Office of Policy, Planning and Evaluation (DPH) – Hartford, CT

Office of Policy, Planning and Evaluation

Strategic Health Planning and Statistics

The Office of Policy, Planning and Evaluation is a specialized division within the Connecticut Department of Public Health (DPH). Located at the DPH headquarters at 410 Capitol Avenue, this office plays a crucial role in monitoring the health status of Connecticut’s population and guiding public health policy. The office is responsible for the collection, analysis, and dissemination of health data, which serves as the foundation for evidence-based decision-making. Through its Health Statistics and Surveillance unit, the office manages vital records data (births, deaths, marriages, and divorces) and produces annual registration reports that identify health trends and disparities across the state. The staff includes epidemiologists, researchers, and policy analysts who work to identify emerging health issues and evaluate the effectiveness of public health programs. This data-driven approach ensures that resources are allocated efficiently to address the most pressing health needs of Connecticut residents.

Key Functions and Initiatives

This office is central to the department’s long-term strategic goals.

• Healthy Connecticut 2025: The office leads the development and monitoring of the State Health Improvement Plan, aligning state goals with national Healthy People 2030 objectives.
• Population Estimates: In collaboration with the Census Bureau, the office produces official population estimates for Connecticut towns, which are used for calculating vital statistics rates.
• Health Equity: A major focus of the office’s planning efforts is identifying and addressing health disparities among different demographic groups to ensure equitable health outcomes for all residents.
• Policy Analysis: The unit reviews proposed legislation and regulations to assess their potential impact on public health and the agency’s operations.

Access and Inquiries

While the Office of Policy, Planning and Evaluation is primarily administrative, it serves as a resource for researchers, policymakers, and the general public seeking health data. Requests for specific datasets or statistical reports can often be handled via email or phone. The office is situated within the secure DPH facility on Capitol Avenue. Visitors to the building must undergo security screening. The mailing address for the office utilizes a specific P.O. Box to ensure efficient routing of correspondence.