GRANT AWARDED TO IMPROVE EMERGENCY COMMUNICATIONS

DANVILLE, Ill. – In continued efforts to ensure public safety during an emergency, Dr. Eric E. Whitaker, state public health director, announced today a $28,990 grant to Provena United Samaritans Medical Center in Danville to upgrade the hospital’s emergency radio system.

IMPORTANCE OF SMOKE FREE COMMUNITY STRESSED

PEORIA, Ill. – Dr. Eric E. Whitaker, director of the Illinois Department of Public Health (IDPH), spoke at an awards luncheon at University of Illinois College of Medicine at Peoria. The Dr. Joseph S. Solovy Award is given each year to recognize individuals and organizations that promote community health. Dr. Whitaker’s address was given in conjunction with the national Great American Smokeout observance which is held every year in November and encourages smokers to quit.

GOVERNOR ANNOUNCES $50,000 WARREN COUNTY GRANT

MONMOUTH, Ill. – Governor Rod R. Blagojevich announced a $50,000 grant to the new Warren County Health Department that will help fund the start up costs for the agency created a few months ago to serve the health needs of more than 18,000 residents in the area.

NURSING HOME VIOLATIONS FOR THE MONTH OF AUGUST

SPRINGFIELD, Ill. – The Illinois Department of Public Health today announced the following type “A” violations of the Nursing Home Care Act were cited during the month of August. An “A” violation, which is the most serious licensure violation imposed by the state, pertains to a condition in which there is a substantial probability that death or serious mental or physical harm will result.

COMPREHENSIVE WOMEN’S HEALTH PROGRAMS GET $100,000

SPRINGFIELD, Ill. – In an ongoing effort to improve the health of women in Illinois, Dr. Eric E. Whitaker, state public health director, announced grants to fund four Comprehensive Women’s Health pilot programs aimed at increasing knowledge about important women’s health issues. Each grant will fund a 10-week comprehensive education curriculum covering a variety of women’s health topics including cardiovascular disease, stroke, diabetes, nutrition, fitness, stress, substance abuse, violence against women, sexual health, aging and family health.