SAGINAW, MI — Last winter, Dylan Hellus was thinking first and foremost of his bride, Pit & Balcony’s Amy Spadafore, as she gave birth to their first baby boy.

The Covenant hospital room was overlooking Bliss Park, and as he thought about the family’s future, he also pondered the outlook for Covenant’s northwest city territory. Community affairs is his career niche.

Karma! Not only was DJ born healthy, but Hellus learned that Covenant Health Care was creating a new staff outreach position for community outreach. He was hired in June as neighborhood engagement specialist, with a resume that features his 2013 SVSU poly sci degree, followed by staffing for both Gov. Gretchen Whitmer and U.S. Sen. Gary Peters.

His prime task is to sustain the area with boundaries of North Michigan (east), Davenport (north), Barnard (west) and Court (south) streets.

He explains that nearly 300 vacant lots are within the Covenant neighborhood, among more than 3,000 citywide. Covenant has gained ownership of 160, while another 120 are in the hands of the county land bank.

“Our goal is to in-fill the lots with housing,” Hellus says. “When several lots are together, those can be main locations for development.”

Residents can see for themselves with construction of three Habitat houses. One is on Cooper near North Bond, and another pair are on North Fayette along the Bliss Park entrance.

“We are looking for 100 new units, so that’s three down and 97 to go,” he notes.

A third partner is the Michigan State Housing Development Authority, MSHDA, which features Saginaw in this video.

A summer ribbon-cutting featured Beth Charlton, Covenant president and CEO, along with Carmen Mora, Saginaw-Shiawassee Habitat director, and Amy Hovey, MSHDA’s top exec.

Mora explains that she approached Charlton with a modest proposal to help paint houses in the northwest Covenant/Bliss Park area, and was surprisingly pleased at the “let’s do more” response.

Charlton says affordable housing is essential to health care, allowing a path to clearcut focus on specific concerns such as chronic illnesses, obesity and maternal/infant well-being.

Hovey concludes that Saginaw will serve as a statewide model for MSHDA, which is funded with project revenues and not state tax dollars.

Meanwhile, Covenant employees may opt to purchase a home in the neighborhood under a “Walk to Work” arrangement that offers up to $30,000 for down payment assistance and/or renovation.

Hellus keeps tabs with the Covenant Neighborhood Association, which is among the city’s strongest grassroots groups, for more projects. He may be reached at dylan.hellus@chs-mi.com or (989) 607-0584.

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Located at 102 E. Main Street in Bay City, the new Bayside Health Center will consolidate services currently offered at Bayside, Women’s Care Bay City, and Bay City South, including primary care, dental care, women’s health, and behavioral health. A key addition to the new facility will be vision services, along with an onsite pharmacy, further enhancing the health center’s offerings.

“This new facility will bring our patients all the services they need in one accessible location,” said Brenda M. W. Coughlin, M.D., MPH, President and CEO of GLBHC. “The greatest barrier to health care for many of our patients is transportation, and by centralizing our services, we can reduce this burden and help individuals and families get the care they deserve. We are committed to improving the health and well-being of our community.”

The new Bayside Health Center is a result of decades of commitment to the health of Bay County residents. Founded in 1968, GLBHC initially served Michigan’s migrant population, expanding over the years to provide year-round medical and dental services. In 1984, the original Bayside Health Center was established in Linwood, and by 1999, it moved to its current location on Monitor Road. Over the years, additional services have been added, including behavioral health, women’s care, and substance use disorder services.

“By bringing all of these services into one modern, state-of-the-art facility, we can better serve the people who need it most,” said Peter Shaheen, Vice President of Shaheen Development, the company partnering with GLBHC on the project. “This is a tremendous investment in Bay County’s healthcare infrastructure.”

The new health center will feature private consultation rooms, family-friendly waiting areas, and modern medical equipment. The facility will be designed with patient comfort in mind, offering flexible scheduling and improved accessibility for individuals and families.

Hundreds of community members attended the groundbreaking ceremony, which began with snacks and beverages at 2:30 p.m., followed by a brief program at 3:00 p.m. The event marked a pivotal moment in GLBHC’s continued commitment to providing high-quality healthcare to those who need it most, reinforcing the vision of improving lives through patient-centered care.

The new Bayside Health Center is set to open in the spring of 2026.

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Members not only are setting priority goals, they are mapping plans for each of them.

• Combat obesity with strategies to lose weight, for both adults and children.
• Reduce infant mortality rates.
• Improve awareness and access to mental health services.
• Continue the never-ending fight against substance abuse.

Specific? For example, the battle plan against obesity promotes Silver Sneakers, a Medicare fitness program for ages 65 and older, calls for more testimonials from people who have fulfilled their dietary plans, and sets a goal to create a “men’s health tool kit.”

And that’s not all. Did you know the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services operates a Heart Disease and Stroke Prevention Unit?

It’s because of state government in Lansing that Saginaw is among 10 counties to receive COVID-19 relief funds for health councils, based on evidence that the pandemic harmed ethnic minorities in more severe ways than the populus in general.

First-year funding was $130,000, a modest sum to cover office supplies and a dozen mini-grants in the $10,000 range. 

Some of the Health Equity Council’s plans include standard social outreach jargon, such as: “Engage a group of diverse community stakeholders and organizations to identify and address factors that affect residents’ health, such as transportation, food insecurity, housing, and access to high quality medical care.”

Others are more straightforward, such as a need to address “limited and/or lack of post trauma counseling and support after an infant death.”

The next meeting is at 1 p.m. Tuesday, Oct. 22, at New Life Baptist Ministries, 1401 Janes. There are no dues or membership fees; your time is the only donation that is asked. For information, visit bwellsaginaw.org/health-equity-council or contact Joyce Seals, coordinator, (989) 758-3801.

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The MLC verification process, developed in partnership with the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG), is designed to ensure hospitals meet rigorous standards in the care of pregnant and postpartum patients. This verification assesses hospitals’ readiness, capability, and effectiveness in managing complex maternal health conditions, including the ability to transfer patients to a higher level of care when necessary.

“The successful launch of the Maternal Levels of Care Verification Program in Michigan is a testament to our commitment to excellence and a significant step forward in advancing maternal health,” said Elizabeth Hertel, MDHHS director. “Success can be achieved when we align efforts, form true partnerships, and invest in maternal and infant health to improve outcomes for parents.”

In April 2024, MDHHS introduced a new initiative offering quality payments to birthing hospitals that fully participate in the Michigan Alliance for Innovation on Maternal Health (MI AIM) and apply for MLC verification. These payments, determined by the number of Medicaid-covered births and each hospital’s maternal morbidity rate, aim to support ongoing maternal quality improvement initiatives and related implementation costs. The state has allocated $9 million from its budget to fund these maternal health improvement efforts.

“We applaud each of the hospitals and their birthing teams for the time and effort they spent over recent weeks to complete the application process,” said Brian Peters, CEO of the Michigan Health & Hospital Association. “This work signifies the dedication Michigan birthing hospitals have toward providing high quality and safe care to Michigan mothers and babies.”

Dr. Jonathan B. Perlin, president and CEO of The Joint Commission, also expressed support for the initiative: “The Joint Commission commends the state of Michigan, the Michigan Health & Hospital Association, and Michigan hospitals for their commitment to excellence in maternal and neonatal care. We look forward to working closely with Michigan hospitals to provide support and validation of their maternal capabilities and policies for formal level of maternal care determination.”

Supporting MLC verification is part of a broader MDHHS strategy to address and improve maternal health disparities and outcomes across the state. In a pioneering effort, the Detroit Medical Center became the first hospital system in Michigan to complete its MLC verification application last month. These initiatives align with national strategies aimed at strengthening maternal care systems and reducing maternal mortality rates.

“As the country takes steps to reduce the unacceptably high rates of maternal mortality, ACOG applauds the Michigan hospitals that are aiming to make birth safer in their state by applying for MLC verification,” said Dr. Christopher Zahn, ACOG Chief of Clinical Practice and Health Equity and Quality. “MLC verification benefits hospitals, clinicians, and patients by helping hospitals identify and address gaps in capabilities and personnel to ensure pregnant and postpartum individuals receive appropriate care.”

Hospitals interested in learning more about the MLC verification process can visit the Michigan Health & Hospital Association’s Maternal Levels of Care webpage for further information.

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“We are thrilled to be back at the Saginaw YMCA,” stated Mel Svorinic, PT, DPT, OMPT, Managing Partner of Renue Physical Therapy’s Saginaw clinics. “Our dedicated team has worked hard to ensure we continue providing the high-quality care Renue patients expect. We value our partnership with the Saginaw YMCA and look forward to serving both their members and the community at large.”

Patients at the YMCA clinic will benefit from the expertise of Stephen Zingg, PT, DPT, who will offer a wide array of orthopedic services. Utilizing a private treatment room and the YMCA’s facilities, Dr. Zingg will create individualized treatment plans for each patient.

“The YMCA is a unique setting for physical therapy,” explained Dr. Zingg. “Having access to amenities like the pool, courts, and gym equipment makes it an enjoyable environment to work with patients and help them get back to their desired activities.”

Dr. Zingg and his team will provide services including:

• Physical Therapy: Addressing needs from post-surgical rehabilitation to orthopedics, strength training, and pain management.
• Balance and Fall Prevention: Programs to enhance balance and minimize fall risk.
• Free Screenings: 15-minute assessments to determine if physical therapy is appropriate.
• Sports Medicine: Treatment and prevention for athletes of all ages and levels.
• Aquatic Therapy: Utilizing the YMCA’s pool for suitable patients.

Renue’s CEO, Tony Klapish, expressed the company’s commitment to community health, stating, “We are pleased to support local YMCAs and proud to offer clinics inside both the Saginaw YMCA and the Dow Bay Area Family YMCA in Bay City.”

A YMCA membership is not necessary for treatment at the Saginaw YMCA clinic. For appointments or free screenings, call (989) 355-1010 or visit www.renuept.com.

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In a recent ceremony, SCHD proudly awarded Dr. Sam Shaheen with the Richard Calley Distinguished Service Award and Deb Rhodes, RN, with Employee of the Year.

Dr. Shaheen, president of CMU Medical Education Partners, has been a cornerstone in advancing public health in Saginaw. His unwavering support for the public health millage and his visionary efforts to foster a healthier community have been instrumental. Under his leadership, SCHD achieved academic health department status and welcomed Dr. Delicia Pruitt as medical director.

“Dr. Shaheen exemplifies leadership in public health,” says Christina Harrington, MPH, health officer. “His dedication and innovative spirit have significantly contributed to transforming Saginaw. His Medical Diamond project is a testament to his commitment, bringing CMU College of Medicine to Saginaw and integrating public health into his broader vision for the community.”

Deb Rhodes, RN, has been a dedicated public health nurse with SCHD for over 20 years. She plays a crucial role in the Nurse Family Partnership program, providing home visits to pregnant, first-time mothers and serving as the primary infant death investigator. Her commitment to enhancing maternal and child health outcomes is recognized and celebrated by both her colleagues and clients.

During the COVID-19 pandemic, many Saginaw County residents came to know Rhodes from her work at vaccine clinics, where she administered vaccines to homebound individuals and those visiting clinics throughout the county. Rhodes is also known for her willingness to volunteer for mobile services, further demonstrating her dedication.

“Deb is an exceptional listener and a beloved figure among her coworkers and the families she serves,” Harrington adds. “Her selflessness and commitment to the community make her a true champion of public health. She truly deserves this recognition.”

In addition to honoring Dr. Shaheen and Rhodes, SCHD celebrated employees who reached milestone years of service at their annual event. For more information and to view the list of awardees, visit saginawpublichealth.org.

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COVID-19 has settled into a predictable pattern with two major waves each year: a smaller one in the summer and a larger one in winter. Unlike the flu, which peaks in winter and drops off significantly, COVID-19 continues to rise between these waves, indicating it may be a year-round virus.

The current surge is driven by new variants, KP.3.1.1 and KP.3, which have evolved from Omicron. These variants are more contagious but not necessarily more deadly, potentially leading to increased severe cases and deaths.

A new vaccine tailored to these dominant variants is expected to be available in September. This vaccine aims to improve protection against the current strains, and Dr. Jha recommends waiting for this updated version if you haven’t received your vaccine this year. For most individuals, an annual vaccine is advised, with the timing ideally aligned with the flu shot in late September or October.

Despite the ongoing surge, there is positive news: COVID-19 related deaths in 2024 are significantly lower compared to 2023. This decrease in mortality is attributed to increased immunity and suggests that each infection now has less severe outcomes than in previous years.

The post Late summer COVID-19 surge hits U.S. amid new variants appeared first on The Michigan Banner.

The initiative aims to combat infant mortality by providing a safe and separate sleep environment for infants. Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS), a leading cause of sleep-related deaths, affects about one-third of infants under one year old. By ensuring that babies sleep in a firm, flat crib, bassinet, or pack ‘n play—rather than with family members or on soft surfaces—the risk of SIDS can be significantly reduced.

“Saginaw County’s infant mortality rate is currently 8.8 deaths per 1,000 live births, with the city of Saginaw experiencing an even higher rate of 13.2,” stated Dr. Samuel Shaheen, President and CEO of CMU Medical Education Partners. “These statistics are alarming, especially since many of these deaths could have been prevented by providing a safe sleep environment.”

The grant aligns with CMU Health’s ongoing efforts and its coalition partner, BWell Saginaw, to address maternal and child health challenges in the region. The goal is to reduce infant mortality rates in the City of Saginaw by 50% by December 2026.

Dr. Shaheen emphasizes that the introduction of these sleep systems, combined with the educational support provided by CMU Health, aims to raise awareness about safe sleep practices and ultimately decrease the incidence of sleep-related deaths.

For more information about these services or to inquire about receiving a pack ‘n play, current and prospective patients can contact Kathryn Debo, Community Outreach and Patient Wellness Coordinator, at 989-558-6428 or visit cmuhealth.org.

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Elly Jordan, Training and Impact Supervising Attorney at MIRC, expressed enthusiasm about the policy change. “We are thrilled with this update to Michigan’s healthcare policy,” Jordan said. “Access to healthcare is crucial for all children and families, especially during their formative years. This change will significantly enhance the quality of life for many Michigan families.”

Michigan’s new policy aligns with those in 36 other states and Washington, D.C., which have already removed the waiting period for children, and 30 states and D.C. that have done so for pregnant individuals. Traditionally, lawfully present immigrants had to wait five years after obtaining qualified immigration status before they could enroll in Medicaid or CHIP. This requirement has been waived in Michigan under the Immigrant Children’s Health Improvement Act (ICHIA) option since 2009, but the state only recently adopted this policy.

The policy shift is expected to improve healthcare coverage for a substantial number of families. Immigrant Michiganders are currently twice as likely to be uninsured compared to U.S.-born residents. The new policy will help bridge this gap, ensuring that children up to age 19 can now access CHIP, and individuals up to age 21 can access Medicaid. Pregnant individuals will also receive coverage, including a 12-month postpartum period.

The timing of the policy change is especially significant given recent confusion surrounding the federal public charge rule, which has led many immigrant families to avoid public benefits out of fear for their immigration status. National surveys have shown that many immigrant families have avoided public benefits due to misconceptions about their impact on future green card applications. The Protecting Immigrant Families (PIF) Michigan Campaign offers resources to clarify these issues.

Eligible individuals who wish to learn more about the expanded healthcare access can visit MIRC’s website at bit.ly/MIRC_ICHIA.

Eligibility for the new healthcare access includes, but is not limited to:

• Lawful Permanent Residents and those with approved visa adjustments
• Refugees, asylees, and asylum applicants
• Individuals granted withholding of deportation or removal
• Cuban/Haitian entrants, Iraqi & Afghan Special Immigrants
• Temporary Protected Status holders
• Deferred Enforced Departure holders
• DACA recipients after November 1, 2024
• Survivors of human trafficking and domestic violence
• U visa holders and certain victims of serious crimes
• Certain nonimmigrant visa holders, with additional considerations

To begin the enrollment process, individuals can visit Michigan’s MIBRIDGES benefit-issuing website. Those with further questions about their rights or eligibility can contact MIRC at (734) 239-6863.

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