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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Sunday, March 10, 2002
Contact: Karen Migdail
(301) 652-4136

STATEMENT BY
HHS SECRETARY TOMMY G. THOMPSON
Regarding John M. Eisenberg, M.D.


I am deeply saddened by the death of Dr. John M. Eisenberg, director of the Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality (AHRQ). John passed away at his home after a yearlong illness caused by a brain tumor. He was 55.

Throughout his career, John dedicated himself to ensuring that patients have the highest quality, safest health care possible. John's enthusiasm and commitment to this goal has inspired colleagues within the Department of Health and Human Services and across the federal government. Largely through his efforts, improving patient safety and health care quality are top national priorities.

John was an exceptional leader who built a motivated and dedicated team since joining AHRQ in 1997. The research supported and conducted by AHRQ makes a difference in the lives of patients every day. This is John's legacy: Ensuring that health care is built on a strong foundation of scientific evidence that is translated into the improved health of the American people.

I was privileged to know John as an esteemed colleague, but I was even more proud to call John a friend. My thoughts and prayers are with John's family and with his AHRQ family.

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Note: AHRQ has a tribute page for Dr. Eisenberg at www.ahrq.gov/about/eisenbio.htm.

Note: All HHS press releases, fact sheets and other press materials are available at www.hhs.gov/news.