BHSJ CHA Receives 2023 Director’s Award

Thursday October 12, 2023

Award to Local Public Health Recognition

The Branch Hillsdale St. Joseph Community Health Agency was recognized by the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services with a 2023 Director’s Award to Local Public Health.  The Agency was one of three departments to receive honors at the annual Michigan Premier Public Health Conference held October 2-4, 2023.

The agency was recognized for “Excellence in Public Health for providing access to Healthcare in a Rural Community.” The award was presented to Rebecca Burns, Health Officer by MDHHS Director Laura de la Rambelje. “I am honored to accept this award on behalf of the agency and our team,” says Burns. “Programs, such as Children’s Special Health Care Services, collaborate with providers to ensure our communities can access care locally, instead of travelling long distances for services.  We have been working with providers, partner agencies, and community groups to identify opportunities to overcome barriers in accessing care, such as transportation, lack of insurance, or insurance with limited coverage. Our upcoming collaboration with Hillsdale Hospital is another way in which to serve the mission of public health, by supporting the physical health of the individuals and communities we serve.”

In addition to BHSJ CHA, Central Michigan District Health Department and Calhoun County Health Department were also honored with Director’s Awards.