Monday, October 27, 2014

Riley County Commission October 27, 2014









Joan Strickler, observer

Commissioner Wells and Lewis present, Boyd absent.  Commissioner Wells presided.
Robbin Cole, Pawnee Mental Health Services Director, said mental health services increasingly are viewed more as a medical issue rather than a social services issue.  With the transition of Medicaid services to the KanCare program a trend is toward serving some persons needing mental health services through health homes.  In addition to overseeing mental health needs of the person physical health issues would be considered as well.

One problem is apparently Kansas is no longer willing to pay for health care coordinators.  Pawnee would be expected to contract with and pay Big Lakes Developmental Services for managed care coordination.  Big Lakes serves persons with developmental disabilities, some in group home situations.

Issues the League might find of concern would be lack of adequate resources for both Pawnee and Big Lakes as workloads expand and funds are reduced.

Gail Chalman, clinic nursing supervisor at the Riley County Health Department (RCHD) urged persons to get their flu shots before peak flu season kicks in around Thanksgiving time.

Jason Orr, public health emergency preparedness coordinator (RCHD), announced two community informational meetings will be held on Ebola.  Meetings are scheduled Tuesday, October 28, from 6:00pm to 7:00pm and Wednesday, October 29, from 3:00pm to 4:00pm.  Both will be held at the lecture room of the Fire Department located at 2000 Denison Ave.

Linda Redding, also with the RCHD, said a recent “Kids Count” conducted by Kansas Action for Children indicates only 53% of kindergartners in Riley County are fully immunized, fewer than areported total of 61.4% in Kansas.  In reading proficiency Riley County 5th graders meet 92.70% of standards compared to 84.91% in Kansas overall.

County Clerk Rich Vargo reported that, as of noon Saturday, 1455 persons have voted.  Some 477 ballots were returned by mail.

No comments: