Download the Purchase District Health Department Case Study.

In rural areas where access to healthcare is somewhat limited, maintaining a safe and healthy environment within health facilities is critical. The Purchase District Health Department, serving five counties in Kentucky, recognized the essential need for clean indoor air to protect both its staff and the communities it serves.

With the lingering challenges of the COVID-19 infections and the need to ensure continuous service delivery, the department took decisive action to enhance air quality across its facilities. By partnering with WellAir and deploying Novaerus air disinfection technology, the Purchase District Health Department prioritized the health and safety of its staff and the public, demonstrating a strong commitment to community welfare.

Addressing a Critical Need

The Purchase District Health Department is a public health agency with jurisdiction in Ballard, Carlisle, Fulton, Hickman, and McCracken counties in Kentucky. Its primary focus areas include Maternal and Child Health, Epidemiology and Chronic Diseases, and Environmental Health, with services spread across five locations.

Erin Stallins, the Program Specialist at the Purchase District Health Department, played a key role in advocating for improved air quality within the agency's satellite offices and headquarters. Reflecting on the early days of the COVID-19 pandemic, Erin recalled, “I learned how important our local health departments are to our community. Some of our facilities are in rural areas with minimal staffing, making it crucial for everyone to stay healthy to continue providing vital services.”

Choosing the Right Solution

After learning about the successful implementation of WellAir’s Novaerus Protect 900 devices in local schools, Erin explored the possibility of using the technology within the health department’s facilities. The Protect 900 devices, powered by patented NanoStrike^TM air disinfection technology, had been effectively reducing airborne pathogens like viruses and bacteria in classrooms, earning praise for their low maintenance and energy efficiency. Erin collaborated closely with the WellAir team to assess the specific needs of each facility.

They decided to install the FDA-cleared Novaerus Defend 400 in larger, heavily trafficked areas, such as the lobby of the health department. The Defend 400 combines triple-stage medical-grade HEPA and carbon filtration combined with NanoStrike technology, making it ideal for spaces with high foot traffic.

For smaller, more enclosed spaces, such as clinic rooms, some of which are used by the University of Kentucky for cancer screening, the Novaerus Protect 900s and 200s were deployed. These devices are particularly suited for environments requiring a reduction of airborne viruses, bacteria, and mold.

Impact and Feedback

The installation of the air disinfection devices had an immediate impact. “Our staff noted how clean the building smelled within the first week of installation. Since the building is rather old, it had a musty odor. However, the smell dissipated within a week of installation,” Erin noted. This improvement not only enhanced the working conditions for staff but also provided a safer environment for vulnerable patients, including those with compromised immune systems.

Kevin Devlin, CEO of WellAir, emphasized the significance of this partnership: “Providing a clean and safe environment for patients, especially those who are immunocompromised, is a top priority for us. Our NanoStrike technology was developed to protect against airborne pathogens, and it’s incredibly fulfilling to see it make a difference in communities that rely on these health services. We are proud to support the Purchase District Health Department in their mission to protect public health.”

Looking Ahead

The Purchase District Health Department is deepening its commitment to community well-being through its continued collaboration with the Washington Street Community Development Corporation. As part of this partnership, the department is excited to announce a new phase of Novaerus device installations, scheduled in the coming month, at the Washington Street Warming Center. This center provides a safe refuge for residents seeking relief from extreme cold weather, underscoring the department’s dedication to safeguarding vulnerable populations. By expanding the use of air disinfection technology in this critical facility, the Purchase District Health Department reaffirms its mission to ensure clean, safe indoor environments for the communities it serves.

Conclusion

The proactive measures taken by the Purchase District Health Department underscore the critical role that clean indoor air plays in maintaining public health, particularly in underserved rural areas. By investing in advanced air purification technology, the department not only enhanced the safety of its facilities but also ensured uninterrupted access to essential health services for the communities it serves. The partnership with WellAir and the deployment of Novaerus devices exemplify how innovative solutions can address pressing public health needs, making a lasting impact on community well-being.

Download the Purchase District Health Department Case Study.