Local Health Officers

Maine’s Local Health Officers (or "LHOs") have a long and proud tradition of serving Maine’s local communities, with a role established in 1885 by Maine Statute. LHOs are appointed by their municipality and serve locally; they also have an important role in the coordination of state and local public health.

Because Local Health Officers have a unique “on-the-ground” knowledge of their communities, they are often best able to respond and assist when a resident faces a local public health challenge. LHOs coordinate with municipal colleagues and municipal officials, with the Maine CDC and other public health professionals, and with other community and state public health partners. All share the common goal of improving and caring for the health of Maine’s communities.

If you have a question or local public health concern, we recommend that you start by contacting your town's Local Health Officer.