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2015 Massachusetts Department of Public Health LOCAL HEALTH INTERNSHIP PROGRAM

The Massachusetts Department of Public Health’s (MDPH) Division of Epidemiology

and Immunization is seeking up to 40 graduate students to intern in local health

departments during the summer of 2015. Cities and towns currently seeking interns

are listed in this posting.

The positions to be filled are Local Public Health Interns. The selected students will work

on various projects within local health departments that may include environmental

health, communicable disease case investigation, needs assessment, bioterrorism and

emergency preparedness, health education, data entry/analysis, health policy, and other

duties as determined by the local health department in collaboration with the student.

Accepted students will also be offered the opportunity to spend time shadowing

epidemiologists and health educators at the MDPH Bureau of Infectious Disease

Prevention, Response, and Services or Bureau of Environmental Health.

The applicant must have completed at least one semester of graduate level public

health course work preferably including, but not limited to, one course each in

epidemiology, environmental health, and biostatistics. Students should be able to work

independently and have basic computer skills. Clinical experience and/or prior work

experience is a plus, but is not required. Applicants must be able to communicate

effectively in English. Most students will need access to a vehicle; however, some

cities/towns have public transportation.

The student will be required to attend both an orientation program and the closing

session held in Boston. On the closing day, each student will be required to provide an

oral or poster presentation for fellow interns, local public health agents and MDPH

representatives summarizing his or her experience. Upon completion of this internship

each student will have an excellent understanding of the various roles of local health

departments in Massachusetts and will have obtained hands-on experience in the practice

of public health.

Estimated number of hours required per week: 8-15 (hours are flexible in most

communities)

Students must commit to a minimum of 120 hours during the summer (estimated time

frame: 5/27/15- 8/20/15)

Listed opportunities are unpaid internships.

While many of the following health departments are accessible by public

transportation, commutes may be lengthy: please factor in anticipated commute

times before you apply.

2015 MDPH Local Health Internship Project Listing

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Your Cover Letter Must Include:

1. A list of cities/towns/programs (from the choices attached) at which you would

be interested in interning. Please include AT LEAST THREE options, in order of

preference. The more towns / programs selected, the better your chances of

placement.

2. A brief description of your interests and any specific project area that you would

like to focus on. Consider the projects that the cities/towns have proposed, but

remember that many health departments are willing to adapt their projects to the

student’s interests.

3. A list of graduate-level course work you have completed (or will have completed

by June 2015).

The above information helps us to make the best possible matches between interns and

local health departments.

Incomplete applications will not be considered.

Interested students should submit a cover letter and resume no later than Friday, March

20, 2015, to:

Matthew Osborne, MPH Phone: (617) 983-6800

Massachusetts Department of Public Health Fax: (617) 983-4305

State Laboratory Institute E-Mail: [email protected]

305 South Street Email submissions are preferred

Jamaica Plain, MA. 02130

Please feel free to contact Matthew Osborne via email with any questions you may

have regarding the application process or the internship program.

All students will be notified as to the status of their applications no later than April 8,

2015.

MDPH acknowledges Boston University’s School of Public Health long-standing

commitment and support to the MDPH Local Health Internship Program.

mailto:[email protected]

The following is a list of cities/towns and Massachusetts state programs that

are interested in hosting an intern, including a submitted description of their

suggested projects. Please read the descriptions carefully and consider the

project areas as well as the geographic location.

For a more detailed map of Massachusetts cities and towns please visit:

http://www.sec.state.ma.us/cis/cispdf/City_Town_Map.pdf

http://www.sec.state.ma.us/cis/cispdf/City_Town_Map.pdf


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Abington Board of Health

Health Education / Food Safety

The Abington Board of Health envisions the selected intern continuing work on two

projects initiated by an intern in 2014. The first project involves the implementation,

education, and assistance in arranging self-sufficient recycling stations in lunchrooms

within the town’s five schools. The second project includes documenting and tracking

problematic food establishments with ongoing and repeated violations. This project

would have a health education component focused on a written protocol and delivered

directly to facility owners and staff. The purpose of health education in this context is to

allow offenders a means to resolve violations. The intern would assist in the development

of a system to allow for spot checks; this protocol would ascertain compliance with

violations and education requirements. Finally, the intern would develop a compliance

test for establishments.

The intern would work alongside the Health Agent and assist with inspections of food

establishments, housing, body art/piercing establishments, tanning facilities, pool, and

septic system, etc. This may require researching Massachusetts laws and regulations,

issuing permits, writing grants, composing notices to correct orders, updating the town

website, fielding calls, and dealing with emergency situations.

Prior to starting the internship applicants should have a general knowledge of food safety.

Estimated days/hours: The Board of Health office is open weekdays from 8:30-4:30.

Some work may require visiting other departments and completing field work during

normal business hours. The Board of Health would like an intern to have availability for

8-10 hours weekly; however more time can be arranged.

The Town of Abington is serviced by the Kingston/Plymouth Line of the MBTA

Commuter Rail. The Abington Board of Health agent is willing to help coordinate

transportation.

Ashland Board of Health

Emergency Preparedness / Needs Assessment / Health Education

The Ashland Board of Health is looking for a motivated intern to assist with three

ongoing projects.

Emergency Preparedness The selected intern would take the lead in recruiting participants for the town’s Medical

Reserve Corps (MRC) to ensure full recruitment for emergency situations. Training on

the town’s MRC would be provided.


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Health Education / Outbreak Investigation Opioid abuse continues to be an ongoing threat to the health and safety of Ashland

residents, the intern would attend meetings with the Ashland school substance abuse

committee and wok on assigned projects.

Needs Assessment The Ashland health department is currently in the planning stage of an extensive review

process in preparation of Public Health Accreditation. The intern would take an active

role in this process with the guidance of the health agent.

The intern would also have the opportunity to shadow public health staff including the

health agent, public health nurse, food inspector and tobacco agent.

Ashland is accessible by public transportation.

Barnstable County Department of Health and Environment

Environmental Health / Needs Assessment

The Barnstable County Department of Health and Environment is a multi-faceted

department overseeing traditional community health and sanitation as well as

environmental monitoring.

The Cape Cod Hoarding Task Force was developed in 2010 to respond to an increasing

number of hoarding cases that were coming to the attention of health departments,

municipal agencies and service providers across the general Cape Cod area. The Task

Force is made up of concerned volunteers from these many different disciplines such as:

fire, police, health departments, mental health professionals, and other service providers.

The intern would be working with the Task Force to assist in the following areas for

approximately 15-20 hours a week:

Re-assess and update the current Task Force’s resource list of clinicians, support

groups, municipal agencies, cleaning and organizing companies

Compile a list of hoarding cases from each agency involved in the Task Force

Develop a rank or scale system to describe the severity of hoarding

Develop a protocol to indicate the types of services needed by those afflicted

Research the issue of hoarding; when does it begin? What are the triggers? How

can it be prevented or controlled?

Prepare meeting minutes, event planning, on-site event assistance

Attendance at Task Force Meetings in June and August

Possibly attend professional trainings and community events

The selected intern may also have the opportunity to shadow various Health Agents in

Barnstable County and participate in other programs including landfill monitoring,

tobacco control, and public health nursing, infectious disease outbreak response.


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Barnstable is not accessible by public transportation, however much of the work may be

completed off-site. Applicants should arrange travel with this internship structure in

mind.

Barnstable Health Department – Coastal Health

Environmental Health

The Barnstable Health Division is looking for an intern to assist with the summer

monitoring of cyanobacteria in the fresh water ponds. Cyanobacteria (formerly known as

blue-green algae) are on the rise in the U.S. and worldwide, becoming a serious threat to

freshwater resources and public health. Many produce toxins that are poisonous to people

and animals, causing illness and death to those who breathe, drink, or come into physical

contact with the toxins.

Despite multiple blooms, Barnstable has not officially documented any negative health

impacts to humans or animals. However the community has seen more ponds

experiencing toxic blooms over the last four years than in recent memory. The health

department is looking for an intern to assist with the following tasks and initiatives:

Regular pond assessments using a new pond-triage approach

Implementation of a checklist and sampling protocol to be used at regular

intervals to track potential cyanobacteria blooms

Aid in the development of new outreach/education strategies to improve current

information delivery (sign posting, phone calls and internet.)

Aid in the development of a better warning system to help dog owners understand

the risks to their pets

Barnstable’s 16 public and semi-public beaches will be the priority for the summer intern.

Two of these public beaches have had multiple closures due to reduced visibility and

toxic blooms. Training in water quality measurement and cyanobacteria ID will be

provided to the intern. The intern should be comfortable around water and working

outdoors. Ideally, the intern would work onsite 8-10 hours a week and have access to a

car.

Boston - Massachusetts Department of Public Health – Division of Epidemiology

and Immunization: Project 1

Hepatitis Enhanced Surveillance

Due to an increase in the number of reported hepatitis C virus (HCV) infections among

women of childbearing age in Massachusetts, many infants are now being exposed to

HCV at birth. Although only a small percentage of infants will go on to develop HCV

infection (roughly 6-12%), there is very little information available to clinicians in

regards to testing and future follow-up of the infants. The Massachusetts Department of

Public Health seeks an intern to work closely with the hepatitis team at the State


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Laboratory Institute to help better characterize infants and their mothers reported with

HCV exposure and/or infection. The intern will utilize the Massachusetts Virtual

Epidemiologic Network (MAVEN) and the Massachusetts Immunization Information

System (MIIS) in order to link infants reported with HCV to their mothers. The linked

dataset will then be analyzed in order to create a summary report of available

demographic, clinical, laboratory, and exposure information for mothers and their infants

affected by HCV. The intern may also be asked to report their findings to the Viral

Hepatitis Advisory Committee. Introductory SAS skills are preferred, although not

required.

This internship opportunity is located at the Hinton State Laboratory Institute in Jamaica

Plain which is easily accessible via the Orange Line.



Rabies Enhanced Surveillance

The Zoonotic Project Area within the MDPH Bureau of Infectious Disease is seeking a

student to review medical records of patients for whom human rabies testing has been

requested. MDPH receives approximately 3-10 human rabies test requests per year and

with only two exceptions, none of these investigations have identified human rabies

cases. Human rabies testing is time-consuming and expensive, understanding the factors

which are unlikely to be associated with human rabies might help reduce the number of

unnecessary human rabies tests performed and assist in facilitating pursuit of appropriate

diagnostics on patients.

Prior to the arrival of the selected intern MDPH will pre-identify suspect patients for the

years 2003-2013 and request complete medical records for the identified patients. The

intern will be responsible for medical record review and will create summaries of

presenting complaints, co-morbidities, laboratory test results, imaging studies, clinical

findings, diagnoses, and outcomes. Some familiarity with medical terminology would be

beneficial as would an understanding of confidentiality issues related to patient data.


Plain which is easily accessible via the Orange Line.



Tick-borne Disease Health Education

For 2015 MDPH’s Zoonotic Disease Program has created a traveling tick and mosquito-

borne disease health education initiative targeted at students in grades 3-5. This new

resource has multiple components including a presentation board with print and graphic

materials, video, and preserved specimens. This resource steps away from traditional risk


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messaging by attempting to utilize student’s natural interest in science to convey risk

messaging. Eight initial demonstration units will be located at regional centers throughout

MA and will be available for reservation by interested Boards of Health.

MDPH would like an intern to assist in the role-out phase of this project. The selected

student will travel with the units and assist in set-up and demonstration. The intern will

also design and administer surveys to establish the efficacy of the materials on health

education. The intern may be involved with the creation of supplemental materials

including targeted presentations for this education initiative.

The preferred candidate will have an interest in zoonotic disease and health education.


Plain which is easily accessible via the Orange Line. The intern will need to travel offsite

for this project; access to a vehicle is preferred.

Brookline Health Department

Outbreak Investigation / Needs Assessment

The Brookline Board of Health is offering a unique opportunity for an intern interested in

gaining hands-on knowledge of outbreak investigations, needs assessments, data analysis,

entry and management. As part of these activities, the intern would be exposed to case

investigation, control measures, and surveillance efforts. The intern will also work

directly with the Health Director on a wide variety of topical public health issues and

tasks. These would include completing work on an ongoing community health

assessment tool and preparing policy memos on topics of public health importance in

Brookline. Additional opportunities for the intern may include working with the

Environmental Health Division on an ongoing Smokefree Housing Project or to work

with the Community Health Division to plan events for Food Day, held annually in

October.

The Brookline Board of Health business hours are Monday - Thursday 8:00am to 5:00pm

and Fridays 8:00am-12:30pm and expect this intern position to include up to 15 hours per

week with the possibility of increased hours. Brookline is accessible by public

transportation.

Carlisle Health Department

Environmental Health / Health Education

Project 1: Tick-borne Disease and Deer Management

The Carlisle Board of Health (BOH) and the Carlisle Lyme Disease Subcommittee are

exploring ways to manage local deer populations as a possible method of reducing the

incidence of tick-borne disease (TBD). A recent study showed that Carlisle had one of

the highest incidences of ticks infected with the pathogens that cause Lyme Disease,


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Anaplasmosis and Babesiosis compared to surrounding communities. This is further

evidenced by the number of human cases of TBD reported to the Board of Health and

MDPH. The deer population in Carlisle is well beyond manageable numbers and could be

a contributing factor.

The intern would:

Help develop a policy for deer hunting on public land that the town could adopt.

Research and address the issues that this policy might raise.

Compare and summarize similar programs and results in other towns.

Compile current TBD information for the BOH website along with other outreach

educational materials that would be shared with the Middlesex Tick Task Force, a

group of local community health departments.

The intern will work directly with a Lyme Disease Subcommittee member and the Health

Agent.

Project 2: Health Effects of Community Noise and Options / Priorities for

Intervention

Carlisle is a small rural community that has experiencing rapid population growth over

the past several years. As the town undergoes change, complaints to the BOH regarding

noise have become more frequent and serious. The challenges include:

Construction noise: Housing developments are underway throughout the

community. Developers removing material using hoe rams which generate

impulse noise. This equipment is used for extensive period of time in residential

neighborhoods.

Commercial landscapers use multiple industrial-size mowers for residential

clients.

Roosters kept in sites where houses are close to each other.

Increases in barking dog complaints.

The BOH would like to assess the sources of noise which may have an adverse effect the

public health of residents, workers and visitors to the town. The intern would report to the

Health Agent and be mentored by the Agent and BOH members. Tasks might include:

Research and report to the BOH on health effects of the noise.

Perform an assessment of the different sources of noise in Carlisle, and assist with

ranking them in terms of health impact and priority for intervention.

Explore options for interventions, including noise elimination and abatement, this

would include a review of interventions utilized by other towns and municipalities

to address noise.

Provide assistance as needed to the Noise Working Group established by the

Carlisle selectmen.

Conduct noise measurements around the town.


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Provide a summary report and outreach materials (e.g. poster, brochures) about

community noise that would be posted on the Carlisle BOH website and shared

with regional public health groups.

Carlisle is not accessible by public transportation, applicants should plan accordingly.

The BOH operates weekdays from 9:00am to 3:00pm and would expect the intern to

provide 4-6 hours of on-site work per week with the possibility of increased hours.

Dartmouth Board of Health

Opioid Abuse

The Dartmouth Board of Health is seeking an intern to work on gathering and presenting

data on opioid abuse statistics in Dartmouth and neighboring communities. The BOH

would specifically like to examine, numbers of drug overdoses occurring in Dartmouth

over the past five years. The selected intern would categorize overdoses by drug type and

map out the locations in town where overdose victims were identified. The intern would

also conduct a feasibility study, examining cost and time for training first responders

(police, fire, etc.) to administer Narcan for the treatment of a drug overdose.

The BOH also recognizes that synthetic drugs available at area retailers may play a role

in this crisis and could be subject to local regulations. The intern would visit several pre-

identified tobacco and convenience stores in the area, record and report if synthetic drugs

were available for consumers. The intern would summarize the findings in a report and

assist with draft regulations that could be put in place to address this issue.

Training and guidance will be provided by the health agent. Ideally, the intern would

work 8-10 hours a week and have access to a vehicle as Dartmouth is not accessible by

public transportation

Dedham - Norfolk County 7 Public Health Coalition


Tick-borne Disease Health Education and Promotion

The Norfolk County 7 (NC-7) Public Health Coalition is a partnership between 7

communities in the Norfolk County region: Canton, Dedham, Milton, Needham,

Norwood, Wellesley and Westwood. As a member of the NC-7 Public Health Coalition,

the Dedham Health Department is seeking an intern to work on a Tick-Borne Illness

Prevention project. This is a unique opportunity for the selected candidate to work

among and have an impact on seven communities.

The intern would be responsible for an appraisal of current literature on tick-borne

illness, updating pre-existing educational materials accordingly, and disseminating

material throughout the communities involved. This would also include assisting in the

development of new web-based material (i.e. videos, fact sheets, and updates from local


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news media) that can be shared on local health department websites and social media

accounts during the tick and mosquito-borne disease season.

The intern will conduct community-specific presentations targeted to high risk groups

and interested parties which may include parents, outdoor workers, and residents who

engage in outdoor activities for recreational purposes (i.e. local landscapers, public

works).

Develop frequently asked questions (FAQ) and response sheets based on community

concerns regarding tick-borne illness and make recommendations for further risk-

reduction and preventative measures in the communities.

There is potential for expansion of this project to include development and distribution of

general education on mosquito-borne illness and current prevention strategies within the

communities.

The selected candidate must have access to a personal vehicle for commuting between

communities given the nature of the position.

Duxbury Board of Health


The Duxbury Board of Health is seeking the assistance of a summer intern to raise

awareness of Lyme Disease and other tick-borne diseases such as Babesiosis, Human

Granulocytic Anaplasmosis, Tularemia and Rocky Mountain Spotted Fever and the

serious health implications associated with these diseases among the residents of their

community.

The selected intern will have the ability to produce reports, surveys, educational

materials, public speaking / presentations may also be requested, including those on

Emergency Preparedness and Environmental Health

Tasks would include:

Assist in the development of educational materials.

Conduct educational presentations throughout the community and increase

residents’ awareness of the health risks associated with ticks.

Research available grants or other programs which could assist Duxbury with tick

prevention and testing.

Work with local medical providers regarding the reporting requirements of tick-

borne diseases.

Conduct a survey among town residents to gauge awareness and knowledge of

tick-borne diseases.

Summarize the findings in a report with an action plan for the health department

to address identified issues.


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Ideally, the intern would work 8-10 hours of week and have access to transportation as

the Duxbury Board of Health is not accessible by public transportation.

Framingham Health Department

Environmental Health / Public Health Accreditation

The Framingham Health Department is in the process of obtaining Public Health

Accreditation and is looking for an intern to help with this unique endeavor. This project

would include research and data collection related to accreditation, analysis of

performance management, quality improvement, quality control and assurance data as

well as development and implementation of Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs). The

selected candidate will also participate in the implementation of the town’s Community

Health Assessment (CHA), Community Health Improvement Plan (CHIP) and Strategic

Planning. There is potential for growth with opportunities for webinars, conferences and

shadowing.

Framingham is accessible by public transit including commuter rail. The ideal candidate

will have access to a laptop and the ability to work calmly and collaboratively in a fast

paced environment. Most work will be performed in an office setting with some

possibility for remote work.

Greenfield Health Department Community Nursing Needs Assessment

The Greenfield Board of Health is offering an opportunity to an intern with a particular

interest in public health nursing. The intern would be tasked with conducting a needs

assessment for the City of Greenfield specifically related to Public Health Community

Nursing. The Greenfield Health Department is looking to expand nursing services

currently offered via the health department such as: vaccination clinics, blood pressure

clinics, dental health screenings for children and many health education initiatives. The

intern would be responsible for generating a report detailing the public health nursing

needs of the community which would include an outline for the planning and

implementation. The intern’s tasks would include but are not limited to:

Research current health department nursing programs in other cities/towns;

Conduct interviews with key city officials including but not limited to the Mayor,

the Health Director, the Council on Aging Director, the School Superintendent,

and various other community partners.

Create and conduct a community wide survey for residents;

Propose a draft budget for the public health community nursing program; and

other related activities.

The student would work under the direct supervision of the health director and in

conjunction with additional health department staff. The Greenfield Board of Health

operates weekdays from 8:30am-5:00pm and would ideally expect the intern to provide


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15-20 hours of work per week. There is limited public transportation available within the

greater Greenfield area, applicants should plan accordingly.

Holland Health Department

The Board of Health is offering several internship projects for 2015

The Holland Board located in Hampden County of Health (BOH) is looking to

standardize and expand local public health regulations. The BOH is seeking up to two

interns to work on one or more of the proposed projects.

Emergency Preparedness

Holland lacks a well-defined Emergency Preparedness plan and has just begun to work

with the Regional Emergency Preparedness coordinator. The intern would take the lead

on developing and emergency and disaster plan by working with the Board of Health and

the Region 2 – Emergency Preparedness coordinator.

Hoarding Initiative

The BOH does not have an existing protocol to deal with hoarders and has identified at

least one known hoarder in the community. Hoarding is a complex condition with

environmental, public health, safety, and mental health components. The intern would

develop a hoarding protocol by working with other communities who have existing plans,

the selected intern may conduct site visits.

Medical Marijuana Regulations The new medical marijuana regulations have caused some confusion within the

community. The BOH has identified at least one resident with a permit to cultivate

marijuana. The intern would review the existing medical marijuana regulations and assist

the town in developing protocols and local regulations to guide the BOH in taking

appropriate action with respect to permitting, public health concerns, and fire safety

issues. The intern may participate in a public hearing related to this project.

Title V and Well Regulations Holland has no local well or septic regulations. An intern who is interested in health

policy would be tasked with the review of MA regulations and the creation of local

regulations. The intern would take this process from start to finish by attending public

hearings to enact the new regulations.

Tobacco Regulations

Holland has several businesses in town that sell tobacco, yet the community is unsure if

all businesses adhere to the updated tobacco regulations. The intern would identify

businesses which need to be in compliance with existing tobacco laws, create an

application form, process, and policies that are consistent with existing law, this would

include the assessment of penalties for non-compliance, and provisions for tobacco

inspections. The BOH will contract with an outside licensed agent to conduct inspections.


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Food Inspections

The community of Holland has a diverse group of food establishments, these include but

are not limited to caterers, seasonal food stands, restaurants, clubs with onsite kitchens,

and even a goat farmer who has a pasteurization license. Having such a diverse group of

food establishments has made the existing food / health code overwhelming. The intern

would assist the town by creating a standardized intake form and database to allow the

town to ensure that food establishments are identified, violations are recorded, and to

ensure that re-inspections occur. The selected intern may accompany the inspector for

food inspections.

Budget Process The community of Holland does not have an appropriate system for the annual BOH

budget. The intern would work with existing data to design a simple database to assist the

town in the budget process. Additional projects for BOH finances may be available.

Needs Assessment

As the community of Holland does not employ a health agent, the Board of Health is

interested in identifying any unmet health needs for Holland residents. The intern would

review existing health and population data for this project.

The ideal candidate for this position would be a student who works well independently

with appropriate project guidance. While the BOH has many suitable projects for a

motivated graduate student, the community is open to projects proposed by the student.

The Holland Board of Health is not accessible by public transportation, applicants should

plan accordingly.

Hudson Health Department

The Hudson Board of Health (BOH) is seeking up to four students for the following

projects.

Smokefree Housing Database

As part of the work within the MetroWest Prevention & Wellness Partnership’s

Smokefree Housing initiative, the intern will work with BOH staff to develop a database

for housing complexes on their policies regarding smoking. Work will cover the

communities of Hudson, Marlborough, and Northborough. Specific project activities

include:

• Development of a protocol to approach property owners

• Conducting environmental scan on status of smoking policy in housing complexes

• Development of a searchable/updatable database to catalog the findings of the

environmental scan

• The intern with work and meet with members of the MetroWest Prevention & Wellness

Partnership


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Substance Abuse Services for Adolescents and Young Adults

With opioid addiction skyrocketing in recent years the community of Hudson is actively

addressing this issue. Part of this effort involves the linking of available service providers

to families and patients in need. The intern will work with our staff to conduct an

environmental scan of services available for adolescents and young adults in the

MetroWest communities of Hudson, Framingham, Marlborough, Northborough, and

Southborough. Specific activities will include:

• The identification of differing types of substance abuse services supporting adolescents

and young adults

• Identification of relevant service providers in MetroWest communities

• Conduct environmental scan

• Presentation of results of the environmental scan to the BOH and committee members

• Production of effective infographic on highlights of the environmental scan results

Expected time commitment: 8 to 12 hours per week

Type of intern needed: Graduate student in a public health-related major

Number of intern needed: 1

Development of a Response Protocol for Cyanobacteria Blooms

Hudson was one of several communities in recent years affected by blooms of

cyanobacteria within our water bodies. The intern will work with our sanitarian and state

officials to develop a standard protocol to respond to cyanobacteria blooms. Specific

activities may include:

• Survey of water bodies with known occurrences of cyanobacteria blooms in recent

years

• Development of a monitoring protocol, active and passive, for cyanobacteria activity

• Development of sampling and testing protocol for cyanobacteria and microcystins

• Development of public communication protocol

• Development of protocol to issue public health advisories for cyanobacteria blooms

Business Plan Development for a Sustainable "Veggie Truck"

Several neighborhoods with lower income residents in Hudson, Marlborough and some

adjacent communities lack affordable outlets of fresh fruits and vegetables. The intern

will work with health department staff to develop a sustainable plan to provide fresh

fruits and vegetables to residents of these neighborhoods by a mobile truck. Specific

activities may include:

• Assessment of needs in specified lower income neighborhoods by analyzing available

data. Additional data collection may be needed.

• Environmental scan of the availability of fresh fruits and vegetables in the identified

neighborhoods.

• Meet with area farms and distributors of fresh fruits and vegetables.

• Identify and meet potential funders to cover initial startup costs associated with the

“Veggie Truck”. This project may require the intern to assist in a grant application.

• Develop a sustainable business plan for the operation of such mobile truck.

Expansion of MetroWest Moves Healthy Dining Program


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MetroWest Moves is a regional Mass in Motion program that covers Framingham,

Hudson, Marlborough, and Northborough. One of the initiatives of MetroWest Moves is

the Healthy Dining Program. The intern will work with our staff to expand the Healthy

Dining Program to restaurants that are not currently enrolled. Specific activities may

include:

• Introduction to the Healthy Dining Program

• Development of a work plan to approach additional restaurants

• Work with chefs to revise recipes to meet healthy dining program guidelines

• Attend related meetings

The Hudson Board of Health is not accessible by public transportation, applicants should

plan accordingly.

Lexington Board of Health

Tick and Mosquito-borne Disease

This summer, the Town of Lexington Office of Community Development, Health

Division will provide free educational presentations for the general public on vector-

borne diseases endemic in Massachusetts this summer.

The Lexington Health Division is seeking a graduate student passionate in zoonotic

disease, control, and education to act as a “Public Health Educator “ for the Office of

Community Development, Health Division. The student would assist the Board of Health

in educating the community about tick and mosquito-borne disease. The intern would

also and provide education on methods to reduce and prevent vector-borne disease to

residents.

The Public Health Educator would be expected to present the information to the public

utilizing a pre-approved Power Point presentation that is has been developed. It is

expected that the Public Health Educator will complete a minimum of eight, one hour

seminars with the general public from May 15 through early September 15 or earlier. The

office staff will assist in coordinating dates and locations for the seminars to take place.

Seminars may take place during normal business hours and early evening. Some

Saturdays may be considered but are not required or recommended. Presentations would

take place at the new Community Center / Senior Center or public library.

Minimum Training / Skills: The Public Health Educator must be confident and

comfortable speaking with audiences of 5 to 15 residents who may have little knowledge

of the subject matter. The Public Health Educator must be able to work independently

with some supervision. Coursework in general biology, environmental health, health

communication is preferred. An orientation to functions of the Local Board of Health will

be provided as part of the practicum experience

The selected student would also have the opportunity to develop additional health

education presentations on both infectious and chronic diseases including but not limited

to measles, mumps, Hepatitis A, diabetes rabies and Shingles. Training and supplemental


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materials would be provided.

The Lexington BOH is accessible by public transportation, however access to a vehicle

would be beneficial for seminar dates.

Lynn Board of Health

Health Education and Research

With the establishment of the Prevention and Wellness Trust Fund (PWTF) in July 2012,

the Massachusetts Legislature set forth a challenge to communities across the

Commonwealth: reduce health care costs by preventing chronic conditions. The Trust

supports community-based partnerships including municipalities, healthcare systems,

businesses, regional planning organizations, and schools. These groups work together to

provide research-based interventions that will:

reduce rates of the most prevalent and preventable health conditions;

increase healthy behaviors;

increase the adoption of workplace-based wellness or health management

programs; and

address health disparities.

In January 2014, nine communities were awarded grants through the Prevention and

Wellness Trust Fund (PWTF); the City of Lynn was one of them.

The City of Lynn is in its second year of the PWTF grant. As part of this grant, there are

several community and clinical partners involved in providing evidence-based

interventions for chronic disease patients. The preferred intern would have a broad public

health background. Ideally, they would have experience or training in social marketing

principles, social media, writing press releases, and surveying and research techniques to

assist the board of health in promoting their prevention interventions. Potentially, there

are two areas in which a motivated intern could work on the PWTF grant.

Health Education Assist in the development of promotional tools for various interventions to assist the

clinical team in making referrals. For example, if seniors are found to be at risk of falling

at a clinical visit, it would be useful to have a brochure to give them with details about

the balance classes available to them. There may also be opportunities for developing

social media, earned media and paid media to promote the grants multiple interventions.

Tobacco Control As part of the PWTF grant, all Lynn public housing will be smoke-free this year. The

intern will assist the board of health in evaluating what the effects of such an intervention

on key health outcomes such as second-hand smoke exposure, quit rates and other health

factors.


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There is the possibility of two intern positions at the Lynn Board of Health. Optimally,

the selected intern would work 15-20 hours a week. The Lynn Board of Health is

accessible by the MBTA Newburyport/Rockport Commuter Line and bus; it is a short

walk from the train station.

Lynnfield Board of Health


The town of Lynnfield lacks any municipal sewer infrastructure, and as such, properties

are served by on-site waste water systems (septic systems) which are regulated under

Title V. 310 CMR 15.000. Lynnfield has two water districts with one using ground water

wells for public supply and the other which includes a ground water protection district.

Some residents have both well and septic system onsite. Lynnfield also has extensive

wetlands and other sensitive areas including tributaries that lead to public drinking water

supplies.

A comprehensive compilation of data revealing of the type of systems, age of systems,

number of bedrooms/design flow and proximity to environmentally sensitive areas would

be undertaken through a review of existing data, maps and/or available GIS data, with

possible site visits. This comprehensive compilation will help aid the intern in preparing

and presenting a final assessment – to identify non-conforming systems, aging systems

and systems located with environmentally sensitive areas such as wetland, tributaries,

public and private wells.

Both public and environmental health would be better served by with a comprehensive

assessment to identify those systems and locations that are not consistent with current

Title V standards. In addition the BOH experiences frequent requests for this data.

This project will be guided and supervised by the health director. The community of

Lynnfield is not accessible by public transportation, however some aspects of this project

may be completed offsite applicants should plan accordingly.

Marion – Regional Health District Marion -Rochester

The Marion Rochester Health District (MRHD) has several potential projects for 2015

Tick-borne Disease Prevention and Control

The communities of Marion, Mattapoisett, Rochester and Wareham continue to be

confronted with increasing incidence and severity of cases of tick-borne illnesses among

residents. The illnesses include Anaplasmosis, Babesiosis, and Lyme disease. The

communities in this health district are contiguous, sharing not only common boundaries,

but also similar topography. The proposed project would be to assist the communities in

identifying a unified strategic plan that the communities could jointly pursue to decrease

the incidence of tick-borne diseases. The intern would examine community and regional

data sets of tick-borne diseases to develop an initial assessment of the problem; conduct


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interviews with health agents, public health nurses, epidemiologists, and key individuals

within the towns; identify evidence based approaches to the problem; present findings

and recommendations to agents of the Boards of Health and facilitate a discussion to

identify an optimal strategy for the reduction of tick-borne illness within the region. The

intern will also assist with structuring a regional implementation plan for the adopted

strategy.

Opioid Abuse Prevention

The Marion-Rochester Health District has been actively implementing processes to deter

substance abuse throughout the Health District. The district has conducted a survey with

key informants of its member communities to identify substance abuse concerns within

the community. Additionally the MRHD is a collaborating member of Drug Free South

Coast which has a focus of developing new policies, practices, systems and

environmental changes to increase the scope of prevention of abuse of opioids in the

South coast area. The MRHD is seeking an intern to collaborate with the public health

nurses and the boards of health to assist in developing an integrated and comprehensive

strategy to substance abuse prevention and intervention within the health district.

Medical Reserve Corps

The Marion-Rochester Health District has committed to re-organizing and re-structuring

the Medical Reserve Corps (MRC) unit serving the needs of the District. This process has

involved significant recruitment efforts and formation of a volunteer Executive

Committee. The intern will work with the Executive Committee to identify strengths and

weaknesses of its current assets (personnel, equipment and policies) and assist the

executive committee with development of a strategic plan to assure its success.

Social Media Health Education

Social media tools offer Boards of Health the ability to deliver public health messages

directly and quickly to residents of the towns. The Marion-Rochester Health District

recognizes the need to develop an effective communication avenue with its residents that

is capable of transmitting and receiving messages in a timely way. The intern will assess

existing communication structure, and work collaboratively with the Public Health

Nurses, the Health Agent and other Health Department personnel to design and

implement a sustainable communication system for the Marion-Rochester Health District.

The intern will develop a written policy and procedure manual for utilization of these

tools, and train health department personnel on usage and maintenance of these tools for

health communication purposes.

Regionalization Project

A collaboration of health departments in the southeast region, New Bedford, Fairhaven,

Mattapoisett, Marion and Rochester are exploring the potential of regionalizing some

public health services. The intern will develop a description of the local public health

delivery models currently being utilized, as well as a description of services provided by

each local public health department. Public health services contracted outside of the

departments will be identified and described. Areas of potential synergy between local

health departments will be identified, and benefits and risks will be described. Assets,

detriments, facilitators and hindrances that might impact regionalization of some services


20

will be identified and described. A written report will be prepared and presented to local

health directors in the region.

The intern(s) would be provided space and guidance at the Marion Board of Health. The

BOH is not accessible by public transportation, applicants should plan accordingly.

Medway Health Department

The Medway Board of Health has several projects to offer for 2015 and is open to project

proposed by the selected intern. The intern would work on one or more projects from

start to finish but would also be exposed to a broad swath of public health issues.

Tobacco Control and Prevention

This project has two components. For the first component the intern would ensure that

town business selling tobacco products were in compliance with recent tobacco

regulation changes including display of proper signage. Training on updated regulations

would be provided.

The second component focuses on addressing youth smoking in Medway schools. The

intern will be tasked with designing and presenting a PPT presentation and associated

materials targeted at youth offenders to reduce tobacco use in this demographic.

Food Safety

The selected intern would accompany the food inspector on inspections and follow the

reporting / violation process.


The intern would be tasked with reviewing existing Medway shelters to ensure

compliance with existing plans and Red Cross procedures.

Housing Inspections and Licensure

The selected intern would accompany the inspector on both routine and immediate

housing inspections. Issues of animal welfare, zoning, and housing violations would be

addressed.

The Medway Health Department is not accessible by public transportation applicants

should plan accordingly.


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Melrose - Wakefield Health Department

Mass in Motion

The Melrose - Wakefield Health Department is seeking an intern to assist with ongoing

prevention grant programs, these include healthy eating, active living and the substance

abuse prevention.

Assist the Mass in Motion grant coordinator with Healthy Corner Store & Healthy

Dining Programs, as well as Pedestrian and Bicycle Advisory Committee duties.

-Represent the Health Department at community events.

-Develop a comprehensive, innovative presentation of key informant and

parent/community survey results for elected officials, school leaders, and key

community stakeholders. Compare local data to Youth Risk Behavior Survey &

other data.

Assist Substance Abuse Prevention Coalition Director in developing evaluation

tools, input data, and developed evaluation reports.

Assist with several substance abuse prevention implementation strategies,

including supporting the Coalition's Youth Action Team.

Research evidence-based public health implementation and evaluation strategies

for coalition members, including Marijuana Action Team. Prepare findings for

Coalition Director.

The selected candidate would have space and guidance at the Melrose Board of Health,

the BOH is accessible via public transportation

Middleton Board of Health

Community Health / Environmental Health / Health Education

Middleton is seeking a highly motivated intern to assist with the following projects:

Mass in Motion

The Middleton Health Department has created a program called “Middleton in Motion:

Moving towards a better health in our community” which was initiated in 2009 to

increase physical activity and healthy eating within the community. Middleton in Motion

is a hybrid of the Massachusetts Department of Public Health’s Mass in Motion. The

Middleton Health Department has also promoted and initiated the Middleton Farmers

Market and Middleton Rails Trail Advisory Committee.

The selected intern would be directly involved with our planning department: to assess

and inventory our pedestrian ways, sidewalks, trails, corridors, etc. in order to develop

active community planning to increase physical activity within the community. The

intern would assist the Health Department in community research of existing pedestrian

ways, and would recommend new improvements and planning to increase physical

activity.


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Equine Regulations

The intern would work closely with the Middleton Health Department to assist in the

development and adoption of standardized stable regulations within the community. A

veterinary student would be preferred with this project; however public health students

with interest and the proper qualifications would also be viable candidates.

Middleton Health Department is not accessible via public transit; applicants should plan

accordingly.

Millis Health Department

Tick-borne disease / Emergency Preparedness / Health Education

Lyme Disease

The Millis Board of Health is working to raise awareness of Lyme Disease (LD) and

other tick-borne illnesses. The nearby community of Dover, MA recently implemented an

extended hunting program to control their deer population. Fairfield County, CT has

implemented a deer control plan and reports a LD incidence has decreased by 80%.

Millis is interested in joining the effort and possibly reaching out to other towns already

instituting or considering similar hunting plans. The BOH would like an intern to develop

a program which assesses the Dover strategy, refine the program to meet our

community's needs and coordinate the program with appropriate State agencies.

Public education and outreach is an essential component of the plan. The posting of

information on the Town website and presentation on local television would be required.


The Town of Millis would like to work with an intern to update our Emergency

Preparedness Operations Plan and to assess our available resources.

The intern would provide assistance to the health agent by having materials such as signs

and brochures produced.

Health Education

The intern would also conduct educational presentations at public venues such as farmers

markets, garden centers, and camp programs. It is expected that the intern will spend as

much as one day per week conducting public presentations of educational materials. The

intern would also provide presentations in nearby communities.

Access to a vehicle is required for components of this internship opportunity.


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Needham Health Department


The Town of Needham will be hosting the fourth annual Needham Farmers Market, a

community and family-oriented event planned to begin Sunday May 24th. The market

takes place every Sunday afternoon (12-4pm) behind the Needham Bank and will run

until the end of October. The Needham Public Health Department is seeking an intern

who will work closely with the Needham Health Agent, Food Market vendors and local

food establishments on projects related to the Farmers Market.

Food Safety and Permitting for Seasonal Farmers Market:

The Needham Public Health Department issues approximately 25 permits during the

annual farmers market, this includes cooking demonstrations which feature local

restaurant chefs. The selected candidate would assist in issuing permits, and would gain

education on food safety requirements and conduction of weekly inspections. The intern

will become familiar with and help to develop educational material on the current food

sampling protocols and local Trans Fat regulation requirements firmly established in the

town. The intern will present findings and observations in a report format, along with

recommendations for improvement.

Annual Food Permit Renewals:

The selected candidate will assist the Needham Public Health Department in the creation

of an electronic permit renewal system. The goal of this project is to ensure that all

necessary renewal forms are available online and that future permit renewals will be

conducted electronically. This project will include updating food establishment contact

information.

The idea candidate would have an interest in food safety. Needham is accessible by

public transportation.

Northampton - MDPH Western Regional Health Office

Public Health Planning / Outbreak Investigations / Environmental Health

The Massachusetts Department of Public Health’s Office of Local and Regional Health is

now in the planning stages of a regionalized internship pilot project. The Western

Regional Health Office located in Northampton is seeking an intern to assist with the

pilot project to increase the availability and accessibility of internships in Western

Massachusetts to students interested in Public Health careers. The intern would be

mentored / supervised on-site by the Western Regional Health Director in Northampton.

The Western Massachusetts Public Health Consortium will identify methods for college

advisors, regional agencies, and local health departments to become involved in all

aspects of student growth. This will involve partnerships between the regional health

office, advisors, and students / interns, making this project unique, as it encourages active

participation amongst all partners. The Western Massachusetts Public Health Consortium


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collaborates with local colleges, specifically those who have Public Health programs,

focusing on two objectives: how to develop mentorships between students and local

public health professionals, and how to make the internship process easier to navigate for

students. This project will be beneficial to young adults entering the workforce, as well as

to Western Massachusetts organizations focused on public health

In addition to assisting with the planning for the public health regional pilot program, the

intern would shadow the Western MDPH Regional Health Director. The intern would

participate in several ongoing projects. The successful candidate would be able to work

both in a team structure and independently. A flexible schedule is available for this

project. This project offers a dedicated public health student the opportunity to participate

in public health practice at the state and local level.

Randolph Health Department

Community Needs Assessment / Emergency Preparedness

The selected intern will be tasked with conducting a community health assessment in

order to identify community resources to assist residents during emergencies as well as to

assess ongoing health promotion initiatives. The selected intern may be required to

design and administer a survey to selected participants. Also included in the assessment

will be current and trending issues that have emerging or which remain since the last

assessment conducted in 2010.

A series of 6-10 health education articles based on the findings of the assessment will be

developed to post on the town web site and in the local newspaper promoting health

among Randolph residents. The outcome of this project will be an increase of awareness

among residents about the changing health needs in their community.

Training and guidance will be provided by the public health nurse. The Randolph Board

of Health is accessible via public transportation.

Revere Board of Health

Community Health

“Revere on the Move” is a Mass in Motion initiative aimed at creating a healthier

community, funded in part by Partners Healthcare and co-led by the City of Revere and

MGH Revere CARES. This initiative is led by a task force that represents many close

partner organizations and dedicated community members, it is a true community

initiative committed to making healthy eating and active living the easy choice in Revere.

The City of Revere is seeking an intern to work on one or both of the following unique

opportunities:


25

Move’s Health Eating Environment Initiative

The Healthy Eating Environment Initiative consists of Healthy Markets and Healthy

Dining. Healthy Markets work with local convenience stores that are committed to

providing healthy and affordable options for their customers, while Healthy Dining works

with local restaurants to make healthy food and drinks available in Revere.

The selected candidate will gain experience with managing logistics, healthy market

conversions, and promoting community health initiatives. Responsibilities will include

project planning, regular site visits to businesses including conducting assessments and

assisting with store conversions. The selected candidate will also be responsible for

working with city staff to promote the program in each neighborhood as well as data

collection based on the program’s success.

Bicycle Commission Initiative

The Bicycle Commission Initiative works to increase adoption of comprehensive

approaches to improve community design to enhance walking, bicycling and active

transportation. The selected candidate has the potential to help aid in the process of

creating a Bicycle Commission to advocate and implement bike lanes and a complete

streets policy, as well as integrating the MAPC regional bike and pedestrian regional plan

into the annual capital improvement plan.

The selected candidate will work with a variety of interest groups and report regularly to

the Manager of Healthy Community Initiatives, Healthy Eating Environment and/or the

Bicycle Commission Work Groups.

The internship will be from May to August, with an average of 12-15 hours/week. While

Revere is accessible by public transportation, preference will be given to candidates that

have personal transportation (car or bicycle) given the project needs.

Shutesbury Board of Health

Emergency Preparedness / Environmental Health

Shutesbury is located in Franklin County, approximately a 15 minute drive from the

University of Massachusetts Amherst. Its rural nature, small population and large land

area creates unique challenges for emergency management and public health programs.


The Board of Health, in collaboration with the Emergency Management Team, has

promoted the development of defined, self-aware, active neighborhoods that are capable

and prepared to respond in the event of a public health crisis, this would include

communicable agents, emergency situations, or natural disasters (i.e. the 2008 ice storm

that knocked out roads, power and phones for up to 10 days). The selected intern will

move these preliminary projects forward into a finalized emergency preparedness plan

involving functioning self-organizing neighborhoods.


26

Duties include working directly with neighborhood coordinators and soliciting additional

coordinators via development of a town questionnaire. To further mechanize a

comprehensive emergency response, the intern will develop and conduct a survey to

identify special town needs (i.e. critical medications, medical devices, mobility issues

etc.). Working with predefined leaders, the intern will build a second-tier of emergency

contacts, creating an effective communication tree /plan for the rapid dissemination of

needed services.

The selected intern would also have the opportunity to work on a geographical

information and mapping project, focused on wells and wastewater in the town of

Shutesbury. The intern would collect data on the location of wells, septic systems and

other underground features in at least one high-density section of Shutesbury and map the

results using Google Earth.

This project offers the selected candidate an opportunity to guide a project to completion

with a defined set of deliverables. Shutesbury is not accessible via public transportation

applicants should plan accordingly.

Southwick Health Department


Development of a Response Protocol for Cyanobacteria Blooms

Over the past few years Southwick's Congamond lakes residents have experienced

Cyanobacteria / algae blooms which have produced toxic conditions and have resulted in

swimmer and pet warnings being issued. The Board of Health would like an intern to

assist in the following

• Development of a monitoring program for cyanobacteria activity

• Development of sampling and testing protocol for cyanobacteria

• Development of public communication protocol to include advisories

This intern would work closely with a PhD consultant and laboratory personnel as our

plan currently envisions. Southwick is not accessible by public transportation, applicants


Sudbury Board of Health


The Sudbury Board of Health (BOH) is seeking a motivated intern to assist and advise

the Health Director in three major areas:

Hoarding

Hoarding is a complex behavioral and environmental health issue that has serious health

and safety consequences. Hoarding has become a significant public health issue in recent


27

years and the Town of Sudbury is not immune. The BOH would like an intern to assist

with the development of a hoarding task force.

Tasks may include:

Outreach to existing task forces in other communities

Communicating with local officials (fire, police, medical, housing, etc.) on best

practices on dealing with hoarders

Catalog of existing hoarding properties

Advising Health Director of findings

Summer Camps

Sudbury has a number of day and overnight camps that are licensed and inspected by the

BOH. A wide variety of areas including immunization requirements for staff and

campers, environmental and food safety, are reviewed to make sure that the camps are

meeting the minimum requirements set forth by state regulations. The BOH will need

assistance with pre-opening and routine inspections throughout the summer as well as the

development of a new inspection form.

Title 5 (Septic Systems)

The Town of Sudbury is not serviced by town sewerage; each residence has its own

septic system that requires private installation and maintenance, yet town approval and

inspection is required under Title 5. The board of health is looking for an intern to assist

with the reorganization of materials related to Title 5 operations. The intern would also

have the opportunity to learn the basic engineering functions of septic systems and assist

the BOH with field inspections of soil evaluations and septic system installations.

The Sudbury Board of Health operates weekdays from 8:00am-3:00pm. The BOH would

like the intern to work onsite 8-10 hours a week. The BOH is not accessible by public

transportation, but arrangements could be made to be transported to and from the Lincoln

Commuter Rail Station.

Tewksbury Board of Health

Health Education / Environmental Health

The Tewksbury Board of Health (BOH) is offering several projects ideal for graduate

interns.

Health Education and Awareness

The Tewksbury BOH places emphasis on the need for enhanced health education and

awareness within the community. The intern would have the opportunity to work on

health concerns that have been steadily increasing within the community including: skin,

breast and prostate cancers; hoarding, and substance abuse. The intern would help in the

development and production of educational materials for these health concerns (i.e. signs

posters and brochures) and in conducting educational presentations at various public

venues within the community.

Food Recycling Program


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The intern would be involved in the research and development of a food recycling

program for the community. Research would include understanding the regulations and

requirements involved in a food recycling program and the dissemination of information

to all food establishments through program materials and presentations.

Livestock Program

The Tewksbury BOH is looking to establish a Livestock program with emphasis on

chickens to co-habituate in a densely populated community. The intern would research

and present the benefits and health risks associated with raising livestock within a

residential neighborhood. This project has the unique potential for drafting new

Tewksbury BOH regulations concerning livestock.

The selected candidate should have a background / coursework in health promotion and

health education and an interest in environmental public health. The candidate should be

familiar with conducting research and have access to a laptop. The internship opportunity

is located at the Tewksbury BOH which is accessible via public transit.

Topsfield Board of Health

Emergency Preparedness / Outbreak investigations / Environmental Health

The Topsfield Board of Health has several projects available for the selected intern.

Food Safety and Permitting

The town of Topsfield is the site of the annual Topsfield Fair which is held for 11 days

ending Columbus Day each year. The Topsfield Board of Health (BOH) issues

approximately 130 food permits during each fair. Topsfield seeks an intern who can

assess processes currently in place for issuing food permits and conducting inspections.

Assessment will be done through interviews with BOH personnel, consultants, key

Fairgrounds personnel, and food vendors. The intern would also become familiar with the

FDA Voluntary Standards Program, to which Topsfield belongs, and determine levels of

compliance. The intern would be expected to present findings in a report which would

include recommendations for improvement.

Emergency Preparedness The Topsfield Board of Health Emergency Dispensing Site / Point Of Dispensing Plan

was recently audited by CDC and MDPH. The intern would assist the Board of Health

Agent and the Regional Coalition Emergency Preparedness Coordinator in implementing

changes and improvements recommended by the Auditors. This project would include a

review of the current plan, interfacing with municipal and community partners to

improve preparedness relations, attending local and state level meetings, and submission

of a report with recommendations for improvement of current policies and procedures. In

addition, the intern may assist the Board of Health Agent and the Medical Reserve Corps

Coordinator to re-invigorate the Medical Reserve Corps. The intern must choose an area

of concentration, such as volunteer recruitment and management, emergency

communication, community organization, or similar activity.


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Public Health Nursing:

The Town of Topsfield contracts with VNA Cares Network & Hospice for meeting its

Public Health Nursing mandates. The intern would explore the various means for meeting

this municipal responsibility and present a report recommending the best approach for

Topsfield. The project would include interviews with those currently delivering and

receiving public health nursing services in Topsfield and other communities. While a

Nursing Student would be given preference, any applicant who demonstrates the ability

to assess community–based service delivery systems will be considered for this

internship.

Topsfield is not accessible by public transportation; applicants should plan accordingly.

Ware Board of Health

Community Health / Needs Assessment

The Ware Board of Health (BOH), located in Hampshire County, is seeking an intern to

help assess the current public health needs of its senior citizens.

The intern would be responsible for the creation and administration of a needs assessment

survey provided to the elder citizens of Ware, including those who attend the town’s

Senior Center, as well as surrounding towns with similar demographics. The purpose of

the survey will be to gather information on the types of public health services currently

offered in Ware and the surrounding communities, their relevance, and how the Ware

BOH can best serve this population’s needs. The intern will use the survey results to

generate a report for the BOH. This project offers an excellent opportunity for a student

looking for a project with defined beginning, middle, and end components.

The ideal candidate should have statistical experience and access to a laptop.

The Ware BOH is not accessible via public transportation applicants should plan

accordingly.

Wareham Board of Health


In 2000, the U.S. Congress enacted the Beaches Environmental Assessment and Coastal

Health (BEACH) Act to improve the quality and safety of coastal recreational waters.

The BEACH Act seeks to reduce the risk of disease to users of the Nation's marine

recreational waters through the identification of high-risk beaches, identification and

mitigation of sources of pollution, and notification/risk communication to the public. To


30

comply with the enhanced regulations the Town of Wareham Board of Health collects

routine water samples throughout the town during the summer season. The samples are

tested for coliform contamination.

The selected candidate will provide daily sampling services for 18 beaches in Wareham

used for swimming and other recreational activities. The intern will collect beach water

samples and monitor bacteria levels for 16 weeks, beginning on Tuesday, May 19, 2015

and commencing on Tuesday September 1, 2015. Instruction of protocol will be provided

for the first 4 weeks after which the intern is expected to work independently. The intern

will be expected to take daily samples in knee deep water, complete chain of custody and

drop the samples off at the Barnstable laboratory.

The ideal candidate must be able to work independently, be deadline and detail oriented,

and willing to work in an outdoor environment under a variety of weather conditions.

The Wareham Board of Health is not accessible by public transportation; applicants


Winthrop Board of Health

Emergency Preparedness / Environmental Health

Hoarding Task Force

The Town of Winthrop is a coastal community of 17,584 inhabitants situated at the north

entrance to Boston Harbor. As with many communities, the town of Winthrop is

recognizing an ever-growing issue with hoarding. The Winthrop Health Department is

seeking an intern to assist with the development of a comprehensive hoarding task force

to address residential hoarding. The selected candidate will also assist in the development

of an emergency preparedness response plan.

The Winthrop health department was recently reorganized and aligned with Inspectional

Services and in doing so, has formed a cohesive team approach to tackling sanitation and

building code infractions. Due to our increased presence in the community, multiple

cases of hoarding have been identified and the goal for this project would be for the

Intern to help co-ordinate a cross-sector task force to more diligently respond to these

cases.

The Winthrop Board of Health is easily accessible via public transport.


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Local Health Internship Project Index:

Abington Board of Health - (Plymouth County) Page 4

Ashland Board of Health - (Middlesex County) Page 4-5

Barnstable County Department of Health and Environment Page 5-6

Barnstable Board of Health (Barnstable County) Page 6

Boston MDPH Epidemiology Program: Project 1 – (Suffolk County) Page 6-7

Boston MDPH Epidemiology Program: Project 2 – (Suffolk County) Page 7

Boston MDPH Epidemiology Program: Project 3 – (Suffolk County) Page 7-8

Brookline Board of Health - (Norfolk County) Page 8

Carlisle Board of Health - (Middlesex County) Page 8-10

Dartmouth Board of Health - (Bristol County) Page 10

Dedham – Norfolk County Coalition - (Norfolk County) Page 10-11

Duxbury Board of Health - (Plymouth County) Page 11

Framingham Board of Health - (Middlesex County) Page 11-12

Greenfield Board of Health - (Franklin County) Page 12-13

Holland Board of Health - (Hampden County) Page 13-14

Hudson Board of Health - (Middlesex County) Page 14-16

Lexington Board of Health - (Middlesex County) Page 16-17

Lynn Board of Health - (Essex County) Page 17-18

Lynnfield Board of Health - (Essex County) Page 18

Marion – Regional Health District- (Plymouth County) Page 18-20

Medway Board of Health- (Norfolk County) Page 20

Melrose – Wakefield Board of Health - (Middlesex County) Page 21

Middleton Board of Health - (Essex County) Page 21-22

Millis Board of Health - (Middlesex County) Page 22

Needham Board of Health - (Norfolk County) Page 23

Northampton –MDPH Regional Office - (Hampshire County) Page 23-24

Randolph Board of Health - (Norfolk County) Page 24

Revere Board of Health - (Suffolk County) Page 24-25

Shutesbury Board of Health - (Franklin County) Page 25-26

Southwick Board of Health - (Hampden County) Page 26

Sudbury Board of Health - (Middlesex County) Page 26-27

Tewksbury Board of Health - (Middlesex County) Page 27-28

Topsfield Board of Health - (Essex County) Page 28

Ware Board of Health - (Hampshire County) Page 29

Wareham Board of Health - (Plymouth County) Page 29-30

Winthrop Board of Health - (Suffolk County) Page 30


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Local Health Internship Project Posting End

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