August 2006 News

Flint Nurse Has License Summarily Suspended - August 28th

Lautzenheiser Awarded Senior Citizen of the Year - August 28th

Oliver Awarded Senior Citizen of the Year - August 28th

Michigan Surgeon General Debuts Healthy Congregations Tool - August 25th

Detroit Physician Has License Summarily Suspended - August 25th

Michigan WIC Program Announces Infant Formula Changes - August 24th

New Long Term Care Model Provides For All Inclusive Care - August 23rd

Keego Harbor Social Service Technician Has License Summarily Suspended - August 17th

Leaders Formalize Efforts To Protect Michigan Citizens - August 16th

Caledonia Nurse Loses License - August 14th

MDCH Stresses Importance Of Injury Prevention For The Aging - August 8th

August Declared Breastfeeding Awareness Month In Michigan - August 7th

First West Nile Virus Human Case Reported In Muskegon County - August 4th

August 6-12 Recognized As Farmers Market Week In Michigan - August 4th

MDCH Sets New Enrollment Target For Prescription Drug Card - August 2nd

Dearborn Heights Nurse Loses License - August 1st

---

Flint Nurse Has License Summarily Suspended The Michigan Department of Community Health (MDCH) has summarily suspended the registered nurse license and licensed practical nurse license of Tyanna Connor, R.N., L.P.N., based on her misdemeanor conviction in the Seventh Judicial Circuit Court of Genesee County. Connor failed to report her conviction to MDCH as required by the Public Health Code. On March 30, 2006, Connor was convicted of Assault with a Dangerous Weapon-Attempt, a misdemeanor punishable by imprisonment for a maximum term of two years. As a result, Connor was sentenced to 90 days in jail, placed on probation for 18 months with terms, and ordered to pay a total of $800 in fees and costs. On August 22, 2006, MDCH issued an order immediately suspending Connor’s licenses pursuant to the Public Health Code, which provides for the mandatory summary suspension of a health professional’s license upon the conviction of a misdemeanor punishable by imprisonment for a maximum term of two years. An administrative hearing will be scheduled to address the status of Connor’s nursing licenses. For more information on disciplinary actions taken by the health professional licensing boards within MDCH, please go to http://www.michigan.gov/mdch, and click on Health Systems and Licensing. Back to Top

Lautzenheiser Awarded Senior Citizen of the Year In cooperation with the Michigan State Fair and Consumers Energy, the Michigan Commission and Office of Services to the Aging have selected Kenneth Lautzenheiser of Jerome as one of two Senior Citizens of the Year for 2006. He was honored today at the Michigan State Fair in Detroit. Kenneth Lautzenheiser, 82, was selected the winner in the Leadership category. As a member of the Board of Directors for LifeWays, the local Community Mental Health Agency, he has shown tremendous commitment to improving the lives of seniors. Lautzenheiser is also an active member of the Area Agency on Aging Advisory Committee, Chair of the Tri-County Health Board, a member of the Hillsdale County Planning Commission, and Chair of the Michigan Substance Abuse Coalition. He is a 50+ year member of the Lions Club International. Throughout his participation and leadership, Lautzenheiser has remained a constant voice for the concerns of seniors in the community. He values input and participation from all involved. “Mr. Lautzenheiser’s leadership qualities and dedication to seniors have made a positive impact on so many lives,” said Sharon L. Gire, Director of the Michigan Office of Services to the Aging. "He is a person who leads by example and continues to show others the value of community participation and is well deserving of the Senior Citizen of the Year Award.” Prior to his retirement, Lautzenheiser was a dedicated school superintendent. The Senior Citizen of the Year Award Program is a long-standing partnership between the Michigan Commission and Office of Services to the Aging and the Michigan State Fair. Consumers Energy has supported the awards program for many years. Each winner received a congratulatory letter from the Governor, a certificate of congratulations from the Michigan Office of Services to the Aging, and a plaque from the Michigan State Fair. This year, each winner was surprised with a $500 award from Consumers Energy. Back to Top

Oliver Awarded Senior Citizen of the Year In cooperation with the Michigan State Fair and Consumers Energy, the Michigan Commission and Office of Services to the Aging have selected Bob Oliver of Adrian as one of two Senior Citizens of the Year for 2006. Mr. Oliver was selected the winner in the category of Service. He will be honored today at the Michigan State Fair in Detroit. Bob Oliver, 73, is a vibrant and dedicated volunteer for numerous organizations in Adrian. He serves as Vice-President of the Advisory Board for the Adrian Senior Center and helps with all Center activities. For a number of years, Oliver has been a driver for the Meals on Wheels program, providing homebound seniors with a nutritious meal. He also devotes his time to take other older adults who are unable to drive to their medical appointments. As someone who has fought his own battle with cancer, Oliver has dedicated himself to helping others by facilitating a men’s cancer support group. He is a devoted husband, father, and grandfather and is a strong pillar of support for his family. “Mr. Oliver sets an example for all of us on the importance of staying active and involved in our community,” said Sharon L. Gire, Director of the Michigan Office of Services to the Aging. “His impact on local seniors is tremendous and it is an honor to be able to honor him as Senior Citizen of the Year.” The Senior Citizen of the Year Award Program is a long-standing partnership between the Michigan Commission and Office of Services to the Aging and the Michigan State Fair. Consumers Energy has supported the awards program for many years. Each winner received a congratulatory letter from the Governor, a certificate of congratulations from the Michigan Office of Services to the Aging, and a plaque from the Michigan State Fair. This year, each winner was surprised with a $500 award from Consumers Energy. Back to Top

Michigan Surgeon General Debuts Healthy Congregations Tool Michigan Surgeon General Dr. Kimberlydawn Wisdom announced a new web-based tool to assist Michigan churches in supporting physical activity, healthy eating, and a tobacco-free lifestyle among churchgoers. The tool was launched at the Second Annual Governor’s Faith-Based & Community Resource Symposium yesterday at the Cobo Conference Center in Detroit. "The well-being of congregations is central to all faith leaders and faith organizations,” Wisdom said. “We are thrilled to provide this resource to help the faith community address the challenges affecting the health of members and create an environment that supports healthy living." The Michigan Steps Up Promoting Healthy Congregations Assessment is one of several new free resources now available at www.michiganstepsup.org. This evidence-based tool was created to enable Michigan faith-based organizations to assess themselves on how well they are doing at supporting healthier lifestyles among their congregations and learn about steps they can take to promote better health among their members. “The Promoting Healthy Congregations Assessment was very helpful and gave me ideas that I had not previously thought about,” said Rev. Dr. LaClaire Bouknight of Eaglevision Ministries in Lansing. “Since completing the assessment about a week ago, we have implemented a no-smoking policy and started working on health questionnaires.” Other web-based resources include: the “Spirit, Mind & Body: Eat Well, Live Well, Event Planning Guide,” monthly updates on a variety of health topics, and an opportunity to join the newly formed Michigan Faith-Based Health Association. Members of Michigan’s faith community have played a key role in the development of these resources as part of a network of nearly 400 statewide Michigan Steps Up stakeholders. This group has worked collaboratively with the Michigan Department of Community Health to develop the Promoting Healthy Congregations Assessment, a healthy eating policy for faith-based functions, the Michigan Faith-Based Health Association and the Walk by Faith health information website. For more information about the Michigan Steps Up faith-based resources, please visit www.michiganstepsup.org and click on Healthy Communities. Back to Top

Detroit Physician Has License Summarily Suspended The Michigan Department of Community Health (MDCH) has summarily suspended the license to practice medicine of Anthony Lee Baisden, M.D. based on his felony conviction in the Third Judicial Circuit Court of Wayne County. Baisden failed to report his conviction to MDCH as required by the Public Health Code. On April 21, 2006, Baisden was convicted of Criminal Sexual Conduct – Third Degree (Force or Coercion), a felony. As a result, Baisden was sentenced to prison for a minimum period of eight years and a maximum of 15 years. Baisden was ordered to pay $720 in court costs and fees. On August 14, 2006, MDCH issued an order immediately suspending Baisden’s license pursuant to the Public Health Code, which provides for the mandatory summary suspension of a health professional’s license upon the conviction of a felony. An administrative hearing will be scheduled to address the status of Baisden’s license to practice medicine. For more information on disciplinary actions taken by the health professional licensing boards within MDCH, please go to http://www.michigan.gov/mdch, and click on Health Systems and Licensing. Back to Top

Michigan WIC Program Announces Infant Formula Changes The Michigan Department of Community Health’s Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants, and Children (WIC Program) will implement a new infant formula rebate contract with Mead Johnson Nutritionals, a subsidiary of Bristol Myers Squibb, effective November 1, 2006. Though breastfeeding is strongly recommended, WIC also offers infant formulas for those infants who are not exclusively breastfed. Breast milk is the best source of nutrition for optimal growth and physical and cognitive development. Most babies will not notice the change in formula. Parents should speak with their baby’s doctor or the WIC Nurse or Nutritionist if this change causes increased gas, stomach pain, a difference in bowel movements, trouble breathing, red diaper rash, frequent spitting up, or projectile vomiting. Some babies may have allergies to standard formula or breast milk. If the doctor determines that a special formula is needed, the parent can obtain a medical justification form, to be signed by their doctor and returned, from their WIC clinic in order to have the special formula approved. The primary contract infant formulas offered through WIC will include: · Enfamil LIPIL with Iron · Enfamil A.R. LIPIL · Enfamil Gentlease LIPIL · Enfamil LactoFree LIPIL · Enfamil with Iron · Prosobee LIPIL Iron Fortified Competitive bidding for infant formula is required by federal regulations and the Mead Johnson Nutritional’s bid produced more rebate income for the Michigan WIC program. The change in the infant formula rebate contract will affect most participating WIC families receiving formula. The Infant Formula Rebate allows the WIC Program to enroll more infants, women, and children and provide nutritious food, nutrition education, and referrals to other health and social service programs, such as prenatal care, immunizations, and Food Stamps. Besides breastfeeding support and infant formula, the WIC Program also provides supplemental foods such as milk, cheese, eggs, cereal, peanut butter and dry beans. For questions regarding enrollment in the WIC Program, please contact your local WIC agency by calling 1-800-26-BIRTH or by visiting www.michigan.gov/WIC. For more information on infant formulas, please call (800) 942-1636 (choose option 1 and then 5). Back to Top

New Long Term Care Model Provides For All Inclusive Care GRAND RAPIDS – A ribbon cutting ceremony today in Grand Rapids marked a new era of long term care in West Michigan, as the Michigan Department of Community Health (MDCH) and Care Resources jointly opened a new Program of All-inclusive Care for the Elderly (PACE) program in the area. "We believe very strongly that this new PACE model for the people of west Michigan represents the wave of the future for long term care models in Michigan," said Janet Olszewski, MDCH Director. "We are thrilled to now offer two PACE models in Michigan – one being in west Michigan and the other in Detroit." The PACE program – headquartered at Care Resources in Grand Rapids – features a comprehensive medical and social service delivery system that uses an interdisciplinary team approach in an adult day health center. The center is supplemented by in-home and referral services for seniors, Olszewski said. The PACE service area covers all of Kent County. "The PACE program will offer another long term care option for the citizens of Kent County. Care Resources was established through a unique partnership between long standing local community organizations whose missions are to provide services to stimulate a higher quality of life for the citizens of Kent County. The partner organizations are HHS, Health Options, Holland Home, Metro Health Hospital, Pine Rest Christian Mental Health Services, and The Grand Rapids Dominicans. We are very honored to be awarded this PACE contract for Kent County and we look forward to opening our doors for services" said Denise Zoeterman, Care Resources Board Director and President and CEO of HHS, Health Options. Nationally, the PACE model is centered around the belief that it is better for the well-being of seniors with chronic care needs and their families to be served in the community whenever possible. PACE programs around the country serve individuals who are aged 55 or older, determined by their state to need nursing home care, able to live safely in the community at the time of enrollment, and live in a PACE service area. Services provided by PACE organizations include: · Delivering all needed medical and supportive services, the program is able to provide an entire continuum of care and services to seniors with chronic care needs while maintaining their independence in their homes for as long as possible. · Adult day care that offers nursing; physical, occupational and recreational therapies; meals; nutritional counseling; social work and personal care · Medical care provided by a PACE physician familiar with the history, needs, and preferences of each participant · Home health care and personal care · All necessary prescription drugs · Social services · Medical specialists in audiology, dentistry, optometry, podiatry, and speech therapy · Respite care · Hospital and nursing home care when necessary The PACE model of care can be traced to the early 1970s, when the Chinatown-North Beach community of San Francisco saw the pressing needs of families whose elders had immigrated from Italy, China, and the Philippines for long term care services. Back to Top

Keego Harbor Social Service Technician Has License Summarily Suspended The Michigan Department of Community Health (MDCH) has summarily suspended the social service technician license of Michael Christopher Bonomo, S.S.T., based on his felony conviction in the Sixth Judicial Circuit Court of Oakland County. Bonomo failed to report his conviction to MDCH as required by the Public Health Code. On April 26, 2006, Bonomo was convicted of one felony count of Criminal Sexual Conduct – Second Degree (Person under 13). As a result, Bonomo was sentenced to prison for a minimum of two years and a maximum of 15 years and was ordered to pay fees totaling $120. On August 2, 2006, MDCH issued an order immediately suspending Bonomo’s license pursuant to the Public Health Code, which provides for the mandatory summary suspension of a health professional's license upon the conviction of a felony. An administrative hearing will be scheduled to address the status of Bonomo’s social service technician license. For more information on disciplinary actions taken by the health professional licensing boards within MDCH, please go to http://www.michigan.gov/mdch, and click on Health Systems and Licensing. Back to Top

Leaders Formalize Efforts To Protect Michigan Citizens LANSING – Leaders from three state agencies tasked with protecting Michigan's public health agreed to formalize partnerships between Michigan and local health departments today, with the signing of a first-of-its-kind document that cements the bond between them. Directors from the state departments of Agriculture, Community Health and Environmental Quality joined the Michigan Association for Local Public Health (MALPH) in agreeing to a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) that clearly outlines both state and local public health responsibilities. Modeled after a document developed by the Association of State and Territorial Health Officials, (ASTHO), and the National Association of County and City Health Officials, (NACCHO), the MOU formalizes the partnership between state government agencies and local health departments to work together to address the areas of resource allocation, policy development, advocacy, and national coordination. "By formalizing this agreement between state and local agencies that safeguard public health on a daily basis, our state will be better protected in times of crisis,” said Michigan Governor Jennifer M. Granholm. “The solid state and local partnerships we currently have in place are absolutely essential to protecting all of Michigan's citizens." Michigan is the first state in the country to formally endorse this national model agreement. "This agreement builds on our ongoing work with our colleagues at the local level with public health accreditation, emergency preparedness, and other initiatives that continue to put our state in the forefront of promoting and protecting the health of our citizens,” said Janet Olszewski, Director of the Michigan Department of Community Health. "Our state/local collaboration has been tested recently by several food safety-related challenges in Michigan and passed with flying colors,” said Michigan Department of Agriculture Director Mitch Irwin. "Today's signing ratifies, in a formal way, the partnership the Department of Environmental Quality has with Michigan’s local health departments to protect Michigan’s communities from environmental hazards and practices that may harm human health," stated Steven Chester, Director of the Michigan Department of Environmental Quality. "We intend to use this agreement to build even stronger ties with our state partners in health endeavors,” said MALPH President Kim Singh. "This agreement assures Michigan’s citizens that state and local health authorities are always working together to protect and promote their health.” Michigan’s public health programs, while primarily managed by the Michigan Department of Community Health, are delivered through Michigan’s network of local health departments who also work directly with the Michigan Department of Agriculture to conduct restaurant inspections and other food protection and safety programs and the Michigan Department of Environmental Quality to inspect water wells, septic systems, campgrounds, swimming pools, among other activities. Back to Top

Caledonia Nurse Loses License The Michigan Department of Community Health (MDCH) has summarily suspended the licensed practical nurse license of Wendy Ann Hoogterp, L.P.N., based, in part, on her felony conviction in the 20th Judicial Circuit Court in Ottawa County. On May 8, 2006, Hoogterp was convicted of one felony count of Larceny in a Building. As a result, Hoogterp was placed on probation for a period of 18 months with terms, and ordered to pay fines, restitution, costs, and fees in the amount of $3,697. On August 3, 2006, MDCH issued an order immediately suspending Hoogterp’s license pursuant to the Public Health Code, which provides for the mandatory summary suspension of a health professional’s license upon the conviction of a felony. An administrative hearing will be scheduled to address the status of Hoogterp’s licensed practical nurse license. For more information on disciplinary actions taken by the health professional licensing boards within MDCH, please go to http://www.michigan.gov/mdch, and click on Health Systems and Licensing. Back to Top

MDCH Stresses Importance Of Injury Prevention For The Aging The Michigan Department of Community Health (MDCH), in collaboration with the Michigan Fall Prevention Partnership, is stressing physician intervention and fall prevention programs and clinics as effective means of reducing falls among older adults. "Falls can be devastating, especially for the elderly," said Janet Olszewski, MDCH Director. “The work of the Michigan Fall Prevention Partnership can help give doctors and older adults the tools they need to work together to identify and manage the characteristics that make individuals prone to falling." The Michigan Fall Prevention Partnership is a 30-member coalition, comprised of representatives from public health, health care, academia and the aging services network concerned about education and interventions to help adults over the age of 65 prevent falls. Research conducted by the Injury and Violence Prevention Section of the Michigan Department of Community Health—funded by a grant from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention—found that patients in an intervention group receiving fall prevention clinic services had 34 percent fewer falls than patients receiving usual care. As many as 80 percent of emergency room visits for injuries in those over 65 are for falling, about half of which need hospitalization. Falling is the most common cause of hip fractures and a serious fall can cause decreased mobility, activity level, and a decline in body functions that could lead to an increased susceptibility to infections, further disability, and even death. In 2002, medical costs related to falls that happened in Michigan reached an estimated $659 million. "Falling is not an inevitable part of aging. The steps we take now to address the problem will improve the quality of life to a growing number of older adults," said Sharon Gire, Director of the Office of Services to the Aging. "It will help ensure their independence and safety, and has the potential to save the state of Michigan millions in health care costs.” Falls can be prevented in the home through maintaining a regular exercise regimen to retain balance and strength and by reducing possible falling hazards such as rugs and cords, poor lighting, and uneven steps. Older adults and their families can also be aware of health factors that can contribute to the likelihood of falling and injury, such as poor vision, side effects of medications, osteoporosis, and heart conditions. Falls that do occur, even if injury is not obvious, should be reported to a physician who can refer the patient to a rehab facility or local fall prevention services. For more information about the Michigan Fall Prevention Partnership, the study, and brochures for older adults and health professionals, please visit www.michigan.gov/injuryprevention. Back to Top

August Declared Breastfeeding Awareness Month In Michigan To coincide with World Breastfeeding Week August 1-7, the Michigan Department of Community Health (MDCH) has declared August as Breastfeeding Awareness Month in Michigan. “Breast milk contains the perfect amount of nutrients and is easiest for the baby to digest,” said Janet Olszewski, MDCH Director. “It also serves as a great bonding opportunity for mother and child.” In 2004, 68 percent of newborns in Michigan received breast milk, but only 33 percent of infants received breast milk at six months. In addition to having healthier babies, women that breastfeed also shed post-partum weight faster and reduce their risk of certain types of reproductive cancers. To reach the goal of having all infants breastfed their first year of life, more awareness and support is needed throughout the community, workplace, family, and health care settings. Communities can establish breastfeeding-friendly atmospheres by providing clean and comfortable places for women to breastfeed or express their milk. The Women, Infants, and Children Program (WIC), in collaboration with Michigan State University Extension, has provided extra assistance to participating breastfeeding mothers through mother-to-mother support, referrals to breastfeeding specialists, and furnishing a breast pump to mothers returning to work or school. Women can find out if they qualify by contacting their local WIC agency or by calling 1(800) 26-BIRTH. In honor of Michigan Breastfeeding Awareness Month, World Breastfeeding Week, and the 50th anniversary of the La Leche League, the following events are being held around the state: August 12 (11 a.m. – 4 p.m.) Delta County La Leche League Chapter annual walk for breastfeeding and festivities Ludington Park, Escanaba August 23 (6 p.m.) Muskegon La Leche League Chapter picnic and walk along the beach Kruse Picnic Pavilion August 26 (Noon) Grand Rapids La Leche League Chapter potluck picnic on the hilltop of John Ball Park Aug. 28-Sept. 4 Chippewa County WIC will have a breastfeeding display at the Chippewa County Fair Sault Ste. Marie Back to Top

First West Nile Virus Human Case Reported In Muskegon County State health officials today have confirmed the first human West Nile Virus (WNV) case of the 2006 season in Muskegon County. A 37-year-old Muskegon woman with underlying health conditions tested positive for the disease, said Janet Olszewski, Director of the Michigan Department of Community Health. She was first hospitalized with complications from the disease one month ago. The patient later died, but officials cannot yet determine if the death was related to the West Nile Virus. “While we have seen WNV present in the bird and mosquito populations this year in Michigan, this is the first human case to be detected,” Olszewski said. “It remains extremely important for residents to use appropriate precautions when outside to limit their exposure to mosquitoes. We will continue to work closely with health departments and hospitals across the state to monitor WNV activity.” Last year Michigan experienced 62 human cases of WNV and there were four deaths reported. Nationwide, 87 WNV cases have been reported this year, including 3 deaths, from 17 states. So far in Michigan, 43 birds have been found to be positive for West Nile out of 158 birds tested. West Nile positive birds have been found in 26 Michigan counties. Physicians are urged to test patients for WNV if they present with fever and signs of meningitis or encephalitis, or sudden painless paralysis in the absence of stroke during the summer months. Michigan residents are encouraged to: Maintain window and door screening to help keep mosquitoes out of buildings. Drain puddles in the yard, and empty water from mosquito breeding sites such as buckets, troughs, barrels, cans, old tires, or similar sites. Avoid being outdoors when mosquitoes are most active (dawn and dusk). Wear light colored long-sleeved shirts and long pants when outdoors. Apply insect repellants that contain the active ingredient DEET to exposed skin or clothing, always following the manufacturer’s directions for use. (Avoid applying repellent to children less than two years of age containing DEET.) Citizens are encouraged to click on www.michigan.gov/westnilevirus for additional information on West Nile virus. Back to Top

August 6-12 Recognized As Farmers Market Week In Michigan The Michigan Department of Community Health (MDCH), along with Governor Granholm, is proclaiming the week of August 6 as Farmers' Market Week in Michigan. “Farmers' markets play an integral role in both the economic welfare and overall health of Michigan citizens,” said Janet Olszewski, MDCH Director. “We depend on Michigan’s farmers to deliver healthy and affordable produce throughout the state.” In 2005, the Farmer’s Market Nutrition Program, also known as Project FRESH, made fresh produce available to more than 38,000 low income and nutritionally at risk women and children. Over 761 Michigan farmers participated in the program, which grossed over $538,000 in produce sales. Women and children ages 1-4, who are currently enrolled in the Women, Infants, and Children (WIC) Program, are eligible to obtain coupons for Project FRESH to receive fresh fruits and vegetables. Women who are either pregnant or breastfeeding are also encouraged to collect Project FRESH coupons to help meet their special nutritional needs. Across the state, Farmers’ markets provide consumers with farm-fresh products such as fruits, vegetables, cheeses, herbs, flowers, baked goods, and meats. The markets serve as integral links between urban, suburban, and rural communities. Supporting local anti-hunger initiatives, farmers donate unsold food products to programs that feed Michigan’s most vulnerable citizens. For more information on how to become a Project FRESH farmer, please contact Pam Gove at (517) 335-8996. Back to Top

MDCH Sets New Enrollment Target For Prescription Drug Card DETROIT – Michigan Department of Community Health Director Janet Olszewski today announced a new campaign to promote the state’s official prescription drug discount card, with the goal of reaching the 50,000 barrier by January 1, 2007. "With this new push for enrollment, we certainly hope to make all citizens aware that help to reduce their prescription drug costs is readily available through the state of Michigan," Olszewski said at an event held at a minority-owned Detroit pharmacy today. "For individuals who currently have no prescription drug coverage, the MiRx card in an invaluable tool that can be utilized to save an average of 20 percent off the cost of prescription drugs." Olszewski will be on the road all this week promoting the card in various communities throughout lower Michigan, including Mt. Pleasant, Traverse City, and Detroit. Last week, Olszewski also was in Alpena promoting the card. MDCH also will air radio commercials promoting the MiRx card throughout August and October, she said. The card – available to low income, working residents who do not have prescription drug coverage and are not enrolled in other government-sponsored prescription drug programs – was first debuted by Governor Jennifer M. Granholm in September 2004. Today, more than 37,000 citizens currently benefit from the MiRx Card. Individuals who qualify for the card are able to use their discount prescription drug card at more than 2,300 pharmacies across the state, including all major chain stores. There is no age limit to participate in Michigan’s program. To qualify for the program, family members must only be Michigan residents, have no other prescription drug coverage, and have an income level at or below the state’s median income level. For a single individual, the median income level is $27,930. For a family of four that income level is $56,550. When enrollees present a MI-Rx card at a participating pharmacy they can expect to save approximately 20 percent off the retail price of common prescription drugs. Savings will depend on the kinds of medicines used, and if they are generic or brand name drugs. Currently, more than one million Michigan citizens do not have access to prescription drug coverage. For enrollment information for the MI-Rx card, please call 1-866-755-6479. Back to Top

Dearborn Heights Nurse Loses License The Michigan Department of Community Health (MDCH) has summarily suspended the licensed practical nurse license of Earletta A. Johnson, L.P.N., based on her felony conviction in Third Judicial Circuit Court, Wayne County. On July 8, 1999, Johnson was convicted of one felony count of Welfare Fraud. As a result, Johnson was placed on probation for a period of three years, ordered to pay restitution up to the total amount of the welfare benefits unlawfully received, and ordered to perform 150 hours of community service. In addition, Johnson has also been convicted of two misdemeanor offenses. On March 15, 2005, Johnson was convicted of one count of Domestic Violence Aggravated. As a result, Johnson was placed on probation for a period of one year with terms and ordered to pay costs. On May 3, 2006, Johnson was convicted of one count of Providing False Information to Obtain Employment at a Nursing Home. As a result, Johnson was placed on probation for a period of six months and ordered to pay costs and fees. On July 14, 2006, MDCH issued an order immediately suspending Johnson’s nursing license pursuant to the Public Health Code, which provides for the mandatory summary suspension of a health professional’s license upon the conviction of a felony. An administrative hearing will be scheduled to address the status of Johnson’s licensed practical nurse license. For more information on disciplinary actions taken by the health professional licensing boards within MDCH, please go to http://www.michigan.gov/mdch, and click on Health Systems and Licensing. Back to Top