Examination providers for sexually transmitted ailments can be found in Odessa, Texas. These providers embody a spread of diagnostic procedures designed to determine varied infections. Testing accessibility varies throughout totally different clinics and healthcare suppliers throughout the metropolis.
Accessing these providers is essential for particular person and public well being. Early detection permits for well timed remedy, stopping the development of infections and lowering the danger of transmission. Traditionally, restricted entry to testing has contributed to increased charges of STDs; subsequently, available and confidential providers are important for efficient illness management.
The following sections will delve into the precise forms of exams provided, places offering these providers, components influencing price, and issues concerning confidentiality and affected person rights.
1. Availability
The extent to which diagnostic providers for sexually transmitted ailments are accessible instantly influences public well being outcomes in Odessa, Texas. Restricted availability interprets to lowered testing charges, which, in flip, can contribute to increased charges of undiagnosed and untreated infections. This creates a cycle the place elevated prevalence strains present healthcare sources additional, compounding the preliminary drawback.
Examples of restricted availability embody restricted hours at testing facilities, geographic disparities in service provision (e.g., fewer choices in sure neighborhoods), and obstacles associated to insurance coverage protection or lack thereof. Consequently, people who’re most weak reminiscent of these with restricted monetary sources or transportation could face vital obstacles in accessing crucial care. Increasing service hours, establishing cell testing items, and growing the variety of collaborating healthcare suppliers are potential methods to handle these challenges. As an example, a group clinic extending its night hours might instantly enhance accessibility for people working in the course of the day.
In abstract, service accessibility is a essential determinant of efficient STD prevention and management efforts. Overcoming obstacles to testing requires a multifaceted strategy involving healthcare suppliers, group organizations, and policymakers. Investing in initiatives that improve availability is crucial for lowering the burden of sexually transmitted ailments and selling general well-being throughout the group.
2. Confidentiality
Confidentiality is a cornerstone of efficient examination providers for sexually transmitted ailments in Odessa, Texas. Its presence or absence instantly influences a person’s willingness to hunt testing and remedy. Considerations concerning the privateness of non-public well being data characterize a big barrier for a lot of, doubtlessly resulting in delayed diagnoses and elevated transmission charges. For instance, a person fearing disclosure to relations or employers could keep away from testing, even when symptomatic. This hesitation contributes to the silent unfold of infections throughout the group.
Sustaining strict confidentiality protocols is thus paramount. These protocols contain safe dealing with of affected person data, discreet communication of outcomes, and adherence to authorized laws like HIPAA. Clinics and healthcare suppliers should clearly talk these safeguards to sufferers, fostering belief and inspiring open communication. Contemplate a state of affairs the place a clinic provides nameless testing choices, assigning numerical codes as an alternative of names. This tangible demonstration of dedication to privateness can considerably enhance affected person participation in screening packages.
In the end, breaches of confidentiality erode public belief and undermine public well being efforts. Reinforcing confidentiality measures, coaching healthcare personnel on privateness laws, and selling consciousness of affected person rights are essential investments. This dedication not solely protects particular person liberties but in addition strengthens the general efficacy of STD prevention and management methods in Odessa, Texas.
3. Price Components
The monetary facet of examination providers for sexually transmitted ailments in Odessa, Texas, considerably impacts entry and utilization. The price of testing is usually a substantial barrier for a lot of people, influencing their resolution to hunt screening and doubtlessly affecting public well being outcomes.
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Insurance coverage Protection
The supply and extent of insurance coverage protection play an important function in figuring out out-of-pocket bills. Insurance policies fluctuate extensively concerning STD testing, with some overlaying routine screening whereas others solely present protection when signs are current. Lack of insurance coverage or insufficient protection can deter people from searching for testing, significantly these with restricted monetary sources.
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Sliding Scale Charges
Some clinics and healthcare suppliers supply sliding scale charges primarily based on earnings, making testing extra inexpensive for low-income people. This mechanism helps mitigate the monetary burden, selling accessibility for weak populations. The supply and implementation of sliding scale charges, nonetheless, can fluctuate considerably throughout totally different suppliers.
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Free Clinics and Public Well being Packages
Free or low-cost testing choices are sometimes out there by public well being departments and group clinics. These sources function a significant security web for people with out insurance coverage or the means to afford personal healthcare. Nevertheless, demand for these providers could exceed capability, resulting in lengthy wait instances or restricted availability.
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Oblique Prices
Past the direct price of the check itself, oblique prices reminiscent of transportation, childcare, and misplaced wages may also current obstacles. These components disproportionately have an effect on people with restricted sources, additional complicating entry to testing. Addressing these oblique prices by help providers can enhance general accessibility.
The interaction of those price components underscores the complicated challenges people face when searching for examination providers for sexually transmitted ailments in Odessa, Texas. Addressing these monetary obstacles is crucial for selling equitable entry to care and bettering public well being outcomes. Methods to cut back prices, reminiscent of increasing insurance coverage protection, growing funding free of charge clinics, and providing transportation help, can contribute to a extra accessible and efficient STD prevention system.
4. Testing Choices
The array of diagnostic decisions out there inside Odessa, Texas for sexually transmitted ailments is a essential part of public well being infrastructure. The suitability of a selected check is determined by particular person circumstances, danger components, and particular considerations, and instantly impacts testing efficacy.
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Kind of Specimen Assortment
Diagnostic procedures could contain blood samples, urine specimens, or swabs collected from varied websites. The selection of assortment methodology is determined by the precise an infection being screened for. For instance, blood exams are generally used for HIV and syphilis, whereas urine samples or swabs are sometimes used for chlamydia and gonorrhea. Every methodology carries distinctive issues concerning sensitivity, ease of assortment, and affected person consolation. Moreover, the accuracy and reliability of check outcomes are contingent on correct assortment strategies and adherence to standardized protocols inside Odessa, Texas, medical services.
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Particular Infections Screened For
Accessible testing choices fluctuate within the breadth of infections they detect. Some exams display for a single STD, whereas others are designed as complete panels that determine a number of infections concurrently. The choice to go for a single check versus a panel is determined by particular person danger components and considerations. For instance, people with a number of sexual companions would possibly profit from a complete panel, whereas these with particular exposures could select focused testing. Clinicians in Odessa, Texas, play an important function in guiding people towards probably the most applicable testing technique primarily based on an intensive danger evaluation.
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Turnaround Time for Outcomes
The time required to obtain check outcomes can considerably influence affected person anxiousness and well timed entry to remedy. Some testing strategies, reminiscent of speedy exams, present outcomes inside minutes, enabling rapid initiation of remedy or counseling. Different strategies, reminiscent of laboratory-based assays, could take a number of days to supply outcomes. People ought to inquire in regards to the anticipated turnaround time when selecting a testing choice, contemplating the potential implications for his or her psychological well-being and follow-up care in Odessa, Texas.
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Level-of-Care Testing Availability
Level-of-care (POC) testing, carried out on the web site of affected person care, provides the benefit of rapid outcomes and facilitates immediate remedy selections. Whereas not universally out there, POC testing can enhance entry to screening, significantly in underserved communities or settings with restricted sources inside Odessa, Texas. These exams are more and more widespread and permit for fast analysis throughout a session.
The variety of examination decisions for sexually transmitted ailments in Odessa, Texas necessitates knowledgeable decision-making. Healthcare suppliers ought to clearly talk the advantages and limitations of every choice, guaranteeing that people could make decisions aligned with their wants and circumstances. Efficient utilization of accessible exams contributes to earlier detection, immediate remedy, and in the end, improved public well being throughout the group.
5. Clinic Areas
The geographic distribution of clinics providing examination providers for sexually transmitted ailments inside Odessa, Texas instantly influences entry and utilization. The focus or dispersal of those services impacts comfort, wait instances, and in the end, the effectiveness of public well being initiatives.
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Proximity to Excessive-Threat Populations
The strategic placement of clinics in areas with elevated charges of STDs is essential for focused intervention. Establishing services inside these communities reduces transportation obstacles and improves accessibility for people most in want. Conversely, an absence of close by clinics can exacerbate present well being disparities and hinder prevention efforts. Efficient useful resource allocation entails figuring out high-risk areas by epidemiological information and prioritizing the institution or enlargement of testing providers inside these zones. For instance, putting a clinic close to a group heart frequented by at-risk youth can improve testing charges in that demographic.
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Accessibility through Public Transportation
For people with out private automobiles, handy entry to public transportation is crucial for reaching testing services. Clinics positioned alongside bus routes or close to public transportation hubs are extra accessible to a broader inhabitants. Conversely, services positioned in areas poorly served by public transportation could create a big barrier for people with restricted mobility. Public well being planning ought to contemplate the accessibility of clinic places through public transit, guaranteeing that providers are reachable for all residents. Collaborating with native transit authorities to ascertain or modify routes can additional improve accessibility.
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Clinic Hours and Availability
The working hours of testing services instantly influence their utilization. Clinics with restricted hours, significantly throughout evenings and weekends, could also be inaccessible to people with work or household obligations. Extending working hours, providing weekend appointments, or establishing cell testing items can enhance entry for these with scheduling constraints. As an example, a clinic providing night hours twice every week might accommodate people unable to go to throughout conventional enterprise hours. Contemplating the varied wants of the group when figuring out clinic hours is paramount.
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Confidentiality and Anonymity Measures
Whereas technically not a location issue, the notion of a clinic’s dedication to affected person privateness can drastically have an effect on willingness to make the most of its providers. A location that’s perceived to be extremely seen or missing in privateness could deter people from searching for testing. Establishing protocols that guarantee confidentiality, reminiscent of discreet entry and exit procedures, will help alleviate these considerations. Some clinics could supply nameless testing choices, the place people can obtain providers with out offering their names. These measures improve belief and encourage people to hunt testing with out worry of stigma or discrimination.
The cumulative influence of clinic places underscores their pivotal function in examination providers for sexually transmitted ailments in Odessa, Texas. Strategic placement, accessibility, and a dedication to affected person privateness are important for maximizing utilization and bettering public well being outcomes. Ongoing analysis of clinic places and their accessibility is critical to make sure that providers are successfully reaching those that want them most.
6. Remedy Entry
Efficient examination providers for sexually transmitted ailments are inextricably linked to accessible and well timed remedy. A analysis with out the means to acquire applicable medical care renders the preliminary testing course of largely ineffective, failing to mitigate the unfold of an infection or alleviate particular person struggling. The next sides spotlight the complexities of remedy entry throughout the context of Odessa, Texas.
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Availability of Drugs
The constant availability of efficient medicines is paramount for profitable STD remedy. Shortages or restricted entry to important medicine, reminiscent of particular antibiotics or antivirals, can compromise remedy outcomes and extend infectiousness. Native pharmacies and healthcare services should keep sufficient provides to fulfill the wants of the group. Moreover, streamlined procurement processes and provide chain administration are essential to stop disruptions in remedy availability. As an example, delays in acquiring penicillin for syphilis remedy can have extreme penalties, significantly for pregnant girls and their unborn youngsters.
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Affordability of Remedy Regimens
The price of remedy is usually a vital barrier for a lot of people, significantly these with out insurance coverage or sufficient monetary sources. Even with insurance coverage, co-pays and deductibles could make remedy unaffordable. Public well being packages and sliding scale charges provided by clinics will help mitigate the monetary burden, however the availability of those sources could also be restricted. Untreated infections, pushed by price constraints, contribute to illness development and ongoing transmission throughout the group. Accessible and inexpensive remedy choices are important for addressing this problem.
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Timeliness of Care Initiation
Immediate initiation of remedy following a constructive analysis is essential for stopping problems and interrupting transmission. Delays in accessing care, whether or not on account of lengthy wait instances, transportation points, or administrative obstacles, can undermine the effectiveness of intervention efforts. Expedited referral pathways and streamlined consumption processes are crucial to make sure that people obtain well timed remedy. For instance, some clinics supply same-day remedy for sure STDs, facilitating speedy intervention and stopping additional unfold of an infection.
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Adherence Help and Observe-Up Care
Profitable remedy outcomes rely upon affected person adherence to prescribed remedy regimens and constant follow-up care. Offering complete help, together with schooling, counseling, and reminders, can enhance adherence and cut back the danger of remedy failure. Moreover, monitoring remedy response by follow-up testing is crucial for guaranteeing that infections are successfully cleared. A scarcity of adherence help and follow-up care can result in drug resistance and chronic an infection, posing a risk to each particular person and public well being.
These sides underscore the multifaceted nature of remedy entry throughout the context of examination providers for sexually transmitted ailments in Odessa, Texas. Overcoming obstacles to remedy requires a coordinated effort involving healthcare suppliers, public well being companies, and group organizations. Investments in accessible, inexpensive, and well timed remedy are important for maximizing the advantages of testing packages and bettering the well being of the group.
7. Prevention Strategies
Efficient prevention methods kind an integral part of sexually transmitted illness management, complementing diagnostic providers out there in Odessa, Texas. These strategies, when correctly applied and persistently practiced, cut back the incidence of an infection, thereby lowering the demand for and burden on testing sources.
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Condom Use
Constant and proper use of condoms throughout sexual exercise considerably reduces the danger of transmission for a lot of STDs, together with chlamydia, gonorrhea, and HIV. Public well being campaigns selling condom use, coupled with accessible distribution packages, play an important function in prevention efforts. Elevated condom utilization interprets to a decrease prevalence of an infection and a corresponding lower within the want for diagnostic testing. For instance, communities with excessive charges of condom use typically exhibit decrease STD incidence charges in comparison with areas with much less constant utilization.
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Vaccination
Vaccines can be found for sure STDs, reminiscent of human papillomavirus (HPV) and hepatitis B. Widespread vaccination efforts can dramatically cut back the incidence of those infections. HPV vaccination, particularly, has the potential to stop nearly all of cervical cancers and genital warts. As vaccination charges improve, the necessity for testing associated to those particular infections diminishes. As an example, international locations with excessive HPV vaccination protection have noticed a big discount in HPV-related illness burden, resulting in a decreased demand for HPV testing and associated procedures.
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Companion Notification and Remedy
Companion notification, whereby people recognized with an STD inform their sexual companions, permits for testing and remedy of probably contaminated people. This technique interrupts the chain of transmission and prevents additional unfold of an infection. Well timed remedy of contaminated companions reduces the general illness burden and reduces the chance of reinfection. Companion notification packages are a vital part of STD management efforts, working in live performance with diagnostic testing to handle and comprise outbreaks. The effectiveness of those packages depends on each the willingness of people to inform their companions and the accessibility of testing and remedy providers for these companions.
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Schooling and Consciousness Campaigns
Public well being schooling campaigns are important for elevating consciousness about STDs, selling safer sexual practices, and inspiring people to hunt testing and remedy. These campaigns can handle misconceptions about STDs, dispel stigma, and empower people to make knowledgeable selections about their sexual well being. Efficient academic initiatives can result in elevated charges of condom use, earlier analysis, and lowered transmission. For instance, campaigns that focus on particular at-risk populations with tailor-made messaging might be significantly efficient in selling habits change and lowering STD incidence charges.
The synergy between prevention strategies and examination providers for sexually transmitted ailments in Odessa, Texas, is crucial for complete illness management. Whereas testing supplies essential data for analysis and remedy, prevention efforts work to cut back the general incidence of an infection, thereby minimizing the necessity for testing in the long run. A holistic strategy that integrates each prevention and testing methods is critical for reaching sustained reductions in STD charges and selling general group well being.
8. Public Well being
The prevalence of sexually transmitted ailments instantly impacts the general well being and well-being of the inhabitants in Odessa, Texas. Public well being initiatives centered on lowering STD transmission rely closely on accessible and efficient diagnostic providers. Elevated testing charges enable for earlier detection of infections, resulting in immediate remedy and a lower within the unfold of illness. Conversely, insufficient testing infrastructure contributes to increased charges of undiagnosed infections, negatively affecting each particular person well being and broader group well being outcomes. For instance, restricted availability of testing in sure neighborhoods may end up in localized outbreaks that pressure public well being sources.
STD examination providers are a essential part of public well being surveillance. Information collected by testing packages supplies beneficial data on the prevalence of assorted infections, permitting public well being officers to trace developments, determine at-risk populations, and implement focused interventions. This information informs the event of public well being campaigns, useful resource allocation selections, and the analysis of present prevention methods. With out sturdy testing packages, it turns into considerably tougher to watch the effectiveness of public well being interventions and adapt methods as wanted. Contemplate the implementation of a brand new public well being marketing campaign selling protected intercourse practices; the success of this marketing campaign might be measured by monitoring modifications in STD prevalence charges derived from testing information.
In abstract, accessible and complete STD testing packages are important for safeguarding public well being in Odessa, Texas. These packages facilitate early detection and remedy, help public well being surveillance efforts, and inform the event of efficient prevention methods. Addressing challenges associated to entry, affordability, and confidentiality is essential for maximizing the advantages of testing packages and lowering the burden of sexually transmitted ailments on the group.
9. Neighborhood Sources
Neighborhood sources characterize a essential help construction for people searching for examination providers for sexually transmitted ailments in Odessa, Texas. These sources handle systemic obstacles to accessing testing and remedy, together with monetary constraints, lack of transportation, and social stigma. With out such help, many people could forgo testing, resulting in elevated transmission charges and adversarial well being outcomes. For instance, an area non-profit group providing free transportation to testing clinics instantly reduces a big impediment for low-income residents. This motion will increase the chance of early analysis and intervention.
The supply of free or low-cost clinics, typically funded by group grants or public well being initiatives, supplies an important different for people missing insurance coverage protection. These clinics not solely supply diagnostic testing but in addition steadily present academic sources and counseling providers, empowering people to make knowledgeable selections about their sexual well being. Moreover, community-based organizations typically play a significant function in destigmatizing STD testing by public consciousness campaigns and outreach packages. An area church, for instance, internet hosting a well being truthful that features confidential STD testing providers demonstrates a dedication to group well-being and helps normalize searching for care.
In conclusion, group sources are an indispensable factor within the complete effort to fight sexually transmitted ailments in Odessa, Texas. These sources mitigate obstacles to entry, promote schooling, and destigmatize testing, contributing considerably to improved public well being outcomes. Continued funding in and help of those group initiatives are important for guaranteeing equitable entry to care and lowering the prevalence of STDs throughout the group. Challenges stay in securing constant funding and increasing the attain of those packages, underscoring the necessity for ongoing collaboration between healthcare suppliers, public well being companies, and group organizations.
Continuously Requested Questions Concerning STD Testing in Odessa, TX
This part addresses widespread inquiries regarding examination providers for sexually transmitted ailments in Odessa, Texas. The data offered goals to offer readability and promote knowledgeable decision-making.
Query 1: What forms of sexually transmitted ailments are generally screened for in Odessa, Texas?
Widespread screenings embody exams for chlamydia, gonorrhea, syphilis, HIV (Human Immunodeficiency Virus), and herpes simplex virus (HSV). Sure clinics may supply testing for different infections, reminiscent of trichomoniasis and hepatitis B and C.
Query 2: Is examination confidential in Odessa, Texas?
Confidentiality is mostly maintained in accordance with healthcare laws reminiscent of HIPAA. Clinics are obligated to guard affected person privateness and forestall unauthorized disclosure of check outcomes. Inquire about particular confidentiality insurance policies on the chosen testing facility.
Query 3: What’s the approximate price of a sexually transmitted illness check in Odessa, Texas?
The fee varies relying on the testing facility, the precise exams ordered, and insurance coverage protection. Some clinics supply sliding scale charges or free testing choices for eligible people. Contact particular person clinics to inquire about pricing.
Query 4: The place can one find examination providers for sexually transmitted ailments in Odessa, Texas?
Testing providers can be found at public well being clinics, personal doctor places of work, pressing care facilities, and specialised STD clinics. On-line directories and native well being division sources can present lists of testing places.
Query 5: How lengthy does it take to obtain check leads to Odessa, Texas?
The turnaround time for outcomes varies relying on the kind of check and the testing facility. Speedy exams could present outcomes inside minutes, whereas laboratory-based exams could take a number of days to course of. Verify the anticipated turnaround time with the chosen testing supplier.
Query 6: Is remedy out there in Odessa, Texas if a sexually transmitted illness is detected?
Remedy choices can be found for many STDs. Upon receiving a constructive check consequence, a healthcare supplier will prescribe applicable remedy or advocate additional medical administration. Adherence to prescribed remedy regimens is essential for profitable eradication of an infection.
Understanding the nuances of STD testing, from confidentiality to price, ensures accountable decision-making and lively participation in sustaining each particular person and group well-being.
The following part will present actionable steps for people searching for STD testing in Odessa, Texas.
Important Concerns for STD Testing
This part presents essential suggestions to optimize the expertise of present process diagnostic procedures for sexually transmitted ailments. Adherence to those tips can improve each the effectivity and effectiveness of the method.
Tip 1: Conduct Thorough Analysis on Testing Services. Examine the status and credentials of assorted clinics providing STD testing providers. Verify their adherence to established medical protocols and affected person confidentiality requirements. Respected services will show certifications and display a dedication to moral practices.
Tip 2: Decide Insurance coverage Protection Beforehand. Contact the insurance coverage supplier to establish the extent of protection for STD testing. Make clear whether or not particular exams or services are included throughout the plan’s community to keep away from surprising out-of-pocket bills.
Tip 3: Prioritize Confidentiality and Privateness. Search services that demonstrably prioritize affected person confidentiality. Inquire about particular procedures applied to safeguard private well being data, reminiscent of safe record-keeping and discreet communication strategies.
Tip 4: Perceive the Testing Course of and Choices. Educate oneself concerning the forms of exams out there, the specimens required (blood, urine, swab), and the related turnaround instances for outcomes. This information empowers people to make knowledgeable selections aligned with their particular wants and danger components.
Tip 5: Put together a Listing of Questions for the Healthcare Supplier. Previous to the appointment, compile a complete checklist of questions regarding testing procedures, consequence interpretation, remedy choices, and preventive measures. This proactive strategy ensures that every one considerations are adequately addressed.
Tip 6: Talk about Threat Components Truthfully and Brazenly. Be forthcoming and truthful with the healthcare supplier concerning sexual historical past, potential exposures, and any signs skilled. Correct data is essential for applicable danger evaluation and correct diagnoses.
These suggestions emphasize the significance of knowledgeable decision-making, proactive communication, and a dedication to safeguarding private well being. By following the following pointers, people can navigate the testing course of with better confidence and contribute to a more healthy group.
The ultimate part will present a concluding abstract of the important thing factors mentioned all through the article.
Conclusion
This text has explored varied sides of STD testing odessa tx, emphasizing service availability, confidentiality protocols, price issues, testing choices, accessibility, remedy pathways, prevention methods, public well being implications, and the function of group sources. Every factor contributes considerably to the effectiveness of STD prevention and management throughout the metropolis.
The continued strengthening of testing infrastructure, coupled with sturdy academic initiatives, stays essential. Elevated consciousness, lowered stigma, and readily accessible providers will collectively foster a more healthy group, selling accountable sexual well being practices and minimizing the influence of sexually transmitted ailments. Ongoing efforts are important to enhance public well being outcomes and safeguard the well-being of Odessa, Texas residents.
