About DPHSS

Statutory History & Authority

The Department of Public Health and Social Services traces its statutory foundation to Public Law 7-101, effective July 1, 1964, which designated the Department of Public Health and Welfare, previously designated as the Department of Medical Services. Public Law 9-147 subsequently renamed the department as the Department of Public Health and Social Services. The department is established within the Executive Branch of the Government of Guam pursuant to 5 GCA § 3111, with its authorities and responsibilities set forth throughout Title 10 of the Guam Code Annotated.

Mission Statement

To assist the people of Guam in achieving and maintaining their highest levels of independence and self-sufficiency in health and social welfare.

Vision Statement

A community of empowered individuals with healthy minds and bodies, thriving in a safe and nurturing environment across every stage of life.

Who We Are

For more than 60 years, the Department of Public Health and Social Services (DPHSS) has served the people of Guam by advancing health, well-being, and quality of life across our island. As Guam’s public health and social services agency, DPHSS works to protect health, strengthen families, support independence, and connect residents to essential services at every stage of life. Our employees are also members of the community we serve, committed to helping Guam remain healthy, safe, and resilient.

What We Do

DPHSS delivers programs, services, and protections that promote healthier individuals, stronger families, and safer communities. Through public health, environmental health, social services, aging services, children’s programs, homelessness assistance, and operational support, the department works to prevent challenges before they occur, respond when needs arise, and support residents throughout every stage of life.

What is Public Health

Public health is the work of protecting and improving the health of communities. It focuses on preventing illness and injury, promoting wellness, preparing for emergencies, and creating conditions that allow people to live healthy and productive lives. Public health impacts everyone, every day, often through services, protections, and systems that operate behind the scenes to keep communities safe and healthy.

Why It Matters

Healthy communities are the foundation of a thriving island. By preventing health threats, supporting vulnerable populations, expanding access to essential services, and strengthening systems of care, DPHSS helps create opportunities for every person in Guam to live a healthier, safer, and more fulfilling life.

Our Values

A professional and efficient government agency dedicated to eliminating health disparities for all and is responsive to the health and social needs of the community.

• Compassion: We demonstrate empathy, respect, and care in all interactions by recognizing and responding to the diverse needs of the individuals, families, and communities we serve.
• Integrity: We uphold honesty, accountability, transparency, and ethical practices in our decisions, actions, and delivery of services.
• Equity: We are committed to promoting fair and inclusive access to programs, services, resources, and opportunities for all individuals and communities.
• Innovation: We encourage continuous improvement, creativity, adaptability, and the use of effective solutions to strengthen services, operations, and public health outcomes.
• Client-Centered: We prioritize the needs, dignity, and well-being of the individuals, families, and communities we serve by delivering responsive, respectful, and accessible services.
• Professionalism: We maintain high standards of conduct, responsibility, collaboration, and excellence in our work and interactions with colleagues, partners, and the community.

Where to Begin

If you are unsure where to start:

• Visit the Forms & Documents page to download applications
• Review Locations & Hours before visiting an office
• Use the Contacts Directory to reach the appropriate division