County health department faces 75% funding cut and staffing challenges

Morgan County's public health department is facing significant funding challenges as it prepares for a drastic 75% cut in Health First Indiana (HFI) funding, dropping from $1.4 million in 2025 to just over $375,000 in 2026. This reduction, which mirrors a similar decrease in community grants, will impact the department's ability to provide essential services, including immunization programs, which will end on June 30.

During the council meeting on June 2, 2025, officials discussed the implications of these cuts and the strategies being implemented to maintain staffing levels. Despite the funding shortfall, the department plans to keep its current staff intact, including three full-time nurses and a clinical secretary, by reallocating existing resources and utilizing carryover funds from previous years.

The conversation highlighted the precarious nature of public health funding, with officials expressing concerns about the sustainability of their operations. The loss of grants means fewer resources for community health initiatives, which have been vital in addressing local health needs. The department's director emphasized the importance of maintaining staff to ensure that essential functions, such as invoicing and grant management, are not compromised.

In a bid to navigate these financial constraints, the department is seeking approval for a $14,000 discretionary fund to support a critical position that would help manage grants and ensure compliance with state requirements. However, some council members voiced caution, suggesting that it may be prudent to wait until the next budget cycle to assess the overall financial landscape before committing to additional expenditures.

As the public health department braces for these changes, officials are hopeful that by demonstrating the impact of their programs and gathering data on community health outcomes, they can advocate for increased funding in the 2027 legislative session. The next few years will be crucial for Morgan County's public health services, as they strive to adapt to a challenging funding environment while continuing to meet the health needs of the community.