St. Joe County health officer speaks on resignation announcement

SOUTH BEND, Ind. (WNDU) - Less than a year after the installation of a new health officer and the search is back on for a health officer in St. Joseph County.

This comes after Dr. Diana Purushotam announced her resignation Wednesday at the monthly county health department meeting. Purushotam has been the health officer here in the county since July of last year.

Purushotam made comments to start the meeting about some of the work she’s been able to accomplish along with the board.

“I think my experience here has been phenomenal,” Purushotam said. “I want to say thank you to the health department the board, commissioners, council, for allowing us to do such good things in the time that we’ve had together.”

Purushotam is leaving her position because of family dynamics having to relocate out of state, but she’s happy with the work that was done in the short time.

“I think the health department has done an exceptional job in the past couple of months,” Purushotam said. “We have been able to strengthen our health department, add on key positions to better serve our community”.

And even though she’s on the way out, Purushotam continues to work, highlighting some of the ideas coming into the area with a new strategic plan that was passed at Wednesday’s meeting.

“I think the strategic plan is very helpful,” Purushotam said. “It provides a framework for what direction the health department will be going in. That will be a great resource for the next health officer to step into. They might what to change it, but there’s an understanding with respect to the board of health on where we will be going.”

Purushotam’s absence leaves the position vacant for the second time in a calendar year, but she is ready to help in that process and knows the qualities that the next health officer will bring to the community.

“A sense of community service and the ability to work collaboratively within the department, out in the community, and within the government.” Purushotam said. “Just to make sure were all on the same page and working towards a healthier St. Joseph County.”

The board announced that a personnel committee will be made to help search for the next health officer.

There is no timeline for the next hire, but the board is asking for the public’s input and referrals for a new health officer.