State’s top health leaders meet to discuss the future of Mississippi’s health – WLBT

JACKSON, Miss. (WLBT) – The Mississippi State Board of Health held its quarterly meeting on Wednesday, highlighting legislative wins and the state’s improved national health ranking while mourning the loss of a longtime board member.
State Health Officer Dr. Dan Edney said Mississippi’s health ranking improved to 48th in the country. The meeting began with officials discussing wins during the legislative session and recently renovated county health departments across the state.
“I always say it’s not good, but it’s better than it was. And in public health, that’s a win,” Edney said. “So, I would say there’s significant improvement from where we were as a population four or five years ago to where we are now, but we still have a long way to go just to become average. But every time we have a state health metric that improves, then I know that’s a positive impact to the health of Mississippians.”
Edney said declaring a public health emergency for infant mortality in August prompted the “Saving the Smallest” campaign. He said the ads are some of the quickest ways to spread awareness while the state constructs a new OB system of care.
The meeting came as the board mourned the loss of Dr. Elayne Hayes-Anthony, a longtime member who served for 17 years. Her husband, Eddie Anthony, attended the meeting and spoke about his late wife’s role in improving the state’s health ranking.
“It makes me feel really proud. I think she had a hand, and that’s something that she really, really worked hard for. And I hope it continues to make sure that their health care needs are met,” Anthony said. “That’s what that’s all about. It’s not about no longer being last. It’s about just making things better for the people we serve,” Edney added.
Last month, Edney was put on the short list of nominees for the next CDC director. The Trump administration missed the March 25 deadline to officially name a nominee, and the acting director will stay in his position until a nominee is named.
After the meeting, Edney spoke about being considered for the role.
“Incredibly honored to even be considered at all. But where my mindset is, serving the people of Mississippi as their state health officer. This is a job that I love,” Edney said. “Made it clear to everyone I talk to. I’m not looking for another post, but this is a post of high significance and high impact, and we’re making progress in Mississippi. I love being the state health officer, and I’m very happy.”
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