Franklin-Williamson Bi-County Health Department was organized in 1960 after a referendum vote of the people of Franklin and Williamson counties in Illinois. The health department, based in Marion, Ill., offers awareness programs and information on emergency preparedness, environmental health, family services, health education, and HIV and AIDS. It prevents the spread of disease, and promotes healthy behavior and lifestyles among residents of the counties. It also offers nursing services by registered nurses and licensed practical nurses to people in their homes. The nursing services include blood tests, checking blood pressure, giving B-12 and other injections, prefilling insulin syringes, diet instruction, and instructions on medication. The department also provides home health aides for personal care, physical, speech and occupational therapies and social services.