Putnam County Department of Health Nursing Division, Putnam County Department of Health
- Kathleen Percacciolo, Supervisor Public Health Nurse; Maria Peralta, Public Health Nurse Bilingual; Rebeca Garcia, Public Health Nurse Bilingual; Denise Sheeran, Public Health Nurse II; Jean Ralston, Senior Public Health Nurse; Mary McCormack, Public Health Program Assistant; Diane Liscia, Public Health Nurse II; Rosie Abreu, Clerk, Bilingual; Alexa Contreras, Assistant Public Health EDC II Bilingual; Jeanette Baldanza, Public Health Nurse; Doug Aucoin, Registered Professional Nurse.
During the COVID-19 pandemic the Putnam County Department of Health Nursing Division was challenged to learn a novel disease while preparing and responding to residents of Putnam County. The Nurses conducted testing for residents, investigated positive cases, quarantined contacts, and provided each resident with valuable information on how to prevent further spread of COVID-19. The nurses also provided the latest guidelines to providers, business owners, schools, and daycares. This essential public health service continued daily throughout the pandemic, and amid ever-changing guidance. The nurses led critical efforts to address disparities in coverage -- from testing through vaccinations -- during the COVID-19 pandemic. The Nursing Team’s awareness of diverse community needs helped to decrease health disparities, particularly among the elderly, residents with disabilities, homebound residents, and essential workers. Additionally, the Nursing Team worked to address disparities Spanish speaking populations faced by limiting barriers to care through targeted outreach and hosting multiple bilingual clinics that also addressed transportation obstacles. The Nursing Team’s leadership set the stage for a robust volunteer presence and county-wide collaborative effort that resulted in vaccination rates above the New York State average. Their work highlights a strong commitment to community health improvement and the county’s overall wellbeing.
