DC Department of Health (DOH) Director Dr. Mohammad Akhter and DOH senior staff will testify in front of the Committee on Health on Thursday, May 5, to present the proposed DOH budget for Fiscal Year 2012. Dr. Akhter’s testimony highlights the work that DOH is doing to maximize efficiencies and ensure residents continue to receive the direct services they need in light of budgetary challenges. Department of Health senior staff will outline how the Mayor’s 2012 budget was created and the work that was done to balance funding with the needs of the community and the many areas where DOH has oversight.
“I look forward to discussing the proposed budget with Chairman Catania and the Committee on Health members so that the Department can explain the work and rationale that went into the creation of the FY 2012 budget,” said DOH Director, Dr. Mohammad Akhter. “This is a budget that I am proud of, as DOH balances the ability to continue to serve the District residents while addressing the District’s fiscal challenges as One City.”
Other topics include how DOH will enhance resources through collaboration with other organizations and agencies, and how the Department will go about informing and engaging the public on decisions that will have a direct impact on the community. Additionally, while the hearing will focus on the funds DOH receives from the local budget, there is continued uncertainty about federal funds and whether the Department will receive the same level of funding as in previous years. Currently, federal funding accounts for 58% of the Department’s budget.
Last week DOH hosted an open briefing to explain the budget to interested community members. The majority of questions from the community members in attendance focused on continued health service delivery and ensuring that there will be no service gaps as the budget shrinks due to decreased revenue across the District.
Dr. Akhter’s introductory testimony is attached for further details on the proposed DOH budget for FY 2012.