Deschutes County Oregon -- 9/23/2011 --
Following a recent recruitment process earlier this summer, four candidates have been selected to serve on the Deschutes County Public Health Advisory Board, terms begin September 28.
The goal of the Board is to work in partnership with local communities to support the core functions of public health, advocate for those with health disparities, promote community health education, develop policy, set priorities and provide assessment and assure equity in services provided. The Board still has one vacancy which it hopes to fill with a representative from Redmond, La Pine or Sisters.
The following people are the latest additions to the Deschutes County Public Health Advisory Board:
Blake Drew, D.M.D.
Blake Drew is a general dentist with a private practice and works part-time at an urgent care dental clinic in Bend. He is excited to learn more about the medical and dental needs of the public in Deschutes County. Blake is looking forward to contributing his perspective to help improve medical and dental care to vulnerable populations in the area.
Susan G. Keys, Ph.D. Susan is the Special Advisor on Mental Health and Director of Research for the Inspire USA Foundation, an organization dedicated to the prevention of youth suicide through the use of technology. Susan is a former Branch Chief in the US Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration where she oversaw national efforts in youth violence prevention, suicide prevention, and young child wellness. Dr. Keys is also a retired Associate Professor, Johns Hopkins University. She hopes to bring her public health expertise to the health issues being addressed by the Public Health Advisory Board.
Holly Remer, B.S.
Currently serving as the Executive Director of Healthy Beginnings, a program offering free health and developmental screenings for children birth through age 5, Holly has demonstrated a commitment to children with unidentified concerns as well as supporting and encouraging health literacy for families. In her 20 years working in the non-profit sector, Holly has strived to meet the challenges facing children and families, helping children succeed. She believes that serving on the Public Health Advisory Board will provide a new way to help families and young children living in Deschutes County while improving access to needed care including vision and dental services.
Keith Winsor, M.B.A.
Keith Winsor moved to Bend in June of 2008 with his wife, Lezlie. Together they own and operate Academy Medical Systems, an online provider of continuing education for healthcare professionals. When asked why he wanted to join the Deschutes County Public Health Advisory Board, he responded, "I hope by joining the board I can contribute to helping build a brighter future for all Central Oregon citizens."
Advisory Board members are volunteers and are not compensated. Membership requires attendance at monthly meetings and a sincere interest in promoting the health of citizens in Central Oregon. Board member terms of service vary from one to three years in length and can be renewed.
For more information about the Deschutes County Public Health Advisory Board or to request an application packet, please e-mail thomask@deschutes.org or call (541) 322-7410.
