The boards of supervisors of the various counties in the state are hereby authorized, in their discretion, to set aside, appropriate and expend moneys from the general fund for treatment of the indigent sick, for the promotion of public health of the county, and for the support and maintenance of a full-time county health department. The boards of supervisors are further authorized, in their discretion, to appropriate and transfer moneys from the general fund to any state agency, department or institution for the purpose of providing health care services or having such services provided to indigent persons of the county.