News & Updates, Health and Human Services, Commonwealth of Massachusetts

Eat only Fully-Cooked Ground Beef Patties and Ground Beef Products

2009-11-02T00:00:00Z

The Massachusetts Department of Public Health (DPH) has been working with the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA), the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and other New England state health departments to identify persons infected with E.coli:O157:H7 who may have consumed undercooked ground beef contaminated with the same strain of the disease causing organism.

Partnership to Support Employment for People with Disabilities

2009-10-28T00:00:00Z

As part of National Disability Employment Month, the Patrick Administration today launched a public-private partnership called Work Without Limits to improve the job opportunities for people with disabilities across the Commonwealth.

Public Health Advisory: Recall of Ground Beef and Other Beef Products

2009-10-26T00:00:00Z

South Shore Meat Company in Brockton, Mass. has initiated a voluntary recall on certain ground beef and other beef products based on confirmed laboratory evidence of the presence of E. coli O157:H7 in leftover ground beef samples obtained from a nature camp in Plymouth, Mass.

Second Bi-Annual Youth Empowerment Initiative

2009-10-24T00:00:00Z

The Patrick Administration's Massachusetts Department of Public Health (DPH) today hosted a day-long conference designed to support, engage and encourage over 500 young people to work proactively towards positive change in their communities.

Forum with Commissioner Leadholm

2009-10-16T00:00:00Z

Commissioner Leadholm invites the mental health community and the public to join her in forums across the state to discuss how the Department of Mental Health can sustain its mission in serving adults, children, adolescents and families with serious mental health needs in challenging economic times.

DTA Commissioner, Food Assistance Director Receive Kit Clark Award

2009-10-15T00:00:00Z

The Patrick-Murray Administration announced today that Massachusetts Department of Transitional Assistance (DTA) Commissioner Julia E. Kehoe has received the Massachusetts Meals on Wheels Association's 2009 Kit Clark Award for her dedication to and support of senior nutrition services across the Commonwealth.

Mass. Insurance Rates Holding Steady at More than 97%

2009-10-14T00:00:00Z

The Patrick-Murray Administration announced today that more than 97 percent of Massachusetts residents have health insurance, demonstrating the ongoing success of health care reform in the Commonwealth.

New WIC Food Choices

2009-10-06T00:00:00Z

The Patrick-Murray Administration announced today that Massachusetts has revamped its Women, Infants and Children (WIC) nutrition program to reflect the latest science on healthy diets and address obesity.

Mass. Awarded USDA Bonus Award and SNAP Grant

2009-10-05T00:00:00Z

The Patrick-Murray Administration announced today that the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) has awarded Massachusetts a High Performance Bonus Award for its exceptional administration of the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP).

EOHHS to Postpone Public Budget Hearings

2009-10-02T00:00:00Z

Due to scheduling conflicts, the Massachusetts Executive Office of Health and Human Services (EOHHS) will be postponing two previously-scheduled public hearings planned to discuss its Fiscal Year 2011 budget and the state agencies under its purview.

Death in Mass. Related to H1N1 (Swine) Flu

2009-10-02T00:00:00Z

The Massachusetts Department of Public Health (DPH) today announced the death of a 55 year-old female from Middlesex County related to H1N1.

Residents Reminded to Stay on Guard for EEE

2009-10-01T00:00:00Z

The Massachusetts Department of Public Health (DPH) today raised the mosquito alert level from moderate to high in the cities and towns of Raynham and Easton.

First Shipment of H1N1 Vaccine Will Arrive Next Week

2009-09-30T00:00:00Z

Governor Deval Patrick today announced that the state has placed its first order for H1N1 vaccine with the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).

Free Day in the Park for Veterans and Families

2009-09-25T00:00:00Z

Massachusetts Department of Veterans Services (DVS) together with the Department of Conservation and Recreation (DCR) and the Massachusetts National Guard Operation Total Warrior (OTW) reintegration program are hosting Veterans Appreciation Day in the Park, tomorrow, September 26 at Dunn State Park in Gardner.

First Case of Eastern Equine Encephalitis (EEE) in a Horse

2009-09-24T00:00:00Z

The Department of Public Health (DPH) today announced that a horse from Peabody has been diagnosed with Eastern Equine Encephalitis (EEE).

Alert Level for Mosquitoes in Southeastern Mass. Raised

2009-09-18T00:00:00Z

The Massachusetts Department of Public Health (DPH) today raised the mosquito alert level from moderate to high in the cities and towns of New Bedford, Acushnet and Freetown.

MCB Summer Interns and Employers Honored

2009-09-17T00:00:00Z

The Patrick Administration celebrated its sixth year of placing legally blind college and high school students in summer internship programs throughout the Commonwealth through the work of the Massachusetts Commission for the Blind (MCB).

Program to Promote the Use of SNAP Benefits at Farmers' Markets

2009-09-16T00:00:00Z

Massachusetts Department of Agricultural Resources (DAR) Commissioner Scott Soares and Department of Transitional Assistance (DTA) Commissioner Julia Kehoe today launched a joint program that allocates $50,000 to Massachusetts farmers markets to purchase Electronic Benefits Transfer (EBT) Terminals and promote the use of of the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) at farmers' markets.

Additional Mosquitoes Infected with West Nile Virus & EEE

2009-09-14T00:00:00Z

The Massachusetts Department of Public Health (DPH) today announced additional findings of West Nile Virus (WNV) and Eastern Equine Encephalitis (EEE) in multiple mosquito samples from various parts of the state.

Online Personal Care Attendant Referral Directory Launched

2009-09-14T00:00:00Z

More Mosquitoes Infected with West Nile Virus & EEE

2009-09-14T00:00:00Z

The Massachusetts Department of Public Health (DPH) today announced additional findings of West Nile Virus (WNV) and eastern equine encephalitis (EEE) in multiple mosquito samples from various parts of the state.

Grandparents Commission Listening Tour Kicks Off

2009-09-11T00:00:00Z

The Massachusetts Commission on the Status of Grandparents Raising Grandchildren will be hosting the first of seven statewide listening tours in Bourne on Monday, September 14.

DYS Receives $470,000 Grant

2009-09-08T00:00:00Z

The Patrick Administration announced today that the Department of Youth Services (DYS) and its educational provider, the Hampshire Educational Collaborative, have been awarded a $470,000 grant to support physical education programs for youth in eight DYS residential facilities across the state.

Development of Foster Child Bill of Rights

2009-09-08T00:00:00Z

The Patrick Administration today announced the creation of the Foster Child Bill of Rights. The Bill of Rights, developed by the Department of Children and Families' (DCF) Youth Advisory Board consisting of current and former DCF foster youth who participate on a volunteer basis, was created to ensure that foster children across the state are treated with respect and actively included in the decisions that affect their lives.

Increased Risk of EEE in Southeastern Mass.

2009-09-04T00:00:00Z

The Massachusetts Department of Public Health (DPH) announced today that two mosquito samples from the town of Mattapoisett have tested positive for eastern equine encephalitis (EEE), one of which was in a mammal-biting mosquito.

DVS Goes Green While Expediting Services to Vets

2009-09-02T00:00:00Z

Keeping with the Patrick-Murray Administration's commitment to going green, the Massachusetts Department of Veterans Services (DVS) has launched its new Web-VSMIS (Veterans Services Management Information System) program to expedite efficient processing of benefit claims.

More Mosquitoes Infected with West Nile Virus and EEE

2009-09-01T00:00:00Z

Federal Award Providing Assistance to Homeless Vets

2009-08-27T00:00:00Z

The Patrick-Murray Administration has announced that the Massachusetts Department of Veterans' Services (DVS) has been awarded a U.S. Department of Labor (DOL) grant for $200,000 to provide training, job placement, and housing assistance to eligible veterans living in the South Shore area of Massachusetts.

EEE Found in Northeastern Mass.

2009-08-25T00:00:00Z

The Massachusetts Department of Public Health (DPH) announced today that Eastern Equine Encephalitis has been found in mosquitoes in the town of Merrimac in Essex County.

Grant to Assist Unemployed Vets and Promote "Green" Industry Practices

2009-08-20T00:00:00Z

The Patrick-Murray Administration today announced that the Massachusetts Department of Veterans' Services (DVS) has been awarded a $500,000 U.S. Department of Labor (DOL) grant to assist veterans in training and employment in green industry professions.

Viruses Spreading in Mosquitoes

2009-08-20T00:00:00Z

The Massachusetts Department of Public Health (DPH) announced today that Eastern equine encephalitis (EEE) has been found in mosquitoes in the city of New Bedford and the town of Easton.

11th Death in Mass. Related to H1N1 Flu

2009-08-17T00:00:00Z

The Massachusetts Department of Public Health (DPH) today announced the H1N1-related death of a 26-year-old Dukes County resident.

Viruses Spreading in Mosquitoes in Mass.

2009-08-14T00:00:00Z

The Massachusetts Department of Public Health (DPH) announced today that West Nile Virus (WNV) has been found in mosquitoes in the towns of Westborough and Westford. This follows yesterday's finding of a positive mosquito sample in Boston and one from Walpole in July.

New Secretary of Elder Affairs Sworn In

2009-08-12T00:00:00Z

Governor Deval Patrick today swore in Ann L. Harstein as the new Secretary of Elder Affairs at the Pittsfield Senior Center.

EEE Persists in Freetown Mosquitoes

2009-08-11T00:00:00Z

The Massachusetts Department of Public Health (DPH) announced today that Eastern Equine Encephalitis (EEE) has been found in a sample of mosquitoes from Freetown.

DDS Western Urban Youth Collaborative Program Members Honored

2009-08-07T00:00:00Z

The Patrick Administration honored members of the Department of Developmental Services Urban Youth Collaborative Program (UYCP) at a celebration and awards ceremony at the State House yesterday.

DDS Central Urban Youth Collaborative Program Members Honored

2009-08-07T00:00:00Z

The Patrick Administration honored members of the Department of Developmental Services Urban Youth Collaborative Program (UYCP) at a celebration and awards ceremony at the State House yesterday.

DDS Southeastern Urban Youth Collaborative Program Members Honored

2009-08-07T00:00:00Z

The Patrick Administration honored members of the Department of Developmental Services Urban Youth Collaborative Program (UYCP) at a celebration and awards ceremony at the State House yesterday.

DDS Northeastern Urban Youth Collaborative Program Members Honored

2009-08-07T00:00:00Z

DDS Metro Boston Urban Youth Collaborative Program Members Honored

2009-08-07T00:00:00Z

The Patrick Administration honored members of the Department of Developmental Services Urban Youth Collaborative Program (UYCP) at a celebration and awards ceremony at the State House yesterday.

DDS Urban Youth Collaborative Program Members Honored

2009-08-06T00:00:00Z

The Patrick Administration honored members of the Department of Developmental Services' Urban Youth Collaborative Program (UYCP) at a celebration and awards ceremony at the State House today.

Health Advisory Regarding Bisphenol A (BPA)

2009-08-03T00:00:00Z

The Massachusetts Department of Public Health (DPH) is issuing a public health advisory for consumers concerning bisphenol A (BPA). BPA is present in baby products, including baby bottles and some infant formula.

Three More Deaths in Mass. Related to H1N1 Flu

2009-07-31T00:00:00Z

The Massachusetts Department of Public Health (DPH) today announced the deaths of a 53year-old Essex County resident, a 20-year-old Norfolk County resident and a 21-year-old Hampden County resident all related to H1N1.

Two More Deaths in Mass. Related to H1N1 Flu

2009-07-28T00:00:00Z

The Massachusetts Department of Public Health (DPH) today announced the deaths of a 62 year old Middlesex County resident and a 53 year old Worcester County resident both related to H1N1.

Survey Results on Health of LGBT Community

2009-07-27T00:00:00Z

The Massachusetts Department of Public Health (DPH) today released the results of the largest survey to date comparing the health of lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender (LGBT) residents to heterosexual and non-transgender residents in Massachusetts.

First West Nile Virus Positive Mosquito Sample

2009-07-23T00:00:00Z

The Massachusetts Department of Public Health (DPH) announced that West Nile virus (WNV) has been detected in mosquitoes in Massachusetts for the first time this year.

DYS Residential Programs Chosen for Arts Initiative

2009-07-23T00:00:00Z

The Patrick Administration announced today that the National Endowment for the Humanities has selected 54 residential programs of the states Department of Youth Services (DYS), as well as its Community Reentry Center in Holyoke, to participate in its innovative "Picturing America" initiative, a program designed to help teach American history through our nations art.

50 DCF Youth in Summer Jobs Program

2009-07-22T00:00:00Z

The Patrick Administration announced today that 50 youth from the Youth Summer Jobs Program, a collaborative initiative in the Boston area between the Department of Children and Families (DCF), Communities for People, and the Center for Public Management at Suffolk University have embarked on a summer job experience provided by a number of private and public employers.

First EEE Positive Mosquito Sample Identified

2009-07-20T00:00:00Z

The Massachusetts Department of Public Health (DPH) announced today that Eastern Equine Encephalitis has been detected in a mosquito sample in Massachusetts for the first time this year.

Move to Global Payment System Supported

2009-07-16T00:00:00Z

The Special Commission on the Health Care Payment System today unanimously endorsed recommendations for improving the quality of patient care in Massachusetts by dramatically changing the way patients pay for health care.

Memorial Honoring Fallen Operation Iraqi Freedom/Operation Enduring Freedom Service Members

2009-07-16T00:00:00Z

Stimulus Funding to Strengthen Employment Services for People with Disabilities Received

2009-07-14T00:00:00Z

As part of Governor Patrick's Massachusetts Recovery Plan to secure the states economic future, Secretary of Health and Human Services Dr. JudyAnn Bigby announced today that the Massachusetts Rehabilitation Commission (MRC) has received $3.2 million in federal funding from the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act (ARRA) to support improvements to its vocational rehabilitation program for people with disabilities.

Two More Deaths in Mass. Related to H1N1 Flu

2009-07-14T00:00:00Z

The Massachusetts Department of Public Health (DPH) today announced the deaths of two more people linked to H1N1 influenza (swine flu) in the state.

Mass. Receives Housing Vouchers to Keep Families Together

2009-07-10T00:00:00Z

The Patrick Administration announced today that the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development is awarding 2,500 rental assistance vouchers to 37 public housing authorities across the U.S. to reunite more than 7,500 children in foster care with their parents.

DTA Works Graduate

2009-07-03T00:00:00Z

The Patrick Administration today announced the graduation of 25 Massachusetts Department of Transitional Assistance (DTA) client interns from its six-month DTA Works Program.

Reminder on Useful Summertime Safety Tips

2009-07-02T00:00:00Z

In anticipation of the warm summer months, the Massachusetts Departments of Children and Families (DCF) and Public Health (DPH) would like to remind families and caregivers with young children of useful summertime safety tips.

Veterans' Services Gets Grant to Assist Unemployed Veterans

2009-07-02T00:00:00Z

The Patrick-Murray administration today announced that the Massachusetts Department of Veterans' Services has been awarded a $300,000 grant from the U.S. Department of Labor to address the problem of homelessness among Massachusetts veterans.

Name Change for Department of Developmental Services

2009-06-30T00:00:00Z

The Patrick Administration today announced that the state agency serving individuals with developmental disabilities has officially been renamed the Department of Developmental Services (DDS).

Summer's Here, and So Are the Mosquitoes

2009-06-25T00:00:00Z

With summer finally here, state health officials today urged residents to take simple precautions to prevent mosquito bites, which can carry serious diseases including West Nile Virus (WNV) and Eastern Equine Encephalitis (EEE).

Routine HIV Screening in Clinical Settings Recommended

2009-06-24T00:00:00Z

In recognition of HIV Testing Week (June 22- 27), the Massachusetts Department of Public Health (DPH) has released a clinical advisory to primary care providers across the state encouraging HIV screening of all patients. The advisory is accompanied by an expansion of the Department's awareness campaign, Get Talking, Get Tested.

Agencies Adopt Uniform Non-Payment Policy for Medical Errors

2009-06-16T00:00:00Z

The Patrick-Murray Administration announced today that five state agencies have adopted uniform non-payment policies for costs associated with 28 serious reportable health care events, with the goal of advancing quality care for residents of the Commonwealth as part of the HealthyMass initiative.

Wellness Grants for Cities and Towns

2009-06-15T00:00:00Z

The Patrick Administration has taken the next major step in its Mass In Motion health campaign by awarding 10 grants totaling more than $1 million to help communities throughout Massachusetts promote nutrition and physical activity at the local level.

Veterans' Services Webcast and Online Discussion

2009-06-10T00:00:00Z

As a new generation of veterans return to the Commonwealth, the Patrick-Murray Administration is expanding its outreach efforts using the latest in 21st century technology and social networking.

Secretary Sebelius Makes New Recovery Act Funding Available

2009-06-08T00:00:00Z

Mass. to Receive $500,000 for Medical Homes

2009-06-05T00:00:00Z

The Patrick Administration announced today that Massachusetts will receive $500,000 in grant funding to support the transformation of 14 Community Health Centers into patient-centered medical homes over a four-year period.

State Fish Advisory Reminder

2009-06-03T00:00:00Z

In preparation for this summer's fishing season, the Massachusetts Department of Public Health (DPH) is reminding the public about eating certain types of fish because of concerns about contaminants in marine fish, shellfish and freshwater fish.

Strategies to Improve Care for Medicaid-Medicare Recipients

2009-06-02T00:00:00Z

The Patrick Administration announced today that Massachusetts has been selected to participate in a new national initiative to improve health care and control costs for individuals who are eligible for both Medicaid and Medicare.

Mass in Motion Web Site in Spanish

2009-06-02T00:00:00Z

The Patrick Administration's Department of Public Health (DPH) today unveiled a Spanish language version of the Mass in Motion website as a resource for health care providers, businesses and members of the Spanish-speaking community.

New Secretary of Elder Affairs Appointed

2009-06-01T00:00:00Z

BOSTON Monday, June 1, 2009 Governor Patrick today announced he has appointed Ann L. Hartstein as the new Secretary of Elder Affairs. She will begin her duties on July 1.

New Mental Health Intervention Program for Youth

2009-06-01T00:00:00Z

The Massachusetts Department of Mental Health (DMH), in collaboration with the Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center (BIDMC) Department of Psychiatry, today announced the opening of the Center for Early Detection, Assessment, and Response to Risk (CEDAR), a specialized clinic for young people experiencing clinical signs of risk for psychosis, and their families.

Drop in Smoking Rate among MassHealth Members

2009-06-01T00:00:00Z

The Patrick Administration announced today that more than 75,000 MassHealth smokers have used the state's tobacco cessation pilot program to try to quit smoking since July 2006.

Low-Interest Assistive Technology Loans for People with Disabilities

2009-05-26T00:00:00Z

The Massachusetts Rehabilitation Commission (MRC) today celebrated its Assistive Technology Loan Program, which has now distributed $5 million in low-interest loans to qualified residents with disabilities, at an event at the State House.

Smoking Cessation Program Reaches Out to Veterans

2009-05-19T00:00:00Z

Through a collaborative effort, the Massachusetts Department of Veterans' Services (DVS), the Massachusetts Department of Public Health (DPH), and the city of Leominster, today celebrated the success of the Massachusetts Veterans Smoking Cessation Program.

HHS Community Forum on Priorities & Choices

2009-05-18T00:00:00Z

Massachusetts Secretary of Health and Human Services Dr. JudyAnn Bigby will moderate a community forum on choices and priorities facing the Commonwealth in the current economic climate.

DMH Youth Hit the Stage at the Citi-Wang Theatre

2009-05-18T00:00:00Z

The 14th annual performance of Express Yourself, a program of the Department of Mental Health (DMH) and sponsored in part by the Citi Performing Arts Center, will hit the stage of the Wang Theatre, May 21, at 7 p.m., with "BOUNCE."

Ground Breaking on New Psychiatric Hospital

2009-05-14T00:00:00Z

Lt. Governor Timothy P. Murray joined the mental health community in celebrating the groundbreaking for the new Department of Mental Health (DMH) psychiatric hospital on the grounds of the current Worcester State Hospital.

Mass. Approves Calorie Labeling Measure

2009-05-13T00:00:00Z

In a move to provide millions of Massachusetts consumers with important health information, the Massachusetts Public Health Council today approved rules requiring major chain restaurants to provide calorie information for the food that they sell.

"Recovering Our Dreams: Rehabilitation Through Art"

2009-05-11T00:00:00Z

To kick off Mental Health Month, the Department of Mental Health (DMH) and Vinfen, a DMH provider, today announced Recovering Our Dreams: Rehabilitation through Art, an exhibition of works by Vinfen's Gateway and Webster House artists. This unique artwork will be on display May 11-22 in Doric Hall at the State House.

MRC Honors Local Employers

2009-05-07T00:00:00Z

Five local companies were honored today with Distinguished Employer Awards by the Massachusetts Rehabilitation Commission (MRC) and its Greater Boston Employer Advisory Board.

28 Additional Confirmed Cases of H1N1 (Swine Flu)

2009-05-04T00:00:00Z

The Massachusetts Department of Public Health (DPH) today announced 28 additional confirmed cases of H1N1 (swine flu) in Massachusetts. Each of the new cases is expected to fully recover and none of the cases are hospitalized.

Children's Mental Health Week

2009-05-04T00:00:00Z

Since 1996, Children's Mental Health Week is an annual event which works to combat the stigma associated with mental illness and promote awareness around mental health issues.

Four Additional Confirmed Cases of H1N1 (Swine Flu)

2009-05-01T00:00:00Z

The Massachusetts Department of Public Health today announced four additional confirmed cases of H1N1 (swine flu) in Massachusetts.

SAVE Program Celebrates Outreach to Vets

2009-04-30T00:00:00Z

The Department of Veterans' Services (DVS) Statewide Advocacy for Veterans' Empowerment (SAVE) program today celebrated the initiative's great success just one year after it was launched.

First Confirmed Cases of Swine Flu

2009-04-29T00:00:00Z

The Patrick Administration today announced the first confirmed cases of swine influenza in Massachusetts.

Letter from DPH Commissioner on Swine Flu Outbreak

2009-04-27T00:00:00Z

Mass. Continues Response to Outbreak of Swine Flu

2009-04-26T00:00:00Z

State health officials continue to work closely with partners at the federal, state and local level to respond to the swine flu outbreak in the U.S.

Grant Received for Expanded Services for People with Brain Injuries

2009-04-21T00:00:00Z

The Patrick Administration today announced that the Statewide Head Injury Program of the Massachusetts Rehabilitation Commission (MRC) has received a $1 million competitive federal grant to strengthen services for individuals who have sustained a traumatic brain injury (TBI).

National Health Care Decisions Day Celebrated

2009-04-16T00:00:00Z

The Massachusetts Health Care Quality and Cost Council joined more than 500 organizations nationwide in celebrating today, April 16, as National Health Care Decisions Day, an initiative to raise awareness about the importance of health care decision-making.

Health Officials Cite Beth Israel Deaconess with Serious Deficiencies

2009-04-09T00:00:00Z

The Massachusetts Department of Public Health (DPH) has cited Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center (BIDMC) for serious deficiencies in infection control practices at its Boston campus.

DPH Releases Report on Serious Reportable Events at Hospitals

2009-04-08T00:00:00Z

The Massachusetts Department of Public Health (DPH) today released its first annual report on Serious Reportable Events (SRE) at acute care hospitals in Massachusetts.

DPH Releases 2007 Death Report

2009-04-08T00:00:00Z

People in Massachusetts are living longer than ever before, the number of heart disease deaths continued to decline and, for the second year in a row, cancer was the leading cause of death for Bay State residents.

New Regs Requiring BMI Measurements for Schoolchildren Approved

2009-04-08T00:00:00Z

The Massachusetts Public Health Council today voted to approve new statewide regulations that will require public schools to regularly perform Body Mass Index (BMI) screenings on all students, and to provide this important health information to parents.

Report on Employers with 50 or More Employees on Public Health Insurance

2009-04-01T00:00:00Z

The Patrick Administration today released the state's fifth annual report identifying employers with 50 or more employees using publicly-funded health insurance programs.

Dept. of Mental Retardation to Get Name Change

2009-03-30T00:00:00Z

In honor of Developmental Disabilities Month, representatives of the Patrick Administration, members of the Legislature and advocates gathered today at the State House to celebrate the upcoming name change of the Department of Mental Retardation (DMR) to the Department of Developmental Services (DDS), which will take effect on June 30, 2009.

Economic Recovery Plan to Support Health Care and Safety Net Services

2009-03-25T00:00:00Z

As part of his Massachusetts Recovery Plan to secure the states economic future, Governor Deval Patrick today announced an additional $764 million in federal recovery funds to secure jobs, maintain health care reform and protect key safety net services.

Kickoff for Colon Cancer Screening Campaign

2009-03-19T00:00:00Z

With screening and early detection, colon cancers can very often be successfully treated and even prevented.

New Program To Help Parents Quit Smoking

2009-03-18T00:00:00Z

Massachusetts pediatricians are using a new tool to help protect their patients from secondhand smoke.

National Initiative to Increase Coverage for Uninsured Children

2009-03-12T00:00:00Z

The Robert Wood Johnson Foundation has awarded $1 million to Massachusetts' Office of Medicaid, in partnership with the University of Massachusetts (UMass) Medical School, to help support enrollment of eligible children in the Children's Health Insurance Program (CHIP) over the next four years.

New Rules for Pharmaceutical and Medical Device Industries

2009-03-11T00:00:00Z

The Massachusetts Public Health Council (PHC) today passed broad new rules governing sales and marketing practices of pharmaceutical and medical device companies doing business in Massachusetts.

High Marks for Mental Health Service System

2009-03-11T00:00:00Z

Citing expanded mental health parity, the development of consumer-run Recovery Learning Communities and the Commonwealth's landmark health care reform, the National Alliance for Mental Illness (NAMI) in its report "Grading the States 2009: A Report on Americas Health Care System for Adults with Serious Mental Illness" gave Massachusetts a "B" for its mental health care system.

Testimony on FY10 Budget Before Joint Committee on Ways and Means

2009-03-04T00:00:00Z

Thank you, Representative Fox and Senator Hart for hosting us today. I would also like to acknowledge Chairmen Murray and Panagiotakos, and the distinguished members of the House and Senate Ways and Means Committees.

Norovirus Outbreaks on the Rise

2009-02-23T00:00:00Z

The Massachusetts Department of Public Health (DPH) has seen a significant number of gastrointestinal illness outbreaks across the state this winter, which are likely caused by norovirus infections.

MRC Honors Employees

2009-02-12T00:00:00Z

The Massachusetts Rehabilitation Commission (MRC) today honored staff members from across the Commonwealth for their commitment to promoting dignity for people with disabilities through employment and independent living.

2007 Birth Report Released

2009-02-11T00:00:00Z

The Massachusetts Department of Public Health (DPH) today released the 2007 Birth Report, an annual publication which provides detailed data on the number and characteristics of births in the state.

Reports Show High Quality of Cardiac Surgical Care

2009-02-09T00:00:00Z

Data released today show that hospitals in Massachusetts continue to provide a high quality of cardiac surgical care to patients in the Commonwealth.

Influenza is Beginning to Rise

2009-02-05T00:00:00Z

After a relatively mild flu season so far, the Massachusetts Department of Public Health (DPH) announced today that influenza activity is beginning to increase across the state.

State Awards Grants and Rate Payments

2009-02-04T00:00:00Z

The Patrick Administration announced today that it has awarded approximately $32.6 million in FY09 grants and increased rate payments from the state's Essential Community Provider Trust Fund to 69 hospitals and community health centers across the Commonwealth.

Office of HIV/AIDS Expands Awareness Campaign

2009-02-03T00:00:00Z

In recognition of National Black HIV/AIDS Awareness Day on February 7th, the Massachusetts Department of Public Health (DPH) has expanded its awareness campaign titled "Get Talking, Get Tested."

Elder Affairs Secretary Steps Down

2009-01-30T00:00:00Z

Michael E. Festa announced he will step down as Secretary of Elder Affairs effective today in order to pursue other career opportunities.

State Launches "My Health Care Options Week"

2009-01-30T00:00:00Z

Members of the state's Health Care Quality and Cost Council (HCQCC) and representatives from Fallon Community Health Plan joined with advocates, consumers, providers, and area businesses today in Worcester to launch "My Health Care Options Week" and discuss the value of the state's new website featuring consumer-friendly, comparative cost and quality information about procedures performed at hospitals and outpatient facilities.

Long-Term Care Financing Advisory Committee Created

2009-01-30T00:00:00Z

The Executive Office of Health and Human Services (EOHHS) today announced the creation of a Long-Term Care Financing Advisory Committee a commitment from the Olmstead Plan and a priority for the Patrick Administration - designed to identify strategic options for the future financing of care for elders and individuals with disabilities in Massachusetts.

Sec. Bigby's Testimony Before the Health, Education, Labor and Pension Committee

2009-01-22T00:00:00Z

Sec. Bigby Addresses the State of Health and Human Services

2009-01-16T00:00:00Z

On the heels of Governor Deval Patrick's State of the Commonwealth Address, Health and Human Services Secretary JudyAnn Bigby M.D. today addressed the state of Health and Human Services in the Commonwealth at the Brockton Neighborhood Health Center.

Jan. 15 Named 'Mass. Supports Veterans and Families Day'

2009-01-15T00:00:00Z

Lieutenant Governor Timothy Murray, along with members of the Patrick-Murray Administration and two state Senators, today honored mental health service providers who have dedicated their time and expertise to counseling and supporting veterans and their families.

Mental Health Consumers Invited to Meet and Discuss Research Priorities

2009-01-14T00:00:00Z

Consumer Quality Initiatives, Inc. (CQI), in collaboration with the Massachusetts Department of Mental Health (DMH), is inviting mental health consumers to discuss what they see as the mental health research priorities in Massachusetts in forums planned across the state.

Mass In Motion Launched

2009-01-08T00:00:00Z

Just like millions of Massachusetts residents, state government and public health leaders are making a New Year's resolution for better health. The Patrick Administration today announced the most comprehensive effort to date to address the serious problem of overweight and obesity in the Commonwealth.

Comprehensive Report on Falls Among Older Adults

2008-12-30T00:00:00Z

The report, titled Unintentional Fall-Related Injuries among Massachusetts Older Adults, includes data on how falls and fall-related injuries disproportionately affect older adults, the impact that these injuries have on health care costs in the state, and a series of recommendations to reduce the frequency of falls and fall-related injuries among elders.

DTA Office Receives Service Award

2008-12-22T00:00:00Z

The Massachusetts Department of Transitional Assistance (DTA) is proud to announce that its Newmarket Square Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) staff is one of eight national recipients of the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) Hunger Champions' Honorable Mentor awards.

Smoking Cessation Program for Vets off to Big Start

2008-12-22T00:00:00Z

One month after the Department of Veterans' Services (DVS) and the Department of Public Health (DPH) launched a joint veterans' smoking cessation program at the State House, the quit line has received over 500 calls.

97%+ of Mass. Residents Have Health Insurance

2008-12-18T00:00:00Z

The Patrick Administration announced today the results of a new survey finding that more than 97 percent of Massachusetts residents have health insurance.

Community Living Options for People with Developmental Disabilities

2008-12-12T00:00:00Z

As part of its "Community First" Agenda and commitment to offering community-based living opportunities for people with intellectual disabilities, the Executive Office of Health and Human Services and the Department of Mental Retardation (DMR) announced today plans to close four of the states six institutions over the next four years.

New Website Links Consumers with Affordable Rental Housing

2008-12-12T00:00:00Z

The Patrick Administration today announced the launch of a newly redesigned housing website to help bridge the gap between residents in need of affordable, accessible housing and available apartments across the state.

Action Against Town of Hamilton and 24 EMS Workers

2008-12-11T00:00:00Z

The Massachusetts Department of Public Health (DPH) today announced that it has suspended the ambulance license for the town of Hamilton based on an investigation of the training and certifications of a number of the towns emergency medical technicians (EMT).

New Regs Proposed for Pharma and Medical Device Companies

2008-12-10T00:00:00Z

The Massachusetts Public Health Council (PHC) today released proposed regulations that will put Massachusetts at the forefront of regulating sales and marketing practices of the pharmaceutical and medical device industry.

My Health Care Options Website Launch

2008-12-10T00:00:00Z

Commission on Mental Retardation Re-Established

2008-12-05T00:00:00Z

Governor Deval Patrick announced today that he has signed an executive order re-establishing the Governor's Commission on Mental Retardation, recognizing the critical role that advocates, family members and other stakeholders play in the development of public policy related to people with disabilities in the Commonwealth.

HIV/AIDS Report: Inequitable Impact

2008-11-29T00:00:00Z

The Massachusetts Department of Public Health (DPH) today released a report that shows that the burden of HIV/AIDS remains squarely on the shoulders of gay/bisexual men and other men who have sex with men.

Report on Health Disparities Based on Sexual Orientation

2008-11-21T00:00:00Z

The Massachusetts Department of Public Health (DPH) has released the nations first statewide population-based look at health disparities based on sexual orientation.

200+ Adoptions of Children from Foster Care

2008-11-21T00:00:00Z

Seven courthouses across the state will join Judge Erskine and the Worcester Trial court today in finalizing more than 200 adoptions of children from foster care as part of a statewide celebration of National Adoption Day.

Free Nicotine Patches for Mass. Vets and Their Families

2008-11-17T00:00:00Z

The Massachusetts Department of Veterans Services (DVS) and the Massachusetts Department of Public Health (DPH) today announced a nicotine patch giveaway for Massachusetts veterans, their family members, and survivors who want to quit smoking.

Chelsea Soldiers' Home Holds Annual Veterans Day Celebration

2008-11-12T00:00:00Z

The Chelsea Soldiers' Home held its annual Veterans Day celebration on Thursday, November 6 2007 at the Martin Auditorium in the Headquarters Building of the facility.

Fewer Heart Attack Deaths Thanks to Smoke-Free Workplace Law

2008-11-12T00:00:00Z

The Massachusetts Department of Public Health (DPH) today released new data indicating a significant decrease in the number of heart attack deaths following the implementation of the statewide smoke-free workplace law in 2004.

Mass. Veterans, Service Members and Families Honored

2008-11-11T00:00:00Z

Lieutenant Governor Timothy Murray and Department of Veterans Services Secretary Tom Kelley paid tribute today to Massachusetts Veterans and Service Members at a State House ceremony commemorating Veterans Day.

New Data on Opioid Overdose Deaths

2008-11-11T00:00:00Z

The Massachusetts Department of Public Health (DPH) today released new data showing a smaller increase in fatal opioid overdoses in 2007 an improvement over previous years when the Bay State experienced double digit increases in deadly ODs.