[1] They are responsible for maintaining programs to control and prevent disease; regulation and licensure of health and child care facilities; and programs designed to create safeguards and health resources for seniors and the state's vulnerable populations.
[2] The department and its four divisions, Community & Public Health, Administration, Regulation & Licensure, Senior & Disability Services; is maintained by a director who is appointed by the State Governor and approved by the Senate.
This was a successful endeavor as the population and life expectancy of the average citizen of Missouri rose.
When the state government reorganized again in 1974, the Division of Health was transferred to the Department of Social Services.
At the same time, the divisions programs on environmental engineering and solid waste programs were transferred to the Department of Natural Resources and the Missouri Crippled Children's Service became a part of the Division of Health.