Commissioners approve reserve medical director position and hire Jessica Moran in Maine

In a pivotal meeting held on February 6, 2025, the York County Commissioners discussed the establishment of a new medical director position aimed at enhancing healthcare services within the county's recovery center and jail. The proposal, presented by the county's medical administration, seeks to create a reserve medical director role that would initially function in a consultative capacity, with the potential for future expansion into a full-time position.

The need for a medical director arises from licensing requirements for the recovery center, which necessitates oversight of medical services. The current approach involves contracting out medical services, which has led to increased costs and a lack of control over medical operations. By hiring a medical director, the county aims to streamline services, reduce administrative fees, and improve the quality of care provided to individuals in the recovery center and jail.

Commissioner Greg highlighted the potential for significant savings, estimating that the county could eliminate administrative costs ranging from $250,000 to $300,000 annually. This financial relief could be redirected towards hiring a full-time medical director in the future, should the need arise. The discussions also emphasized the importance of having a dedicated medical professional to oversee the integration of healthcare services across county departments.

The commissioners unanimously approved the creation of the reserve medical director position, which will be filled by Dr. Jessica Moran, a board-certified physician with experience in family and addiction medicine. Dr. Moran, who is set to begin her role on February 10, 2025, has a strong background in overseeing opioid treatment programs and brings valuable expertise to the position.

The meeting underscored the county's commitment to improving healthcare delivery and addressing the complex medical needs of its population. As the recovery center prepares to expand its services, the establishment of a dedicated medical director is seen as a crucial step towards enhancing the overall health outcomes for individuals in the county's care. The commissioners will continue to evaluate the effectiveness of this new role and its potential transition to a full-time position as the recovery center evolves.