Overview
The Benton-Franklin Health District (BFHD) is the public health authority serving all of Benton and Franklin Counties. BFHD is not a clinical provider in the way that Grace Clinic or TCCH are, it’s a public health agency focused on prevention, protection, and community health at a population level. But for families navigating disability services, several of BFHD’s programs are directly relevant and worth knowing about.
Who It’s For
All residents of Benton and Franklin Counties. BFHD’s programs are available to the general public, no income requirements for most services, though some programs (like WIC) have specific eligibility criteria.
What They Offer — Programs Most Relevant to CAA Families
Children and Youth with Special Healthcare Needs
BFHD maintains a dedicated program for children and youth with special health care needs — connecting families to services, resources, and supports for children with chronic conditions, disabilities, and complex health care needs. This is one of BFHD’s most directly relevant programs for CAA families and is worth contacting if you’re not sure where to start.
bfhd.wa.gov/programs_services/children___youth_with_special_healthcare_needs
Care Connect — Community Care Network
A free service helping individuals and families in Benton and Franklin Counties access the services they need to live healthier, more stable lives. Care Connect connects community members to local resources through a navigator model — a real person who helps identify what’s available and how to access it.
bfhd.wa.gov/programs_services/care_connect
Immunization Clinic
Low-cost immunizations for children and adults. BFHD offers both a standing immunization clinic and community immunization events throughout the year.
bfhd.wa.gov/programs_services/clinics/immunization_clinic
WIC — Women, Infants & Children
BFHD is one of two local WIC providers in the Tri-Cities, with clinics in Kennewick and Pasco. See the WIC resource page → for full details.
Nurse-Family Partnership
A free, evidence-based home visiting program for first-time mothers who are low-income or at risk. A registered nurse visits regularly from pregnancy through the child’s second birthday to support health, development, and family stability. An important early intervention resource for families who are expecting a first child.
bfhd.wa.gov/programs_services/nurse_family_partnership
Developmental Screening Resources
BFHD provides information and referral for developmental screening for children — a critical early step for families who have concerns about their child’s development. Early identification leads to earlier services and better outcomes.
bfhd.wa.gov/health_topics/health_development/developmental_screening
Sexual Health Clinic
Confidential STI testing, treatment, and counseling at low or no cost. No appointment needed for some services.
bfhd.wa.gov/programs_services/clinics/sexual_health_clinic
Refugee Health Program
Health screenings, health promotion, and connection to services for newly arrived refugees in Benton and Franklin Counties.
bfhd.wa.gov/programs_services/refugee_health
Oral Health — ABCD Program
Access to Baby and Child Dentistry (ABCD) — a program connecting low-income children through age 5 to dental care through a network of trained providers. Particularly important for children without dental coverage.
bfhd.wa.gov/programs_services/oral_health/abcd_program
Injury and Violence Prevention
Includes child passenger safety (free car seat checks), drowning prevention, overdose prevention and naloxone access, suicide prevention, and community violence intervention. These programs serve the whole community and are free.
bfhd.wa.gov/programs_services/injury_violence_prevention
Medicine and Syringe Disposal
Safe disposal locations for unused medications and syringes — important for families managing medications for a loved one with complex health needs.
bfhd.wa.gov/programs_services/waste_disposal/medicine_and_syringe_disposal
Vital Records — Birth and Death Certificates
BFHD issues certified copies of birth and death certificates for events occurring in Benton and Franklin Counties. Birth certificates are often needed for benefit applications and school enrollment.
bfhd.wa.gov/programs_services/vital_records
Locations and Contact
Kennewick (Main Office)
7102 W. Okanogan Place, Kennewick, WA 99336
Phone: (509) 460-4200
Pasco
412 W. Clark Street, Pasco, WA 99301
Phone: (509) 547-9737
Hours: Monday–Friday — contact each office for current department-specific hours as they vary by program.
BFHD Website | Programs & Services | Contact Directory
FAQ
Is BFHD a doctor’s office or clinic?
Not primarily, BFHD is a public health agency focused on prevention and population health. They do offer some direct clinical services (immunizations, WIC, sexual health clinic) but are not a substitute for primary care. For primary care, see Grace Clinic or TCCH.
Can BFHD help me figure out what services my child qualifies for?
Yes, the Children and Youth with Special Healthcare Needs program and Care Connect navigator service are specifically designed to help families identify and access the right services. Contact BFHD and ask about these programs.
Does BFHD offer developmental screening?
BFHD provides information and referral for developmental screening rather than conducting evaluations themselves. For developmental evaluations and early intervention services, contact Children’s Developmental Center or ESD 123.
