FOCL group discusses health issues during COVID-19 quarantine

As of April 30, Stockbridge has had two COVID-19-related deaths, according to John Beck, Stockbridge Area Emergency Services Authority general manager.

But in the midst of a worldwide coronavirus pandemic, the village in general has a low number of cases and seems to be doing well, he said.

Beck reported on the coronavirus during the April 30 online meeting of the Faith and Other Community Leaders (FOCL) group. As Gov. Gretchen Whitmer continues stay-at-home orders in Michigan due to the virus, the examination of health issues and services was a main topic for the group.

Several new clinic options are being considered following the closing last September of Family Medicine of Stockbridge.

• Ginny Rezmierski, a retired University of Michigan professor and facilitator for several area groups, reported informal talks began with school personnel on the pros and cons of bringing an in-school clinic to Stockbridge. While there is interest in the clinic, there are concerns about available space. Rezmierski and Terry Langston from Jackson are gathering data on health status, drug use and  mental health needs in preparation to obtain federal funding.
• Langston is working on the roll-out of Jackson Center for Family Health information for the Stockbridge community. More info is expected to be coming soon.
• The Ingham Mobile Health Clinic is available to come to Stockbridge during a large village event, Rezmierski reported. The clinic can provide blood pressure readings, blood tests, general medical exams and immunizations. If there is sufficient interest, the mobile clinic may become an annual event. The clinic will be requested for Aug. 11 or Aug. 12 during the Harvest Moon Festival.

Beck said two or three people from Stockbridge SAESA might be interested in emergency medical technician (EMT) training. Deb Smith reported the BCBS Foundation may be interested in helping with tuition.

Smith reported that food insecurity continues and is probably increasing during this time. Incidents of depression also have increased during the quarantine, she said.

The Stockbridge community also will participate in an electronic version of sending letters of thanks to medical workers on the front lines of COVID-19, as part of a campaign sponsored by the 5 Healthy Towns Foundation.

The May meeting of the Faith and Other Community Leaders is expected to focus on the Food Accessibility Initiative.