Kentucky: Cabinet for Health and Family Services

New Law Requires Child Care Agencies to Post Consumer Safety Information
Thursday, July 02, 2009
A new law requiring the state’s licensed child care centers to educate parents and caregivers about the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) has taken effect, the Cabinet for Health and Family Services (CHFS) announced today.
Grant Aids Families of Children with Special Health Care Needs; Funding establishes centers where parents mentor families
Tuesday, June 30, 2009
A federal grant of almost $100,000 will help Kentucky children with special needs and their families get the medical care and support they require. The Kentucky Commission for Children with Special Health Care Needs (CCSHCN) has received a $95,700 grant from the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Health Resources and Services Administration to establish Family-to-Family Health Information Centers in 12 of its locations across the state.
Don’t Let Foodborne Illness Spoil Your Independence Day
Monday, June 29, 2009
The Cabinet for Health and Family Services (CHFS) wants all Kentuckians to observe a happy and safe Independence Day by following a few simple food preparation and handling guidelines during outdoor cookouts, picnics and barbecues.
Kentucky Receives AmeriCorps Grants; Funding will help build houses, serve at-risk students
Thursday, June 18, 2009
Two Kentucky AmeriCorps programs will receive more than $750,000 in new grant money to develop transitional housing and serve at-risk students. The money is from the annual funding competition of the Corporation for National and Community Service, a public-private partnership that engages Americans of all ages in service.
New Web Site Educates Public about Program’s Approach to Helping Children with Mental Health Needs
Friday, June 12, 2009
Kentuckians Encouraging Youth to Succeed (KEYS) has launched a new Web site to help the public learn more about the program’s approach to helping children with mental health needs and provide a resource for children and families seeking KEYS services.
Statewide Events Promote National HIV Testing Day
Thursday, June 11, 2009
In honor of National HIV Testing Day on June 27, the Kentucky Department for Public Health (DPH) is promoting routine HIV testing and awareness.
Northern Kentucky Child Safety Advocates Honored
Thursday, June 11, 2009
Twenty-three Northern Kentucky child welfare professionals and advocates were honored last week as recipients of the “Keeping Children Safe Spirit Award.”
Oakwood Unit No. 1 Passes Certification Survey
Friday, June 05, 2009
Governor Steve Beshear announced today that Oakwood Unit No. 1 has passed a certification survey by the federal Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS).
Foster Families Honored for Excellent Service; 24 parents and couples recognized at Frankfort ceremony
Friday, May 29, 2009
Twenty-four families from across the state were honored today for their service as foster parents to some of the state’s most vulnerable children. The Kentucky Cabinet for Health and Family Services (CHFS), the state agency that oversees the public foster care system, presented the awards at a Frankfort reception.
WIC Implements New Nutrition Guidelines
Thursday, May 28, 2009
The Kentucky Women, Infants and Children (WIC) Program has become one of the first in the nation to implement new guidelines to improve nutritional and health standards for clients. Effective May 1, the new guidelines alter the type or amount of food that can be purchased through WIC, in an effort to improve the nutrition and health of the nation’s low-income pregnant women, new mothers, infants and young children.
Suicide Prevention Toolkit Available to Kentucky Educators
Tuesday, May 26, 2009
As part of ongoing suicide prevention efforts, mental health professionals and advocates have created an educational toolkit to prevent suicide among Kentucky’s teenagers. The toolkits are free and available for educational professionals throughout the state.
Pool Owners Should be Aware of New Federal Law
Friday, May 22, 2009
The Kentucky Department for Public Health (DPH) and Office of Attorney General (OAG) want the public to be aware of a new federal law addressing concerns related to pool and spa drains. The Virginia Graeme Baker (VGB) Pool and Spa Safety Act, which took effect December 2008, requires public pools to implement additional safety measures that minimize suction and entrapment hazards.
Food Safety Regulations Amended to Improve Safety and Health
Friday, May 22, 2009
Regulations governing the state’s food code have been amended, improving safety and health standards for food storage, preparation and serving, the Kentucky Department for Public Health (DPH) announced today.
Kentucky-Produced Ad on Elder Abuse Prevention to be National Movie Trailer; 2.8 million people expected to see announcement featuring Louisville native William Mapother
Thursday, May 21, 2009
A Kentucky-produced national elder abuse information piece that focuses on elder abuse prevention is set to become a movie trailer across the country next month.
University of Kentucky to Honor State’s Human Services Commissioner; Alumni Recognize Patricia R. Wilson
Thursday, May 21, 2009
The leader of the primary state’s human services agency is being honored by the University of Kentucky’s (UK) social work school. Patricia R. Wilson, commissioner of the Kentucky Cabinet for Health and Family Services’ Department for Community Based Services, was nominated and selected for UK College of Social Work’s Hall of Fame Award by her peers.
DPH Releases 2008 Health Behavior and Chronic Diseases Survey Findings
Thursday, May 21, 2009
The Kentucky Department for Public Health (DPH) today announced the release of the state’s 2008 Behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance Systems (BRFSS) data, a national survey conducted in all states now considered the world’s largest, ongoing telephone health survey system.
H1N1 Update: New Confirmed Cases Reported to CDC
Wednesday, May 20, 2009
FRANKFORT, Ky. (May 20, 2009) – The Kentucky Department for Public Health (DPH) has confirmed and reported several new cases of H1N1 swine flu involving residents from Madison, Jefferson and Scott counties, including one linked to a cluster of associated cases in Madison County. Kentucky has now reported 20 confirmed cases of H1N1.
H1N1 Update: Two New Confirmed Cases Reported to CDC
Tuesday, May 19, 2009
HIV/AIDS Conference to Focus on Education, Awareness and Improving Resources
Tuesday, May 19, 2009
Raising awareness about HIV/AIDS and enhancing ongoing education and advocacy efforts are the purposes of an upcoming conference sponsored by the Kentucky Department for Public Health (DPH) and Heartland CARES, Inc. of Paducah. The conference will be May 20-22 at Louisville’s Holiday Inn-Hurstborne.
Remember Pool Safety this Swim Season
Monday, May 18, 2009
As part of National Recreational Water Illness Prevention Week May 18-24, the Kentucky Department for Public Health (DPH) is offering advice to help prevent swimming-related illness and injuries.
State’s Exemplary Volunteers Honored; Former Gov. Collins, Heather French Henry present awards
Friday, May 15, 2009
Sixteen groups and individuals from across the state were honored for their volunteer contributions last week at a ceremony in Frankfort. Former Gov. Martha Layne Collins, Kentucky Cabinet for Health and Family Services (CHFS) Secretary Janie Miller and Miss America 2000 Heather French Henry presented the 2008 Governor’s Awards for Outstanding Volunteer Service at the Governor’s Mansion.
Elder Abuse Prevention Efforts Honored at Capitol Rally
Friday, May 15, 2009
Several individuals and programs were honored today at a Capitol rally to spotlight elder abuse prevention. The rally was part of Elder Abuse Awareness Month.
Learn the Signs and Symptoms of Stroke
Friday, May 15, 2009
The Kentucky Department for Public Health (DPH) is working to promote American Stroke Month throughout May to help raise awareness about the dangers of stroke.
H1N1 Update: Two More Confirmed Cases Reported to CDC
Thursday, May 14, 2009
FRANKFORT, Ky. (May 14, 2009) – The Kentucky Department for Public Health (DPH) has confirmed and reported two additional cases of H1N1 swine flu. Kentucky has now reported 12 confirmed cases of H1N1.
Tetanus Vaccine Available for Injured Flood Victims
Wednesday, May 13, 2009
Due to flooding in areas of Eastern Kentucky and subsequent cleanup work that has exposed people to potential health hazards, the Kentucky Department for Public Health (DPH) wants flood victims to be aware they may need a tetanus vaccine.
Gov. Beshear Proclaims AmeriCorps Week; State programs promote service projects
Tuesday, May 12, 2009
Gov. Steve Beshear has proclaimed May 9-16 AmeriCorps Week in Kentucky. As part of the annual observance, AmeriCorps programs across Kentucky sponsor special events to promote community service.
Build-A-Bed Project Celebrates AmeriCorps Week in Kentucky; Public can participate at area build sites
Tuesday, May 12, 2009
In honor of AmeriCorps week, two Kentucky service programs are making a difference by building beds they will deliver to families in need across the state.
Flooding Creates Home Safety Concerns
Tuesday, May 12, 2009
The Kentucky Department for Public Health (DPH) has issued home safety guidelines to aid Kentuckians left with water damage in their homes due to large amounts of water run-off and flooding throughout the state. Public health concerns include mold mitigation and prevention, carbon monoxide exposure and proper food handling and storage.
State Public Health Laboratory Now Approved for H1N1 Confirmation
Monday, May 11, 2009
FRANKFORT, Ky. (May 11, 2009) – The Kentucky Department for Public Health (DPH) announced today that the State Public Health Laboratory has been approved to do confirmatory testing for H1N1 swine flu by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), and has confirmed and reported seven additional cases. Kentucky has now reported ten confirmed cases of H1N1.
Coalition Formed to Help Prevent Falls among Seniors
Monday, May 11, 2009
Falls in the home are a significant and under-recognized health issue for older Kentuckians, causing many life-threatening injuries each year among the state’s senior citizens.
Public Health Reports Three More Probable H1N1 Swine Flu Cases in Louisville, Kenton County
Friday, May 08, 2009
The Kentucky Department for Public Health (DPH) announced Friday it will report three more probable cases of H1N1 (swine flu), involving a young adult male and young child from Louisville and a young adult female from Kenton County, to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).
Public Health Receives Confirmation of Daviess County H1N1 Swine Flu Case
Tuesday, May 05, 2009
FRANKFORT, Ky. (May 5, 2009) The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) notified the Kentucky Department for Public Health (DPH) today that a case of H1N1 swine flu has been confirmed in a young man from Daviess County. This marks the state's second confirmed case of H1N1.
KEYS Event to Promote Children’s Mental Health Awareness
Tuesday, May 05, 2009
Kentuckians Encouraging Youth to Succeed (KEYS), a part of the Department for Mental Health, Developmental Disabilities and Addiction Services, will gather Saturday, May 9, at the Newport Aquarium to emphasize the importance of children’s mental health awareness.
Help Celebrate Nurses Week – Make a Commitment to Health
Monday, May 04, 2009
As part of National Nurses Week, the thousands of nurses employed by the Cabinet for Health and Family Services (CHFS) and local health departments across the state are working to spread an important message to all Kentuckians about preventive health - it’s time to get serious about physical activity, nutrition and saying no to tobacco.
Public Health Reports Probable H1N1 Swine Flu Case in Hardin County Resident
Monday, May 04, 2009
FRANKFORT, Ky. (May 4, 2009) The Kentucky Department for Public Health (DPH) will report Kentucky's fifth probable case of H1N1 (swine flu), involving a Hardin County toddler, to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) today.
Public Health Reports Probable H1N1 Swine Flu Case in Daviess County Resident
Monday, May 04, 2009
FRANKFORT, Ky. (May 3, 2009) The Kentucky Department for Public Health (DPH) will report Kentucky's fourth probable case of H1N1 (swine flu), involving a Daviess County man, to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) today.
Public Health Reports Probable H1N1 Swine Flu Case in Montgomery County Resident
Saturday, May 02, 2009
FRANKFORT, Ky. (May 2, 2009) The Kentucky Department for Public Health (DPH) will report Kentucky's third probable case of H1N1 (swine flu), involving a Montgomery County infant, to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) today.
Public Health Reports Probable H1N1 Swine Flu Case in Fayette County Resident
Friday, May 01, 2009
Health officials and Lexington Mayor Jim Newberry announced Friday that the Kentucky Department for Public Health (DPH) will report Kentucky's second probable case of H1N1 (swine flu), involving a Fayette County man, to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).
Stimulus funds create jobs for older Kentuckians
Thursday, April 30, 2009
Kentucky has received federal stimulus funds that will create jobs and increase training opportunities for senior citizens to re-enter the workforce, Gov. Steve Beshear announced today.
Governor Beshear Announces First Swine Flu Cases Reported by Public Health
Thursday, April 30, 2009
Gov. Steve Beshear announced that the Kentucky Department for Public Health (DPH) will report one confirmed case and one probable case of swine flu to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) today.
Kentucky Department for Public Health Continues to Be on Alert for Cases of Swine Flu
Wednesday, April 29, 2009
The Kentucky Department for Public Health (DPH) continues to be alert for the presence of swine flu in Kentucky, but has not detected any probable or confirmed cases. If such a case is identified, samples from the patient will be sent to the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) for further testing.
Kentucky Asks Health Care Providers to Be Alert for Possible Swine Flu Cases
Monday, April 27, 2009
FRANKFORT, Ky. The Kentucky Department for Public Health (DPH) is asking health care providers and public health officials to be on the alert for potential cases of swine flu in Kentucky.
New Educational Resources Available for Families of Children with Autism
Thursday, April 23, 2009
In recognition of Autism Awareness Month, the Kentucky Cabinet for Health and Family Services is working to raise awareness about the complex developmental disability, promoting new resources produced by Kentucky families and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) to help others better understand and cope with autism.
Health and Family Services Employee Named Pharmacist of the Year
Friday, April 17, 2009
Dave Sallengs, a pharmacist with the Cabinet for Health and Family Services (CHFS), has been named Pharmacist of the Year by the Kentucky Pharmacy Association. Sallengs, a licensed pharmacist, works with the Kentucky All Schedule Prescription Reporting System (KASPER) in the Office of Inspector General (OIG), assisting with investigations to stamp out prescription drug abuse, misuse and diversion across the state.
Average Diet is too High in Sodium
Wednesday, April 15, 2009
The Kentucky Department for Public Health (DPH) is reaching out to the public and health care providers to educate more people about the dangers of consuming too much sodium, particularly among those at risk for or currently struggling with high blood pressure.
Beshear Proclaims Volunteer Week in Kentucky; Governor lauds volunteers for contributions to society
Tuesday, April 14, 2009
Gov. Steve Beshear has proclaimed April 19-25 as Volunteer Week in the commonwealth.
Madison County Walk Recognizes Children in Need
Tuesday, March 31, 2009
FRANKFORT, Ky. (March 31, 2009) – Richmond-area residents are invited to join a walk to recognize children in need Wednesday as part of Child Abuse Prevention Month.
Food Stamp Clients Will Receive Greater Benefits; Stimulus funding means benefit increase starting next month
Friday, March 27, 2009
Kentucky food stamp customers will see an increase in their monthly benefits starting next month. The influx of food stamp funding is part of the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009 (ARRA), also known as the federal stimulus package.
Public Health Promotes Tobacco Quit Line to Potential Quitters
Friday, March 27, 2009
In light of tax increases on the purchase of tobacco products, the Kentucky Department for Public Health (DPH) is offering assistance to the many Kentuckians who may be considering quitting smoking or smokeless tobacco.
New Program Helps Pregnant Women Quit Smoking
Thursday, March 26, 2009
A new program from the Kentucky Department for Public Health (DPH) and the University of Kentucky (UK) to reduce the number of pregnant women who smoke produced positive results during its first year, DPH reported today.
Kentucky Rises in Rankings of Child Care Regulations, Oversight; State ranks 36th in national survey
Wednesday, March 25, 2009
A national child care advocacy group has released an updated report that shows Kentucky rising significantly in its rankings. The National Association of Child Care Resource and Referral Agencies’ “We Can Do Better” scores and ranks the 50 states, the District of Columbia and the Department of Defense (DoD) on 10 regulations and five oversight benchmarks. It is an update to NACCRRA’s 2007 report, which was the first of its kind.
Justice, Mental Health Conference Set for May
Tuesday, March 24, 2009
Event Targets Agencies Working with Persons with Behavioral Health Disorders who are Justice Involved
Federal Funding Restored to Three Oakwood Units
Monday, March 23, 2009
FRANKFORT, Ky. (March 23, 2009) – Gov. Steve Beshear today announced the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) has verbally informed the state that federal funding has been restored to three of Oakwood’s four units.
DPH, Kentucky Restaurant Association Warn of Incorrect Mailing to Kentucky Restaurants
Wednesday, March 18, 2009
The Kentucky Department for Public Health (DPH) and the Kentucky Restaurant Association (KRA) are warning Kentucky restaurant owners that a recent mass mailing included phony information about laws related to handwashing signs.
Mental Health Receives Grant to Prevent Substance Abuse
Wednesday, March 18, 2009
Kentucky recently was chosen as one of 11 states to develop a video to combat underage drinking, a major mental health concern in Kentucky and across the country. The project will be funded through a grant awarded by the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA).
Public Health Asks for Input for Maternal and Child Health Programs
Wednesday, March 11, 2009
The Kentucky Department for Public Health (DPH), in collaboration with local health departments, will host 11 Maternal and Child Health community forums to gather input from state and local government, education, health care, private industry and other interested individuals. Participants will discuss the economic and societal impact of health, including the oral, physical and mental health of mothers and children.
DPH Supports the American Diabetes Alert
Tuesday, March 10, 2009
The Kentucky Department for Public Health (DPH) wants residents of the commonwealth to recognize the American Diabetes Alert, an annual event that serves as a one-day wake-up call to remind everyone about the seriousness of diabetes. DPH and the American Diabetes Association are working to encourage people to take the Diabetes Risk Test to find out if they or their loved ones are at risk for developing type 2 diabetes.
March is National Nutrition Month
Monday, March 09, 2009
As part of National Nutrition Month, the Kentucky Department for Public Health (DPH) is working to raise awareness about the importance of a healthy, well-balanced diet in maintaining long-term health and wellness. In addition, DPH is working to recognize the contributions of nutrition and dietary professionals on March 11, which is recognized as National Nutrition Health Professionals Day.
Public Health Works to Promote AIDS Awareness among Minorities
Friday, February 27, 2009
The Kentucky Department for Public Health (DPH) is working to promote Black Church Week of Prayer for the Healing of AIDS, an observance held March 1-7 that includes thousands of churches across the country.
March Proclaimed Sexual Assault Awareness Month; Contributions to violence prevention and education honored
Thursday, February 26, 2009
The work of several individuals and programs was recognized today as part of the kickoff of Sexual Assault Awareness Month. Gov. Steve Beshear has signed a proclamation marking March as Sexual Assault Awareness Month.
Health Survey Reveals Continuing Safety Concerns
Tuesday, February 10, 2009
FRANKFORT, Ky. – Preliminary results from a survey of more than 500 households in 10 Western Kentucky counties over the weekend indicate serious safety concerns remain for those still without power, health officials announced today.
Beware of the Dangers from Kerosene Heater Use
Friday, February 06, 2009
The Kentucky Department for Public Health (DPH) is advising Kentuckians of the possible dangers from kerosene heater use as residents seek alternative heat sources to stay warm following last week’s devastating winter ice storm.
Deadline Extended for Food Stamp Clients to Receive Replacement Benefits; Customers have until Feb. 17 to make claim for groceries destroyed after storm
Thursday, February 05, 2009
Food Stamp Clients to Receive Monthly Benefits Today; Winter storm speeds distribution of electronic benefits
Monday, February 02, 2009
The Kentucky Cabinet for Health and Family Services (CHFS) is helping Kentuckians who receive food stamp benefits recover from the recent winter storm by making food stamp assistance more easily available this month. CHFS’ Department for Community Based Services usually issues electronic monthly food benefits on a staggered schedule during the first 10 days of the month.
Nominations Sought for Governor’s Volunteer Awards; Deadline is Feb. 18
Monday, February 02, 2009
the Kentucky Commission on Community Volunteerism and Service (KCCVS), an agency of the Cabinet for Health and Family Services, is accepting nominations for the Governor’s Awards for Outstanding Volunteer Service. Award nominations may be submitted through Wednesday, Feb. 18.
Prevent Carbon Monoxide Poisoning
Friday, January 30, 2009
FRANKFORT, Ky. (Jan. 30, 2009) – The high number of power outages has caused many Kentuckians to resort to using alternative heat sources to heat their homes, increasing the possibility for exposure to dangerous levels of carbon monoxide. In the last 72 hours, the Kentucky Poison Control Center has received 95 calls to its hotline seeking information on carbon monoxide poisoning, according to Poison Center Director Henry Spiller.
Kentucky State, Local Public Health Departments Assist in Ice Storm Response
Friday, January 30, 2009
FRANKFORT, Ky. (Jan. 30, 2009) – The Kentucky Department for Public Health (DPH) and local health departments across the state have been working with emergency management officials and other partners this week to aid response and recovery efforts related to the historic ice storm.
State Health Department Issues Guidelines for Food Safety
Thursday, January 29, 2009
The hundreds of thousands of Kentuckians left without electricity from the winter ice storm that has been gripping the state are strongly encouraged to follow food safety guidelines from the Kentucky Department for Public Health (DPH) to prevent food contamination and related illness.
Kentucky Child Care Centers Held to High Standards
Monday, January 26, 2009
care center, but didn’t know what to do about it?Contact the state agency responsible for regulating Kentucky child care centers, the Cabinet for Health Services’ Office of Inspector General (OIG).
State Health Department First to Host National Public Health and Safety Satellite Network Channels
Friday, January 23, 2009
The Kentucky Department for Public Health (DPH) announced today that it will serve as the first host of three national satellite radio network channels dedicated to communications among state and local public health agencies, hospital and healthcare organizations, and emergency medical service agencies in Kentucky and across the nation.
Salmonella Investigation Continues
Wednesday, January 21, 2009
The Kentucky Department for Public Health (DPH), the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) continue to investigate the source of an on-going nationwide foodborne illness outbreak. So far, the investigation has traced the outbreak – caused by the bacteria Salmonella typhimurium – to a Georgia-based food manufacturer known as Peanut Corporation of America (PCA).
Child Care Centers Urged to Practice Disaster Preparedness
Tuesday, January 20, 2009
Having disaster and emergency preparedness plans and knowing how to put them into practice are important for child care centers.
Health and Family Services Names New Ombudsman
Tuesday, January 20, 2009
January is Mentoring Month; Kentuckians encouraged to be involved with programs that aid youth
Friday, January 16, 2009
Youth and teens can have higher self-esteem, better communications skills and a higher success rate in school when they are mentored by caring adults. The Cabinet for Health and Family Services Kentucky Commission on Community Volunteerism and Service (KCCVS) is encouraging Kentuckians to invest the time to mentor youth.
Kentuckians to Join National Martin Luther King Jr. Day of Service; Volunteers will make holiday ‘a day on, not a day off’
Friday, January 16, 2009
Volunteers across Kentucky will focus on community service and spend next week’s Martin Luther King Jr. Day as “a day on, not a day off” to honor the civil rights leader’s vision and legacy. Monday, Jan. 19, is recognized nationally and statewide as the Martin Luther King Jr. Day of Service.
Four Cabinet Employees Honored for Quality Service: Department for Community Based Services awards announced
Wednesday, January 14, 2009
The Kentucky Cabinet for Health and Family Services (CHFS) has recognized several human services staff for their exemplary service to the commonwealth. The staff members, part of the CHFS Department for Community Based Services, were honored for leadership and accomplishments over the past year.
Office of Inspector General Offers Tips for Choosing Child Care
Monday, January 12, 2009
Choosing child care for your children can be a challenging and somewhat daunting task, but it can be made easier by following helpful guidelines provided by the state agency that regulates child care providers.
State's First Culture-Confirmed Influenza Case Reported
Friday, January 09, 2009
Kentucky Department for Public Health (DPH) officials are urging Kentuckians to get a flu vaccination after the season’s first culture-confirmed case of influenza was reported by the State Public Health Laboratory this week. The case was from Adair County.
Tramadol Added to Kentucky Prescription Drug Monitoring System
Tuesday, January 06, 2009
The Cabinet for Health and Family Services Office of Inspector General (OIG) is increasing efforts to monitor the types and amounts of potentially addictive prescription drugs dispensed to Kentuckians, recently becoming only the second state to add the drug Tramadol to its list of controlled substances.

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