This document will be used as a guideline for the feasibility study process, as well as a communication tool for the members, stakeholders and the public.

Goal: Determine the feasibility of creating a public health system for Piscataquis County, ME.

Objectives of Feasibility Study

• Through a broad community based steering committee, develop an understanding of what “Public Health” is.
• Assess existing Public Health services that are currently offered and determine what is needed for the region.
• Explore “models” of Public Health Systems that are applicable for rural, sparsely populated areas.
• Understand the economics of Public Health Systems – how are they funded?

• 1. A community based Steering Committee determines if and in what form a Public Health System is feasible in Piscataquis County
• 2. The steering committee determines “who” will facilitate the development and implementation of a Public Health system
• 3. Community leaders have a much better understanding of regional health needs and challenges.

• 1. Introductions and Gathering of the Steering Committee – How did we get here?
• 2. Review of Goals, Objectives, Outcomes, and projected schedule for completion. (Handout)
• 3. Brief history of Public Health in Piscataquis County. (Handout)
• 4. Presentation of key concepts of a Public Health System. (Handout )
• 5. Discussion – Is a public health system important to our region? Why or why not?
• 6. Identify what parts of a Public Health system exist currently in Piscataquis County (small group process)
  • What are the services
  • Who are these providers
  • How are these services paid for?
• 7. Identify what parts of a Public Health system are missing in our region? (small group process)
  • What services are partly or completely needed in Piscataquis County?
  • Who are some possible stakeholders that could provide these services?
  • What are the barriers that inhibit these services from being provided?

• Scope of services
• How did the development of public health system occur?
• Funding for a public health system

• Explore existing models of Public Health systems with a rural focus.
  • In Maine/ New England
  • In the United States
  • Funding

• Explore possible Piscataquis County models
  • What components of a Public Health System do we want in place for out region?
  • How does this differ from a traditional model? Why?

• Continue conversation on Piscataquis County models and funding

• Decision - Is a Public Health system feasible in Piscataquis County?
• Who will take charge to build upon the system?