(Decatur County, IN) – State Health Commissioner Dr. Lindsay Weaver visited the Decatur County Health Department on Friday to discuss with local health officials and partners ongoing health initiatives aimed at improving community well-being.
The visit, which is part of Dr. Weaver’s statewide tour, was seen as an opportunity to assess the challenges facing rural health departments, promote public health programs, and strengthen the partnership between local and state health agencies using funds from the Health First Indiana (HFI) initiative.
Health First Indiana (HFI) is an investment in prevention with a goal of leading to healthier communities. HFI initiatives cover several public health core service areas, such as maternal and child health, trauma and injury and lead exposure. Local health departments share information every June and December on several measures to show the momentum underway as HFI grows across the state.
These data provide vital information for local health departments to share ideas and establish partnerships for enhanced core public health service delivery. In addition, every member of the Indiana Hospital Association has taken a pledge to support HFI. Many Indiana businesses and organizations are also taking the pledge.
View the site at https://www.in.gov/healthfirstindiana to see how Health First Indiana is improving core public health service delivery across the state or take the pledge to help Indiana communities thrive.
Dr. Weaver, who has served as Indiana’s State Health Commissioner since 2021, was greeted by Decatur County Health Executive Director Sean Durbin and other staff members. Together, they discussed the health department’s current efforts to address pressing health issues such as chronic disease management, mental health services, and the challenges brought on by the COVID-19 pandemic.
“Collaboration is Key”
In a brief address to health department staff, Dr. Weaver emphasized the importance of collaboration between state and local health organizations to tackle health disparities and improve outcomes for all Hoosiers. She commended the Decatur County Health Department for its dedication to promoting health equity and for its innovative approach to addressing the unique needs of the rural community.
Focus on Rural Health Challenges
Decatur County faces many of the same challenges that rural areas across the state encounter—limited access to healthcare providers, economic barriers, and higher rates of chronic illnesses. Citing the statistics found on the Health First Indiana website, Weaver addressed the high rates of smoking during pregnancy and infant mortality in Decatur County. During her visit, Dr. Weaver toured the health department’s facilities and met with staff members to learn about their strategies for reaching underserved populations.
During the meet and greet, Decatur County Health Department community partners highlighted some of the county’s efforts to combat these issues, including outreach programs to increase vaccination rates, education programs, and nutrition and wellness initiatives aimed at improving lifestyle choices. Also highlighted were the department’s collaboration with local schools, faith-based organizations, and community leaders to expand the reach of health services.
Looking Ahead
As Dr. Weaver concluded her visit, she expressed optimism about the future of public health in Decatur County and beyond. She reiterated the state’s commitment to addressing health disparities, improving access to care, and supporting local health departments.
Officials say the visit served as a reminder of the essential work being done on the ground to support the health and well-being of Indiana’s rural communities, while also reinforcing the importance of continued investment in public health infrastructure and services.
