OT County commissioners promote Public Health Week
News | Published on April 9, 2024 at 2:53pm GMT+0000 | Author: Tucker Henderson
0By Tom Hintgen
Otter Tail County Correspondent
The week of April 1 was National Public Health Week, as noted by the Otter Tail County Board of Commissioners.
“We recognize the ongoing efforts of public health professionals, including those who work for Otter Tail County, in making our communities and rural areas here in west central Minnesota great places to live, work and play,” said County Board Chairman Kurt Mortenson of rural Underwood.
The theme for National Public Health Week in 2024 is, “Protecting, Connecting and Thriving: We Are All Public Health.”
County commissioners point out that public health professionals collaborate with partners outside of the health sector, including city and township officials, those in education, businesses and others.
“We in county public health recognize that other sectors can also influence health outcomes,” said Otter Tail County Public Health Director Jody Lien.
Mortenson praised county public health employees, and others, for enhancing the well-being of Otter Tail County residents. Added Commissioner Wayne Johnson of Pelican Rapids, “We need to also emphasize the role of public health employees in disease prevention.”
The other three county commissioners, Dan Bucholz of Perham, Bob Lahman of Parkers Prairie and Lee Rogness of Fergus Falls, say it’s important that county residents change the way they care for their health by avoiding tobacco use, eating healthier, increasing physical activity and preventing unintentional injuries at home and in the workplace.
More about county public health employees
County public health services are funded by the taxpayers of Otter Tail County along with financial assistance from the state and federal governments.
Registered nurses offer families in Otter Tail County the support they need, including education and tools that help promote enjoyable parent-child relationships. They encourage healthy social and physical development of children.
PartnerSHIP4Health (P4H) is a collaboration of the local public health agencies in Otter Tail, Becker, Clay and Wilkin counties. P4H works with schools, worksites, communities, child care and other organizations. One focus is to increase access to preventative and restorative dental care.
An aging coordinator program in Otter Tail County provides assistance to individuals aged 60 and above who are in need of services. Home visits are provided.
Mental health well-being is emphasized by Otter Tail County Public Health. Highlights include partnering with local school districts and providing outreach at community events.
Immunizations, sometimes referred to as vaccinations or shots, are one of the best weapons the county has against a number of serious diseases. The goal is to protect children and adults.