system design. Septic systems in Johnson County are required to be designed by a licensed professional engineer or a person qualified to perform soil analyses. Prior to beginning work, all private sewage disposal systems must be approved by Johnson County Public Health. When the design has been completed, submit the wastewater application and fee with the design for review and approval. Applications for a wastewater permit can be found HERE.

14. What is the best way to maintain and manage my septic system?

Maintaining a septic system involves pumping the tank routinely (3-5 years depending on use), cleaning the effluent filter regularly, being mindful of water use (water restricted fixtures, toilet, and appliances), and do not dump unnecessary items into drains (chemicals, excess food waste, septic tank additives). For more information click HERE.

15. Are there items I should not be putting down my drain? Garbage disposal? Chemicals?

Find a complete list of do’s and don’ts for septic systems within the document labeled Pipeline: Maintaining Your Septic System – A Guide for Homeowners located HERE

16. Should I be using septic additives?

DO NOT USE THEM! Studies have shown they are often more harmful than helpful and may dramatically shorten the life of the septic system.

17. How often should I pump my septic tank?

Johnson County Public Health recommends pumping your septic tank every 3-5 years depending on use. Pumping your septic tank routinely will help the life span of your system. Find out more HERE.

18. How can I get a radon test kits?

Radon test kits can be purchased at Johnson County Public Health for $8 or can be mailed to you for $10. Find out more HERE.

1. Can individuals with private insurance get immunizations at JCPH?

Yes

2. Can I apply for Medicaid at the WIC office?

Yes if you are a woman who is receiving services from WIC or Maternal health, or have children under age 18 participating in any of our MCH programs.

3. Can I transfer my WIC from another state to Iowa?

Yes

4. Does WIC provide breastfeeding women with breast pumps?

Yes if the clients insurance or Medicaid Managed Care Organization does not provide one and qualifications are met. Call 319-356-6042 for details.

5. Can I get a eWIC EBT card at JCPH?

Yes if you are eligible for the WIC program.

6. Can I get WIC benefits in Johnson County if I live in another county?

Yes this might be possible depending on other details. Please call 319 356-6042.

7. Can I get my WIC benefits at the University of Iowa Children’s Hospital?

Yes that might be an option for you, please check with JCPH staff first 319 356-6042.

8. Can adults get vaccinations at JCPH?

Yes

9. Can adults get a physical at JCPH?

No

10. Can I get vaccines for travel at JCPH?

Yes, certain vaccines for travel can be purchased at JCPH.

11. Can my child get a physical at JCPH?

No, but we can refer you to a medical home in the community; please call 319 356-6045.

12. Can I get my teeth cleaned or other dental services at JCPH?

If you are pregnant you or your child may be eligible for dental services at JCPH. Please check with JCPH staff at 319 356-6045.

13. Can I attend a WIC nutrition class?

Yes if you are in the WIC program you may attend. Other attendance may be limited due to space. Please contact the WIC staff for further information 319 356-6042.

14. Can I pick up my Washington, Iowa or Cedar County WIC benefits in Johnson County?

Yes that is possible. Please check with JCPH staff 319 356-6042.

15. Can my children get developmental, vision and hearing screenings at JCPH?

Your children may be eligible for these screens through the JCPH Child Health Program. Please check with JCPH staff for details 319 356-6042.

16. Can I get a referral to a Doctor or Dentist at JCPH?

Yes we can refer you to a Medical and Dental Home.

17. Can I get emergency care at JCPH?

NO please contact 911 if you have an emergency.

18. Where can I get a copy of my child’s immunization record?

Contact the Immunization staff for details 319 356-6046.

19. Is there a WIC office in North Liberty?

No, at this time services are provided in Iowa City.

20. How can I get my baby’s formula changed?

Please contact the WIC staff at 319 356-6042.

21. What ages of clients are served under Title V?

Birth to age 21. So if you are 20 years 11 months old we can still offer our services.

22. Does WIC provide whole milk?

WIC Federal Guidelines mandate that WIC policy does not allow whole milk for children 24 months or older unless the participant is also on a Supplemental Formula for a medical condition where the use of conventional food is precluded, restricted, or inadequate to address their special nutrition needs. WIC provides whole milk for children ages 12 months to 23 months of age.

23. Does the WIC program issue fruit and vegetables by dollar amounts or ounces?

Fruit and vegetable benefits are issued by dollar amounts, not by weight.

24. What whole grain foods can I purchase using WIC?

Whole grain options include:
- Whole wheat bread – package must say “100% whole wheat” and whole wheat must be listed as the first ingredient on the label (any brand).
- Tortillas – 16 oz package of either corn or whole wheat (brand specific).
- Brown Rice – any brand of either regular (16 oz package) or instant/boil-in-bag (14 – 16 oz package)
- Oatmeal – 16 oz container of Quick or Old Fashioned (brand specific)
Note that oatmeal is considered a whole grain and not part of your cereal benefit. Cream of Wheat, Cream of Whole Grain, Cream of Rice, Malt-O-Meal Original, and Malt-O-Meal Chocolate are hot cereals that are considered part of your cereal benefit.

25. How do I know what benefits I have on the card?

The card can be scanned at the WIC office, the grocery store and you can also register the card on the WIC Shopper App which will display the benefits.

26. What is "shelf stable" on the benefits print-out?

“Shelf-stable” refers to those juices that do not require refrigeration or freezer. Juice is available as: ready-made in a bottle (non-refrigerated), frozen concentrate, or refrigerated orange juice.