Created on Monday, 22 December 2008 10:15

Contact: Collette DuValle, 317-373-2391

Health Department Celebrates 2008 Accomplishments

2008 proved to be a challenging and rewarding year for the Marion County Health Department.

Progress was made in further preparing Marion County for a public health emergency, unacceptable living conditions at a local apartment complex led to the health department closing the site, a record-setting turnout highlighted the annual Back to School event, a state-of-the-art food service inspection web link was unveiled and on-going partnerships with the built environment continued.

Throughout the year, local public health officials participated in a number of conferences, hands-on exercises and other training opportunities meant to refine and test the health department’s ability to quickly, efficiently and cohesively respond to a public health emergency. The training has not only succeeded in making employees understand the importance of emergency preparedness, but also raised MCHD’s score on the Local Technical Assistance Review (LTAR) by 23 points to a score of 95.

This score will be published nationally alongside scores of other major cities. “This is a monumental achievement that would not be possible without our employees’ determination and support,” said Dr. Caine. “It is our commitment to public health and the citizens of Marion County that continues to make our health department one of the best in the nation.”

A record setting 15,935 Indianapolis residents turned out for the 8th annual Covering Kids and Families Back to School Family Day. Sports physicals, immunizations, shoes and school supplies were provided. In addition, a variety of community partners provided health information. Plans are already underway for the 9th annual event.