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Welcome to the new DC Health monthly newsletter - your source for updates, resources and news to keep our community healthy and informed.
Table of Contents
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Expanding Access: Free Rides to Breast Care & New Vaccine Legislation
DC Health is partnering with the Brem Foundation to Defeat Breast Cancer to expand the Wheels for Women program, offering free rides to breast screenings and diagnostic appointments for underserved women across the District. Originally launched in 2019 with Lyft, the program removes transportation barriers that often prevent women from receiving timely care.
In addition, the DC Council has passed emergency legislation allowing pharmacists to administer COVID-19 vaccines to individuals ages three and older without a prescription. This measure, now in effect for 90 days, authorizes DC Health’s Director to adopt guidance from leading medical and public health organizations, ensuring residents have easier access to vaccines and stronger protection against preventable diseases.
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Improving Services for Every Resident
This year, DC Health is improving services with a focus on fairness and efficiency. We’re strengthening data systems, modernizing technology, improving workplace culture, including more community voices, and updating policies. Residents will benefit from faster service, clearer communication, and more responsive programs.
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DC Health Expands Social Worker Licensure Opportunities
You Said: Aspiring social workers asked for more accessible pathways to licensure and expressed the need for flexible options that recognize their educational achievements.
We Did: DC Health’s Board of Social Work launched a new pathway: Licensed Graduate Social Worker (LGSW) – Licensure by Education. This option expands opportunities for qualified individuals while maintaining professional standards and protecting the public.
Next Steps: If you currently have an LGSW via Examination application, you can request to convert it to the LGSW via Education pathway by emailing the Board at dcbosw@dc.gov.
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CNA Shortage? Here’s How DC Health is Stepping In
You Said: Healthcare facilities and residents expressed concerns about staffing shortages for Certified Nurse Aides (CNAs) and Home Health Aides (HHAs), which were causing delays in care and impacting the quality of long-term care services.
We Did: DC Health has taken aggressive steps to stabilize the workforce and expand access to care:
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Mass Testing Events: Launched district-wide testing events for CNA candidates awaiting psychomotor exams.
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Temporary Licenses: Offered 90-day temporary licenses for candidates who passed the written exam but were awaiting skills testing.
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Pipeline Expansion: Combined immediate solutions with long-term reforms to grow the pool of qualified direct care professionals.
Next Key Date:
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October 16, 2025 – 24 testing slots available for CNA candidates.
These actions support our healthcare workforce and ensure residents continue to receive high-quality care.
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Advancing Health Literacy in the District
DC Health worked with community partners to help residents access and understand health information through the Advancing Health Literacy Grant. Together, we improved communication between providers and communities, making it easier for residents to make informed health decisions.
One powerful example is our collaboration with the Central American Resource Center (CARECEN). By combining CARECEN’s deep connection to immigrant communities, we co-created trusted, culturally responsive messaging that reflects lived experiences.
This work is featured in the video DC Voices of Wellness: An Immigrant Story – Highlighting the importance of trusted messengers and representation in building healthier communities.
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 Federal Government Shutdown
“A federal government shutdown will not shut down the DC Government,” said Mayor Bowser. “DC will remain open, our students will be in class, our parks will be clean, our streets will be safe, and we will continue to function as a world-class city no matter what happens in Congress.”
Currently, no service changes or lapses in benefits are expected; however, that may change depending on future guidance issued from the federal Office of Management and Budget. District Government agencies that provide critical social services to residents will inform their clients of any operational changes during the shutdown.
Furloughed workers impacted by the shutdown can file for unemployment insurance benefits through the Department of Employment Services (DOES). Initial claims can be filed online at dcnetworks.org. Visit does.dc.gov for more information.
Through the DC Department of Human Services, current customers will be issued their Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), Temporary Assistance to Needy Families (TANF), and Medicaid benefits for October. If funding is not restored quickly, the District will notify current customers and new applicants of any potential impacts to their benefit payments. Residents who have specific questions are encouraged to contact the ESA Call Center at 202-727-5355.
Exciting Opportunities for Veterinary Technicians – Apply Today!
New Online Registration Application Opens **TODAY** October 1. DC Health is launching a new online registration application system for vet techs and euthanasia techs! For more information visit here.
Stay Safe with a Free Carbon Monoxide Alarm
DC Health’s new Carbon Monoxide Poisoning Prevention Program provides free CO alarms and easy safety training to eligible residents in Wards 5, 7, and 8—including adults 65+ and families with children under 18. Alarms are simple to install and come with battery backup.
Learn More and Get Yours Today: carbonmonoxideprogram@dc.gov
Expanding Access to Fresh, Healthy Foods
The DC Central Kitchen, with support from DC Health, unveiled an expanded refrigerated section for fruits and vegetables at one of the Healthy Corners Stores participating locations—Stanton Supermarket. The Healthy Corners Program brings fresh and frozen produce into corner stores, particularly in low-food access areas. This store is WIC authorized and participates in the SNAP matching program.
Certificate of Need Reforms
The DC City Council recently enacted the Certificate of Need Improvement Amendment Act of 2025 (D.C. Law 26-7), which modernizes the Certificate of Need (CON) process to reduce administrative burdens and improve access to care.
A Certificate of Need allows health care providers to establish new facilities or services, make certain capital expenditures, or take certain other actions.
Key reforms include:
- Raising thresholds for bed changes (now 10 beds or 20%)
- Exempting many provider types (primary care, specialty, behavioral health, telehealth, FQHCs)
- Easing non-patient-care capital project requirements.
These changes aim to streamline approvals and support health system growth across the District.
Want to Help Make DC a Healthier Place?
Help us understand life in DC by answering a few questions about your experiences, as well as the city’s needs and strengths. By participating in the Community Health Survey, you’re contributing to a healthier, stronger District—and you could win a $300 gift card!
The DC Health Community Survey is actually referred to as the District of Columbia (DC) Community Health Needs Assessment (CHNA). This comprehensive report examines the health of District residents by analyzing key health indicators, outcomes, and the context of daily life. It highlights community assets—like healthcare services and public health infrastructure—and provides recommendations for policies and programs to improve overall population health.
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Increase in Outbreaks of Hand, Foot, and Mouth Disease (HFMD) in the District
Healthcare providers in the District are reporting a rise in Hand, Foot, and Mouth Disease (HFMD) cases among children under the age of five (5) years. HFMD is a highly contagious viral infection that causes fever, blister-like rashes on the hands and feet, and painful mouth sores. The virus spreads through respiratory droplets, contaminated surfaces, and direct contact with infected individuals.
To help prevent HFMD, it is essential to wash hands frequently, disinfect common surfaces and toys, and avoid close contact with infected people. Most children recover within 7 to 10 days, but it's important to keep them hydrated, as mouth sores can make swallowing painful. Over-the-counter medications can help with fever and pain, but aspirin should not be given unless directed by a healthcare provider. Children with HFMD can return to daycare or school if they are fever-free, are not drooling, and have healed sores or blisters. For more information about HFMD, visit Hand, Foot, & Mouth Disease
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Teen Dating & Violence Event
Join us for "Love Is... A Teen Dating Violence Awareness Event" hosted by the DC Rape Prevention and Education Program (DC RPE), focused on promoting healthy relationships, raising awareness, and empowering youth. Enjoy games, a live DJ, free food, giveaways, and access to community resources - all in a fun, safe space that celebrates love built on respect and equality. - Saturday, October 18, 12:00 pm - 4:00 pm at the Fort Stanton Recreation Center located at 1812 Erie Street SE.
CareFirst Community Health Fair
Join DC Health at the CareFirst BlueCross BlueShield Health Fair event bringing together trusted community organizations in one place, providing DC residents with easy access to valuable resources, health screenings and health tips. The event is open to everyone – CareFirst insurance is not required to attend! CareFirst Arena, Saturday, October 18, 11:00 am-3:00 pm, 1100 Oak Dr SE. Visit: CareFirst Community Health Fair.
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38th Annual High Heel Race
DC Health’s HIV/AIDS, Hepatitis, STD, and TB Administration (HAHSTA) will be joining Mayor Muriel Bowser and the Mayor’s Office of LGBTQ Affairs at the 38th Annual 17th Street High Heel Race on Wednesday, October 29. We’ll be out there with our partners to connect with the community, share information about HIV and other health services, and cheer on all the amazing participants as they sprint down the historic 17th Street NW in one of the city’s most cherished traditions celebrating LGBTQIA+ pride, community, and culture. It’s a night filled with fun, energy, and unity.
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What should I do if I see rodents in my neighborhood?
You should call 311 if you see a rodent in the District of Columbia. You can report rodent activity by calling the 311 Citywide Call Center, visiting the DC 311 website, texting DC 311. Calling or visiting the website helps DC Health's Rodent and Vector Control Division schedule inspections and rodent abatement to address the issue.
What is the most important step for preventing rodents? The most effective strategy is good sanitation and eliminating access to food, water, and shelter.
How can I make my property less attractive to rodents?
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Secure trash: Use sturdy metal or plastic trash cans with tight-fitting lids. Bag your trash and place bins out for collection right before pickup, not days in advance.
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Manage food sources: Store food in airtight containers, remove pet food and water bowls, and avoid leaving food waste exposed.
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Address landscaping: Keep yards tidy, trim back shrubs and trees from the building, and use landscaping fabric or wire mesh to discourage burrows.
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