WASHINGTON—U.S. Rep. Bill Pascrell, Jr. (D-NJ-08) today praised House passage of the Labor, Health and Human Services and Education Appropriations bill, which includes $400,000 for hospitals in Passaic County. St Joseph’s Regional Medical Center and Barnert Hospital each stand to gain $200,000 for upgrades to improve the standard of hospital care in northern New Jersey.
“The federal government has a responsibility to assist urban hospitals manage the incredible task of providing adequate care to a growing population of uninsured patients,” stated Pascrell. “I am pleased to play a role in helping Passaic County hospitals defray the cost of providing critical medical improvements.”
The annual appropriation bill would provide over $600 billion in funding for the departments of Labor, Health and Human Services, and Education.
Included within the bill is $200,000 specifically designated for St. Joseph’s Regional Medical Center to expand the use electronic health records throughout the center.
"Funding of the Electronic Health Record project will enable St. Joseph's Regional Medical Center to further improve its already high standard of quality and efficiency. As the St. Joseph Healthcare System continues to expand its services throughout the region, the Electronic Health Record will further enhance quality by integrating patients' medical information from various sources," said Bill McDonald, President & CEO of St. Joseph's Healthcare System.
In addition, Barnert Hospital is in line for $200,000 that will be used for the renovation of emergency room equipment and facilities, and better utilization of space that will include separate areas for "fast tracking" patients, as well as for children, seniors and those requiring psychological evaluation.
"Our highest priority is to provide high quality emergency medicine to the residents of Paterson in a timely and efficient manner," said Joseph S. Orlando, President and Chief Executive Officer at Barnert Hospital. "These funds will allow us to make the necessary renovations that will permit us to do this."
Added Charles Walker, chairman of Barnert Hospital's Board of Trustees, "I'm delighted with Congressman Pascrell's efforts and thank him on the part of the hospital and our patients."
“These potentially life-saving federal investments would enable efficient access and better care in Passaic County’s leading urban medical centers. I will continue to fight for the full funding of these projects as this appropriation bill moves forward in Congress,” concluded Pascrell.
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