The Branch Hillsdale St. Joseph Community Health Agency (BHSJ CHA) 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.

The agency was recognized for “Excellence in Public Health for providing access to Healthcare in a Rural Community.” The award was presented to Health Officer Rebecca Burns by MDHHS Director Laura de la Rambelje. 

“I am honored to accept this award on behalf of the agency and our team,” Burns said. “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.

The Branch-Hillsdale-St. Joseph Community Health Agency is committed to promoting wellness, preventing disease, providing health care, and protecting the environment. For more information, contact your local office, visit www.bhsj.org, follow BHSJ CHA on Facebook www.facebook.com/BHSJCHA or Instagram www.instagram.com/bhsj_healthagency.