MS HB85

State Health Officer must establish a program to reduce health disparities in priority areas: infant mortality, breast and cervical cancer screening, HIV/AIDS, sexually transmitted diseases, immunizations, cardiovascular disease, diabetes, accidental injuries, and violence, with a goal to decrease disparities by 2021.

State Health Officer must conduct a statewide assessment using focus groups, needs assessment surveys, and key informant interviews to establish baseline data comparable to national benchmarks.

State Health Officer shall subcontract with a Mississippi-based entity specializing in health disparities with at least four years' experience and provide $250,000 in funding for needs assessment, outcome development, and program management.

State Health Officer must identify and select community-based organizations as planning partners to develop a comprehensive plan including sections on morbidity/mortality data, needs assessment results, measurable outcomes, and a community grant program for health disparities.

State Health Officer shall conduct biennial evaluations and submit biennial reports to the Legislature detailing grant-funded activities, evaluation data, and outcome measures.