Kentucky.gov

Below you will find a list of press releases that are more than 180 days old.  To view a press release, click on the title.

• HIV/AIDS Youth Conference Set
  Friday, April 11, 2008
  The Kentucky Department for Public Health’s (DPH) eighth annual African-American and Hispanic/Latino Youth Conference on HIV/AIDS is set for Saturday, April 26, at the University of Kentucky (UK) Student Center, 200 Avenue of Champions, Lexington. HIV/AIDS has disproportionately affected the African-American and Hispanic/Latino youth communities, accounting for a high percentage of the total diagnosed cases despite their relatively small populations in the United States. Statistics also show a disproportionate impact in Kentucky.
• April Recognized as Child Abuse Prevention Month; Reporting suspected child abuse or neglect is the law
  Thursday, April 10, 2008
  April is Child Abuse Prevention Month, and the state agency responsible for child protective services is reminding Kentuckians that reporting suspected child abuse or neglect is the law. The Kentucky Cabinet for Health and Family Services (CHFS) offers a statewide, toll-free hot line – 1-800 752-6200 – that citizens can call to make a report.
• Long-Term Care Ombudsman Encourages Kentuckians to Make Advance Health Care Wishes Known
  Thursday, April 10, 2008
• Flooding Creates Home Safety Concerns
  Thursday, April 10, 2008
  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. One of the biggest public health concerns linked to water damage in the home is mold, fungi that can be found indoors and out. Molds grow best in warm, damp and humid conditions and spread by making spores.
• Supplement Recall Raises Concerns in Kentucky
  Wednesday, April 09, 2008
  Following a federal recall of two dietary supplements, the Kentucky Department for Public Health (DPH) has issued a health advisory for consumers who may have ingested the products and could be at risk for illness.
• Governor Beshear Proclaims Public Health Week in Kentucky
  Wednesday, April 09, 2008
  Kentucky Gov. Steve Beshear today proclaimed the week of April 21 Public Health Week in the state. The observation aims to draw attention to important public health issues and acknowledge the contribution public health has made to the people of the commonwealth.
• Open Meetings Schedule April 2008
  Monday, March 31, 2008
  Open meetings schedule for April 2008 for agencies within the Cabinet for Health and Family Services.
• Ensuring quality child care is a team effort
  Wednesday, March 26, 2008
• Take Part in American Diabetes Alert
  Friday, March 14, 2008
  Knowing if you’re at risk for diabetes is important for the prevention of one of Kentucky’s deadliest diseases. Yet many people don’t take time to learn if they are likely to develop diabetes. To address the burden of this disease, the Kentucky Department for Public Health (DPH) and the American Diabetes Association (ADA) are urging Kentuckians to evaluate their risk for developing type 2 diabetes by taking part in the annual American Diabetes Alert Day on March 25.
• Help Fight Breast Cancer
  Thursday, March 13, 2008
  In the rush to beat the tax season deadline, the Kentucky Department for Public Health (DPH) urges residents of the commonwealth not to forget an important option to help fight breast cancer. A tax check-off option allows taxpayers to designate all or a portion of individual state income tax refunds to the Kentucky Breast Cancer Research and Education Trust Fund.
• License Plate Promotes Adoption Awareness; 900 commitments needed for fundraising effort
  Monday, March 10, 2008
  The Kentucky Cabinet for Health and Family Services (CHFS) is promoting the sale of specialized adoption awareness license plates. The license plates were designed by CHFS staff and For Jamie’s Sake, a nonprofit adoption advocacy group based in Ashland. At least 900 commitments are needed by Feb. 1, 2009, to start production.
• Help Your Community Prevent Heart Disease and Stroke
  Monday, March 10, 2008
  The Kentucky Department for Public Health (DPH) and the Kentucky Heart Disease and Stroke Prevention Task Force are teaming up to address two of the most serious health concerns in the commonwealth – heart disease and stroke.
• Governor proclaims March Sexual Assault Awareness Month; Innovative programs honored at kick-off event
  Friday, March 07, 2008
  Kentucky Gov. Steve Beshear proclaimed March Sexual Assault Awareness Month in the commonwealth at a ceremony in the Capitol Rotunda Feb. 28.
• Lactation Consultants Promote Breastfeeding Awareness
  Wednesday, March 05, 2008
  To promote the health benefits of breastfeeding for both mothers and babies today has been set aside as International Board Certified Lactation (IBCLC) Day, sponsored by the International Lactation Consultants Association (ILCA). The theme for this year’s observation is “Quality Breastfeeding Care: IBCLC in Action.”
• Widespread Flu Activity Continues Across Kentucky
  Tuesday, March 04, 2008
  Kentucky’s influenza (flu) activity continues to be classified as “widespread” for the fifth consecutive week, the Kentucky Department for Public Health (DPH) announced today.
• Health and Family Services March 2008 Open Meeting Schedule
  Friday, February 29, 2008
  The following meetings are scheduled for the Cabinet for Health and Family Services in March.
• Prevent Colon Cancer – Get Screened
  Wednesday, February 27, 2008
  If you are 50 years old or older, it’s time to be screened for colon cancer. That’s the message the Kentucky Department for Public Health (DPH) is sending Kentuckians in March as part of National Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month.
• Kentucky Medicaid Receives Federal Approval for New Waiver
  Tuesday, February 26, 2008
  Kentucky's Medicaid program has received approval from the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) to start a new waiver program to better serve individuals with acquired brain injuries in community settings.
• Public Health, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention to Study School Absenteeism
  Tuesday, February 26, 2008
  The Kentucky Department for Public Health (DPH), the Whitley County Health Department and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) are interested in learning more about the impact of recent illness-related school closings on the families and communities involved.
• Family preservation efforts keep families together; In-home services keep children out of foster care, help get parents assistance
  Tuesday, February 26, 2008
  A state program aimed at keeping children and families safely together helped keep hundreds of children out of foster care, according to a recent study. The Kentucky Cabinet for Health and Family Services (CHFS) announced the evaluation study for the Department for Community Based Services’ Family Preservation Program (FPP).
• Cabinet for Health and Family Services Names General Counsel
  Monday, February 25, 2008
  Cabinet for Health and Family Services Secretary Janie Miller announced today that Kerry B. Harvey, an attorney from Benton, Ky., has been named as the cabinet’s general counsel.
• Department for Public Health Sponsors Essay Contest to Raise Awareness of HIV/AIDS
  Monday, February 25, 2008
  The Kentucky Department for Public Health (DPH) is sponsoring an essay contest challenging Kentucky teenagers to learn more about HIV/AIDS and the impact the disease has on their generation.
• New Federal Report Provides Snapshot of Kentucky's Public Health Preparedness
  Thursday, February 21, 2008
  Kentucky's successes in the area of public health preparedness were highlighted in the first national report by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) outlining effective measures developed since 2001 by all states.
• Kentucky Department for Public Health Responds to National Beef Recall
  Tuesday, February 19, 2008
  The Food Safety Branch – a part of the Department for Public Health’s Public Health Protection and Safety Division – has issued an advisory regarding the nationwide recall of beef.
• Safe Infants Law allows safe surrender of newborns; Parents can leave baby with personnel at ‘safe places’
  Wednesday, February 13, 2008
  A state law that allows parents to safely surrender their newborns gives hope to men and women concerned about becoming parents. The Safe Infants Act became effective in April 2002 and allows parents or someone acting on their behalf to anonymously place infants they cannot care for at selected “safe places.”
• Power Outages Create Food Safety Concerns
  Thursday, February 07, 2008
  The Kentucky Department for Public Health (DPH) has issued several food safety guidelines to aid Kentuckians left without electricity after a series of powerful storms and tornadoes swept through the state early Wednesday morning.
• State's Flu Activity Now Classified as Widespread
  Thursday, February 07, 2008
  Kentucky’s influenza (flu) activity has been classified as “widespread,” the Kentucky Department for Public Health (DPH) announced today.
• Department for Public Health Promotes National Black HIV/AIDS Day
  Wednesday, February 06, 2008
  The Kentucky Department for Public Health (DPH) encourages Kentuckians to take part in National Black HIV/AIDS Awareness Day on Feb. 7.
• ‘Diabetes Day at the Capitol’ Set for February 21
  Tuesday, February 05, 2008
  Kentucky’s diabetes experts, educators and advocates are taking their concerns to the Capitol to share information and encourage better prevention and awareness of one of the state’s biggest health concerns.
• Public Health Works to Improve Safety of Tanning Beds and Booths
  Monday, February 04, 2008
  With events like spring break and prom just a few months away, many young people start to prepare by hitting the tanning bed.
• February Open Meetings Schedule (Updated)
  Friday, February 01, 2008
  The open meetings schedule for agencies within the Cabinet for Health and Family Services (CHFS) for February 2008.
• ‘Go Red’ for Kentucky Women
  Wednesday, January 30, 2008
  The Kentucky Department for Public Health (DPH) is encouraging all Kentuckians to “Go Red” on Friday to show support for National Wear Red Day, an observance created to highlight the dangers of heart disease among women.
• Public invited to summit on racial disproportionality in child welfare system; Paducah meeting is part of 3-year-old study
  Wednesday, January 30, 2008
  McCracken County residents are invited to a community summit this week to discuss racial disproportionality in the child welfare system. “Race, Community and Child Welfare Initiative: Addressing the Issue in McCracken County,” is scheduled for 5-7 p.m. on Thursday, Jan. 31, at the Robert Cherry Civic Center, 2701 Park Ave., Paducah.
• Families Can Talk to Experts at Louisville Adoption Fair; Free event Jan. 27 features almost 20 agencies
  Thursday, January 24, 2008
  Families can learn more about adoption this month at the 2008 Louisville Adoption Fair. The free event is scheduled for 1- 4 p.m. on Sunday, Jan. 27, at the Holiday Inn Louisville-Downtown, 120 W. Broadway and is sponsored by the Kentucky Cabinet for Health and Family Services (CHFS), WLKY Wednesday’s Child and local adoption agencies.
• Radon Awareness Should Last Year-Round
  Thursday, January 24, 2008
  The Cabinet for Health and Family Services’ radon program and other agencies are urging Kentuckians to learn more about the dangers of radon, particularly in the home, during Radon Action Month in January.
• Public invited to summit on racial disproportionality in child welfare system; Louisville meeting is part of 3-year-old study
  Wednesday, January 23, 2008
  Jefferson County residents are invited to discuss racial disproportionality in the child welfare system at a summit this week. “Race, Community and Child Welfare Initiative: Addressing the Crisis in Jefferson County,” is scheduled for 4-6 p.m. on Thursday, Jan. 24, at the Metro United Way, 334 E. Broadway. The meeting is sponsored by the Kentucky Cabinet for Health and Family Services’ (CHFS) Department for Community Based Services (DCBS).
• National Birth Defects Prevention Network Calls Attention to Infections and Pregnancy
  Thursday, January 17, 2008
  The Kentucky Birth Surveillance Registry (KBSR) is joining the National Birth Defects Prevention Network to share the message that a mother’s health before, during and after pregnancy is an important foundation to having a healthy baby. “Preventing Infections in Pregnancy” is the theme of National Birth Defects Prevention Month during January 2008.
• Nominations sought for governor's volunteer awards; Nomination deadline Feb. 18
  Wednesday, January 16, 2008
  Nominations are now being accepted for the annual Governor’s Awards for Outstanding Volunteer Service
• Department for Community Based Services Commissioner Named; Patricia Wilson to Lead State’s Human Services Agency
  Monday, January 14, 2008
  Patricia R. Wilson has been named commissioner of the state’s human services agency. Cabinet for Health and Family Services (CHFS) Secretary Janie Miller today announced that Wilson will lead the Department for Community Based Services (DCBS), CHFS’ largest agency.
• Number of Kentucky Youths Purchasing Tobacco Remains Low
  Thursday, January 10, 2008
  Kentucky vendors are making sure tobacco products aren’t falling into the hands of minors according to a recently released survey from the Cabinet for Health and Family Services (CHFS).
• Health and Family Services Cabinet Appointments Announced, Medicaid Commissioner and Inspector General Named
  Tuesday, January 08, 2008
  CHFS Secretary Janie Miller names Medicaid Commissioner and Inspector General.
• CHFS January Open Meetings Schedule
  Tuesday, January 08, 2008
  Open meetings scheduled for the Cabinet for Health and Family Services during the month of January.
• Adoption Blue Ribbon Panel Meeting Scheduled for Jan. 7; Group to discuss legislative proposals
  Friday, January 04, 2008
  The Kentucky Cabinet for Health and Family Services’ Blue Ribbon Panel on Adoption is scheduled to meet next week to discuss prefiled legislation to be considered during the 2008 session of the General Assembly.
• Lieutenant Governor-elect to Speak at e-Health Summit
  Wednesday, December 05, 2007
  Statewide News Advisory
• Mental Health Commission to Meet
  Monday, December 03, 2007
  The Commission on Services and Supports for Individuals with Mental Retardation and Other Developmental Disabilities (House Bill 144 Commission) will meet.
• Twenty-three Louisville Families Celebrate Adoptions; 33 children become part of ‘forever families’ on ‘Adoption Day’
  Friday, November 30, 2007
  Twenty-three families grew today when the adoptions of 33 children were finalized as part of Louisville Adoption Day. A reception and celebration for the families followed the proceedings in Jefferson Family Court.
• Adoption Awareness Tree traveling Northern Kentucky; Project highlights need for permanent homes for foster children
  Friday, November 30, 2007
  A traveling outreach project is helping to raise awareness of the need for more foster and adoptive families in Northern Kentucky. Staff of the Kentucky Cabinet for Health and Family Services’ (CHFS) Special Needs Adoption Program (SNAP) and community partners created the Adoption Awareness Tree. It features ornaments with pictures and biographies of some of the 188 children in the CHFS’ Northern Bluegrass Region who await adoptive homes.
• Media Advisory: Louisville Reception to Celebrate Adoptive Families; 33 adoptions to be finalized on Nov. 30
  Wednesday, November 28, 2007
  Twenty-three Louisville families will celebrate new beginnings on Nov. 30 when the adoptions of 33 children will be finalized on Jefferson County Adoption Day.
• Are You At Risk for Diabetes?
  Monday, November 26, 2007
  The Kentucky Department for Public Health (DPH) encourages everyone to find out if you’re are at risk for developing type 2 diabetes – and do what it takes to prevent it.
• Give Yourself the Gift of Health this Holiday Season
  Wednesday, November 21, 2007
  The Kentucky Department for Public Health (DPH) is asking Kentuckians to get an influenza vaccination during National Influenza Vaccination Week Nov. 26-Dec. 2, in an attempt to decrease sickness and death during the annual flu season.
• Grants Help Fight Breast Cancer
  Tuesday, November 20, 2007
  Six Kentucky agencies promoting breast cancer awareness, screening and access to services are the first recipients of grants from the Kentucky Breast Cancer Research and Education Trust Fund.
• Kentucky receives $100,000 grant to help seniors access legal services
  Tuesday, November 20, 2007
  Older Kentuckians will have improved access to legal services thanks to a federal grant to the Kentucky Department for Aging and Independent Living (DAIL) in the Cabinet for Health and Family Services.
• Premature Births Can Be Prevented
  Tuesday, November 20, 2007
  In honor of Prematurity Awareness Month, the Kentucky Department for Public Health (DPH) is highlighting its commitment to preventing preterm birth (babies born before 37 weeks of completed gestation) and improving birth outcomes throughout Kentucky. Kentucky has one of the highest rates of preterm birth – the nation’s leading cause of neonatal deaths.
• Talking Turkey
  Monday, November 19, 2007
  Food is a major part of the Thanksgiving celebration - and a time to keep in mind food safety guidelines issued by the Kentucky Department for Public Health (DPH). From preparing to serving to storing, there are many tips to remember to prevent food contamination and the spread of foodborne illness this holiday season.
• State's First Culture-Confirmed Influenza Case Reported
  Friday, November 16, 2007
  Kentucky Department for Public Health (DPH) officials are urging Kentuckians to get a flu vaccination after the first culture-confirmed case of influenza was reported by the State Public Health Laboratory this week. The case was in Fayette County.
• Celebrate Public Health Day
  Friday, November 16, 2007
  The Kentucky Department for Public Health (DPH) and the Kentucky Public Health Association (KPHA) are giving a special tribute on National Public Health Day on Nov. 19 to the staff of Kentucky’s state and local health departments.
• Get Help Comparing, Enrolling in Medicare Prescription Drug Plans; SHIP counselors work with callers one-on-one to find the right plan
  Friday, November 16, 2007
  Annual open enrollment for Medicare prescription drug coverage is Nov. 15 - Dec. 31, and help and information about Medicare Part D plans and enrollment are just a phone call away.
• Food Stamp Program Gets $1.4 Million Bonus for Excellent Customer Service; Kentucky gets federal award for fourth consecutive year
  Thursday, November 15, 2007
  Federal officials in Frankfort today awarded Kentucky’s Food Stamp Program $1.4 million in federal bonus funds for its exemplary service delivery to service applicants. Roberto Salazar, administrator of the United States Department of Agriculture’s (USDA) Food and Nutrition Service, presented the check to the Kentucky Cabinet for Health and Family Services’ (CHFS) Department for Community Based Services for the state’s performance during the 2006 federal fiscal year.
• e-Health Summit Set for Dec. 6-7
  Thursday, November 15, 2007
  Leaders in business, technology, health care, academia and government will gather Dec. 6-7 in Lexington for Kentucky’s second e-Health summit.
• Great American Smokeout Set for Nov. 15
  Wednesday, November 14, 2007
  Health organizations and local health departments across Kentucky and the nation once again are gearing up for the Great American Smokeout, a nationally recognized event that challenges people to stop using tobacco products for the day.
• State Announces Top-Performing Child Support Contractors; Oldham ranks first; Warren is most improved
  Wednesday, November 14, 2007
  The Kentucky Cabinet for Health and Family Services today announced the state’s top-performing child support contracting officials and one that made significant improvement during the past year.
• World Diabetes Day
  Wednesday, November 14, 2007
  The Kentucky Department for Public Health is joining health care providers, educators and advocates from around the world to raise awareness about diabetes.
• Media Advisory: Food Stamp Program to Receive $1.4 Million Bonus for Excellent Customer Service
  Wednesday, November 14, 2007
  Officials from the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) will present a check for more than $1.4 million to the Kentucky Cabinet for Health and Family Services’ (CHFS) Department for Community Based Services on Thursday as an award for exemplary service delivery in the state’s Food Stamp Program.
• Be Aware of Bed Bugs
  Friday, November 09, 2007
  The Kentucky Department for Public Health (DPH) encourages Kenuckians to learn more about bed bugs, a pest that could be lurking in their homes.
• Statewide elder readiness survey results released; Kentuckians say communities aren’t actively planning for aging baby boomers
  Friday, November 09, 2007
  Results of a statewide survey show most Kentuckians are aware that the aging of the baby boomers (people currently age 43-61) will bring major changes to their communities – but they don’t think their communities are actively planning for what has been called a pending “demographic tsunami.”
• Diabetes Caregivers Play an Important Role
  Monday, November 05, 2007
  The Kentucky Department for Public Health is reaching out to diabetes caregivers during American Diabetes Month because they are such an important link in improving quality of life for people living with diabetes and reducing health care costs for everyone. With the right tools and knowledge, caregivers can help their loved one reduce the number of diabetes-related complications he or she experiences and live a long and healthy life.
• State’s Adoptive Families Honored at Reception; Nine families receive awards
  Friday, November 02, 2007
  The Kentucky Cabinet for Health and Family Services (CHFS) honored nine adoptive families tonight at a reception celebrating “Forever Families.”
• Health and Family Services Secretary Birdwhistell receives Chrysalis House award; Honor is for helping mothers fight substance abuse addiction
  Thursday, November 01, 2007
  The Chrysalis House of Lexington recently honored Mark D. Birdwhistell, secretary of the Kentucky Cabinet for Health and Family Services (CHFS), for his work on behalf of mothers and their children.
• Media Advisory: State’s Adoptive Families to Be Honored at Reception; Nine families to receive awards
  Thursday, November 01, 2007
  The Kentucky Cabinet for Health and Family Services (CHFS) will honor nine adoptive families from across the state at a ceremony and reception celebrating “forever families” this week.
• Health and Family Services Secretary Birdwhistell receives child advocacy award; Louisville’s Family Place Awards ‘Gold Medal for Advocacy’
  Monday, October 29, 2007
  Family Place of Louisville recently honored Mark D. Birdwhistell, secretary of the Kentucky Cabinet for Health and Family Services (CHFS), for his work on behalf of children and families. Family Place presented Birdwhistell with its “Gold Medal for Advocacy.”
• Public Health to Host Avian Influenza Workshop
  Friday, October 26, 2007
  The Kentucky Department for Public Health (DPH) and the Lexington-Fayette County Health Department will host an avian influenza (bird flu) responder workshop Oct. 29-30 to discuss how agencies would respond to an outbreak of the disease in birds, with the potential to spread to humans.
• First Lady, state officials announce Knox, Laurel County drug court funding; Program helps parents overcome addictions, strengthens families
  Thursday, October 25, 2007
  First Lady Glenna Fletcher, the Kentucky Cabinet for Health and Family Services (CHFS), the Court of Justice and Operation UNITE today announced funding for a new drug court program to serve adults and families in Knox and Laurel counties. The $60,000 in funding from CHFS will go toward treatment services for families involved with the Knox or Laurel County drug courts, which will offer an alternative to traditional processing of nonviolent drug offenders. In the 11 years since the Kentucky Court of Justice established
• Commission's Youth Advisory Council Releases Statement in Honor of National Bullying Prevention Awareness Week
  Wednesday, October 24, 2007
  In observance of National Bullying Prevention Awareness Week Oct 21-27, the Young Adults with Power workgroup coordinated by the Commission on Children with Special Health Care Needs (CCSHCN) has released the following statement to increase awareness of this issue: "It is our council members’ belief that every child should feel 100 percent safe when going to school and other social gatherings despite their gender, race, origin, religion, sexual orientation or ability. All members of this council have had experiences of being bullied, and we feel that it should never be tolerated."
• State Health Department Provides Portable Treatment Centers to Hospitals
  Monday, October 22, 2007
  The Kentucky Department for Public Health (DPH) announced today that it has provided all 14 hospital preparedness regions across the state with mobile treatment centers that can be deployed at or near the scene of a disaster or emergency to provide treatment for patients.
• Federal Disaster Preparedness Officials to Visit Kentucky
  Monday, October 22, 2007
  Federal disaster preparedness officials with the United States Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) will visit Kentucky this week to observe emergency preparedness measures in the state.
• Adoption Blue Ribbon Panel Meeting Scheduled for Oct. 23; Group to discuss legislative strategy for 2008
  Friday, October 19, 2007
  The Kentucky Cabinet for Health and Family Services’ blue ribbon panel on adoption and its workgroups are scheduled to meet next week to discuss possible issues to be considered during the 2008 session of the General Assembly. The panel will meet at 3 p.m. on Tuesday, Oct. 23, in the Capital Plaza Hotel, 405 Wilkinson Blvd., Frankfort. It is open to the public.
• Don’t Get Sidelined by Foodborne Illness
  Friday, October 19, 2007
  It’s the fall sports season – a time for football, horse racing, tailgating and being extra mindful of food safety.
• State Health Department Urges Kentuckians to Get Flu, Pneumonia Vaccinations
  Thursday, October 18, 2007
  With this year’s flu season under way in Kentucky and ample supply of vaccine available, state health department officials are urging Kentuckians to get their annual flu shot.
• Governor Fletcher announces $4 million investmentin Martin County substance abuse treatment partnership; Funding to help at-risk families includes $2.5 million federal grant
  Thursday, October 18, 2007
  The Kentucky Cabinet for Health and Familes Services (CHFS) today announced a $4 million investment in a substance abuse recovery partnership to assist parents in Martin County. The funding includes a $2.5 million federal grant from the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services’ Administration on Children, Youth and Families Office and an additional $1.56 million from CHFS.
• Watch Out for Staph
  Thursday, October 18, 2007
  Kentuckians should be aware of dangerous skin infections and take simple precautions to prevent infection from bacteria like Staphylococcal aureus, or staph, particularly strains that are difficult to treat with antibiotics.
• State funds drug-treatment partnership in Barren County; $275,000 project to serve parents with substance abuse addiction
  Thursday, October 18, 2007
  The Kentucky Cabinet for Health and Family Services (CHFS) today announced $275,000 in funding for a substance abuse treatment referral project in Barren County. The funding is part of CHFS’ Sobriety Treatment and Recovery Team (START) initiative, which focuses on early intervention in families who are at higher risk of child abuse and neglect due to a parent’s alcohol or drug addiction.
• Memorial honors slain social service aide Boni Frederick; Union County woman killed in line of duty one year ago
  Tuesday, October 16, 2007
  The Kentucky Cabinet for Health and Family Services (CHFS) paid tribute to slain social service aide Boni Frederick at a memorial today in Morganfield. Frederick, who worked in the Union County Department for Community Based Services (DCBS) office, was killed on Oct. 16, 2006, while she supervised an infant foster child’s home visit with his birth mother in Henderson, Ky.
• Media Advisory: State to announce funding for Martin County drug treatment partnership; Program for at-risk families awarded major federal grant
  Tuesday, October 16, 2007
  The Kentucky Cabinet for Health and Family Services (CHFS) will announce significant federal and state funding for an innovative substance abuse treatment partnership in Martin County on Thursday.
• News Advisory: Memorial to honor slain social service aide Boni Frederick; Union County woman killed in line of duty one year ago
  Thursday, October 11, 2007
  The Kentucky Cabinet for Health and Family Services (CHFS) will remember and pay tribute to slain social service aide Boni Frederick at a memorial next week in Morganfield.
• FIRST LADY GLENNA FLETCHER TO PROMOTE BREAST CANCER AWARENESS
  Tuesday, October 09, 2007
  Media Advisory on breast cancer event.
• Kentucky AmeriCorps launches a new service year; Now in its 13th year, program still getting things done
  Tuesday, October 09, 2007
  Today, 225 first- and second-year AmeriCorps members took a pledge to get things done in Kentucky as they embark on a year of service to their fellow Kentuckians across the state.
• Governor Fletcher announces project to study process of adult protective services investigations; State partners with UK for first comprehensive study of its kind in the nation
  Monday, October 08, 2007
  The Kentucky Cabinet for Health and Family Services (CHFS) is partnering with the University of Kentucky’s Graduate Center for Gerontology to study procedures for investigating alleged abuse of vulnerable older adults in Kentucky. The study will evaluate adult protective services procedures and track every case initiated during the week of Oct. 1 through Oct. 8.
• Don’t Forget: Wear Pink to Work on Wednesday
  Monday, October 08, 2007
  Remember to don your favorite pink blouse, suit, dress, scarf or necktie Wednesday to honor the breast cancer awareness observance “Wear Pink to Work Day.”
• Health and Family Services October 2007 Meetings Schedule
  Monday, October 08, 2007
• Media Advisory: Kentucky to sponsor human services worker safety conference; National forum comes one year after death of Boni Frederick
  Thursday, October 04, 2007
  The widower of a Kansas social worker who was killed in the line of duty and the leader of a national human service worker organization will speak at a national forum on human services worker safety next week in Louisville. The Kentucky Cabinet for Health and Family Services (CHFS) is sponsoring the “It’s All About Safety!” conference Tuesday, Oct. 9, through Thursday, Oct. 11, at the Holiday Inn Hurstbourne, 1325 S. Hurstbourne Parkway, Louisville.
• Media Advisory: Conference to focus on racial disparity in child welfare system; Higher number of African-American children in state foster care
  Tuesday, October 02, 2007
  The Kentucky Cabinet for Health and Family Services (CHFS) and the Louisville Neighborhood Place network are sponsoring a conference on race, community and child welfare next week. The conference is Tuesday, Oct. 9, in the Galt House Hotel, 140 N. Fourth St., Louisville.
• Governor Fletcher Announces Additional e-Prescribing Grant Applications Sought
  Friday, September 28, 2007
  Governor Ernie Fletcher announced today that the Cabinet for Health and Family Services and the Kentucky e-Health Network Board will accept applications for a new round of e-Prescribing grants.
• Wear Pink to Work Day Set for Oct. 10
  Friday, September 28, 2007
  In honor of Breast Cancer Awareness Month and as a part of the Get Healthy Kentucky program, First Lady Glenna Fletcher and the Governor’s Office of Wellness and Physical Activity are urging all Kentuckians to participate in “Wear Pink to Work Day” on Wednesday, Oct. 10.
• Elder readiness meeting reveals regional survey findings
  Thursday, September 27, 2007
  Most Northern Kentucky area residents are aware that the aging of the baby boomers (people currently age 43-61) will bring major changes to their communities – but they don’t think their communities are actively planning for what has been called a pending “demographic tsunami.”
• KeHC Board to Hold First Meeting
  Thursday, September 27, 2007
  The first meeting of the Kentucky e-Health Corporation (KeHC) Board will be from 2 to 4 p.m. Tuesday, Oct. 2, Meeting Room A, Council on Postsecondary Education, Suite 320, 1024 Capital Center Drive, Frankfort.
• Federal Grant Will Allow Kentucky to Launch Half-Million Nursing Home Diversion Program
  Thursday, September 27, 2007
  A grant from the federal Department for Health and Human Services (HHS) means nearly a half-million dollars will be available to provide more affordable choices to help keep people at home and out of nursing homes.
• DPH, FDA Warn Public Not to Consume Unpasteurized Cream
  Wednesday, September 26, 2007
  The Kentucky Department for Public Health (DPH) is urging consumers to follow a recent U.S. Food and Drug Administration warning statement not to consume unpasteurized cream labeled as “Organic Pastures Grade A Raw Cream.”
• Learn More about TB
  Wednesday, September 26, 2007
• Media Advisory: Adoption is focus of training conference; State to honor adoptive family, social worker
  Tuesday, September 25, 2007
  The Kentucky Cabinet for Health and Family Services’ Department for Community Based Services (DCBS), in conjunction with the University of Kentucky, Eastern Kentucky University and Murray State University, is sponsoring a conference this week to train adoptive families. The “Fall in Love with Adoption” conference is planned for Friday, Sept. 28, and Saturday, Sept. 29, at the Holiday Inn Hurstborne Hotel, 1325 S. Hurstbourne Parkway, Louisville.
• Meals Matter
  Friday, September 21, 2007
  Are you looking for a way to improve your children’s self-esteem, increase family unity and make sure your loved ones are getting the vitamins and nutrients they need in their diet? If you answered yes to any of these questions, Get Healthy Kentucky encourages you to participate in National Family Day – A Day to Eat Dinner with Your Children.
• Hearing Set to Review Block Grant Application
  Friday, September 21, 2007
  A hearing has been set to review a public health block grant application.
• Governor Fletcher Announces Funding for Warren County Youth Promise Program; Program provides early intervention services for at-risk youth
  Friday, September 21, 2007
  Governor Ernie Fletcher today announced $75,000 in state funding to launch an after-school project to help at-risk teens and pre-teens in Warren County. The Youth Promise Program for teens, which includes the “Smart Moves” research-based program, will begin this fall at the Boys and Girls Club of Bowling Green. The club will receive $75,000 for its teen after-school efforts.
• Free community fairs to feature resource information; State recruiting foster families at Louisville events
  Friday, September 21, 2007
  The Kentucky Cabinet for Health and Family Services is sponsoring two free community fairs in the Parkland and South Louisville neighborhoods of the Jefferson Service Region this month to engage more community partners and residents in caring for children,.
• Big Sandy elder readiness meeting reveals regional survey findings
  Friday, September 21, 2007
  Most Big Sandy area residents are aware that the aging of the baby boomers (people currently age 43-61) will bring major changes to their communities – but they don’t think their communities are actively planning for what has been called a pending “demographic tsunami.”
• New Technology to Enhance Communication Preparedness for Public Health
  Wednesday, September 19, 2007
  The Kentucky Department for Public Health (DPH) has enhanced the state’s alternative communications capabilities between local public health agencies and hospitals with the addition of datacasting and compressed video teleconferencing systems.
• Kentucky exceeds its welfare-to-work goals; State surpasses target for getting clients off financial aid
  Wednesday, September 19, 2007
  Kentucky has surpassed its goals for moving Kentuckians off of welfare and into jobs over the past two federal fiscal years.
• Governor Takes Action to Advance e-Health in Kentucky
  Tuesday, September 18, 2007
  Governor Ernie Fletcher today announced key developments in e-Health that will dramatically speed the creation of a statewide electronic health care data network.
• Peer Counseling Program Helps New Moms Learn to Breastfeed
  Friday, September 14, 2007
  A new Kentucky Department for Public Health (DPH) breastfeeding peer counselor program provides support and information for prenatal and breastfeeding mothers – to help ensure good health for Kentucky’s babies.
• Sports and Tobacco Don’t Mix
  Thursday, September 13, 2007
  University of Kentucky and University of Louisville athletes, cheerleaders and mascots are working to spread the Get Healthy Kentucky message - sports and tobacco don’t mix. Representatives from both universities jumped at the chance to take part in a new campaign to improve the lives of Kentuckians and will appear in marketing materials to discourage tobacco use among young people.
• CHFS Proceeds with Disciplinary Action Against Six Hardin County Social Service Workers
  Friday, September 07, 2007
  The Cabinet for Health and Family Services (CHFS) is moving forward with disciplinary action against six Hardin County Department for Community Based Services (DCBS) employees for their involvement in child welfare issues highlighted in a CHFS Office of Inspector General report released earlier this year.
• Just Ask the Question
  Friday, September 07, 2007
  Kentucky Awareness Week Aims to Educate, Train Others for Suicide Warning Signs When someone is in distress or considering taking their own life, a simple intervention – such as asking a single question - may be all it takes to prevent a suicide .
• Not All Fun and Games
  Friday, September 07, 2007
  Recent toy recalls have made headlines – and caused parents to worry about their children’s potential exposure to lead and its effect on their health.
• CHFS Secretary Birdwhistell to speak at child abuse prevention conference
  Wednesday, September 05, 2007
  At the 11th annual Kids Are Worth It conference in Lexington on Thursday, Kentucky Cabinet for Health and Family Services (CHFS) Secretary Mark D. Birdwhistell will talk about the cabinet’s early intervention and prevention efforts aimed at keeping children and families healthy and safe.
• What’s on Your Hand
  Wednesday, September 05, 2007
  From back-to-school to Halloween and Thanksgiving, autumn brings a host of reasons to celebrate – and to think about food safety.
• New Program Provides Further Flexibility to Serve Kentuckians under KyHealth Choices
  Wednesday, September 05, 2007
  The Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services has approved a new Medicaid waiver that will increase Kentucky's ability to provide community services to individuals with mental retardation and developmental disabilities through KyHealth Choices.
• Health and Family Services September 2007 Open Meetings Schedule
  Tuesday, September 04, 2007
  Public Meetings for September 2007
• World Rabies Day on Sept. 8 Aims to Draw Attention to Preventable Disease
  Tuesday, September 04, 2007
  The Kentucky Department for Public Health (DPH) is joining the Alliance for Rabies Control to mark Sept. 8 as World Rabies Day, to focus attention on this entirely preventable disease.
• Workshops to Address Communicating with Vulnerable Populations during Emergencies
  Tuesday, September 04, 2007
  The Kentucky Department for Public Health (DPH) will host four informational community workshops to address communicating with vulnerable populations during public health emergencies or other disasters.
• Get Healthy Kentucky Joins Disney, Local Communities for Family Wellness Camps
  Tuesday, August 28, 2007
  Youngsters around the state are encouraged to join Get Healthy Kentucky and Disney’s eXtreme Team for MOVE IT!, a series of two-hour wellness camps for young people designed to get Kentucky’s youth physically active and on the road to wellness. Participants in the events are sure to experience activities that will get them moving, plus healthy snacks, games and plenty of prizes.
• Work Begins on New Initiative to Fight Heart Disease
  Monday, August 27, 2007
  Health and Family Services Secretary Mark D. Birdwhistell has appointed a group of government, business and health care leaders to the new Kentucky Cardiovascular Disease Initiative (KCDI) Board, established by House Bill 185.
• Rob Edwards Named Cabinet for Health and Family Services Chief of Staff
  Thursday, August 23, 2007
  Robert L. Edwards, chief financial officer and legislative director for the Cabinet for Health and Family Services (CHFS), has been appointed chief of staff for CHFS, effective Sept. 1, Secretary Mark D. Birdwhistell announced today.
• Food Safety Goes to the Fair
  Tuesday, August 21, 2007
  The smells of corn dogs, cotton candy, steak and pork chop sandwiches fill the air in Louisville each August, creating a warm welcome for Kentucky State Fair patrons. But for a host of food safety workers assigned to ensure sound food preparation and handling practices are followed, the delicious treats signal one thing – hard work.
• Bluegrass elder readiness meeting reveals regional survey findings
  Tuesday, August 21, 2007
  Most Bluegrass area residents are aware that the aging of the baby boomers will bring major changes to their communities – but they don’t think their communities are actively planning for what has been called a pending “demographic tsunami.”
• Lincoln Trail elder readiness meeting reveals regional survey findings
  Tuesday, August 21, 2007
  Most Lincoln Trail area residents are aware that the aging of the baby boomers (people current age 43-61) will bring major changes to their communities – but they don’t think their communities are actively planning for what has been called a pending “demographic tsunami.”
• Buffalo Trace elder readiness meeting reveals regional survey findings
  Tuesday, August 21, 2007
  Most Buffalo Trace area residents are aware that the aging of the baby boomers will bring major changes to their communities – but they don’t think their communities are actively planning for what has been called a pending “demographic tsunami.”
• FIVCO elder readiness meeting reveals regional survey findings
  Tuesday, August 21, 2007
  Most FIVCO area residents are aware that the aging of the baby boomers (people currently age 43-61) will bring major changes to their communities – but they don’t think their communities are actively planning for what has been called a pending “demographic tsunami.”
• Green River elder readiness meeting reveals regional survey findings
  Tuesday, August 21, 2007
  Most Green River area residents are aware that the aging of the baby boomers (people currently age 43-61) will bring major changes to their communities – but they don’t think their communities are actively planning for what has been called a pending “demographic tsunami.”
• Media Advisory
  Monday, August 20, 2007
• Cabinet for Health and Family Services Names Shawn Crouch New Medicaid Commissioner
  Monday, August 20, 2007
  Cabinet for Health and Family Services (CHFS) Secretary Mark D. Birdwhistell announced today that Shawn Crouch has been appointed the new commissioner of the Department for Medicaid Services, effective Sept. 1.
• Parent Advocacy Program helps families stay together; Mothers, fathers benefit from mentors who have navigated child welfare system
  Wednesday, August 15, 2007
  Children who spent time in foster care had fewer placements and a better chance at family reunification when their parents got help from others who had experienced similar situations. That’s one key finding in a recent report about a Parent Advocacy Program in Jefferson County sponsored by the Kentucky Cabinet for Health and Family Services (CHFS). The program enlists mothers and fathers who were once involved with the state’s child welfare system to serve as guides and mentors for families facing similar circumstances.
• Cabinet for Health and Family Services to Offer Wellness Information, Free Screenings at Kentucky State Fair
  Thursday, August 09, 2007
  Visitors to the Kentucky State Fair in Louisville this month can learn how to improve their families’ health and well-being through free screenings and educational activities at the Kentucky Cabinet for Health and Family Services’ (CHFS) exhibit.
• Take Precautions to Keep Your Cool in Hot Weather
  Wednesday, August 08, 2007
  Governor Ernie Fletcher and the Kentucky Department for Public Health (DPH) are advising Kentuckians to follow some common-sense safety tips to keep your cool during this period of extreme heat.
• Adoption Blue Ribbon Panel Meeting Scheduled for Aug. 22; Group to discuss child welfare policies, parental rights
  Wednesday, August 08, 2007
  The Kentucky Cabinet for Health and Family Services’ blue ribbon panel on adoption is scheduled to meet this month. The meeting will be from 1-4:30 p.m. on Wednesday, Aug. 22, in the Capital Plaza Hotel, 405 Wilkinson Blvd., Frankfort. It is open to the public.
• African-American and Hispanic Leadership Conference on HIV/AIDS Set
  Tuesday, August 07, 2007
  The Kentucky Department for Public Health’s (DPH) 12th Annual African-American and Hispanic Leadership Conference on HIV/AIDS is set for Friday, Sept. 7, through Saturday, Sept. 8, at the Crowne Plaza Hotel – The Campbell House, 1375 South Broadway, Lexington. The theme for this year’s conference is “26 Years of AIDS is Enough: The Time to Deliver is NOW!”
• Media Advisory
  Friday, August 03, 2007
  The 12th Annual Africa-American and Hispanic Leadership Conference on HIV/AIDS will take place
• Kentucky celebrates Breastfeeding Awareness Month; Mothers’ milk benefits babies’ health and well-being
  Monday, July 30, 2007
  August is Breastfeeding Awareness Month in Kentucky, and the World Alliance for Breastfeeding Action has declared Aug. 1-7 as World Breastfeeding Week.
• GHK Awarded $100,000 Grant to Fight Childhood Obesity
  Friday, July 27, 2007
  Governor Ernie Fletcher’s statewide wellness initiative, Get Healthy Kentucky (GHK), is one of only 10 recipients nationally to receive grant funding to help battle childhood obesity. GHK will receive $100,000 from the National Governors Association Center for Best Practices for the development of strategies and laws, and the analysis of existing programs.
• DPH Working with Federal Officials to Contain Botulism Outbreak
  Tuesday, July 24, 2007
  Public health scientists and food safety experts in Kentucky are working with federal officials to reduce the risk of possible foodborne illness in association with an outbreak of botulism affecting consumers in Texas and Indiana who ate canned hot dog chili sauce. No cases linked to this outbreak have been reported in Kentucky.
• Getting ready for the baby boomers; Regional meetings planned to reveal initial elder readiness survey results
  Monday, July 23, 2007
  How ready is your community for the aging baby boomer population? Find out at a series of 15 meetings scheduled around the state. The Kentucky Elder Readiness Initiative (KERI) recently completed a survey of Kentuckians to help gauge communities’ preparedness for the “graying of Kentucky.” Initial, area-specific results of that survey will be announced at the meetings which begin Aug. 7 in Maysville.
• Governor announces elimination of child care co-pays for qualifying families; State to infuse program with $45 million
  Tuesday, July 17, 2007
  Governor Ernie Fletcher and officials from the Kentucky Cabinet for Health and Family Services (CHFS) today announced an infusion of $45 million to the state’s Child Care Assistance Program (CCAP) to make child care more affordable and simplify the process for providers.
• Human Services’ Safety Study Group to Meet Wednesday
  Tuesday, July 17, 2007
  The next meeting of the Department for Community Based Services’ human services worker safety study group is Wednesday. The meeting is scheduled for 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. on Wednesday, July 18, at the Ramada Inn, 2143 N. Broadway, Lexington.
• State Health Department Launches New Volunteer Health Professionals Program
  Thursday, July 12, 2007
  The Kentucky Department for Public Health (DPH) today announced the launch of the Kentucky Health Emergency Listing of Professionals for Surge (K HELPS) program, a state-based system to register medical professionals interested in volunteering to offer assistance during public health emergencies or disasters.
• Kentucky Suicide Prevention Group to Honor Country Music Band
  Wednesday, July 11, 2007
  The Kentucky Suicide Prevention Group (KSPG) is honoring country music band Emerson Drive today in Louisville for its recent number one hit “Moments,” a song lauded by mental health professionals for bringing awareness to suicide prevention.
• Proposals sought for new AmeriCorps programs
  Tuesday, July 10, 2007
  The Kentucky Commission on Community Volunteerism and Service in the Cabinet for Health and Family Services has issued a call for proposals for new AmeriCorps programs. Funding is available for programs of 10 or more members to address a range of unmet community needs.
• State Agencies Issue Two Fish Consumption Advisories in Pike County
  Thursday, July 05, 2007
  The Kentucky Departments for Public Health, Environmental Protection and Fish and Wildlife today issued fish consumption advisories due to elevated PCB and mercury levels for two bodies of water in Pike County: Knox Creek and Fishtrap Lake, including the portion of the Levisa Fork River above the lake to the Virginia state boundary in Pike County.
• Food Safety Tips for the Fourth of July
  Tuesday, July 03, 2007
  It’s summer - time for cookouts, picnics and eating outdoors. However, if food isn’t handled correctly, foodborne illness can ruin all of the fun. The Department for Public Health’s (DPH) food safety branch wants to remind cooks of some general food safety tips, particularly during the Fourth of July holiday when family barbecues and picnics are part of the tradition.
• National HIV Testing Day is June 27
  Tuesday, June 26, 2007
  In honor of National HIV Testing Day on June 27, the Kentucky Department for Public Health is promoting routine voluntary HIV testing for people 13-64 years old. The campaign comes on the heels of a Centers for Disease Control and Prevention initiative to incorporate routine testing nationwide. In Kentucky, the campaign for increased HIV testing runs during the June.
• AmeriCorps meeting needs through 11 state programs - 225 AmeriCorps members engaged in broad array of service projects
  Friday, June 22, 2007
  More than $2.7 million in grants from the Corporation for National and Community Service (CNCS) will fund 11 state AmeriCorps programs throughout Kentucky for the 2007-08 program year, beginning in September.
• Annual African-American and Latino Youth HIV-AIDS Conference Set
  Tuesday, June 19, 2007
  The Department for Public Health’s (DPH) seventh annual African-American and Latino Youth Conference on HIV/AIDS is set for Saturday, June 23, at the Lexington Traditional Magnet School, 350 N. Limestone, Lexington.
• Fayette County Workshop to Focus on Race in Child Welfare System; Forum is Wednesday evening on UK campus
  Tuesday, June 19, 2007
  The “Race, Community and Child Welfare Summit: Addressing the Crisis in Fayette County” will be from 4 to 6 p.m. on Wednesday, June 20, at the Worsham Theater in the University of Kentucky Student Center in Lexington. The Student Center is at 404 S. Limestone St. The Kentucky Cabinet for Health and Family Services, the state agency responsible for child welfare services, is cosponsoring the event with LexLinc and UK’s Office of Community Engagement.
• Elder abuse prevention efforts recognized; Rally honors groups, individuals working to protect seniors
  Friday, June 15, 2007
  The Kentucky Cabinet for Health and Family Services (CHFS), the Kentucky Association of Gerontology, AARP, the Office of the Attorney General and the International Network for the Prevention of Elder Abuse sponsored Kentucky Elder Abuse Awareness Day today to coincide with World Elder Abuse Awareness Day.
• DPH Sets Mercury Collection Event for Local Health Departments
  Thursday, June 14, 2007
  The Kentucky Department for Public Health (DPH) is working to become “mercury free” and is broadening its efforts to local health departments (LHDs). On June 19, DPH officials will hold a collection for LHDs to retrieve all mercury-containing items from their inventories.
• Tom Emberton Jr. Named CHFS Deputy Secretary
  Friday, June 08, 2007
  Tom Emberton Jr. has been named deputy secretary in the Kentucky Cabinet for Health and Family Services (CHFS).
• Kentucky Diabetes Educator to Lead National Diabetes Organization
  Friday, June 08, 2007
  A staff member from the Green River District Health Department has been elected to serve as president of the American Association of Diabetes Educators (AADE).
• Capitol Rally to Spotlight Elder Abuse Prevention; Public invited to June 15 event
  Thursday, June 07, 2007
  The public is invited to a rally next week recognizing the efforts to protect older Kentuckians and stop elder abuse. The Kentucky Cabinet for Health and Family Services (CHFSis co-sponsoring Kentucky Elder Abuse Awareness Day on Friday, June 15. The event will begin at 10 a.m. in the Capitol rotunda and coincides with World Elder Abuse Awareness Day.
• Department for Public Health, Trust for Life to Launch Electronic Organ Donor Registry
  Thursday, June 07, 2007
  Kentucky Department for Public Health (DPH) officials today announced the creation of a new electronic state organ donor registry, which available through the Circuit Court Clerks’ offices. Governor Ernie Fletcher and the Kentucky General Assembly strongly supported the new registry, which will provide an electronic database of everyone in Kentucky who has indicated his or her wish to become an organ donor. The registry is designed to improve the speed of identifying possible organ donors.
• Two Kentuckians Identified as Passengers on TB Patient's Flight
  Friday, June 01, 2007
  The Kentucky Department for Public Health (DPH) has learned from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) that two Kentuckians have been identified so far as being on an international flight earlier this month with the patient with extensively drug-resistant tuberculosis (XDR-TB). Though the CDC believes the risk of illness in other passengers is low, the Louisville Metro Department of Public Health and Wellness is conducting precautionary follow-up evaluation and testing on these individuals.
• State Agencies Reissue Ohio Fish Consumption Advisories
  Wednesday, May 30, 2007
  The Kentucky Departments of Public Health, Environmental Protection and Fish and Wildlife today reissued fish consumption advisories for the Ohio River bordering Kentucky. Flathead catfish in the river’s lower reach have now been added to the advisory list, which otherwise remains unchanged.
• State Health Department Unveils New Statewide Emergency Communications System
  Tuesday, May 29, 2007
  The Kentucky Department for Public Health (DPH) has announced the creation of the Kentucky Public Health Interoperable Communication System (KPHICS), a wide-ranging program that will allow interoperable communications and incident management between the state and local health departments statewide.
• State seeks input on preventing child abuse; Hardin County meeting is May 31
  Friday, May 25, 2007
  Hardin County residents are invited to a meeting this month to help develop ways to keep the region’s children safe. The meeting will be from 11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. on Thursday, May 31, in room 303 of the Occupational Technical Building of Elizabethtown Community College.
• Put Food Safety First This Memorial Day
  Friday, May 25, 2007
  Memorial Day weekend is the unofficial kick-off to the outdoor grilling season. For this reason, the Food Safety Branch in the Kentucky Department for Public Health urges everyone to follow food safety guidelines to prevent the onset of food borne illness.
• Survey out now will measure state’s readiness for aging boom; Selected households strongly urged to complete, return questionnaire
  Thursday, May 24, 2007
  Researchers are collecting and analyzing survey data to help citizens and communities determine where they stand - as well as where they want to be - in their level of readiness to serve the needs of aging baby boomers.
• State offers elder abuse awareness license plate; Proceeds will fund local prevention outreach efforts; commitments needed by May 30
  Wednesday, May 23, 2007
  Kentuckians can become a driving force in helping local groups prevent elder abuse by committing to the purchase of a specialized vehicle license plate. The Kentucky Cabinet for Health and Family Services is promoting the sale of the elder abuse awareness license plates.
• State’s foster parents honored for excellent service; Nine parents and couples receive awards
  Friday, May 18, 2007
  Nine parents and couples from across the state were honored today for their excellent service as foster parents to Kentucky’s most vulnerable children. The Kentucky Cabinet for Health and Family Services (CHFS), the state agency that oversees the public foster care system, awarded the parents Excellence in Service Awards.
• Mayfield Middle Named Winners of Kentucky Kids Move It
  Thursday, May 17, 2007
  The Kentucky Diabetes Network (KDN) today announced that Mayfield Middle School is the winner of the statewide “Kentucky Kids Move It!” competition, earning the school $1,000 for students’ dedication to physical activity and leading healthy lifestyles.The money is given to the school’s wellness committee to promote a healthy environment. The announcement was made at the Western Kentucky middle school during an event that also included a healthy eating presentation by the Purchase District Health Department.
• National Rankings Find More Kentuckians Have Health Coverage
  Thursday, May 17, 2007
  While the rest of the country has seen the number of uninsured people continue to rise, the Kaiser Family Foundation, a well-respected national think tank, released data on April 26 ranking Kentucky No. 1 in the nation in the growth of employer health insurance and fourth in the drop in the number of uninsured people.
• State’s foster parents to be honored at Frankfort reception
  Wednesday, May 16, 2007
  Nine parents and couples from across the state will be honored at a Foster Care Month reception in Frankfort on Friday. The Kentucky Cabinet for Health and Family Services (CHFS), the state agency that oversees the public foster care system, will present the parents with Excellence in Service Awards.
• State announces funding for Fayette child abuse prevention projects; Community programs focus on early intervention, collaboration through Partners in Prevention
  Friday, May 11, 2007
  The Kentucky Cabinet for Health and Family Services (CHFS) has announced funding for three Fayette County programs focused on reducing child abuse and neglect. The programs will be funded through the Department for Community Based Services’ (DCBS) Partners in Prevention program.
• Kentucky Resource Market among nationally honored independence programs
  Thursday, May 10, 2007
• Kentucky AmeriCorps members in the spotlight for AmeriCorps Week
  Thursday, May 10, 2007
  During National AmeriCorps Week, May 13-20, AmeriCorps programs across Kentucky will sponsor special events to say “thanks for the hospitality” to their host communities and to promote national service.
• Richmond event to focus on elder abuse recognition, prevention; Financial exploitation to be highlighted in mock trial
  Thursday, May 10, 2007
  Richmond-area residents who want to learn more about elder abuse recognition and prevention are invited to a workshop later this month. As part of Elder Abuse Prevention Month, the Council on Elder Maltreatment Prevention (CEMP) is sponsoring its annual symposium on elder abuse awareness and vulnerable adult maltreatment prevention on Thursday, May 17, at the Perkins Building on Richmond’s Eastern Kentucky University campus.
• Governor’s Office and USTA Kentucky Promote Local Tennis Events
  Monday, May 07, 2007
  The Governor’s Office of Wellness and Physical Activity (GOWPA) and the United States Tennis Association (USTA) – Kentucky are working together to promote local tennis events across the commonwealth in the month of May. Throughout the month of May, which is designated by USTA as “Tennis Month” across the country, local communities across the commonwealth will be hosting Tennis Block Parties.
• HIV/AIDS Conference Set for May 9-11
  Wednesday, May 02, 2007
  Registrations will be accepted on site for the 2007 Kentucky HIV/AIDS Conference, an annual event to help raise awareness of the HIV/AIDS epidemic. The Kentucky Department for Public Health (DPH) and Heartland CARES Inc., of Paducah, are co-hosting the event, set for May 9-11 at the Radisson Plaza Hotel in Lexington.
• Get Healthy – Run the GHK 5K May 12
  Tuesday, May 01, 2007
  Kentucky’s runners and walkers should mark May 12 on their calendars and get registered for a Get Healthy Kentucky 5K, a 3.1-mile fun run/walk for people of all fitness levels. The road races are scheduled to take place at several locations around the state.
• State Health Department Releases Updated Pandemic Influenza Readiness Plan
  Tuesday, May 01, 2007
  The Kentucky Department for Public Health (DPH) has released an updated state pandemic influenza (flu) readiness plan aimed at protecting Kentucky residents in the event of a worldwide epidemic of flu.
• State changing child protective services practices; Improvements will give birth parents greater access to due process
  Tuesday, April 24, 2007
  The Kentucky Cabinet for Health and Family Services (CHFS) is making several changes to the state’s child protection services practices to improve the equity of the process for families and ensure the best outcomes for children in state foster care. CHFS Secretary Mark D. Birdwhistell announced the changes, which do not require legislative action, at today’s meeting of the blue ribbon panel on adoption.
• State Health Department Receives High Rating for SNS Preparedness
  Monday, April 23, 2007
  The Kentucky Department for Public Health (DPH) announced that Kentucky has received one of the highest ratings -- a “green minus” -- from the federal Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) for its level of preparedness to receive and dispense medications and supplies through the Strategic National Stockpile (SNS) program.
• Adoption Blue Ribbon Panel Meeting Scheduled for April 24
  Friday, April 20, 2007
  The Kentucky Cabinet for Health and Family Services’ blue ribbon panel on adoption is scheduled to meet next week. The meeting will be from 1 to 4 p.m. in room 154 of the Capitol Annex on Tuesday, April 24, and is open to the public.
• Governor Fletcher Announces Funding for After-School Teen Project; Six-county pilot begins in Barren and McCracken
  Friday, April 13, 2007
  Governor Ernie Fletcher today announced $150,000 in state funding to launch an after-school project to help at-risk teens and pre-teens in two counties. The Youth Promise Program for teens will begin this spring at the Boys and Girls Club of Glasgow/Barren County and the Oscar Cross Boys and Girls Club in McCracken County. Each club will receive $75,000 for their teen after-school efforts. The project will expand to four more counties later this year.
• Governor’s awards, local projects among highlights of Volunteer Week in Kentucky
  Friday, April 13, 2007
  Governor Ernie Fletcher has proclaimed April 15-21 Volunteer Week in Kentucky. The state observance coincides with National Volunteer Week.
• Media Advisory: Ceremony to honor volunteer award winners
  Monday, April 09, 2007
  Cabinet for Health and Family Services Undersecretary Tom Emberton Jr. will present the 2006 Governor’s Awards for Outstanding Volunteer Service at 2:30 p.m. on Monday, April 16, at the Capitol Rotunda in Frankfort. Sixteen winners, including adults, youth and groups, will be honored for outstanding volunteer service in 11 award categories. The Kentucky Commission on Community Volunteerism and Service, an agency of CHFS, sponsors the annual awards program.
• HIV/AIDS Conference Set for May 9-11
  Thursday, April 05, 2007
  To heighten awareness of the HIV/AIDS epidemic, public health officials from across the commonwealth will gather in downtown Lexington next month for the 2007 Kentucky HIV/AIDS Conference.
• Governor Fletcher Announces Project Targeting Racial Disparity in Child Welfare System
  Tuesday, April 03, 2007
  Governor Ernie Fletcher and leaders from the Kentucky Cabinet for Health and Family Services (CHFS) today announced a comprehensive project to target racial disproportionality in the child welfare system. The child welfare system includes the community, its people and systems that report abuse and neglect to child protective services and those that respond and provide services.
• Public Health Promotes Kidney Screenings
  Tuesday, April 03, 2007
  The Kentucky Department for Public Health (DPH) is promoting kidney health throughout April and May, encouraging members of the public to take advantage of free screenings around the commonwealth. The Kidney Early Evaluation Program (KEEP), a free screening for those at increased risk of developing kidney disease, will be offered at various locations.
• CHFS April Public Meetings
  Monday, April 02, 2007
• Governor Announces New Web Site for Information on Health Care Quality
  Wednesday, March 28, 2007
  Governor Ernie Fletcher today announced the creation of the Health Care Information Center, a new, comprehensive resource to help Kentucky consumers become more informed about the quality of health care throughout the commonwealth. The Office of Health Policy (OHP) in the Cabinet for Health and Family Services (CHFS), working with the Kentucky Hospital Association, developed the new Web site, http://healthdata.chfs.ky.gov, which details the quality of patient care received in Kentucky hospitals.
• Prematurity Prevention Partnership Launched
  Tuesday, March 27, 2007
  To reduce the rate of preventable preterm births in targeted areas of Kentucky, the Kentucky Department for Public Health (DPH) joined the March of Dimes and Johnson and Johnson Pediatric Institute today to formally launch Healthy Babies Are Worth the WaitSM, a three-year partnership. The announcement was made at a news conference prior to the opening of the Kentucky Public Health Association’s annual meeting here.
• Focus on Public Health
  Tuesday, March 27, 2007
  The Kentucky Department for Public Health (DPH) and the Kentucky Public Health Association (KPHA) are preparing for Public Health Week in Kentucky with a gubernatorial proclamation and the association’s annual conference in Louisville. Public Health Week and the KPHA Educational Conference are set for March 26-30. The state educational conference is set for March 26-29 at the Executive Inn West in Louisville.
• Batter Up!
  Friday, March 23, 2007
  The Sports Flash (TSF) Radio Network and Get Healthy Kentucky (GHK) are collaborating to reduce tobacco use in the commonwealth, launching the Kentucky “No Spit” All-Star campaign. This unique health promotion will take place throughout high school baseball season and will honor players who have taken the pledge not to use smokeless tobacco products, such as “spit” or “chew” tobacco.
• Golf Scramble to Benefit State’s Adoption Recruitment; Event at U of L’s Cardinal Club to feature former touring professional golfer Wally Armstrong
  Friday, March 23, 2007
  The Third Annual Kentucky Mulligan Invitational is scheduled for Monday, April 9, at the University of Louisville’s Cardinal Club, at 401 Champions Way, Simpsonville. It benefits Kentucky’s public adoption recruitment efforts. Former touring professional golfer and author Wally Armstrong will be the keynote speaker.
• Media Advisory
  Thursday, March 22, 2007
  Health and Family Services Acting Undersecretary for Health and Public Health Commissioner William Hacker, M.D., and Kentucky Public Health Association President Shawn Crabtree will discuss public health in Kentucky at an event at 9 a.m. Friday, March 23, in the Capitol Rotunda.
• Take the Risk, Take the Test
  Thursday, March 22, 2007
  In honor of American Diabetes Alert Day on March 27, the Kentucky Department for Public Health (DPH) wants residents of the commonwealth to understand the health implications of diabetes and is encouraging Kentuckians to take a brief, online survey to test their risk of developing the disease. According to the DPH Diabetes Prevention and Control Program, an estimated 274,000 adult Kentuckians have diagnosed diabetes.
• Elliott County Human Services Office Relocates; Transitional office is on Junior Street
  Wednesday, March 21, 2007
  The Elliott County Department for Community Based Services (DCBS) office has relocated after a February fire destroyed its previous home. The new offices, leased by the state, are at Route 5, Box 1900, Junior Street in Sandy Hook. Staff is available from 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. weekdays.