Communications and Public Relations

Communications 

The Communications and Public Relations Office plays a primary role in managing media relations, communications and marketing to ensure effective communication with staff, community and the public. The office disseminates information about HSD's programs, services, and initiatives through various channels, including press releases, social media, newsletters, and community events.

HSD works to foster positive relationships with the media, stakeholders, and the public, ensuring transparency and responsiveness to community needs and concerns. Additionally, the office handles crisis communication, addresses public inquiries, and promotes the department's mission to improve the well-being of county residents.

Media and Confidentiality Policies

Confidential Information: W&IC 10850 (See Child Welfare section below for exceptions)

To protect applicants and recipients from identification or exploitation, there are specific limitations on the release of information pertaining to an applicant and/or recipient of public assistance.

This procedure applies to all records, lists, papers, files, and communications pertaining to applicants and/or recipients of public assistance.

Client Consent:

With client consent, confidential information may be released for specific purposes as long as it is within the terms of the client’s release and consent.  The following authorizations must be provided prior to the release of any confidential client information.

Written Authorization:

A written authorization shall be dated and shall expire one year from the date on which it is given, unless it is expressly limited to a shorter period, or revoked.

Verbal Authorization:

Verbal authorizations may be accepted in lieu of written authorization where the circumstances ensure that the applicant/ recipient has adequately identified him/herself to the County. A verbal authorization is temporary and should be followed up by a written authorization, which is to be placed in the case file.

Information Exchange:

County Counsel should be consulted on all matters that involve the exchange or sharing of any information with other entities, County departments or community agencies.

Child Welfare W&I 10850.4

If there is a reasonable suspicion that a child fatality was caused by abuse or neglect, HSD shall release the following confidential case information to the inquiring party within five business days of learning that a fatality has occurred. 

W&I Code Section 10850.45: Reporting of Child Near-Fatalities

Government Code Section 6252.6: Notwithstanding paragraph (2) of subdivision (a) of Section 827 of the Welfare and Institutions Code, after the death of a foster child who is a minor, the name, date of birth, and date of death of the child shall be subject to disclosure by the county child welfare agency pursuant to this chapter.