County approves public health MOU with Western Colorado Health Network for quarterly STI testing and needle‑disposal services
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Summary
Ouray County public health will host quarterly Western Colorado Health Network (WCHN) events offering free STI/HIV testing and a WCHN‑managed sharps/needle collection box; county to cover modest travel costs under an MOU and county staff will provide space and publicity.
The Ouray County Board of County Commissioners on July 29 approved the public health director’s signature on a memorandum of understanding (MOU) that will bring quarterly testing and harm‑reduction services to the county through Western Colorado Health Network (WCHN).
What was approved: The board authorized Ouray County Public Health Director Kristen Kelly to sign the MOU and authorized the chair to sign the associated fiscal impact form. WCHN will provide STI/HIV testing and maintain needle‑disposal (sharps) containers at the county public health office; WCHN staff will collect and properly dispose of sharps in Grand Junction when they visit quarterly. The county’s fiscal commitment is limited to modest travel reimbursement to support WCHN’s quarterly service visits.
Why it matters: Commissioners and staff said the county currently has limited in‑county clinical capacity for free STI testing and harm reduction; bringing WCHN into the county on a recurring basis expands access to confidential testing and disposal. Kristen Kelly said the program will include culturally appropriate outreach and that Saturday events are planned to increase confidentiality for small communities where stigma can be a barrier.
Additional context: Kristen and county staff described this as a cost‑effective arrangement: WCHN provides test kits, staffing and disposal logistics; the county provides facility space and staff time for coordination. The WCHN events are free to participants; data and reportable conditions would be reported by WCHN as required to public health authorities. Commissioners asked county staff to work with WCHN to publicize the program and to consider additional partnerships, including the CU Anschutz BCforYou birth‑control program referenced in discussion as a future expansion.
Ending: The motion to approve the MOU carried unanimously; public health will schedule quarterly events, coordinate outreach, and report back to the board on utilization and outcomes.