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Louisa County approves 28E agreements to join rural "combat cancer" screening program
Summary
The Louisa County Board approved two 28E interlocal agreements to participate in a state-funded rural health initiative and to provide reimbursable screening services on behalf of neighboring counties; the board authorized agreements with Muscatine (up to $4,873.15) and Marion (up to $1,221.47).
Louisa County supervisors voted to join a state-backed rural health effort that will bring cancer screening and related services closer to residents. The board approved two 28E interlocal agreements to participate in a program Marion County is coordinating and to provide reimbursable time and services for neighboring counties.
Leah, who reported for the county public health office, described the program as a Rural Health Transformation grant that includes a "combat cancer" initiative to improve prevention and treatment access through locally distributed screening kits, dermatoscopes for skin exams, and tablets for telehealth or pharmacy-based access. "All of those test kits, all of that screening stuff, is paid for through the grant," Leah said, adding Marion County will obtain supplies and distribute them to participating counties.
The board approved item 11, allowing Aaliyah to sign a 28E agreement with Muscatine County for an amount up to $4,873.15, and item 12, a 28E agreement with Marion County for up to $1,221.47. Both measures passed by voice vote. Leah explained counties will submit monthly claims to Marion County for reimbursement of staff time and services rendered under the agreements.
The public-health report also noted mosquito surveillance funding approved for nine weeks at $900 through July 31, with continuation dependent on federal funding, and that Iowa HHS plans to shift some statewide funding to district lead entities beginning Jan. 1 with implementation in 2028 — a change Leah said raises questions about responsibilities such as isolation and quarantine.
Because the grant covers screening supplies, the county will focus on logistics: setting up a tablet for public access, training, and documenting staff time for reimbursement. The board asked staff to return with signed agreements and any notarized originals as required.
The board did not take further action on program implementation at the meeting; supervisors asked staff to forward any outstanding technical questions to Iowa HHS.
