History of Steuben County
Public Health and Nursing Services

County Overview

Steuben County is located in the western portion of New York State in the southern tier of counties bordering Pennsylvania.  Steuben County is twice as large as any of the other counties in the nine-county Finger Lakes Health Systems Region.  This rural county is part of the glaciated Allegheny Plateau with a topography of ridges and high, rolling uplands with many hilltops.

History

In 1918 a TB nurse was appointed in Steuben County which was the beginning of Steuben County Public Health and Nursing Services.  It arose from the campaign in Steuben County to prevent the spread of TB.  The January 1, 1928, the work of the County Nurse was changed from a Tuberculosis Program to general Public Health Nursing, including, along with TB, the care of infants, new mothers, communicable disease and preschool and school follow-up.  Another nurse was appointed and the county was divided in half.  By the late nineteen fifties, the role of the Public Health Nurse had expanded to include home service and clinical Services.  Home Service consisted of visits to client's homes for health education, assisting with the interpretation of physician's orders, and the deliverance of nursing care. 

In 1966, the City nurses merged with the County nurses to provide all services collaboratively.  Today, Steuben County Public Health & Nursing Services provides clinic services, preventative services, health education, and home health care services and consist of over 70 staff members (including nurses, home health aides, therapist, and support staff.  Steuben County Public Health & Nursing Services is not considered a full service county in that it does not have an environmental component.  Environmental services are provided via the regional NYSDOH Hornell site located at 107 Broadway, Room 105, Hornell, New York 14843.  Phone: (607) 324-8371.  Website: www.health.state.ny.us.  Being that Steuben County Public Health & Nursing Services is not a full service county the Steuben County Legislature is thereby considered the "Board of Health" in which all recommendations come from the Health Services Advisory Board. 
 

Victoria Fuerst, Director	Dawn Lindsey, Asst. Director

At Steuben County Public Health & Nursing Services, we use the most advanced technology to provide you with comprehensive, high quality health care for all your needs. Our professional and caring staff works with you to maintain your family's wellness. Whether you are in need of Public Health Services, Home Care or Long-Term Care, we can help.