Comments sought for prevention and public health recommendations

Public input is requested on the draft recommendations (PDF: 986KB/11 pages) of the Prevention and Public Health Work Group. Please direct your responses to HealthReform.MN@state.mn.us and mention Prevention and Public Health in the subject field. Comments are requested by noon on Friday, September 7.

Family's experience highlights value of health care home

Minnesota's "health care homes" have played a part in the care of nine-year-old Melanie Gates, who has a mitochondrial disorder affecting her cells' ability to power her bodily organs. At Mayo, a nurse care manager is the first point of contact, and helps determine the correct medical response. Team members write nutrition IV orders, oversee administration of Melanie's 30-plus drugs and support mom Amber Gates in her 24-hour family caregiver role. Read the full story at The Rochester Post-Bulletin.

Learn more about health care homes at what's new at the health care home website.

Minnesota's statewide quality reporting systems seeks comments on measures

On August 13, MDH published proposed amendments to Minnesota Rules Chapter 4654 (the Minnesota Statewide Quality Reporting and Measurement System) in the State Register. MDH posted the proposed changes, including changes to the rule’s appendices, at Health Care Quality Measures – Proposed Rule Amendment. The publication of the proposed amendments initiated a formal 30-day comment period. Comments must be submitted by 4:30 p.m. on September 12, 2012. MDH is required to annually review and publish any proposed amendments to Minnesota Rules Chapter 4654 by August 15 of each year.