INDIANAPOLIS, February 28, 2005 – Patricia A. Maryland, Dr.P.H., president of St.Vincent Hospitals and Health Services, has been appointed to the Citizens’ Health Care Working Group, a multidisciplinary federal panel that will lead nationwide debate on ways to improve the country’s healthcare system and provide quality, affordable healthcare coverage. The announcement was made this morning in Washington, D.C., for the new 15-member Working Group that was mandated by the Medicare Prescription Drug, Improvement and Modernization Act of 2003.
The Government Accountability Office (GAO) reports that the Citizens’ Health Care Working Group will hold hearings and community meetings across the country on healthcare coverage and cost issues, and to issue a “Health Report to the American People.” The Working Group, whose members are appointed by the comptroller general of the United States, will make recommendations to the President and Congress.
“I am honored to have the opportunity to provide input in this nationwide public debate that will help shape high-quality and affordable healthcare for all Americans,” said Dr. Maryland, who will retain her position with St.Vincent Hospitals and Health Services. “My background in public health, combined with my experience in a leadership role with bedside caregivers, gives me an insight into the issues that will be addressed by this committee. I am looking forward to developing solutions to improve our nation’s healthcare system.”
As part of St.Vincent Health, St.Vincent Hospitals and Health Services embrace the mission to sustain and improve the quality of health care for individuals and communities.
“Dr. Maryland’s appointment provides an invaluable opportunity for St.Vincent Health to be involved in transforming the nation’s health care system, while advocating for those who are poor and vulnerable,” said St.Vincent Health Chief Executive Officer Vincent Caponi. “St.Vincent Health is proud to have Dr. Maryland serve on such a notable national committee that could ultimately have a positive impact on Hoosiers.”
Anthony R. Tersigni, president and CEO of Ascension Health and sponsor of St.Vincent Health said Dr. Maryland is a ideal choice for this federal task force.
“We are pleased that Dr. Maryland has been appointed to this important federal effort,” said Tersigni. “She is a demonstrated leader in the areas of healthcare funding, quality and access, with an impressive record of accomplishment. Dr. Maryland’s work within Ascension Health, combined with her 25 years prior experience in the healthcare field in a variety of executive roles and responsibilities, makes her ideally suited to represent Ascension Health on the Citizens’ Health Care Working Group.”
As a faith-based provider of care, Ascension Health has as its mission service to all people, with particular attention to those most in need. “We are committed to achieving 100 percent access to health services. Our Call to Action promise to deliver Healthcare That Leaves No One Behind is at the heart of all we do,” Tersigni said. “We are excited about the potential for new, innovative ideas related to the provision of healthcare that will result from the Working Group’s discussions and leadership.”
A list of the other 14 appointees to the Citizens’ Health Care Working Group can be found online at http://www.gao.gov/special.pubs/citizenshealthpr0228.pdf
About St.Vincent Hospitals & Health Services
St.Vincent Hospitals & Health Services is dedicated to spiritually-centered, holistic care, which sustains and improves the health of individuals and communities. With St.Vincent Indianapolis Hospital the flagship, the local healthcare ministry also includes St.Vincent Children’s Hospital, St.Vincent Women’s Hospital, St.Vincent Stress Center and St.Vincent Pediatric Rehabilitation Center. As a member of St.Vincent Health, St.Vincent Hospitals and Health Services is one of 16 Indiana facilities in the Indianapolis-based St.Vincent Health network. A member of Ascension Health, the largest not-for-profit health care system in the country, the ageless mission of St.Vincent is to minister to the body, mind and spirit of those in need, regardless of religion.
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