Katherine Farrington

The meeting included recognition for a Senator's efforts in championing public health and the introduction of the new Director of Health Services. Key discussion points included the State Health Officer's report covering EMS memorial dedication, Breast and Cervical Cancer Awareness, Rural Health Transformation Grant, and Infant Mortality updates. The Chief Financial Officer presented on the state fiscal year 2027 budget request and provided updates on ongoing construction projects, including pharmacy improvements and parking garage elevator modernization. The State Epidemiologist reported on rising pertussis cases and one related infant death. A consent agenda was approved after one item concerning amendments to Child Care Facilities regulations was pulled for further committee review. Committee reports covered an overview of items prepared for the upcoming 2026 legislative session, including controlled substance law revisions and funding allocations. The Board also discussed the ongoing infant mortality public health crisis, examining rates and collaborative efforts to decrease incidents. The CON committee is preparing recommendations for the legislature.

The meeting commenced with the State Health Officer's reports, including updates on public health week, employee recognitions, and communicable diseases, featuring an overview of rising national Measles cases and current Pertussis trends in Mississippi, where the reported vaccination rate is 97.5%. An update on the 2025 Legislative Session confirmed that the Public Health Trust Fund was signed into effect, and the Certificate of Need (CON) Bill is awaiting gubernatorial passage. The consent agenda, which included amendments to regulations for the Bureau of Emergency Medical Services and Reportable Diseases and Conditions, and the repeal of rules for the Office Against Interpersonal Violence, was approved. The Maternal and Infant Health Committee presented three adopted reforms: developing an infant mortality review panel, exploring gun safety promotion for child protection, and fully endorsing presumptive eligibility. The Nominating Committee recommended retaining the current President and Officers, which was adopted. New business resulted in the approval of a Respiratory Protection Fee Itemized List to generate additional revenue for the Department of Health. During executive session, personnel matters were discussed, leading to the announcement that Ms. Patricia Olaude would assume the position of State Registrar.

The meeting included the amendment of the July 2024 minutes, specifically approving a motion to include a statement regarding a 2% progression salary increase for all MSDH staff, including the State Health Officer. The State Health Officer's Report covered updates on epidemiology, federal funding, MSDH recognitions, and the Commonwealth Fund report. The State Epidemiologist detailed rising pertussis cases (71 reported year-to-date) and syphilis rates, and announced the MSDH Data Dashboard. Several staff achievements were recognized, including awards for Public Water Safety and the Communications Department's anti-vaping campaign, and the Office of Vital Records achieving dual PHAB accreditation. The Chief Financial Officer provided an update on the state fiscal year 2026 budget, noting relatively level funding and listing anticipated construction projects. The Consent Agenda approved amendments to regulations for hair braiding registration and appointments to the Child Care Advisory Council. Committee reports included updates on Maternal and Infant Health, focusing on infant mortality review separation, and planning for a deep dive into CON reform ideas. New Business involved suggesting a resolution of thanks for a recently retired Board member and presenting a recognition plaque to the former Chairman. The Board entered Executive Session to discuss pending litigation.

The strategic plan for the Mississippi State Department of Health for fiscal years 2011-2015 focuses on promoting and protecting the health of Mississippi citizens. Key areas of focus include strategic planning and policy development, promoting healthy people in healthy communities, quality improvement and performance measurement, and public health emergency preparedness. The plan outlines specific goals and objectives for various programs such as health services, tobacco control, health protection, emergency preparedness and response, and communicable disease control, with an emphasis on prevention, early detection, and access to care.

This strategic plan for the Mississippi Department of Health outlines the mission, vision, and values of the department, along with strategic directions focused on strategic planning and policy development, healthy people in healthy communities, quality improvement and performance measurement, and public health emergency preparedness. It addresses chronic illnesses, maternal and child health, environmental health, disease prevention, healthcare planning, and emergency preparedness. The plan includes specific objectives for fiscal years 2007-2011, detailing program descriptions, goals, and funding for each area.