Welcome to the GIS in Public Health web site.

Resources for the use of geographic information systems
in public health applications abound!

Since 1990, ATSDR has been in the forefront of the use of GIS in public health applications, and has been instrumental in bringing attention to this exciting technology. GIS can improve our public heath capabilities, and can assist in earlier detection of public health issues when compared to more traditional means.

As issues become visualized through maps, GIS can provide a mechansim to bring change to communities. While GIS is becoming more and more accessible, please take the time to learn about the science of geography and effective cartographic techniques — it's more than simply a computer program! Links for additional training resouces are provided. This will ensure the accuracy of your spatial information and that your maps are clear and consise. Should you need further assistance or have any suggestions, please contact us at gis@cdc.gov.

Bill Henriques, PhD, MSPH
GIS Coordinator, ATSDR
Email: wdh2@cdc.gov