The Role of a Council Health Supervisor in Supporting Local Scout Councils

The Council Health Supervisor (CHS) is a pivotal figure within Scouting America, dedicated to safeguarding the health and safety of Scouts, leaders, and volunteers. While the position is often confused with the Camp Health Officer, this article shares the responsibilities, qualifications, and contributions of this essential role, shedding light on how the CHS ensures a safe and supportive environment for local councils.

Who is a Council Health Supervisor?

The CHS is a licensed physician who serves as the local council’s primary medical advisor, providing expertise and guidance on all health-related matters. This individual is also a registered Scouter trained in Youth Protection, ensuring a deep understanding of the unique needs and challenges faced by the Scouting community.

Qualifications of a Council Health Supervisor

To fulfill their responsibilities effectively, the CHS must:

• Be licensed to practice medicine in the state(s) where the council operates.
• Hold expertise relevant to camp and youth health and safety.
• Collaborate with other medical professionals when council programs span multiple states.

Core Responsibilities

The Council Health Supervisor plays a multifaceted role, encompassing oversight, education, and strategic input. Some key responsibilities include:

1. Health Oversight and Risk Management
   • Serves on the council’s Enterprise Risk Management (ERM) or Health and Safety Committee.
   • Oversees camp health lodge operations and ensures compliance with national camp standards.
   • Assists with reviewing the Council Medical Care Policies Manual each year (NCAP HS-505).
   • Writes and approves the camp’s on-site treatment procedures or standing orders (NCAP HS-506).
   • Reviews camp First Aid Logs and provides actionable feedback to improve care practices.
2. Incident Reporting and Policy Approval
   • Works with the council’s ERM committee to ensure health and safety incidents are properly reported.
   • Reviews and approves medication processes and standing orders required by camp standards.
3. Education and Training
   • Assists in training and orienting health lodge staff.
   • Provides health education on topics such as first aid, CPR/AED, and wilderness first aid to Scouts and leaders.
4. Medical Guidance and Criteria Development
   • Advise on medical guidelines for high-adventure activities and other programs where participant health may pose risks.
   • Reviews medical records for participants attending national events to ensure compliance with health standards.
5. Local Council Support
   • Convenes and leads meetings on communicable disease management.
   • Assists in interpreting and implementing national health guidelines as they relate to the local council.
   • Develops medical communications for leaders, parents, and media as needed.

The CHS’s Impact on Scouting

By providing expert medical guidance, the Council Health Supervisor enhances the safety and preparedness of local councils. Their work helps to mitigate risks, ensure compliance with national standards, and foster a culture of health awareness within Scouting.

Through their collaboration with council leaders, the CHS plays a crucial role in shaping policies that protect Scouts, leaders, and volunteers, ensuring that every participant can thrive in a safe and supportive environment.

The Council Health Supervisor is more than a medical advisor; they are a cornerstone of the Scouting community’s commitment to health and safety. Their expertise and dedication ensure that local councils can deliver transformative experiences to youth while upholding the highest standards of care.