Montachusett Public Health Network

FITCHBURG CITY CLERK MPHN Meeting 9/13/2023 Dec 15 2023 11:15 am Virtual “Go To Meeting” Meeting opened by Director Curry 9:15 In attendance: Steve Curry, Catherine Hoover, Jim Abare, Ruth French, Micah Blondeau, David Favreau, Susan Avallone, Tom Bonci, Phil Leger, resident Jessica Jacobson Approval of past minutes: motion to accept by Ruth, second by Jim Welcome to Micah Blondeau: Micah has previous regional health department experience and is settling into new position in Gardner. In need of housing inspector. Open Meeting Law Compliance: Confirmation of requirement that all towns post MPHN meetings according to OML guidance. Possible move to alternate posting method from lead agency may be discussed at a better attended future meeting. No questions. Vaccine Plans for Fall 2023: Over 40 clinics scheduled, public and private, flu and covid beginning next week. Will need money for purchase of covid vaccines since now commercialized. No exact figures available and available cash amount not available for vote or discussion. Flu already purchased and in stock. Question from Susan, do we have high dose flu available? Yes, high dose and regular flu in stock already. Jessica question, will there be bribes for poor children of Fitchburg to be vaccinated? No incentives being offered at MPHN clinics at this time. Jessica question about screening for children who may have had recent covid infection. Screening process and clinical considerations/CDC guidance explained and lack of ability to do antibody testing at clinics stated. Budget PHE: Steve reviewed budget explaining the inclusion of a regional inspector, shared services coordinator and fringe costs for those staff. The addition of another $250,000 to budget will be happening per PHE timeline. Jessica question, will this grant pay for bribes to residents wanting vaccines? No incentives being offered at this time. Workplan PHE: Five objectives of PHE workplan reviewed including review of the objective of IMA revisions which will require some upcoming meetings. No questions. Vice Chair position: Question from Jessica, can the job be posted, I know there are nurses in Fitchburg interested. Explanation of the pool of people the vice chair position of the MPHN can be. Volunteer from Micah motion from Phil and second from Jim. Micah awarded Vice Chair position for MPHN. Trilogy Med: There has been a price increase for medical waste collection from $150 to $170 per bundle. This cost cannot come from PHE grant and must be billed to towns. Steve added he has looked for other companies but has been unsuccessful in finding another one less expensive. Old and new business: Phil requested more regular meetings especially since the PHE budget is so high. Jim asked about ordering covid test kits to share regionally. Steve will research cost and update. Motion to adjourn: 10:12am Phil, second by Jim. Next meeting date set for November 15th.