MHA Reinforces Evidence-Based Vaccination Guidelines

The MHA is strengthening its commitment to evidence-based immunization practices under the guidance of the MHA Healthcare and Public Health Integration Council and chief medical and nursing leaders. Efforts include distributing educational resources, reaffirming alignment with Michigan Department of Health and Human Services recommendations and releasing a public statement.

Gary Roth, DO, MBA, FACOS, FCCM, FACS, chief medical officer, MHA issued a media statement Feb. 4 endorsing the American Academy of Pediatrics immunization schedule. This comes amid concerns that some local health departments have issued guidance that deviates from established standards.

With families receiving vaccine information from various sources, confusion may occur. Healthcare providers continue to serve as trusted voices by offering clear, science-based guidance. Adherence to established immunization schedules remains essential to protecting public health and preventing vaccine-preventable diseases.

Members with questions regarding vaccinations may contact Kelsey Ostergren at the MHA.

MHA Keystone Board Reviews Workplace Violence Prevention and Maternal Health Efforts

The MHA Keystone Board of Directors met Nov. 12 to review ongoing work to improve safety and quality across member organizations. The meeting opened with a connect-to-purpose story shared by Keystone Board Chair Doug Dascenzo, DNP, RN, CENP, vice president of nursing operations, Henry Ford Health, which reinforced Keystone’s focus on preventing workplace violence.

The board discussed strategies to address violence in healthcare settings, including clinics and off-site locations. Members reviewed efforts to strengthen policies, training and coordinated approaches that support safer environments for healthcare workers. The discussion emphasized that workplace violence affects staff well-being, patient safety and overall organizational performance.

The board also reviewed maternal health priorities, including the MI AIM program and the framework for maternal levels of care. The overview highlighted how levels of care categorize facilities based on their ability to provide specialized maternal services, ensuring that patients receive appropriate care tailored to their clinical needs.

The board will receive a detailed presentation on Keystone initiatives related to maternal health at a future meeting. The presentation will outline opportunities for board support in advancing work to improve maternal and infant care.

The meeting reaffirmed Keystone’s commitment to addressing critical safety and quality issues through collaborative leadership and continuous improvement.

Members with questions may contact Amy Brown at the MHA.