While the nation reels under the odd behaviors and mandates of current Health and Human Services Director RFK Jr., and uncertainty reigns in relation to Medicaid funding cancellations, the local Public Health Agency (PHA) has maintained almost full services for the county. Director Sara Bertelsen, BSN, RN, CLC reports that the office has received cuts in funding, particularly a 25% decrease in the countyās Emergency Response Program, one of the several areas served by Bertelsen and the PHA staff. The unaffected programs include pediatric and adult health, vaccinations, environmental issues (for example, air quality, lead and asbestos control), and national and international travel planning. Under those broad umbrellas, matters from hearing and vision screenings at Custer County Schools to birthing classes and basic infant assessment…
