The former spokesperson for the Iowa Department of Public Health who says she was forced from her job on Wednesday talked to Siouxland Public Media News about her diminished role after the start of the COVID-19 pandemic. Polly Carver-Kimm talks about the need for transparency in the response to the novel coronavirus.
Siouxland Public Media's Sheila Brummer reports.
STATEMENT FROM THE IDPH:
My understanding is that, as Polly noted, she resigned in lieu of termination, and that Director Clabaugh let her know by telephone that there is a desire to make changes in the area of communications at the department.
This was the statement the department provided:
While we cannot comment on personnel matters, we can share the following: Transparency is critical in our response to the COVID-19 pandemic. The Iowa Department of Public Health has gone above and beyond to provide up-to-date and comprehensive information throughout the pandemic. These efforts have included participating in regular press briefings, constant communication with media and continuous improvement on how we report data and provide information. We value the role media plays in the state's efforts to get information to the public, and intend to continue a strong partnership.