Public comment: A representative of Nursing reiterated complaints about morale and staffing; a citizen reminded the Board, at length, of the "political atmosphere" in which they operate.
CEO Foley introduced Salim Al-Nurridin from the Health Care Consortium who was very involved in organizing the Town Meetings. In his review, he rated them generally positive in process and was complimentary to the Board on progress that has been made. The consultant's contract was extended with a projected end to the Strategic Planning process by June.
The new Chief Medical Officer, Dr. Terry Mason, was introduced. He comes from the Chicago Board of Health.
Discussion of a Settlement Agreement with the Health Facilities Planning Board continues.
Discussions have begun with the State on providing mental health services to replace closure of the Tinley Park facility. Oak Forest site is a possibility.
Dr. John Raba, who has been the interim Chief Medical Officer for the past 15 months, reviewed accomplishments during his tenure: service integration across facilities, partnering with FQHCs in Pediatrics, a Quality/Safety committee, improved clinical leadership, adjustments to salary inequities, increased accountability and productivity, all facilities accredited, with Cermak developing the "best team in the country".
Responding to a Board member inquiry, the H1N1 immunization rate for employees overall is reported as 51% (which includes persons declining for medical reasons). March 1 is the deadline for 100% implementation. More education is needed. Some delay was due to problems with supply.
In the process of adopting December minutes from the Finance Committee, a discussion of the proposed redevelopment of the historic Cook County Main Building for System administrative offices revealed confusion among Board members on the issue. Member Butler, who is a Cook County Commissioner, took a strong position that the cost involved in rehabbing the building versus new construction was wasteful, and the Board initially was swayed to agree. When further explanation was provided, that the building has National Historic recognition and cannot therefore be demolished and when they found that failing to accept the proposed site would mean their offices would be moved off campus, a subsequent motion passed saying they would move into any facility on campus. Staff must be relocated from their present location at 1900 W. Polk because the building is considered unsafe.
The Cook County Contract Compliance Officer reviewed the progress on implementing ordinances that relate to Women and Minority businesses. Workshops have been conducted to explain to these owners General Purpose contracts and how to participate in them.
Resolutions were adopted honoring Valerie L. Webb who has been elected President of the Illinois Public Health Association and Dr. Linda Rae Murray who is President-elect of the American Public Health Assn.
