Cardiology Update Presented to Cook County Health Board

Cook County Health Board of Directors Meeting
June 30, 2023
 
Dr Rami Doukky presented an overview of the interventional cardiac services. In January 2023, a new Cardiac Unit opened. There are 13 beds. Also in January, the Watchman procedure was added to procedures performed. In May, Mitraclip was added. There was discussion on obstacles to overcome regarding the continued expansion of the unit and services.

Committee Reports

• Human Resources – Metrics continue to slowly improve.  Turnover rate is well below the national benchmark. 
• Managed Care
  • CountyCare’s enrollment
    • increased 4% over the past 12 months, behind the Cook County increase of 5%
    • increased 0.3% in April 2023 compared to the prior month, behind the Cook County increase of 0.6%
  • There are 2 paths for redetermination. The first group are members who have information in the system and are auto renewed. The next group there is no information in the system and they must complete a form to confirm eligibility.  In June, 66% of members were redetermined. There is a 30 day grace period and efforts are being made to reach those who still need to submit forms.
• Finance –(from Committee meeting) - During the discussion of the information provided regarding the Health Plan Services Financial Results, the Committee discussed the subject of redetermination. Aaron Galeener, Chief Administrative Officer for Health Plan Services, provided information on current strategies being used to increase awareness and responsiveness for those who must go through the process to determine whether they qualify for Medicaid assistance. A question was raised regarding whether there is a mechanism available for outreach to families via students enrolled in the Chicago Public Schools (CPS). Mr. Galeener stated that he will look into the question to see if there are any opportunities available.

The chair recognized the service of Director Dr  Karen Kim who had resigned and moved to Pennsylvania.
There was no public testimony at any of the committee meetings or at the Board of Directors meeting.

Items to Watch for in the Future:

• Continue to monitor Medicaid redetermination and staffing levels.

Directors absent- Deer, Bhatt

​Observer:  Lisa Slankard