The Marion Star recently shared the thoughts and experiences of CMH (BCMH) program participants. They also shared some thoughts of our nurse who implements the program at the health department. While those comments were not official statements of the health department, it served as a prompt to share our agency position at this time.
Marion Public Health will always work to connect people with needed health services. This is an essential service of public health practice. We believe we provide this service through the CMH (BCMH) program with very high quality. We will work to assure those services continue to be provided with the highest quality possible, regardless of the payer source or provider. Whatever changes are coming, the program needs to be sustainable. It should continue to serve Ohio’s families with medically fragile children who depend on it.
Another element of public health service is to share information. The Ohio Department of Health shared a link with information about the changes related to the Governor’s proposed budget. To access this information, click on http://www.healthtransformation.ohio.gov/BUDGETS.aspx We are in the process of reviewing this information ourselves. We are also learning from our colleagues in other local health departments around the state. It is likely we will join with other local health departments in communicating our thoughts as a group with state leaders.
Marion Public Health is engaging in a community needs assessment regarding access to care. This program and its participants will certainly be part of that assessment.
