Septic in New Lenox, IL

New Lenox blends leafy streets with family-friendly neighborhoods, and in many of those yards you'll still see a septic system quietly handling the daily wastewater load. It's common here because the town spans a mix of older rural lots and newer suburban developments, with a sewer reach that doesn't blanket every property.

Is septic common in New Lenox? Yes. If you own or buy a home and it isn't connected to the village sewer, you should expect a septic system on site. Even in parts that are near sewer lines, some parcels remain on private systems due to lot size or design considerations. A good rule of thumb: ask the current owner or your realtor for the sewer status of the specific property and request documentation of the system's age and maintenance history.

Why do homes in New Lenox rely on septic systems? There are a few practical, high-level reasons:

• Lot size and development patterns: Many homes sit on larger lots where installing or maintaining a private on-site system is more economical than extending sewer service.
• Local infrastructure: Sewer expansion can be uneven across town, leaving pockets where septic remains the practical and cost-effective choice.
• Soil and drainage realities: The local soils and groundwater in certain areas support well-functioning septic designs when properly sized and installed. A thoughtful system considers soil absorption, setback distances, and seasonal water flow.
• Flexibility and resilience: A well-kept septic system gives homeowners independence from utility outages and, with proper maintenance, can function reliably for decades.

High-level how-it-works in our area: a septic tank collects solids, allowing clarified liquid to flow into a drainfield where it's absorbed by the soil. Regular pumping, careful waste disposal, and avoiding surface runoff help protect the drainfield and your investment. Routine maintenance—typically every 3–5 years for many households—extends life and reduces the chance of surprises.

What to look for when you're buying or maintaining a New Lenox home with septic:

• Confirm current sewer status and the tank size, age, and compartment configuration.
• Obtain recent pumping dates and any inspection or repair records.
• Check for a maintenance plan and understand recommended service intervals.
• Learn about the drainfield's condition and any known restrictions on landscaping or heavy equipment over the area.

If you're navigating a New Lenox purchase or planning long-term maintenance, you'll have a trusted neighbor in your corner—someone who's seen our soils, our weather, and our homes work with septic systems every day. A practical, proactive approach keeps life simple and your system healthy as family needs grow.

Where Septic Systems Are Common in New Lenox

Areas Outside Sewer Service Boundaries

In New Lenox, most septic systems are found where public sewer service is not available. These areas tend to be on the outer edges of town or in rural-feeling neighborhoods that were developed before a centralized sewer system was extended. Key characteristics include:

• Large lots or farms where connecting to a sewer line would be impractical or costly.
• Subdivisions that developed before sewer infrastructure was planned or extended to every block.
• Areas near natural features that make trenching and installation more complex.

If your street or subdivision lacks a connected sewer line, you're more likely to have a septic system or a private on-site wastewater system. The village and county health authorities typically regulate these installations to ensure safety and environmental protection.

Soil, Lot Size, and Groundwater Factors

Whether a home uses a septic system depends on site conditions as much as service availability. Important factors include:

• Soil type and percolation: Sandy or loamy soils generally drain well, while heavy clays can slow drainage and require larger or alternative designs.
• Depth to groundwater and bedrock: High water tables or shallow bedrock can complicate or limit septic leach-field placement.
• Lot shape and elevation: Sloped lots or irregular shapes may affect drain-field layout and access for maintenance.
• Proximity to wells and streams: Regulations often require setbacks to protect drinking water supplies and surface water from contamination.

Because of these factors, some neighboring parcels with sewer lines still rely on septic systems if the soil or space constraints make public sewer a poor fit.

How to Tell If Your Property Uses Septic

Use these practical checks to confirm your system type:

1. Look for public sewer service area maps on the Village of New Lenox website to see where sewer lines exist. If your street isn't shown as connected, you're more likely on septic. (Official site: https://www.newlenox.net'>https://www.newlenox.net)
2. Check the Illinois EPA's Onsite Wastewater Treatment Systems (OWTS) guidance to understand regulatory standards for septic systems. https://www2.illinois.gov/epa/topics/wastewater/onsite/Pages/default.aspx
3. Inspect for a septic tank lid or access risers in your yard, usually near a fenced area or along the side yard. A licensed inspector can confirm the system type and condition.
4. If unsure, contact a local licensed septic designer or inspector who can review site conditions and your utility records.

Why Septic Systems Are Still Common in New Lenox

New Lenox combines rural heritage with suburban growth. In areas where sewer lines were not extended during rapid development, septic remains a practical and common solution. The need to protect groundwater and surface water, plus the cost and feasibility of extending centralized sewer, drives ongoing use of well-maintained on-site systems in these neighborhoods.

Short, site-specific decisions drive septic use in town:

• Site suitability and setback rules govern design choices.
• Future sewer expansion plans may change requirements, but many parcels will continue to operate with septic until sewer reach is extended.
• Regular maintenance and timely inspections reduce risk to water quality and home value.

Quick Reference Steps for Homeowners

• Step 1: Identify whether your street is within a sewer service area map (Village of New Lenox).
• Step 2: Review Illinois EPA OWTS guidelines for proper installation and maintenance.
• Step 3: Have a licensed professional assess soil, drainage, and system health if you're unsure about your current setup.
• Step 4: Maintain records of inspections and pumping to protect your investment and local water quality.

Resources:

• Illinois EPA – Onsite Wastewater Treatment Systems: https://www2.illinois.gov/epa/topics/wastewater/onsite/Pages/default.aspx
• U.S. EPA – Septic Systems: https://www.epa.gov/septic
• Village of New Lenox: https://www.newlenox.net

Septic vs Sewer: What Homeowners in New Lenox Should Know

How septic systems work

• A septic system treats household wastewater on your property, away from the public sewer.
• Wastewater flows into a septic tank where solids settle to the bottom and oils float to the top.
• Clarified liquid (effluent) drains into a drain field where soil microbes continue to break down contaminants.
• Regular pumping keeps solids from building up to damaging levels. Typical pumping intervals are every 3–5 years, depending on household size and usage.
• Proper design, installation, and maintenance are essential to protect groundwater and nearby waterways.

How sewer service works in New Lenox

• If your home is connected to municipal sewer, wastewater is carried by public pipes to a treatment plant, and you receive a monthly sewer bill.
• The city or village handles maintenance of the main lines; homeowners generally aren't responsible for septic tank pumping or drain-field care.
• Connection fees, tapping, or metered sewer charges may apply if you're new to sewer service or converting from a septic system.
• If you're unsure whether your home has sewer service, check with the Village of New Lenox or Will County health/sanitation departments.

Practical comparisons for homeowners

• Costs
  • Septic: one-time installation plus regular pumping and occasional repairs.
  • Sewer: recurring monthly bills and possibly connection or assessment fees.
• Maintenance responsibilities
  • Septic: you're responsible for pumping, avoiding harmful products, and protecting the drain field.
  • Sewer: the municipality handles most maintenance; you pay for wastewater service.
• Environmental impact
  • Septic: proper maintenance protects groundwater; neglect can cause leaks and nutrient runoff.
  • Sewer: public treatment reduces on-site risk but requires proper waste management at scale.
• Reliability and disruptions
  • Septic: vulnerable to hydraulic overloading (lots of water) and tree roots; back-ups can occur in heavy use periods.
  • Sewer: service disruptions come from main-line problems or power outages at treatment facilities; less frequent on-site issues.

Everyday maintenance tips

1. Water action: spread out heavy water use (laundry, dishwashing) to minimize load on the system.
2. Be septic-safe: flush only toilet waste and toilet paper; avoid flushing wipes, fats, oils, grease, or chemicals.
3. Pump on schedule: plan septic tank pumping with a licensed contractor every 3–5 years, or per producer recommendation.
4. Protect the bed: keep vehicles, structures, and heavy equipment off your drain field; avoid compacting soil above the field.
5. Plant wisely: prevent root intrusion by avoiding trees and shrubs with aggressive roots near the drain field.
6. Regular inspections: have a licensed septic professional inspect your system if you notice slow drains, gurgling, odors, or soggy areas above the drain field.

When to consider septic maintenance or conversion

1. Sign of trouble: repeated backups, persistent odors, unusually wet areas in the yard, or high groundwater near the drain field.
2. If you're on septic and contemplating sewer: verify with the Village of New Lenox or your local public works department whether sewer service is available or planned for your street.
3. Replacement planning: septic systems typically last several decades with proper care; major failures may require repair or replacement and proper disposal of waste.

Official resources

• EPA Septic Systems:
• Village of New Lenox (sewer and service information): https://www.newlenox.net/

Typical Septic System Types in New Lenox

Conventional gravity septic systems

• How it works: A buried tank collects wastewater, and effluent flows by gravity into a subsurface drainfield. The soil itself treats and disperses the wastewater.
• Best suited for: Properties with adequate soil depth and permeability.
• Pros: Usually the lowest upfront cost; simple design and common installation.
• Cons: Requires sufficient pore space in the native soil; performance can suffer in very wet, compacted, or shallow soils.
• Maintenance and care:
  1. Schedule septic tank pumping every 3–5 years (usage and tank size affect timing).
  2. Conserve water to reduce load on the system (spread out laundry, fix leaks, use efficient fixtures).
  3. Protect the drain field: avoid heavy machinery, parking, or landscaping directly over it; plant only shallow-rooted vegetation.
  4. Avoid flushing non-biodegradable products, fats, oils, solvents, and chemicals.

Pressure distribution and advanced treatment units

• How it works: A pump distributes effluent under pressure to multiple trenches, promoting even soil absorption. Some systems use an advanced treatment unit (ATU) to further treat waste before dispersion.
• Best suited for: Properties with marginal soils, limited drainfield area, or shallow bedrock/high water table.
• Pros: Improves wastewater distribution and treatment in challenging soils; can extend usable life of the drainfield.
• Cons: Higher up-front cost; requires electrical power and regular service.
• Maintenance and care:
  1. Have annual service from a licensed OWTS professional; monitor alarms.
  2. Ensure the pumping chamber and dose components remain accessible and free of debris.
  3. Protect the area above the distribution trenches from compaction and root intrusion.
  4. Use only septic-safe products to minimize slime buildup and equipment stress.

Mound systems

• How it works: A sand-filled raised bed sits above original soil, with a separate drainfield beneath the mound. Wastewater is treated in the mound before it reaches the soil.
• Best suited for: Properties with very shallow soil, high water table, or poor native soil permeability.
• Pros: Reliable performance when native soils won't support a standard drainfield.
• Cons: More expensive to install and maintain; larger footprint; requires careful maintenance of the mound area.
• Maintenance and care:
  1. Schedule typical pumping needs based on tank size and use.
  2. Keep the mound area free from heavy equipment and excessive water pooling.
  3. Periodically inspect and service by a trained OWTS professional.

Sand filter and drip irrigation systems

• How it works: Effluent from the tank first passes through a sand filter or a drip irrigation network before reaching the soil, providing additional treatment.
• Best suited for: Areas with soils that don't drain well or with site-specific restrictions.
• Pros: Enhanced treatment in damaged or restrictive soils; can reduce impact on native groundwater.
• Cons: Higher maintenance and specialized design; tends to be larger and more complex.
• Maintenance and care:
  1. Regular inspections by an OWTS professional; keep filter surfaces clear of debris.
  2. Ensure drip lines or spray heads are not blocked and are functioning as designed.
  3. Avoid compaction on and around the filter and irrigation zones.

Aerobic treatment units (ATUs)

• How it works: An ATU treats wastewater biologically with aeration, producing a higher-quality effluent before disposal.
• Best suited for: Properties with challenging soils or where a higher level of treatment is desired.
• Pros: Superior treatment performance; can expand options in difficult sites.
• Cons: Higher ongoing maintenance and utility costs; requires service contracts.
• Maintenance and care:
  1. Regular, scheduled maintenance by a licensed service provider.
  2. Check alarms and ensure power supply is reliable.
  3. Use septic-safe cleaning products and avoid flushable wipes or chemicals that disrupt aerobic treatment.

Local considerations for New Lenox

• New Lenox homes sit in Will County, where soils, groundwater, and lot design influence system choices. Many properties with limited soil permeability or high water tables may require mound, ATU, or sand-filter solutions.
• Permitting and inspections are handled through the local health department and the Illinois Onsite Wastewater Treatment Systems guidelines.

Official resources

• Illinois Department of Public Health – Onsite Wastewater Treatment Systems:
• U.S. Environmental Protection Agency – Septic systems overview: https://www.epa.gov/septic
• For local permitting specifics in New Lenox/Will County, check the Will County Health Department's guidance and ensure any installation follows state and local requirements.

Common Septic Issues in New Lenox

Drain field saturation and failure

• Signs to watch for: pooling or soggy areas above the drain field, a strong or unusual odor near the leach bed, lush green grass over the area, or toilets that drain slowly.
• Why New Lenox can see this more often: seasonal rainfall and a tendency toward high water tables in spring can keep soil around the drain field waterlogged longer than in drier zones. Many New Lenox homes sit on soils that don't drain quickly, so the system can become stressed after heavy rains.
• What you can do:
  1. Limit water use during rain events and flush only toilet-water and graywater as intended.
  2. Avoid driving or parking machinery over the drain field to prevent compaction.
  3. Have a licensed septic pro inspect the system if you notice surfacing effluent or gurgling drains.
  4. Consider a professional evaluation of soil absorption capacity and, if needed, upgrade or reseed the field with appropriate landscaping.
• Quick tip: a properly functioning effluent filter and intact tank baffles help protect the drain field from solids and reduce premature failure.

Tree roots and landscaping intrusion

• Signs to watch for: damp, soft areas or slowly drying patches over the septic area; cracks in nearby concrete or pavements; sudden changes in drainage around the yard.
• Why this is common here: many New Lenox lots were developed with mature trees and lush landscaping. Roots seek out moisture and can infiltrate the septic tank, effluent lines, or absorption area, leading to blockages or structural damage over time.
• What you can do:
  • Keep trees and large shrubs at a safe distance from the drain field (ideally more than 10–15 feet for mature trees).
  • Install root barriers when re-landscaping and avoid digging in or near the system without a prior survey.
  • Have trees examined if you notice unusual shifts in drainage or soil movement near the septic area.
• Pro tip: consider seasonal inspection after storms or high winds when root systems may shift.

Sludge buildup and improper pumping

• Signs to note: toilets or sinks slow to drain, repeated curing or pumping episodes, or a noticeable increase in the smell of septic waste.
• Why New Lenox homes experience this: older homes with smaller tanks or frequent use of garbage disposals can accumulate solids faster. Inconsistent pumping schedules and flushing non-biodegradable items accelerate buildup.
• Maintenance steps:
  1. Schedule routine pumping every 3–5 years for typical residential systems (more often for smaller tanks or heavy usage).
  2. Use a licensed septic contractor who can assess baffles, effluent filters, and tank integrity during pumping.
  3. Avoid flushing fats, oils, grease, wipes (even "flushable"), or chemicals that can disrupt beneficial bacteria.
• After pumping: have the contractor check for signs of leaks or cracks in the tank and verify the condition of the inlet/outlet baffles.

Groundwater, soil constraints, and seasonal changes

• Signs: recurring damp patches, strong odors during wet seasons, or persistent wetness around the system area.
• New Lenox factors: soils in parts of Will County can be heavy and slow-draining, and high groundwater in spring can reduce the drain field's effective area. Seasonal fluctuations can push effluent closer to the surface than expected.
• What to do:
  • Get a soil suitability assessment and system evaluation from a licensed professional when buying a home or if issues arise.
  • Plan for system upgrades if your property has high water tables or compacted soils, such as a larger drain field or alternative design recommended by a pro.
• Long-term strategy: combine regular inspection with careful water budgeting (spread out heavy laundry, dishwasher, and irrigation loads).

Official resources

• Illinois Environmental Protection Agency – Onsite Wastewater Systems:
• Will County Health Department – Environmental Health / Onsite Sewage:

Septic Inspection, Permits & Local Oversight

Local oversight in New Lenox

New Lenox relies on a combination of state guidance and Will County health oversight for septic systems. In practice, that means most installation, modification, or abandonment work is coordinated through the Will County Health Department in partnership with the Village of New Lenox Building & Zoning offices. The goal is to ensure systems are designed, installed, and maintained in a way that protects groundwater, wells, and your neighbors.

Permits you may need

• Installation, replacement, or significant repair of a septic system: permit required.
• System abandonment or decommissioning: permit required.
• Minor repairs or pump-outs typically do not require a new permit, but records and inspections may still apply.
• Always verify before you begin digging or hiring work. Getting the right permit early can save delays and fines.

The permit process (step-by-step)

1. Confirm jurisdiction
2. Contact the Village of New Lenox Building & Zoning Department and/or the Will County Health Department to confirm which permits are required for your project.
3. Gather basics
4. Property deed and legal description
5. Property survey or site plan
6. Proposed wastewater system design or contractor's plans
7. Any existing septic tank/pumpout records
8. Submit applications
9. Complete the permit application(s) and pay the required fees.
10. Attach the proposed site plan and system design; some projects may require a licensed designer or engineer.
11. Plan review
12. A health department reviewer will evaluate soil suitability, setback distances, tank placement, and system size.
13. Expect possible requests for additional evaluations (soil log, percolation tests, or dye tests) if not already documented.
14. Schedule inspections
15. Pre-installation site inspection (if required)
16. During installation inspections (tank placement, piping, baffles, venting)
17. Final inspection and system start-up testing
18. permit closure
19. Once the system passes all inspections, the permit is closed and you receive final approval documentation. Keep this for future reference and potential home sale disclosures.

Inspections and what to expect

• Soil evaluation and site readiness: inspectors verify that the site meets required setbacks, slope, and soil conditions.
• Installation checks: confirm tank placement, piping grades, septic baffles, risers, and cleanouts are correct and meet code.
• Connection and system testing: verify that pumps, effluent filters, and distribution components operate properly.
• Documentation: maintain all inspection stickers, permit numbers, and contractor invoices; you may need to present these if you sell the home or if the health department requests records.

Ongoing maintenance and records

• Pump outs: typical interval is every 3-5 years, depending on tank size, household usage, and system design; follow your installer's recommendations.
• Record-keeping: maintain a maintenance log with dates, pump-out receipts, and any repairs.
• Warning signs: backups, gurgling sounds, odors, wet spots near the drain field, or unusually lush spots in the yard may indicate a problem—call a licensed septic professional and, if needed, notify the local health department.

Official resources

• Illinois Department of Public Health (IDPH) – Onsite Wastewater Treatment Systems: official state guidance and links to local programs. https://www.idph.state.il.us/
• U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) – Septic Systems: general federal guidance and maintenance tips. https://www.epa.gov/septic
• Village of New Lenox (local oversight and permits): https://www.newlenox.net/

Septic Maintenance for Homes in New Lenox

New Lenox-specific considerations

• Soil and groundwater variability: Will County soils around New Lenox range from clay to loam with seasonal moisture fluctuations. This can affect percolation and drain-field performance, especially after heavy rains or rapid snowmelt.
• Flooding and saturation risk: Spring thaws and heavy rainfall can saturate the drain field area, increasing the chance of backups or surface dampness in yards.
• Tree roots and landscaping: Mature trees near septic components can send roots into trenches or pipes, reducing system efficiency and risking damage.
• Seasonal freeze-thaw cycles: Winter ground frost and freeze-thaw can slow soil absorption and make inspections/maintenance more challenging.
• Sump pump and surface water: In some homes, discharge from sump pumps or downspouts directed toward the drain field can overload the system. Do not route surface water into the septic system; divert it away from the leach field.

Seasonal maintenance schedule

• Spring
  • Inspect the yard for signs of damp, soggy drainage areas near the drain field.
  • Have a licensed pro pump and inspect if you're within the recommended interval for your tank size.
  • Check for odors or gurgling noises indoors, which can signal slow drainage.
• Summer
  • Conserve water during peak usage to reduce load on the tank.
  • Avoid planting trees or large shrubs directly over the drain field; establish a clear, well-aged buffer.
  • Use a trash or grease disposal sparingly; solids and fats can accumulate in the tank and leach field.
• Fall
  • Keep leaves, lawn waste, and heavy equipment off the drain field area.
  • Ensure rainwater from roofs is directed away from the system; gutter extensions help prevent overflow around the field.
• Winter
  • Keep access lids visible and free of snow or ice for safe inspections.
  • If you have a raised drain field, monitor for frost heave or heaving that might misalign components.
  • Schedule an inspection before spring thaw to catch issues early.

Step-by-step: proactive maintenance you can follow

1. Step 1: Locate and mark your septic tank and drain-field areas. Document clear access points for future servicing.
2. Step 2: Schedule a professional pumping and inspection when your system's age or usage suggests it's due (typical pumping intervals are around 3–5 years for many homes, depending on tank size and household wastewater load).
3. Step 3: Have the outlet baffle and any effluent filter inspected and cleaned if present. A clean outlet reduces the chance of solids escaping to the drain field.
4. Step 4: Have the contractor measure sludge and scum layers and review the drain-field condition for signs of saturation, cracking, or root intrusion.
5. Step 5: Maintain a maintenance log: pumping dates, inspection notes, repairs, and any changes to water usage or landscaping.

Common New Lenox issues and quick fixes

• Backups after heavy rain: Verify adequate drainage around the tank and consider increasing the drain-field area's soil permeability if feasible with a professional. Ensure roof and surface water is diverted away from the system.
• Root intrusion: If trees are close to the field, prune or relocate landscaping where acceptable. In some cases, a professionally installed root barrier can help.
• Sump pump connections: Do not pump sump discharge into the septic system. Create a separate discharge line or treatment method to prevent overloading the drain field.
• Odors and damp patches: These signs often indicate a need for pumping, filter cleaning, or field evaluation by a pro. Do not ignore persistent odors.

When to call a professional in New Lenox

• You notice slow drains, gurgling sounds, or sewage odors indoors.
• You see wet, spongy patches or standing water above or near the drain field.
• It's been longer than your tank's recommended pumping interval, or you've added occupants, a home addition, or a high-water-use appliance.
• You suspect root intrusion, damaged lids, or plumbing leaks affecting the system.

Resources

• Illinois EPA Onsite Wastewater Treatment Systems (OWTS) program: https://www2.illinois.gov/epa/topics/waste-management/onsite-wastewater/Pages/default.aspx
• U.S. EPA Septic Systems general information: https://www.epa.gov/septic
• EPA Homeowners Guide to Septic Systems: https://www.epa.gov/septic/how-septic-systems-work

Cost Expectations for Septic Services in New Lenox

• Costs in New Lenox reflect local labor rates, access to properties, soil conditions, and winter weather that can affect scheduling. Expect some variation from neighboring towns in Will County, but the ranges below align with common Illinois pricing for on-site systems. Always get a written estimate and ask for a breakdown of line items (labor, materials, permits).

Septic Tank Pumping

• What it includes: removing accumulated solids from the tank, cleaning or inspecting the effluent filter, checking tank lids and risers, basic baffle inspection, and a quick overall system health check.
• New Lenox specifics: winter access and driveway conditions can impact scheduling and pricing; frost and snow can add to labor time. Ensure accessibility for a vacuum truck.
• Typical cost in New Lenox: $350–$750 per pumping.
• Official resources: Illinois EPA Onsite Wastewater Systems overview (https://www2.illinois.gov/epa/topics/wastewater/onsite/Pages/default.aspx).

Septic Tank Replacement

• What it includes: removal of an failing tank, new tank install, new risers/cover, backfilling, and system re-testing; may require upsizing for future load.
• New Lenox specifics: access to the tank and disposal site can affect labor time; older properties may have concrete tanks that require careful handling.
• Typical cost in New Lenox: tank and disposal $3,000–$6,000 for the unit itself; full replacement with installation often $7,000–$15,000 or more depending on materials and field requirements.
• Official resources: IEPA wastewater guidelines (https://www2.illinois.gov/epa/topics/wastewater/onsite/Pages/default.aspx).

Preventive Maintenance Contracts

• What it includes: annual pumping, periodic inspections, filter checks, and priority scheduling for repairs; discount or bundled pricing for bundled services.
• New Lenox specifics: some neighborhoods or builders offer maintenance plans with preferred providers; always confirm what's included.
• Typical cost in New Lenox: $250–$500 per year depending on service level.
• Official resources: IEPA/Will County guidance on routine maintenance best practices (https://www2.illinois.gov/epa/topics/wastewater/onsite/Pages/default.aspx; https://www.willcountyillinois.com/Departments/Health).

Drainage and System Abandonment

• What it includes: decommissioning an old system, filling and sealing tanks with proper inert material, and issuing a formal abandonment record.
• New Lenox specifics: abandonment may be required if a property converts to municipal sewer or if the system is permanently out of service.
• Typical cost in New Lenox: $1,000–$3,000.
• Official resources: IEPA and Will County guidance on proper abandonment (https://www2.illinois.gov/epa/topics/wastewater/onsite/Pages/default.aspx; https://www.willcountyillinois.com/Departments/Health).