Promoting Healthy Lifestyles and a
Clean and Safe Environment
2013 Annual Report
175 Sunset Avenue
PO Box 2191
Toms River, New Jersey 08754-2191
732-341-9700
www.ochd.org
John J. Mallon
Chairperson
Daniel E. Regenye
Public Health Coordinator
TABLE OF CONTENTS
1.
2.
3.
4.
Ocean County Board of Chosen Freeholders
Ocean County Board of Health Members
Ocean County Health Department Mission Statement
Public Health Practice Standards
a. Core Public Health Standards
b. Ten Essential Public Health Services
5. Message from the Chairperson of the Board
6. Message from the Public Health Coordinator
7. Ocean County Health Department Services
8. Ocean County Health Department Community Partnerships
9. Superstorm Sandy Continued Outreach Efforts and Response
10. Communicable Disease Unit
11. OCHD Annual Flu Vaccination Campaign/OCHD Continues to Offer Choices
to its Residents
12. OCHD Environmental Division
13. Clinics
14. HIV Counseling and Testing
15.Alcohol and Drug Abuse Services
16. Intoxicated Driver Resource Center
17. 3-D Awareness Program
18. Prescription Drop-Off Box Program Expands
19. Public Health Emergency Preparedness and Planning
20. WIC
21. Case Management Services
22. Office of Public Information, Education and Outreach
23. Live Healthy Ocean County
24. Revision of the Public Health Practice Standards
25. Community Health Planning
26. 2013 Statistical Snapshot of the Ocean County Health Department
BOARD OF CHOSEN FREEHOLDERS
Joseph H. Vicari, Director
John C. Bartlett, Deputy Director
John P. Kelly
James F. Lacey
Gerry P. Little
OCEAN COUNTY BOARD OF HEALTH
John (Jack) J. Mallon, Chairperson
Senator Robert Singer, Vice-Chairperson
Anthony DePaola, Secretary/Treasurer
Carol Blake, RN
Maurice (Mo) B. Hill, Jr., D.M.D.
Veronica Laureigh
Henry J. Mancini
Warren H. Wolf
Richard Work
Gerry P. Little, Liaison to the Board of Health
MISSION STATEMENT
In partnership with our community, we are committed to promoting
healthy lifestyles and a clean and safe environment. We are dedicated to
advocate for and to provide leadership in assuring consistent, quality
healthcare in our community.
We are guided by the following principles:
 To assess the priority needs and wants of the community we serve
through comprehensive health planning;
 To inform and educate residents about public health issues;
 To encourage people to take responsibility for their own and their
neighbors’ health;
 To utilize a team approach in achieving our mission;
 To commit to problem solving utilizing a systemic approach;
 To promote a work environment which fosters creativity,
innovation, respect, sense of caring, commitment, trust, quality and
dependability
PUBLIC HEALTH PRACTICE STANDARDS
The Ocean County Health Department and its Board of Health are governed by the Public
Health Practice Standards of Performance for Local Boards of Health in New Jersey, N.J.A.C.
8:52. Inherent duties and responsibilities are summarized in the three Core Public Health
Functions and the Ten Essential Public Health Services.
CORE PUBLIC HEALTH FUNCTIONS



.
Assess and monitor the health of communities and at-risk populations to identify health
problems and priorities.
Formulate public policies with community and government leaders to address local and
national public health problems and priorities.
Provide all populations with access and appropriate and cost-effective care, including
health promotion, disease prevention, and follow-up evaluation.
TEN ESSENTIAL PUBLIC HEALTH SERVICES
 Monitor health status to identify community health problems.
.
 Diagnose and investigate health problems in the community.
 Inform, educate, and empower people regarding health issues.
 Mobilize community partnerships to identify and solve health problems.
 Develop policies and plans that support individual and community health
efforts.
 Enforce the laws and regulations that protect health and ensure safety.
 Link people to needed personal health services and ensure healthcare when it
is otherwise unavailable.
 Ensure a competent local public health system and a competent personal
healthcare workforce.
 Evaluate effectiveness, accessibility, and quality of personal and populationbased services.
 Research innovative solutions to health problems.
Members
John J. Mallon, Chairman
Robert Singer, Vice Chairman
Anthony DePaola, Secretary-Treasurer
Carol Blake, R.N.
Maurice “Mo” B. Hill, Jr., D.M.D.
Veronica Laureigh
Henry Mancini
Warren Wolf
Richard Work
Gerry P. Little, Freeholder Liaison
OCEAN COUNTY BOARD OF HEALTH
Daniel E. Regenye, M.H.A., Lic. H.O.
P.O. Box 2191
Toms River, NJ 08754-2191
(732) 341-9700
Fax: (732) 831-6495
http://www.ochd.org
Public Health Coordinator
March, 2014
A Message from the Chairman of the Board
Since its inception in 1978, the Ocean County Board of Health has always provided leadership,
direction and guidance for the day-to-day operations of the Ocean County Health Department. The Board
works with the Office of the Public Health Coordinator and Administrative staff to assure that the Ocean
County Health Department provides the most comprehensive and necessary health services to our residents.
In 2012, Ocean County was battered by Superstorm Sandy; we have spent many of our efforts this past year
mitigating the damage and working as part of the county’s recovery efforts. Although the Health
Department has worked diligently with each of our municipalities and the recovery efforts, there is so much
more to do.
The Board continues to recognize the dedication and compassion of the Health Department
employees. So many of our employees were directly affected by Sandy and they still fulfilled, above and
beyond, their work commitments to ensure the health of our county residents. We know how much our
employees gave back to us during this time of need. We are so proud of the work force here at the Ocean
County Health Department who work day in and day out fulfilling our mission.
Within our Health Department structure, there have been many organizational changes over the
past couple of years to improve our services and program delivery. Our goal is to offer the greatest benefit
to the taxpayers of Ocean County while keeping the tax rate at a reasonable, stable level. As Chairperson
of the Board of Health, and on behalf of my fellow Board members, we invite and encourage you to attend
our Board meetings. We welcome your ideas and suggestions and give you the opportunity to become more
involved in improving the health status of our community.
The Ocean County Board of Health remains committed to its mission by working “in partnership
with our community” to achieve healthier lifestyles and a clean and safe environment for all of Ocean
County residents.
John J. Mallon
Chairman
Daniel E. Regenye, M.H.A., Lic. H.O.
Public Health Coordinator
Email: Dregenye@ochd.org
OCEAN COUNTY HEALTH DEPARTMENT
P.O. Box 2191
Toms River, NJ 08754-2191
(732) 341-9700 ext. 7201
Fax: (732) 831-6495
http://www.ochd.org
March 2014
A Message from the Public Health Coordinator
Over the past year, the Ocean County Health Department had one of its greatest challenges; post
Superstorm-Sandy. We ended 2012 still responding to the storm and during this past year have been
involved in recovery efforts including all our departments leading to new partnerships.
I am extremely fortunate to have an extremely proactive and supportive Board that truly
understands the working of our many departments. In addition, two of our Board members won extremely
prestigious awards during 2013. John (Jack) Mallon, Chairperson of the Board, received the Monmouth
Ocean Development Council Silver Gull Community Service Award in May, 2013, and Senator Robert
Singer, Vice-Chairperson of the Board, was awarded the Caregivers Volunteers of Central Jersey Hope
Award in September, 2013.
This annual report gives me the opportunity to share some of the accomplishments and challenges
that we experience on a day-to-day basis. We are proud that the Ocean County Health Department is
looked upon by various agencies throughout New Jersey, including the New Jersey Department of Health,
as a role model as to how public health services can best be delivered. Many of our staff continue to be
recognized for their accomplishments locally, statewide and nationally.
Each year offers us new challenges and this year’s drug epidemic and drug deaths, 107 in 2013, has
brought the Health Department into a collaborative effort with the Ocean County Prosecutor’s Office and
other agencies addressing this issue. Substance abuse is a major public health issue and we will continue to
work with our other county, faith-based and non-profit agencies as we address this issue.
The agency continues our collaboration with the Faith-Based Communities to help disseminate
important health information to our residents. The Faith-Based Initiative has become one of our important
partners in public health.
I would like to extend my sincerest thanks to our employees and our many partners for all that has
been accomplished during this past year. Not only are we proud of our employees but in the relationships
we have established with many outside agencies and departments, our county schools and the many
community groups that create our active and ongoing partnerships. As always, I look forward to hearing
from and working with our residents to assure a healthier life in Ocean County.
Daniel E. Regenye
Public Health Coordinator
Ocean County Health Department Services
Alcohol and Drug Services
-Prevention Programs
-Treatment and Referrals
-Intoxicated Driver Resource Center
-Municipal Alliances
Animal Facilities
-Northern Ocean County Animal Facility – Jackson
-Southern Ocean County Animal Facility – Manahawkin
*Pets for Adoption
*Pet Surrenders Accepted
*Rabies Clinics – Animal Vaccinations
*24 Hour Receiving Area for Municipal Animal Control Officers
Child Development Services
-Early Intervention
-Special Child Health Services
Clinic Services
-Eye Screening Clinic
-Hepatitis B Vaccine Program/Bloodborne Pathogen Program
-HIV/AIDS Clinic
-HIV Counseling and Testing
-Live Healthy Ocean County Program
-Rabies Human Pre-Exposure Vaccination Clinic
-Sexually Transmitted Disease Clinic
-Shingles Vaccination Clinic
-Tdap (tetanus, diptheria, pertussis) Vaccination Clinic
-Tuberculosis Clinic
-Tuberculosis Testing
Communicable Disease Services
-Animal Bite and Quarantine Investigations
-Education and Surveillance
-Epidemiology
-Foodborne and other Infectious Disease Investigations
-Flu/Pneu Vaccinations
-Monitoring Emerging Infectious Disease
-Rabies Clinics – Animal Vaccinations
-Rabies Control and Consultation
-West Nile Surveillance Reporting
Community Health Planning
-Community Health Needs Assessment
-Community Health Improvement Plan
-Faith-Based Initiative
Environmental Health – Consumer Health
-Body Art Facility Inspections
-Recreational Bathing Inspections
-Public Pool and Spa Inspection and Enforcement
-Retail Food Establishment Inspections and Plan Reviews
-Tanning Facility Inspections
-Youth Camp Safety Inspections
Environmental Health – Environmental Protection and Services
-Air Pollution Complaints
-Campground Inspections
-Childhood Lead Poisoning Investigations
-Control of Rodent Vectors of Disease
-Enforcement of State and Local Regulations
-Environmental Complaint Investigations
-Ground Water Investigations/Well Water Sampling for Analysis
-Hazardous Material Incidence Response
-Noise Control
-Public Health Nuisance Complaint Investigations
-Right to Know Program
-Septic System Installation Plan Review and Repair Inspections
-Site Plan and Subdivision Reviews for Local Planning and Zoning Boards
-Well Water Analysis Certifications for New Construction, Replacement Wells/
Re-sales
-Wells and Septic Systems Certification Inspections
Health Education
-Community Health Fairs
-School, Business and Community Programs
-Dental Coordination and Education
- Safe Medication Management Program
-Public Information, Media Relations, Outreach
Health Screenings
-Blood Pressure Screening
-Mobile Stroke Risk Assessment Program
-Osteoporosis Screening for Women
-Safe Medication Mangement Program
-Tuberculosis Screening
- New Jersey Cancer Education and Early Detection Program
Home Health Care
-Skilled Nursing Care
-Physical/Occupational/Speech Therapy
-Dietician and Social Work Evaluations
-Certified Home Health Aides
Women, Infants and Children (WIC) Special Supplemental Nutrition Program
-Nutrition Counseling for Women, Infants & Children
- Anemia Testing
-Farmer’s Market Program
-Breastfeeding Counseling and Support
-Referrals for Healthcare
Community Partnerships
The philosophy of the Ocean County Health Department per its mission statement is to
work in partnership with our community. As such, Health Department staff are involved
or have been involved in many community collaborations and partnerships including but
not limited to the following:
 Barnabas Healthcare System
 Beth Medrash Gevoha
 Big Brothers/ Big Sisters of Ocean County
 Caregivers of Central Ocean County
 Central Jersey Family Health Consortium
 Catholic Charities of Ocean County
 Centers for Health, Education , Medicine, and Dentistry (CHEMED)
 Chambers of Commerce:
-Toms River Chamber
-Lakewood Chamber
-Southern Ocean County Chamber
 Children’s Home Society of N.J., CUNA Program and Family Resource Center
 County Animal Response Team (CART)
 Family Planning Center of Ocean County, Inc.
 Faith-Based Initiative of Ocean County
 Georgian Court University
 Governor’s Council on Alcohol and Drug Abuse (GCADA)
 Health Advisory Group for the Community Health Improvement Plan
 Humane Society of the United States
 Interfaith Hospitality Network
 Juvenile Justice Committee
 Lakewood Complete Town Committee
 Lakewood Emergency Preparedness Council
 La Leche League of Ocean County
 L.E.A.P., Lakewood Head Start Program
 Local Advisory Committee on Alcohol and Drug Abuse (LACADA)
 Local Emergency Planning Council
 Long Beach Island Health Department
 Meridian Health Care System
 New Hope Foundation







































New Jersey Action for Healthy Kids
New Jersey BREATHES
New Jersey Comprehensive Cancer Control Committees
NJ HealthEASE
New Jersey Department of Health Older Adults Heath Committee
Ocean/Monmouth Health Alliance
O.C.E.A.N. Inc., Health Advisory Council
Ocean County Board of Social Services
Ocean County College
Ocean’s Harbor House
Ocean Health Initiative
Ocean County Office of Emergency Management
Ocean County Emergency Response Committee (ERC)
Ocean County Executive Superintendent’s Office
Ocean County Human Services Advisory Council (HSAC)
Ocean County Library System
Ocean County Municipal Alliances
Ocean County Office of Senior Services
Ocean County Planning Department
Ocean County Professional Advisory Council (PAC) Committee
Ocean County Special Needs Shelter Plan Working Group
Ocean Mental Health Services
Preferred Behavioral Health of New Jersey
Providence House
Providers Advisory Committee on Alcohol and Drug Abuse (PACADA)
Public Health Emergency Preparedness Advisory Committee
Puerto Rican Congress of New Jersey, Inc.
Richard Stockton College
Rutgers University
Seashore Family Counseling Services
Southern Ocean County Coalition Against Substance Abuse (SOCCASA)
Southern Regional Governmental Public Health Partnership
St. Francis Community Center
Substance Abuse Prevention: Project MORE
Substance Abuse Prevention: Project DART
Tdap Initiative
UMDNJ
United Way Community Impact Subcommittee
YMCA Community Development Committee
(The above picture was the last day that this icon of Seaside remained standing)
Superstorm Sandy Continued Outreach Efforts and Response
The Ocean County Health Department (OCHD) continued to work diligently to respond to the
ongoing overwhelming needs of Ocean County’s residents impacted by Superstorm Sandy. The Health
Department continued throughout 2013, to offer Tdap and flu shots to first responders and residents. The
OCHD was available to all municipalities from offering shots and mold information to presenting at their
Township meetings. From November 2012 through September 2013, the OCHD provided over 1,200
immunizations (Tdap and flu).
As residents returned home after the storm, we used the OCHD website to disseminate much
information on remaining safe and healthy. We continued website updates and also provided information
through TV and radio shows through the winter and spring. In addition, all FEMA press releases and
reports to the public were posted to the OCHD website, including FEMA maps.
UMDNJ, now Rutgers School of Public Health, designed a mold awareness program for both
residents and public health/building code officials. As we were receiving numerous calls regarding mold, it
was extremely timely. We also offered this to the peer counselors from Hope and Healing Program as they
had concerns since they were going directly into people’s homes. The New Jersey Department of Health
sent us 5,000 copies of Mold Guidelines for New Jersey Residents that were used in our distributed
packets in the Mobile Outreach Program. Some of the topics included an awareness and identification of
mold, safe work practices, personal protective equipment, remediation and environmental and safety issues
when cleaning up after a hurricane or flood.
Eleven programs were set up through the OCHD for about 400 residents. Over two hundred
professionals were trained in the mold program designed for professionals through the OCHD. Also, the
Health Education staff and the majority of Environmental staff were trained in this program. We referred
the program to several local organizations, including faith-based organizations with whom we work, who
also offered the program to residents and professional staff. The Mold Guidelines for New Jersey
Residents was also downloaded onto our website.
Although we began our Mobile Outreach Program offering free Tdap/flu vaccinations in November
2012 and continued as requested, we moved forward and set up set up ten weekend outreach programs
from Memorial Day to Labor Day 2013, from Friday to Sunday, to offer Tdap, mold and other information
throughout Ocean County’s affected areas. Programs were held at Stafford, Little Egg Harbor, Waretown,
Ortley Beach, Toms River, Brick, Point Pleasant Beach, Lacey Township and Berkeley Township. We
also did 4 additional days at Ortley Beach to accommodate the barrier island residents. Many of the
municipalities used their NIXLE or Reverse 9-1-1 capabilities to broadcast this to their residents. The
OCHD sent out press releases for each site and did radio interviews each week to promote the sites. We
offered residents free Tdap vaccinations, mold information, N95 masks, gloves, hand sanitizer,
information on safe swimming, West Nile Virus and the OCHD Services and Clinic Services. The OCHD
continues to offer information to the public regarding Sandy Recovery. Staff from the Office of Public
Information, Health Education and Outreach remain involved with the Ocean County Long Term Recovery
Unit.
Over the summer of 2013 and hurricane season upon us again, the OCHD worked with the Ocean
County Library System in setting up emergency preparedness displays for residents. This was displayed in
various libraries for the month of September. In addition, the OCHD Public Information Officer did a 5part series on National Preparedness month which was aired on WOBM and 101.5, for the five Mondays in
September. The taped interviews were also put on their websites.
Staff from the OCHD were presenters on several television shows regarding the storm. In addition,
the OCHD was contacted by Robert Wood Johnson Foundation who was putting together videos on the
public health effects of Sandy. Our staff worked very closely with the group who was producing the videos
in addition to being interviewed for the videos. Tapings and interviews continued through February 2013.
Sandy continued to provide the OCHD Environmental Unit with challenges. The division was
responsible for ensuring that all public recreational bathing beaches meet regulations in the Public
Recreational Bathing Code prior to the recreational bathing season, mainly along the Atlantic Ocean and
the Barnegat Bay. They began testing water for bacteria and other contaminants in January 2013. The
Environmental Unit worked closely with the municipalities involved and responsible for restoring the
beaches to acceptable swimming/bathing conditions and invited the N.J. Department of Health for joint site
inspections for each bathing site prior to the start of the season.
In addition to the recreational bathing sites affected by the storm, the Environmental Unit worked
closely with all affected food establishments, providing on-site guidance to all facilities so that they were
able to re-open their establishments as quickly as possible while conforming to the retail food establishment
regulations. To date, 283 out of the 362 affected establishments have been reopened. Many of those that
have not reopened have either been completely destroyed or the owners have chosen not to reopen their
business.
This agency also responded to a major fire at the Seaside Heights Boardwalk, which destroyed over
20 retail food establishments. Many of these establishments were destroyed, and to date we have only
reopened 2 of the affected establishments.
The OCHD and the Public Health Emergency Preparedness and Planning Unit were selected to
present “Defining a New Public Health Role in Medical Needs Shelter Operations During Superstorm
Sandy” Poster at the National Public Health Preparedness Conference in Atlanta, GA. Daniel Regenye and
Mukesh Roy presented in the Poster Session division of this conference. The Unit also provided
recommendations on the local health department response to the Institute of Medicine (IOM) Superstorm
Sandy Forum meeting. The Unit also presented to the Philadelphia/Pennsylvania Department of Health on
the OCHD response to the storm.
The Summit brought 1,741 attendees to Atlanta, Georgia from nearly every state, and several
territories and countries, including China and Australia for a four-day annual event which provided one of
the only cross-disciplinary learning opportunities in the field of public health preparedness and response.
The Summit also featured the short documentary film produced by Robert Wood Johnson Foundation about
the role of Ocean County Health Department during Sandy Response that was mentioned earlier.
Communicable Disease Unit (CDU)
The year 2013, was a busy year in the CDU with new and interesting challenges facing its
staff.
This past summer saw a decrease in the number of people infected with West Nile Virus. The
OCHD continues to send bird specimens to the New Jersey Public Health and Environmental
Laboratory to test for WNV. The OCHD West Nile campaign, which begins in May as warm
weather arrives, alerts residents to call us if they find a dead bird in addition to warning residents
to protect themselves from mosquitoes. This continues from late spring into the fall. We have
also seen a decrease in the amount of birds infected with WNV.
The Communicable Disease Unit receives reports of communicable disease as outlined in
N.J.A.C. 8:57. Reportable diseases are electronically submitted to the New Jersey Department of
Health.
The CDU provides technical assistance, support, and oversight in conducting an
investigation. In determining etiology, specimens need to be obtained for additional testing at the
state laboratory as appropriate. During an outbreak, the CDU must perform active surveillance for
cases and possible secondary transmission of disease. It is essential that the CDU institute control
measures to prevent transmission of diseased in addition to recommending and overseeing
prophylaxis treatment as needed. CDU maintains surveillance of a disease until an outbreak is
declared over, usually after two consecutive incubation periods without a new case.
Rabies continues to be an issue in Ocean County. The CDU receives and investigates
reports of animal bites to humans per New Jersey law. Upon receiving reports, the OCHD
collaborates with Animal Control Officers for confinement and observation of a biting animal.
The CDU facilitates submission of rabies specimens to the state public health laboratory. The
OCHD continually, especially during the warmer months when more people are outside, remind
people to be cautious of animals that are acting strangely, things they can do around their home to
keep animals away, and what to do if they have encountered an animal acting strangely.
The OCHD is also the county distribution center for free rabies vaccination supplies (for
domestic animals) provided by the NJDOH. The OCHD maintains an inventory of rabies vaccine
and distributes necessary clinic supplies to municipal officials and the Ocean County Animal
Facilities. The OCHD also compiles reports of rabies vaccination activity for the NJDOH for
supply accountability.
.
Ocean County Health Department Annual Flu Vaccination Campaign/
OCHD Continues to Offer Choices to Its Residents
Ocean County Health Department continued to provide flu clinics at approximately 70
sites within Ocean County, many in our older adult communities. The county saw little flu
activity until the end of 2013; therefore, the OCHD will continue its flu campaign into the winter
which is when flu activity spikes. The main flu strain that has been seen is H1N1, which typically
affects young adults, the one age group that seems resistant to getting vaccinated against the flu.
The Health Department continues to promote getting vaccinated against the flu and offers the
following:



Regular dose for all people 6 months of age and older – this is an injection into the
muscle of the upper arm. This vaccine gives good protection from severe disease.
High-dose for people 65 years of age and older – this is a newer vaccine, available
for the last four years, which is designed to provide a higher immunity level for
those 65 years of age or older. This age group is at a higher risk of severe
consequences if they get the flu.
Intradermal for people 18-64 years of age- this vaccine is injected just beneath the
skin of the upper arm with a needle that is 90% smaller than the needle used for the
“regular” vaccination. It provides the same protection as other flu vaccines for this
age group.
During the 2012-2013 Flu Campaign, the OCHD began to offer the Fluzone High-Dose
vaccine, aimed at those over the age of 65. This vaccine was well-received by our county
residents and remains the top choice for people in this age. A higher dose of antigen in the
vaccine is supposed to give older people a better immune response and therefore better protection
against flu. Older adults are not only more susceptible to infections, but also less responsive to
vaccination. Compared to younger adults, people 65 years of age and older suffer
disproportionately from seasonal influenza and its complications, including severe illness leading
to hospitalization and death. Although this group comprises only 15 percent of the U.S.
population, on average it accounts for 65 percent of the estimated 226,000 hospitalizations and 90
percent of the 3,000 to 49,000 deaths attributed to seasonal influenza and its complications each
year.
This past August results of a large-scale efficacy trial in people over the age of 65 which
showed a superior clinical benefit of using this high-dose vaccine. This trial has confirmed that
the Fluzone High-Dose vaccine provides better protection against influenza compared to Fluzone
(the regular flu vaccine) vaccine in people 65 years of age and older.
The results indicate greater efficacy for Fluzone High-Dose vaccine. This large trial study
also reaffirmed the safety of Fluzone High-Dose vaccine.
The Ocean County Health Department, with its high senior population, was extremely
pleased to read the results of the trials done with the Fluzone High-Dose. It is additional
protection against the flu for our older adults in Ocean County.
OCHD Environmental Division
The Environmental Health Division of the Ocean County Board of Health protects and
assures the health of the public by addressing problems of concern regarding exposure to
environmental contaminants by eliminating or minimizing pollutants in the air, water and by
controlling solid and hazardous waste, as well as inspecting and monitoring establishments for
consumer health safety. Each year this division continues to grow and diversify as it responds to
the wants and needs of the public. The Environmental Health Division also is committed to
keeping its residents informed about the quality of the environment in which they live and to work
to maintain a safe and healthy environment for the residents of Ocean County and its many
visitors. The Environmental Division uses the OCHD website for residents to link right to state
laws, etc. They also post beach closings, water quality and restaurant inspection results on the
website.
The Environmental Division also responds to complaints received by the public pertaining
to any environmental and/or public health safety problem. Investigations of the complaints cover
numerous fields which include noise pollution, hazardous substances in ground water, insect and
rodent control, heating problems in multi-unit dwellings, noxious weed surface water pollution,
and air pollution.
In its efforts to provide effective, reliable enforcement, information, service, and education
for our county, during 2013, the division has hosted an informative seminar for recreational
bathing inspection expectations. This program was well received and this will be presented again
in 2014. The OCHD is examining further ways to use its website and social media to get out
pertinent information to the public.
The division also fulfilled the requirements of the County Environmental Health Act
(CEHA) contract with the New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection (NJDEP), which
included the following type of inspections: solid waste facilities, air pollution and permits (dry
cleaners, boilers, emergency generators), and public non-community water systems. The division
also provided a successful environmental lead hazard assessment and abatement enforcement
program as well as an effective Bedbug Education and Information program.
OCHD also participated in and successfully completed the Coastal Cooperative
Monitoring Program (CCMP), which monitors 82 bathing beach sites in the County for bacterial
issues in waters used for swimming. This year saw 7 official beach closures at 3 ocean/bay/river
bathing sites and 72 official beach closures at 17 lake and creek bathing sites. The division has
been working with municipalities along the Toms River which have public recreational bathing
sites and the NJDEP to determine possible sources of contamination which continue to affect
certain beaches along the Toms River. Contamination source investigations have been successful
and information presented to those municipalities affected so that remediation efforts may begin to
help with the water quality of the Toms River.
CLINICS
In 2013, the OCHD continued to enhance our services to our residents, identify
pockets of underserved populations and expand our services geographically to best meet the
needs of our residents. Our clinic division provided many post-Sandy services to affected
Ocean County residents through the OCHD Sandy Outreach Program. As mentioned earlier,
every weekend from May to September, clinic staff was available at dedicated sites
throughout Ocean County to vaccinate residents against tetanus. Clinic services also have
dedicated days each month at the OCHD facility offering Tdap and Shingles vaccinations.
HIV Counseling and Testing
This past year was a busy one for the OCHD HIV Counseling and Testing program. All
county schools were contacted with the availability of programs that could be presented in their
schools for their students. Several high schools contacted us and the OCHD HIV Counselor
presented educational programs at their schools.
In 2013, the HIV/AIDs Advisory Committee continued to meet. This advisory committee
was formed for Ocean County Stakeholders to attend quarterly meetings to discuss HIV/AIDS in
Ocean County. An ongoing discussion is how to identify and test the hard to reach populations.
OCHD HIV/AIDS literature, the OCHD testing program and the hours are distributed to many
other agencies, including drug prevention and treatment facilities.
After examining the ages of clients attending the HIV counseling and Testing Clinic, staff
identified our senior population as using the clinic more in 2013. In order to provide information
and education to this population, HIV Counseling and Testing partnered with the Alcohol and
Drug Unit, Municipal Alliances and the Institute for Prevention to set up a table during Senior
Slugger Night at Blue Claws Stadium. Senior Slugger Night is a summer-long program with
reduced rates for those over the age of 55.
During June, the OCHD promoted National HIV Testing Day, held on June 27th. Both
HIV Counseling and Testing and staff from our HIV Clinic, wore “Be a Hero, Get Tested” shirts
during clinic hours during this month. A press release was sent to the community on the
importance of testing and special goody bags were made with “Be a Hero, Get Tested” shirts and
condoms.
On December 3, the Ocean County Health Department Counseling and Testing Program
offered free counseling and testing at Ocean County College. The CDC notes that in 2009, young
people between the ages of 13 and 29 accounted for 39% of new infections. As the majority of
college students fall into this age range, the OCHD looked at another avenue to provide this
service.
Alcohol and Drug Abuse Services
The Alcohol and Drug Unit is a comprehensive resource that assists Ocean County residents
in overcoming substance abuse or chemical dependency problems.
The Alcohol and Drug Unit at the Ocean County Health Department contracts with substance
abuse agencies in the local community to provide services to Ocean County residents. The
Alcohol and Drug Unit provides services on a continuum of care ranging from detoxification and
inpatient to outpatient services.
The Ocean County Board of Health and its staff thank the four Legislative Districts in Ocean
County for advocating for increased funding for alcohol and drug abuse services for the Ocean
County Health Department and the residents of Ocean County, which resulted in increased
funding to meet the needs of our residents.
During July, 2013, the Providers Advisory Committee on Alcohol and Drug Abuse
(PACADA) and the Professional Advisory Committee (PAC) met again with the New Jersey
Division of Mental Health and Addiction Services (DMHAS) to discuss transforming business
models in New Jersey.
In collaboration with our Municipal Alliances and the Institute for Prevention, the Alcohol
and Drug Unit, the OCHD Health Education Unit and the Older Adult Local Advisory Committee
updated their senior survey to be distributed during 2013. The survey was edited to mirror a statewide survey. During 2013, approximately 2000 older adults were surveyed on prescription
misconceptions and also the proper way to dispose of medications. Each person was also given a
list of the Prescription Drop-Off Boxes in Ocean County.
The Ocean County Heroin Task Force was formed in August 2013 by the Ocean County
Health Department with a kick-off of a year-long campaign to raise awareness on opiate use,
abuse and overdose. The OCHD reached out to other agencies, including the Prosecutor’s Office
and prevention and treatment agencies resulting in a large collaborative effort to combat drug
abuse. The goal is to provide information and education to parents and families in Ocean County.
This has been extremely successful to date and will continue into 2014. As the heroin epidemic
reaches new heights in Ocean County, the Opiate Task Force is continuing to examine ways to
work with the Prosecutor’s Office, and other agencies to prevent, intervene and provide treatment
for those addicted.
The annual PACADA/PAC Conference titled “Ocean County: Hot Topics” was extremely
successful in 2013 with the Keynote Speaker being Prosecutor Coronato and speakers Doug
Collier of the Attorney General’s Office, Dr. Raj Juneja, an addiction psychiatrist and Prevention
First showcasing a variety of their prevention programs. There were approximately 150 people in
attendance; prevention and treatment providers, law enforcement and Municipal Alliances.
Additionally, the Alcohol and Drug Unit works closely with the Local Advisory
Committee on Alcohol and Drug Abuse (LACADA) and the Providers Advisory Committee on
Alcohol and Drug Abuse (PACADA).
Intoxicated Driver Resource Center (IDRC)
The Ocean County Health Department is responsible for administering the IDRC for Ocean
County. The purpose of the IDRC is to provide a professional education and screening
intervention to any county residents convicted of an alcohol or drug related motor vehicle
violation. Clients are assigned by their trial judge to either a 12 or 24-hour IDRC program based
on the number or severity of offences. During the program, each client will receive a brief clinical
screening, assessment, and referral to treatment. If necessary, the client will be referred to a
licensed professional or clinic for a full assessment, and must comply with any treatment
recommendations made in order to regain their driving privileges.
3-D Awareness Program
During the first weekend of February, 2013, the Ocean County Health Department
Intoxicated Driver Resource Center held its annual 3-D, Drinking, Drugging and Driving…Always
a Choice, Never an Accident, program at the Ocean County Mall. Each year, this program is
presented in an effort to bring heightened awareness to the critical issue of driving under the
influence of alcohol and drugs. There were presentations by state and county officials, alcohol
and drug abuse providers, prevention personnel, and members of local law enforcement and
education community.
This is a “One-Stop-Shop” forum to the public to garner information on addiction, see
how to recognize a problem and learn about prevention options and education. In addition to the
speakers, visitors were encouraged to participate in the simulated DUI stops and the fatal vision
goggle demonstrations. The program not only has had several municipal law enforcement
agencies participate, it has become a very well-attended program for the public each year.
Prescription Drop-Off Program Expands
The OCHD continues to receive many calls regarding proper prescription disposal. The
OCHD is also aware that that prescription drug abuse and misuse has been identified as a problem
within Ocean County. Ocean County now has five Rx Drop-Off Boxes, in Toms River, Seaside
Heights, Lacey, Manchester and Lakewood, and other municipalities are looking into establishing
the same. The OCHD continues to promote the Prescription Drop-Off Boxes on its website where
people can find the locations. Laminated cards are distributed at health fairs, etc., with prescription
drug disposal information and the OCHD website listing the Rx Drop-Off Boxes.
Public Health Emergency Preparedness and Planning
Public Health Emergency Preparedness and Planning Unit was extremely busy with postSandy projects in 2013, coordinating a $337,709 Public Health Preparedness Local Information
Network Communications System (LINCS) Grant, a County Homeland Security Grant and
spearheading the receipt and storage of medical supplies to be used in Sandy recovery and response
and coordinating a Radiological Grant for the county.
This Unit also spearheaded the receipt and storage of medical supplies and personal protection
from Americares Foundation worth over $174,000 for use in Superstorm Sandy response and
recovery.
The Public Health Emergency Preparedness and Planning Unit was responsible for
coordinating an OCHD After Action Report relating to Sandy. During the first few months of 2013,
this Unit worked to take inventory and resupply the Medical Needs Shelter Trailer and the Mobile
Morgue. During 2013, the Unit has been working with area hospitals, OEM, Human Services, etc.,
to develop a Medical Needs Shelter Plan.
Public Health Emergency Preparedness and Planning continues to participate in FEMA-graded
County Radiological Drills.
The federal Strategic National Stockpile (SNS) offers medicine and medical supplies if
there is a public health emergency severe enough to cause local supplies to run out. If this should
happen, medicines will be delivered to any state within 12 hours. Ocean County is prepared to
receive, process, and distribute medication, supplies and equipment to Points of Distribution
(POD) sites and hospitals throughout the County.
Ocean County Health Department received a score of 100% on the Local Technical
Assistance Review (LTAR) inspection which was conducted by New Jersey Department of Health
(NJDOH) regarding its emergency preparedness efforts.
The Ocean County Medical Reserve Corps (MRC) continues to expand with more volunteers.
They are dedicated to support the community in the event of a public health emergency. The
members are medical and public health professionals who, along with interested community
members, volunteer their skills, expertise and time to support ongoing public health initiatives and
assist during emergencies throughout Ocean County.
Ocean County MRC members attended a number of trainings throughout the year and assisted
with two radiological response exercises conducted in Lakewood, N.J., which were graded by the
Federal Emergency Agency (FEMA).
Ocean County Women, Infants and Children (WIC) Program
The population in Ocean County has been growing in the last ten years. With a 12.8%
increase as per the 2010 census reflected, the Ocean County WIC Program increased its
enrollment tremendously, reflecting the economic recession and population increase in the
county.
In 2013, the biggest increase in enrollment was in breastfeeding women by 5% followed by
the enrollment of children by 4%. There was also a growth in enrollment of pregnant women by
2%, and infants by 1%.
The Ocean County WIC program had a decrease in redeemed participation (returning clients
for benefits) in 2013 due to Superstorm Sandy which displaced many participants out of the
county.
Total Ocean County WIC Caseload for 2013: 22,366 (unduplicated count)
Status
Pregnant Women
Breastfeeding Women
Non Breastfeeding Women
Infants
Children
WIC Sites
Toms River
Brick
Berkeley
Stafford
OHI Toms River
Lakewood
OHI Lakewood
TOTAL
Enrolled participants (unduplicated count)
2,007
2,702
569
3,911
13,177
Caseload
2013
2,542
551
148
1,167
487
16,175
1,269
22,366
The Ocean County WIC Program met the NJ WIC Processing Standards (process clients
within 10 days of applying for WIC benefits) for the third consecutive year for all WIC sites.
WIC Sites
Toms River
Brick
Berkeley
Stafford
OHI Toms River
Lakewood
OHI Lakewood
Processing standards for
2013
1.7 Days
3 Days
4.9 Days
8 Days
1.2 Days
1 day
1 day
Case Management Services
The Case Management unit provides three distinct services to residents of Ocean County.
Special Child Health Services works with children and their families to provide case
management services to children with special health care needs from birth to age 21. Most
referrals come from the Hospital Systems Birthing Centers. Referrals for children identified
after birth come from rehabilitation centers, pediatric diagnostic facilities, pediatrician offices,
and school personnel. In addition to children with special health care needs the Special Child
Health Case Managers also provide support and administrative oversight to children on the
Community Resources for Persons with Disabilities (CRPD waiver). There are presently 7
children on the CRPD waiver. As the needs of the child and family change, families contact
their Case Manager for support and referral to appropriate resources. Ocean County averages
495 active children and families although the OCHD in this program.
Early Intervention works with children from birth to age 3 and their families who have
significant delays in development. Children are evaluated at no cost to the family to determine
if the child is eligible for services. If the child is eligible, a fee for the service may be assessed
based on family income and family size. Services are provided at no cost to all families that fall
within 300% of the federal poverty level. Early Intervention is a Family Training Model. The
individuals providing the service(s) work closely with the family to direct the family to be the
primary caregiver in improving the overall development of the child. The number of services
provided and the frequency of the services is determined by the team identified to work with the
child and family. A family may decline any of the services recommended without jeopardizing
other services. The Service Coordinator assists the family in identifying the services needed to
improve developmental milestones. The Service Coordinator will also assist the family in
planning a smooth transition from Early Intervention to preschool, Head Start, day care or
therapy programs. Ocean County is the largest provider of Early Intervention services in New
Jersey. In 2013, services were provided to 1,216 children and families.
AIDS Community Care Alternative Program (ACCAP) works with adults diagnosed
with AIDS. At this time there are 11 adults participating in this program in Ocean County.
Eligibility for this program is determined by the Ocean County Board of Social Services and the
New Jersey Office of Home and Community Services. When determined eligible for this
program, a specific plan of care needs to be identified and approved for services to be provided.
The specific services provided are determined on the plan of care. There is a financial cap for
each adult on the program. The services include all Medicaid eligible services.
Office of Public Information, Health Education and Outreach
The Health Education Unit of the Ocean County Health Department continues to offer
health education, disease management and substance abuse programs in all areas of health
prevention and promotion. This unit provides programs for schools, businesses, and the
community and frequently speaks on a range of topics at various events and programs.
This unit continues to be involved with Superstorm Sandy outreach (See Section on
Superstorm Sandy Recovery). The Public Information Officer and Health Educators speak
each year at the Ocean County School Nurse Conference with OCHD updates and to answer
questions they may have. This has created an excellent collaboration with the county school
system and we receive many calls from our area school nurses during the entire school year on a
variety of health issues.
This office is also home to the Ocean County Municipal Alliance Coordinator. The
Municipal Alliances provide alcohol and substance abuse prevention programs to all ages in
their municipality. This past fall, the OCHD hosted a workshop for Alliance Coordinators with
a nation-wide trainer and professional in the field in creating environmental change to create
healthier communities. As the Municipal Alliances prepare for their new grant cycle through
the Governor’s Council on Alcohol and Drug Abuse (GCADA), the OCHD Alliance
Coordinator provided high-level technical assistance.
Our Public Information Office continues to communicate with our local media through
press releases, radio and television interviews. This office responds to all requests from the
public through phone calls and the OCHD website. Public information also maintains the
website.
Our Public Information Officer was one of the keynote speakers on the New Jersey Crisis
Communications conference regarding the Health Department’s role in the recovery efforts of
the storm. The OCHD also collaborates with OCC/Kean University in facilitating their
Introduction to Public Health Class.
Staff from this unit has been present at the Ocean County Long Term Recovery Group,
Head Start Health Advisory Groups, the OCHD Health Advisory Group working to develop the
Community Health Improvement Plan, the Ocean/Monmouth Health Alliance, and many other
organizations.
This Unit also oversees Dental Coordination and Outreach. We receive many calls from
school nurses and residents with dental issues and our Dental Coordinator works directly with
the two Federally Qualified Health Centers to facilitate appointments for people. The Public
Information Office remains a resource to those who call the agency in addition to responding to
requests from our website.
The OCHD has explored the benefits of social media especially during an emergency. As
we move forward with this, residents will be made aware and encouraged to use these venues
for information. Presently we have accounts with Twitter and Facebook and the number of
followers increase each day. The OCHD is using these venues with date reminders and also a
way to provide credible health-related information in a timely manner.
“LIVE HEALTHY OCEAN COUNTY”
As we see our older adult population grow in Ocean County, we also see the need to address
chronic illnesses, such as heart disease, diabetes, hypertension, cancer, etc. Our Health Education
team and our Clinic staff designed a program that would not only educate participants but offer
screenings and immunizations. This program is offered to groups and is also offered at the
County Connection. Groups can request the entire package of screenings or pick and choose
what they would like. Educators offer the Medication Management Program and Clinics offer
blood pressure screening, osteoporosis screening and the Mobile Stroke Risk Assessment
Program. During flu season, flu and pneumonia shots can be offered as well as the shingles and
Tdap vaccinations all year.
Revision of the Public Health Practice Standards
The New Jersey Department of Health convened various “Technical Assistance Groups” to revise the
Practice Standards for Local Health Departments which expired on August 2013. Each department had
designated groups to review its contents. Various staff from the OCHD were assigned to the different t
Technical Groups. The Community Health Needs Assessment group reviewed local health department’s
requirements for Community Health Needs Assessment (CHNA) and Community Health Improvement
Plan (CHIP). CHNA/CHIP Standards will be following the Public Health Accreditation Standards.
Community Health Planning
For the past five years, New Jersey’s governmental public health departments have led
county and city-based strategic planning processes statewide, which have engaged over 1,200
community partners. One of the goals of governmental public health leadership in New Jersey is
to improve the health of the public, through the strengthening of government and community
partnerships. They have undertaken comprehensive analyses of their respective communities
and created Community Health Improvement Plans (CHIP) for their regions. The CHIPs
identify priority public health issues and strategies to address these complex and persistent
challenges.
The Ocean County Health Department, in developing their Community Health
Improvement Plan, worked with the four area hospitals and the two Federally Qualified Health
Centers to collect the necessary data.
A total of four regional meetings were held to present community health needs
assessment data for prioritization. A total of 97 stakeholders attended from 56 county agencies.
Thirteen health issues were identified in all four meetings which were narrowed down to the
following five Prioritized Health Issues for Ocean County:
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
Childhood Obesity
Behavioral Health: Mental Health and Substance Abuse
Immunization Compliance
Chronic Disease Prevention and Education
Access to Care
The Ocean County Community Health Improvement Plan for 2013-2017 with strategies
for action will be released in 2014 for agencies to review and implement. The plan will be
promoted through various venues. An annual update of the plan will follow every year. Action
teams developed to address problem areas identified in the CHIPs are being spearheaded by
local experts.
Community Health Planning continues to oversee the Faith-Based Initiative. During
2013, the OCHD partnered with several churches to provide health screenings and programs
during Minority and Multicultural Health Month. Chronic diseases such as high blood pressure,
high cholesterol, diabetes and obesity disproportionately affect the some ethnic and minority
populations in the county.
To address some of these issues, the OCHD offered blood pressure and osteoporosis
screenings and stroke risk assessments to participants. Also programs on healthy eating, meal
preparation and shopping techniques were offered in Spanish.
The Ocean County Health Department also held the Faith-Based Initiative Health care
Reform Informational Meeting at Ocean County college on September 10, 2013. It was
important for Faith-Based leaders to understand and be able to ask questions regarding the
Affordable Care Act. There were speakers from the U.S. Department of Health and Human
Services, the Central Jersey Accountable Care Organizations, and the Ocean County Board of
Social Services. We also heard from the “Navigators’ hired locally to assist people with the
process of applying for this type of insurance.
2013 Statistical Snapshot of the Ocean County Health Department
Drug and Alcohol Coordinated Services














• Intensive Outpatient New Clients
• Intensive Outpatient New Client Sessions of Service
• Outpatient New Clients
• Outpatients Sessions of Service
• Co-Occurring New Clients
• Co-Occurring New Client Sessions of Service
• Women’s Halfway House New Clients
• Women’s Halfway House New Clients Days Provided
• Men’s Halfway House New Clients
• Men’s Halfway House New Clients Days Provided
• Detox New Clients
• Detox New Clients Days Provided
• Inpatient New Clients
• Inpatients New Clients Days Provided
207
2959
115
755
85
3234
9
465
8
439
280
1198
196
2745
Intoxicated Driver Resource Center 2013



People attended the program
People were referred to treatment
People completed the program.
1125
716
509
Percent of people referred for treatment
58.4%
Clinics
# Clients










Eye Screening
Hepatitis B
CEED
HIV Care and Treatment
Live Healthy Ocean County
Shingles Vaccinations
STD Clinic
Health Screening/TB Test
TB Clinic
TB Services
135
98
132
734
669
75
995
1,102
223
1,325


Tdap Vaccinations
HIV Counseling and Testing
TOTAL
690
595
6,773
Home Health Nursing







Service Provided
Skilled Nursing
Physical Therapy
Speech Therapy
Occupational Therapy
Medical Social Work Evaluation
Dietary Evaluation
Home Health Aide Service
TOTAL
# of Visits
6,637
4,832
10,255
3,681
138
34
2,568
28,115
Early Intervention/Special Child Health Services
# of Clients Served


Early Intervention
Special Child Health Services
1,359
495
Communicable Disease Unit







Reports of animal bites
Reports of communicable disease
Outbreak Investigations
Rabies specimens submitted
Positive results- 2 fox, 4 bats,
 6 skunks, 14 raccoons, 1 cat
891
1845
39
196
Birds submitted for testing for West Nile Disease (WNV)
Positive Results for WNV
57
16
27
Health Alert Network



Distribution Groups
Receiving Individuals
Health Alert Messages Sent
107
2,442
172
Medical Reserve Corps

Health Care Professionals
110

General Volunteers
141
Ocean County Animal Shelters

Pets adopted
1,400



Pets spayed/neutered
Rabies Clinics
Rabies shots given
1,000
45
1,000+
Health Education and Public Information
Health Education Programs










Dental Education
Staff Training/Disease Prevention
Hand Washing
Hygiene
Live Healthy Ocean County
Making Healthy Choices
Medication Management
Oral Health (WIC)
Sumer Safety
Miscellaneous
Total of all Health Education Programs
# of Programs
# of Attendees
51
1
74
24
5
52
12
142
15
33
2,555
200
1,518
539
180
1,155
576
1,545
288
1,278
409
9,034
Public Information












Press Releases
Radio Interviews
Interviews with Newspapers
Television Interviews
Hosted Mold Trainings
National Preparedness Month
National Public Health Month
Bedbug Programs
Health Fairs
Safe Medication Management Program
Resiliency Trainings
Breaking New Articles on Website
61
62
47
7
11
5 part series
4 part series
6
4
3
8
39
Environmental
Body Art, Tattoo
 Number of licensed body are establishments
 Number of inspections
40
6
Inquires & Complaint Inspections
 Number of cases
225
Licensed Pet Facilities
 Number of licensed pet shops, licensed kennel facilities
 Number of licensed shelters
 Number of inspections done
47
39
Onsite Wastewater Disposal System Safety that provide final
authorization to proceed
 of permits issued
 of systems investigations
425
96
Potable Wells and Drinking Water Safety
 of potable well inspections
 potable well certificates of compliance issued
 of potable well investigations
475
450
27
Proprietary Campgrounds
 of licensed/approved proprietary campground facilities
 of routine inspections done on proprietary campgrounds
12
5
Licensed Public Recreational Bathing Facilities
 year round
 3 of seasonal facilities
 Other types
 Swimming/wading pool
 Hot tub/spa
 Aquatic recreation facility
 Bathing beach-bay/ocean
 Bathing beach/river
 Bathing beach/lake
 CCMP sites in this service area
 of sanitary surveys conducted
Retail Food Establishments
50
508
374
46
20
96
12
10
82
129


Licensed establishments/permanent fixed Risk Level 1
Risk Level 2
Risk Level 3
Mobile Units
513
1,400
543
80
Food Surveillance
 Complaint Investigations
 Post-storm retail food conferences
246
285
Sewerage Disposal
 Complaint Investigations
96
Smoking
 Complaints
7
Youth Camps
 Inspections
27
Air Pollution
 Dry Cleaner Inspections
22
Solid Waste
 Complaint Investigations
 Illegal Dumping Investigations
79
14
Water Pollution
 Complaint Investigations
 Well Contamination Investigations
32
2
Noise Pollution
 Complaint Investigations
17
Hazardous Materials
 Complaint Investigations
42
New/Replacement Wells
 Well plans submitted
471