NEWS RELEASE
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:
April 7, 2017
CONTACT: Dana Kazel, Communications Manager
218-725-5049 (office) • 218-591-2219 (cell)
"Triage" approach improves service delivery in Virginia
St. Louis County citizens seeking the help of Public Health and Human Services in the Virginia area, now are benefiting from more efficient and complete service. The department has created a centralized reception area in the Northland Office Building with specially trained customer service representatives, "triage" staff and onsite community partners to ensure people are receiving all the assistance they need in one place. People can come to one location to access financial assistance, find information on public health programs and services, and meet with a social worker.
"It can be confusing and frustrating for someone in need of service to have to make multiple appointments with multiple people," said Commissioner Patrick Boyle who chairs the Public Health and Human Services committee. "Though the triage approach, we are able to streamline services and make sure details aren't slipping through the cracks."
Public Health and Human Services invites the media to tour the renovated space and hear how this new approach is working. An event (not open to the public) will be held Wednesday, April 12, from 4:30-5:30 p.m. in the PHHS reception area on the second floor of the Northland Office Building, 307 1st Street South in Virginia.
"We've seen this approach work well in some of our other office locations, and are excited to offer it now in Virginia," said Linnea Mirsch, Director of Public Health and Human Services. "It's good for the people we serve, and good for our staff. These customer service commitments are central to planning for our new building, as well."
People can seek help from the triage unit by visiting in person or calling 218-471-7391.
The Public Health and Human Services Department provides services for children and families, adults, the elderly and people with disabilities. To learn more, visit stlouiscountymn.gov/phhs.
###
|
