My name is Dan Thorell and I was selected by the Board of Health to serve as full time Health Officer for the Benzie-Leelanau District Health Department (BLDHD).
Until recently, I served as the Health Officer for the Health Department of Northwest Michigan. In that role, I also worked part-time as the Health Officer for BLDHD. During that time, I was introduced to the dedicated and talented staff at BLDHD and the great public health work that is being done in the community in partnership with local organizations and local governments.
I did not hesitate to seize the opportunity to be fully dedicated to public health in Benzie and Leelanau Counties and I am humbled and honored to have been selected.
At the regular meeting in May, the Board of Health made the decision to end a decade long agreement with the Health Department of Northwest Michigan to share their Health Officer. The change to full time leadership at BLDHD is a signifi cant shift for Benzie and Leelanau Counties and emphasizes the Board of Health’s commitment to public health and the future of the health department.
BLDHD has a history of providing exemplary public health services, whether it was to investigate and respond to communicable disease outbreaks, provide needed assistance to new mothers, assess hearing and vision of our children, protect our pristine environment and drinking water, or make sure the food we eat is safe. However, there has been tremendous growth in our region which translates into increased needs. The Health Department has grown significantly in the last decade. In that time, BLDHD has started new programs to address problems such as access to housing, transportation, healthcare, and food. In addition, there was new focus on school health which resulted in school nurses and mental health providers being placed in some schools in both counties. Construction growth has increased demand for environmental health services to design and inspect septic systems and wells for homes and businesses. Time of transfer evaluations began in Leelanau County to ensure septic systems and wells comply with regulations when properties are sold. These are just a few examples of how the needs of the community have changed in the past 10 years. These changes as well as future needs require the full attention of a strong local health department and strong public health leadership.
As the new full-time Health Officer of Benzie-Leelanau District Health Department, I look forward to engaging with community partners in Benzie and Leelanau Counties to focus on the issues that affect our residents. I will carry forward the mission of the health department, to prevent disease, prolong life, and promote public health. My 29 years of experience in public health has shaped me into a strong leader ready for any challenge. Together, we can build a healthier future for everyone in Benzie and Leelanau Counties. I am eager to meet and work alongside you as we take on exciting opportunities and address challenges.
About the author: Daniel R. Thorell is the health officer with the Benzie-Leelanau District Health Department.
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