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Adams County Health Department (ACHD) has significantly expanded their outreach efforts to improve maternal and child health outcomes. In 2024, they distributed 226 prenatal vitamins, 131 safe sleep sacks, 30 cribs, 432 period products, 11 car seat safety inspections and three car seats. They provided education on topics including nutrition, safe sleep and prenatal care to 141 families. ACHD also increased referral services to programs like My Healthy Baby and WIC.

Allen County Department of Health (ACDOH) developed the 2024 Health First Allen County grant program to address gaps in core public health service delivery. ACDOH funded 29 novel and impactful partnerships with community partners and health care providers. Relationships with partners spawned actionable, proactive efforts ranging from expansion of mobile medical services for pediatric patients to targeted programming addressing obesity in people with autism and down syndrome. Grants also helped fund programs aimed at housing, support and case management for pregnant women experiencing homelessness and expansive vaping prevention education for fifth, sixth and seventh graders in all public county schools. Over 73,000 community members were served by these programs in 2024.

Bartholomew County Health Department (BCHD) hosted a back-to-school health fair on Aug. 3, 2024. They invited several community partners, including Columbus Regional Hospital Health Communities, Mental Health Matters, Be Smart, Safe Kids, IDOH Maternal and Child Health division, Purdue Extension, United Way, Columbus Bike Co-Op and Bartholomew County Public Library.

In total, 63 people attended the event. BCHD administered 50 immunizations, one lead test, dental screenings, two car seat checks and provided referrals to Quit Now Indiana. BCHD staff also offered safe sleep education and safe medication disposal. Bartholomew County Public Library offered free books for attendees.

Benton County Health Department (BCHD) hosted a car seat safety and education clinic in partnership with Franciscan Health, Benton County Sheriff’s Department, Benton County EMS and Benton County Community Foundation.

Throughout the event, BCHD provided car seat safety checks, education and free car seats to county residents. Because of this event, BCHD helped a family who was recently involved in motor vehicle accident and had been unable to replace the damaged car seats. That family received two new car seats.

Blackford County Health Department (BCHD) is participating in trauma and injury prevention initiatives. BCHD provided 180 bike helmets, 80 shower grab bars, 60 anti-slip socks and 200 first aid kits to community members.

These items are distributed at various community events such as Party in the Park, Back to School Bash and the Montpelier Jamboree.

Boone County Health Department (BCHD) is working to improve maternal and child health outcomes. Findings from the local fetal and infant mortality review (FIMR) team revealed a need for more safe sleep education. As a result, BCHD provides infant safe sleep training, free pack-n-plays, sleep sacks and resource folders for families. BCHD also provides families continued education on lead detection and prevention by completing lead risk assessments for at-risk homes. Because of these initiatives, BCHD can help families ensure their children are safe and healthy by providing lifesaving education and resources.

In September 2024, Brown County Health Department (BCHD) participated in a community baby shower. The event also included other local partners, including the YMCA, a community health provider, and Clarity, a pregnancy resource center. BCHD provided 39 sleep sacks and safe sleep education to families with infants. Families also received baby items and health education. BCHD also partners with the My Healthy Baby program. Pregnant women referred to My Healthy Baby are connected to family support providers in their communities. Expectant mothers receive support during pregnancy and the first year after delivery. Three expecting mothers were referred to the program last year.

In partnership with Area 5 Agency on Aging and Community Services, Carroll County Health Department (CCHD) hosted a successful dementia screening clinic to promote early detection and support for cognitive health. The clinic offered private screening spaces and one-on-one consultations with local experts, ensuring a comfortable and personalized experience for participants

One notable success was identifying a participant who did not have a primary care physician or a history of regular doctor visits. Thanks to the clinic, the participant was referred to a local physician. This effort highlights the importance of accessible health screenings and providing connections to ongoing care. CCHD remains committed to fostering partnerships that enhance the wellbeing of all residents.

Cass County Health Department (CCHD) and Logansport Memorial Hospital have always been trusted partners. With the implementation of Health First Indiana, their partnership is reaching new heights. For example, CCHD and Logansport Memorial Hospital collaborated to launch a car seat program. Every family that leaves the hospital with a newborn receives a car seat and car seat safety educational materials. CCHD also distributes “newbie” packs for mothers that include safe sleep sacks and educational materials

In the past year, CCHD provided prenatal vitamins to 420 women, nutrition education to 445 women and safe sleep education to 79 families. They distributed 35 car seats and performed 62 car seat inspections

By leveraging each other’s strengths, CCHD and Logansport Memorial are creating sustainable programs that improve the health and safety of Cass County families.

Clark County Health Department (CCHD) initiated a chronic disease management program for the community. The program provides diabetic screenings by checking A1C levels, blood lipids panel, blood glucose readings, blood pressure and more basic preventive screenings for patients. Overall, 28% of screened patients were identified with elevated A1C levels and 50% of patients were found to have high cholesterol. These screenings are free for patients, and individuals with abnormal levels or concerning results are referred to local primary care physicians.

Approximately 670 uninsured individuals were referred to health insurance navigation services. The program is offered onsite at CCHD and has also expanded throughout the community. CCHD has seen patients at community health fairs and public festivals. This program strengthens CCHD’s community partnerships and allows Clark County residents to receive preventive care.

Clay County Health Department (CCHD) is expanding their childhood lead testing program. CCHD’s public health nurse and environmentalist underwent training and testing to become lead risk assessors. Shortly after receiving his license, the environmentalist performed a home lead risk assessment. When testing indicates a child has elevated blood lead levels, CCHD’s case manager follows up with families to offer support and resources. Detecting elevated blood lead levels early is imperative, so CCHD uses a rapid blood lead level machine. Testing is free, and CCHD launched a social media campaign to encourage parents to bring their children for testing. Recently, CCHD partnered with Head Start to offer testing during the school day. With support from Indiana Department of Health’s mobile units, CCHD tested 25 preschoolers.

Clinton County Health Department (CCHD) expanded maternal and child health services with their Baby and Me Tobacco Free program. In partnership with Healthy Communities Clinton County, CCHD offers the Baby and Me Tobacco Free program to offer education, support and incentives to help participants quit smoking and remain tobacco-free. Expecting mothers earn $25 gift cards for diapers and wipes up to six months postpartum by attending four prenatal sessions with a Baby and Me Tobacco Free facilitator and staying smoke-free through the birth of their baby

CCHD served 22 clients in 2024 through the Baby and Me Tobacco Free program. One program participant notes that the program changed her life. She has been smoke-free for 18 months

Crawford County Health Department (CCHD) partnered with the school corporation to support the school nursing department.

CCHD’s school health liaison assists the school nursing department by completing state-required vision and hearing screenings. The school health liaison also reviews student vaccination statuses and follows up with families if a student’s status is not up to date. Other needs, such as vaping prevention education and dental hygiene kits, are supplied by the school health liaison.

Daviess County Health Department (DCHD) partnered with Daviess Community Hospital to host a pregnancy clinic. At the clinic, patients can see a provider for prenatal care. DCHD assisted patients with insurance navigation and linked them to maternal and child health resources in the community. In 2024, 43 women utilized the clinic. DCHD was also able to provide 110 other prenatal services like prenatal vitamins, STI testing and immunizations. This is an ongoing service supported by DCHD and Daviess Community Hospital.

Dearborn County Health Department (DCHD) hosted a summer program in partnership with Purdue Extension, Zen Zone Wellness Center, and the Lawrenceburg farmer’s market. On Saturday mornings, county health officer Dr. Stephen Eliason met with community members for a walk. Each participant received $5 in “farmer’s market bucks”. At the market, DCHD offered blood pressure checks and glucose checks.

Participants also received a booklet to track their water intake, blood pressure, glucose levels, daily steps and weight. Upon showing their tracking booklet, participants were eligible for incentives like water bottles and cooking supplies. Overall, 296 individuals participated in the summer program, 101 individuals received blood pressure checks, 47 people received glucose checks, 33 individuals were referred to care and $750.00 in farmer’s market bucks were distributed. Because of this program, DCHD provided important health education for the community and promoted the importance of physical activity.

Decatur County Health Department (DCHD) hosted a back-to-school health fair. At this event, 260 backpacks with school supplies were provided to students. Fifteen community partners attended, including extracurricular and after-school programs. This event helped connect students and families with important local resources to promote health and wellbeing.

At the event, the Indiana Department of Health mobile unit was present for screenings. The Decatur County health officer and local physicians performed dental screenings, vision screenings, lead screenings and sports physicals. In total, 125 students received preventive screenings.

DeKalb County Health Department (DCHD) has made significant strides in chronic disease prevention through strategic partnerships with the Garrett Community Center and the YMCA. At the Garrett Community Center, DCHD is offering a free wellness initiative for 120 youth in grades 5 through 12. This program provides gym time, fitness instruction, life skills training and wellness education. Within the first year, the program aims for 70% of participants to report increased confidence and knowledge across various dimensions of wellness. Through this initiative, DCHD is empowering youth with the tools they need to lead healthier lives and prevent future chronic health issues. DCHD also partnered with the YMCA to offer a comprehensive wellness coaching program for 54 adults and their families. Over six months, participants gain knowledge and skills to adopt healthier lifestyles. With 80% of chronic diseases driven by lifestyle factors, this program emphasizes the importance of sustainable behavior change. By the end of the program, 60% of participants are expected to maintain a healthy lifestyle a year later.

Delaware County Health Department (DCHD) partnered with YMCA of Muncie to provide water safety education to the community. Overall, 102 individuals participated in the Safety Around Water (SAW) course and learned about valuable aquatic safety skills. Additionally, nine individuals completed more advanced swim lessons, and five individuals were certified as lifeguards.

Dubois County Health Department (DCHD) worked with Vanderburgh County Health Department to expand their "Pre-to-3" home visiting program for pregnant women, infants and postpartum mothers. This program allows DCHD to work with mothers throughout their pregnancy until their child is three years old. Services are provided in the home and include safe sleep education, prenatal checks and postpartum checks, with the goal of improving health outcomes for mothers and infants in the county. In, 2024 DCHD was able to serve 37 families and provide over 600 home visit services.

DCHD also reported a 93% increase in the number of children tested for lead between the first quarter of 2023 and the first quarter of 2024 (43 kids vs. 83). They partnered with Memorial Health Family Medicine Residency program to ensure that every family was receiving education on lead testing.

Elkhart County Health Department (ECHD)’s school liaison, Michelea Gleason, offered walk-in hearing and vision screenings for students at the Indiana Gateway Digital Academy. Some parents shared that their children had not received hearing or vision screenings in the past, and they were very appreciative of the service. Because of ECHD’s outreach, fourteen students were screened, and three students were referred for full eye exams. These preventive screenings lead to better educational outcomes for students and provide health education for parents.

The additions and expansions of Fayette County Health Department (FCHD)’s clinical services have transformed healthcare access in their community. Prior to Health First Indiana, Fayette County did not offer many health screenings. In 2024, they provided 233 health screenings and linked 25 individuals to clinical care. FCHD has also provided 164 lead-related services and identified 48 children with elevated blood lead levels. These children are now receiving case management services. In addition, 500 maternal and child health services were provided to community members. Much of this work generated through FCHD is due to strong community partnerships.

Working alongside a neighboring health department, FCHD has recently implemented lab testing. With their guidance, FCHD adopted new policies and procedures and trained all clinical staff in phlebotomy. As of November 2024, FCHD has completed 14 lab draws. With these new initiatives, families have access to essential testing that was once out of reach.

Floyd County Health Department (FCHD) used Health First Indiana funding to offer a partnered with multiple community partners to create ‘Safety Town’ that provides education about bike safety education, pedestrian safety and fire safety. Safety Town hosts two classes on a Saturday for children aged 6-8. FCHD received 300 bike helmets from Indiana Department of Transportation to distribute. On the first day the program began, the Floyd County WIC office referred a local family. The family had a young baby, and their car seat had recently been involved in a car crash. The trained car seat safety technicians at FCHD checked the car seat and found signs of damage. Because of HFI funding, they provided the family with a new car seat and car seat check.

Fountain County Health Department (FCHD) is partnering with Franciscan Health to provide free heart and lung screenings for community members. Because Fountain County has high rates of heart and lung cancer, early detection is critical

Adults ages 40 and older are eligible for heart screenings, and adults ages 50 and older are eligible for lung screenings.

So far, 113 people have been screened, and seven people have been referred for diagnostics.

Franklin County Health Department (FCHD) partners with community organizations to provide emergency preparedness tools like automated external defibrillators (AED) units, AED certifications, CPR certifications, Stop the Bleed kits and naloxone.

AEDs were placed in law enforcement patrol cars, at senior living centers and at the county fairgrounds. In total, 22 AEDs were provided to community partners last year. There are plans for additional AEDs to be distributed in 2025.

In addition, FCHD partnered with the local Girl Scout Troop to provide CPR certifications to thirteen girls.

To close out the 2024 school year, Fulton County Health Department (FCHD) provided 16 automated external defibrillators (AEDs) to all Fulton County Schools through Health First Indiana funding. AEDs can increase survival rates by more than 60% when used during sudden cardiac arrest

With AEDs strategically placed across Fulton County schools, staff are better prepared to respond to emergencies and protect the health of students, staff and visitors. FCHD also distributed three AEDs to the local police department. This proactive initiative demonstrates the power of collaboration and community investment.

Gibson County Health Department partnered with Purdue Extension to offer the “Matter of Balance” program. The program is evidence-based and designed to reduce the fear of falling for aging populations. Participants learned exercises that helped them become more active and have better balance. Last year, 66 adults received fall prevention education. Participants were able to socialize and make new friends throughout the program.

Grant County Health Department (GCHD) partnered with Purdue Extension to offer residents the Dining with Diabetes course. This program allowed Grant County citizens the opportunity to prepare healthy meals, try new recipes and alter their diets to help control their diabetes. Participants voiced their appreciation. One participant said, “this program helped me learn about adding more veggies and proper portion sizes”. Another participant said, “hearing everyone else’s journey with diabetes and having healthy recipes to use helps me a lot.” This program was offered at no cost for participants. As of September 2024, 27 residents completed the course. GCHD plans to continue their partnership with Purdue Extension in 2025.

To promote Lead Poisoning Prevention Week, the Greene County Health Department (GCHD) provided free blood lead level testing for children aged 6 months to 6 years. In addition, GCHD provided free onsite testing with parental/guardian consent. As a result of this initiative, 38 children were tested, and 14 children were identified with elevated blood lead levels. Of those 14 children, two had a level requiring further case management. GCHD referred these two children to care.

Hamilton County Health Department (HCHD) has partnered with Heart and Soul Clinic, a free clinic that serves uninsured and underinsured individuals. Heart and Soul Clinic offers preventive health screenings, health education, non-emergency dental services and mental health services. Heart and Soul Clinic can provide individualized health education to patients regardless of their social, cultural and economic status.

HCHD also partnered with Trinity Free Clinic to address their Health First Dental Access initiative. In 2024, the initiative expanded from three to five days per week and was able to double the visits from 1,835 in 2023 to 3,689 in 2024. This initiative eliminates barriers to care for low-income, uninsured and underinsured residents. In addition, more dental services were offered to older adults and veterans.

Hancock County Health Department (HCHD) implemented new services to provide health screenings to community. These preventive screenings include blood pressure, fingerstick cholesterol and fingerstick A1C checks. Screenings have been conducted at multiple community locations including Kenneth Butler Soup Kitchen, The Landing, senior center, senior services and the Fortville Area Resource Mission.

Next year, the program will be expanding services. All the screenings are free and are accompanied by referrals to care with a primary care physician, Quit Now Indiana and the connection center.

On Sept. 5, 2024, Harrison County Health Department (HCHD) hosted its second annual community baby shower. Over 60 pregnant and new moms attended. Of those attendees, 37 participated in the safe sleep program and were gifted a free pack-n-play. Fourteen organizations attended the event and provided participants with educational resources.

The event was hosted in partnership with Harrison County Public Library, First Steps/Healthy Families, Nurse Family Partnership, Harrison County Hospital, ClaimAid, HeadStart, YMCA, Caresource, WIC, Anthem Medicaid, Lifespring, Wellstone and Parenting with a Purpose.

Hendricks County Health Department (HCHD) is expanding their partnership with Hope Healthcare to provide dental services. They are already actively screening patients for blood pressure, diabetes, breast cancer, high cholesterol and body mass index.

Within two months of receiving Health First Indiana funding, they have screened 180 patients and referred 25 patients for specialty care or assistance with obtaining Medicare/Medicaid insurance. This initiative marks a significant step in improving the health of all residents in Hendricks County. The partnership between Hope Healthcare and HCHD is expected to make a lasting impact on the community.

Henry County Health Department (HCHD) partnered with four Henry County School Corporations and the Smile Program. The Smile Program is a mobile dental unit that provides students with preventive and restorative oral health services. A total of 100 students were seen and treated by the Smile Program. In addition to coordinating this service, HCHD provided education about oral health. The dental education portion of the program spanned across three months, and HCHD visited each participating school once a month. In total, 997 students were served. Students viewed an informative dental education video provided by the Indiana Department of Health’s Give Kids a Smile Program. Along with the video, students received an interactive worksheet to reinforce key concepts. All participating students received a toothbrush, toothpaste, dental floss picks and a two-minute timer.

Howard County Health Department (HCHD) has been working to reduce chronic disease rates and improve community wellbeing. HCHD has provided 456 vital services, including blood pressure, cholesterol, BMI and hemoglobin A1c screenings. HCHD has also connected residents to life-changing resources such as diabetes prevention programs, weight management programs and food assistance services for individuals experiencing food insecurity. In October 2024, HCHD launched its highly successful Food is Medicine program, which is designed to support individuals at risk for or living with type 2 diabetes. The twelve-week program provided participants with access to fresh produce, diabetes-friendly pantry staples and hands-on nutrition education. Weekly classes were held at HCHD, which is conveniently located along a public transportation line. HCHD partnered with Coordinated Assistance Ministries to provide additional transportation. Classes used the evidence-based Diabetes Education Empowerment Program curricula, and each class featured live cooking and tasting demonstrations. The results of the first session revealed that 67% of participants lost weight and 75% of participants showed a reduction in hemoglobin A1c measures.

Prior to Health First Indiana, Huntington Area Transportation (HAT) lacked bus drivers. Huntington County does not have public transportation or local taxi company, and some residents had difficulty attending their preventive medical appointments. Huntington County Health Department (HCHD) partnered with HAT to hire several bus drivers, making transportation more accessible for residents.

Because of HFI funding, HAT was able to expand their services to accommodate more residents. “By providing more rides to medical appointments, hopefully people will take more preventive appointments, which are less expensive than trips to the emergency room,” says Huntington Council on Aging’s Executive Director, Chris Karlin.

Starting in November 2024, Jackson County Health Department (JCHD) partnered with Schneck Medical Center to provide a certified peer recovery coaches/community health workers in the emergency department. The peer recovery coach can speak with patients who request their service or patients who are brought to the emergency department after an overdose. The peer recovery coach helps the patient connect to resources and treatment. The program already has reached 70 individuals and continues to grow.

Jasper County Health Department (JCHD) partnered with Hillcrest Dental and Remington Family Dentistry to provide students with an interactive brushing demonstration. JCHD visited Rensselaer Central Schools, Tri-County Primary School, Wheatfield Elementary, Demotte Christian School, Kankakee Valley Intermediate School, St. Augustine School, and Rensselaer Head Start. After the demonstration, the JCHD distributed dental hygiene kits to students. Each kit included a toothbrush, toothpaste, and dental hygiene education. In total, 2,140 dental hygiene kits were distributed.

JCHD continues to work on other school health initiatives. They took their mobile trailer to different locations near schools to aid parents in getting their children up to date on vaccinations. JCHD also provided Stop the Bleed training to all bus drivers at Kankakee Valley School Corporation and the Rensselaer School Corporation

Jay County Health Department (JCHD) partnered with IU Health Jay County Hospital and Healthy Beginnings to host a community baby shower. The event's purpose was to connect pregnant women with community providers. JCHD shared information on lead, immunizations and safe sleep. Participants received outlet covers and thermometers. JCHD also held a drawing for a pack-n-play. This event reached 15 pregnant women and their families. The community baby shower offered an opportunity to improve maternal and child health outcomes and support community members.

Jefferson County Health Department (JCHD) provided 100 baby safety kits to New Hope Services-WIC in Jefferson County. These kits are free to community members who visit WIC and inquire about their eligibility in the program. Each kit includes cabinet locks, appliance locks, corner protectors, outlet covers, information on various safety topics and brochures linking to local resource agencies. This program is ongoing and will protect infant health in Jefferson County.

Jennings County Health Department (JCHD) partnered with Ascension St. Vincent Jennings to provide better access to medical resources. Through Health First Indiana funding, JCHD is offering nicotine replacement therapy and prenatal vitamins to patients in need.

JCHD also purchased an automated external defibrillator (AED) and replaced supportive equipment like pads and batteries. Last year, the AED was used at a school to save a coach who was experiencing a cardiac emergency at practice.