At the April board meeting, Public Health Administrator Katie Reuter led the discussion, with program updates provided by Public Health Nurse Mandi Morin.
Morin also reported that the department is now a Presumptive Medicaid Provider, allowing staff to offer immediate, temporary coverage to individuals likely eligible for Medicaid, such as pregnant women and foster children. She shared examples of recent client support through Medicaid and WIC navigation, as well as assistance for an elderly resident preparing for a medical procedure.
Mandi and her Director Katie Reuter are also participating in the Public Health Residency Program, a grant-funded professional development initiative that includes mentorship and culminates in a quality improvement project.
The Board also reviewed several updated department policies, including those related to emergency response, inclement weather, and needle stick procedures. A new flex-time policy was proposed to allow hourly staff to adjust their schedules during the workweek, with HR support and a board vote pending.
Staffing changes were also announced. Nurse Amy Martin has resigned to launch a diabetes education program in Jefferson County. Morgan Francie has accepted the open nurse position and will begin in June. Francie comes from the University of Iowa and brings experience in wound care and burn treatment. The next Health Board Meeting will be held May 7th at 12:30pm.