MS HB146

State Health Officer shall establish a program to reduce health disparities in priority areas including infant mortality, cancer screening, HIV/AIDS, immunizations, cardiovascular disease, diabetes, and injuries/violence, with a goal to decrease disparities by 2022.

State Health Officer shall conduct a statewide assessment using focus groups, surveys, and interviews to establish baseline data on risk behaviors and compare results to national data.

State Health Officer shall work with community-based organizations to develop measurable outcomes and a comprehensive, coordinated plan to eliminate identified health disparities.

State Health Officer shall subcontract with a Mississippi-based entity specializing in health disparities (with at least 4 years experience) and provide $250,000 in funding to conduct needs assessment, develop outcomes, and manage the planning process.

State Health Officer shall conduct biennial evaluations and submit biennial reports to the Legislature on program activities, grant fund usage, evaluation data, and outcome measures.