The Michigan Advisory Committee on Immunizations (MACI) met last week to discuss a range of topics related to vaccines and underlying trends and information in this area. MIAAP is a member of MACI and participates on a regular basis with the Committee. The following slide deck was presented during the meeting and provides important data, guidance, and other information related to the current environment in Michigan. Click the image below to download the slide deck.

CME OPPORTUNITIES

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Michigan News

MDHHS launches initiative to strengthen behavioral health care access, quality

As part of this effort, MDHHS is seeking public input through an online survey as the department moves to a competitive procurement process for the state’s Pre-Paid Inpatient Health Plan contracts.

This initiative will help to increase consumer choice and access to services while preserving the Community Mental Health Services Programs many Medicaid beneficiaries go to for behavioral health care services today.

AAP News

The American Academy of Pediatrics Launches National Neonatal Designation Program, Recognizes Two Hospitals

The AAP is the leading authority in neonatal verification and designation, having developed the standards for each level of neonatal care as outlined in the AAP Policy Statement, Levels of Neonatal Care, the AAP book, Guidelines for Perinatal Care, and the national neonatal risk-appropriate care requirements, Standards for Levels of Neonatal Care: II, III, and IV. Since 2016, the AAP has successfully conducted third-party verification surveys in Texas, Georgia and Missouri, evaluating facility compliance with state-specific, risk-appropriate neonatal care standards. With the program’s new expansion, hospitals in all 50 states can now obtain an independent, third-party assessment by leading neonatal clinicians, demonstrating that their neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) meets the highest standards in neonatal care.

Study Expands Upon Impact of Firearms on U.S. Children

A Pediatrics study tracking the zip codes of firearm incidents involving children and adolescents across the United States showed that more than 70-81% happened within the child’s own zip code. The study also found that many zip codes previously without firearm incidents are now hot spots.

Pediatricians in the News

Robert Root, DO

State health department confirms pediatric flu death in Macomb County

A rampant flu season has taken another young life in Michigan, as the illness continues to spread.

The state health department has confirmed that a child who died as a result of Influenza A infection this week is from Macomb County.

“Kind of looking out for those signs and symptoms of dehydration, signs and symptoms of respiratory problems or distress in their breathing,” said Dr. Robert Root, a pediatrician with Michigan State University Health Care.

It is not uncommon for there to be pediatric deaths during flu season, but as vaccination rates continue to decline, Michigan Department of Health and Human Services Chief Medical Executive, Dr. Natasha Bagdasarian said it’s no surprise that flu transmission is worsening.

“As an infectious disease physician, I have watched too many young, healthy people die from the flu, and I really want folks to know the dangers,” she said. “To be aware of not only the risks, but also the tools that we have that are available to them.”

Some of those tools include the flu vaccine, home testing and anti-viral therapies. When it comes to deciding where and how to get treatment for flu symptoms, Root said it is wise for families to consult with their primary care physician.

Partner Programs

You still have time to register!!

This 6-month QI project will:

· Walk you through suicide-specific screening, risk assessment, safety planning and lethal means safety

·Assist with data collection

·Provide educational, asynchronous modules that demonstrate use of these tools

Past participants commented:

“This was very helpful to be aware of the resources available to me and having the next steps on what to do if I have patients with positive screens. I feel confident in assessing patients with suicidality, assessing acuity of their suicidality, and safety planning with them.”

“This was a helpful project to enhance my knowledge and communication skills surrounding suicide.”

“I found this helpful - the main change I implemented in my practice as a result was adding in the ASQ to the PHQ-9. I now give both of these screeners to all of my patients 12 and up at well visits (and at other visits when indicated).”

Pediatricians are on the front line and are often the professionals patients and their families seek for mental health concerns. Be the one who can help!

To get started complete the introductory[ET1] SURVEY here. Please contact Elizabeth Tengelitsch PhD with any questions.

MI Chapter American Academy of Pediatrics

106 W. Allegan, Suite 310, Lansing, MI 48933

miaap.org