State Senator John J. Bonacic (R/I/C - Mount Hope), along with Catskill Regional Medical Center (CRMC) CEO Larry Cafasso and Board members announced that the Hospital will receive $500,000 in much-needed State Aid to enhance patient services and upgrade equipment.
"Our hospitals don't turn people away. They are open 24/7, taking anyone and everyone who walks through the door seeking assistance. They are the difference between life and death and they need our support," stated Senator Bonacic. "For these reasons, I was pleased to fight for Catskill Regional and secure this funding."
Joyce Salimeno, Chairman of the Board said, "We appreciate Senator Bonacic. Not only has he been a good friend to Catskill Regional Medical Center, but he has been a good friend to all of his constituents in Sullivan County. The Senator's visit to CRMC today is especially meaningful to the entire hospital family as we struggle with finance and planning issues in order to continue to serve our community."
Senator Bonacic said that the State Aid was made available through the Health Care Reform Act (HCRA) program and will mean better heart care, enhanced OB/GYN care, and a better emergency room -- services used everyday. With this additional funding, the total aid secured by Senator Bonacic for health care services in Sullivan County is over $1 million. Senator Bonacic previously secured State funding to help make improvements to the hospital's improvements to the cardiac care unit and birthing center units.
Larry Cafasso, CEO of Catskill Regional, stated, "It's no secret that our facility is currently facing some very difficult challenges and we are grateful to have Senator Bonacic's support as we move forward to implement the necessary changes to keep CRMC viable and prepared to continue meeting the needs of the community."
"I believe in the future of Catskill Regional Medical Center. The Board members, administration, and staff are dedicated to providing quality, patient-centered health care. Providing the resources and support for our hospitals has always been a priority for me in the Senate. It results in access to quality health care for all of us," concluded Senator Bonacic.
TO LISTEN TO THE PRESS CONFERENCE SPEAKERS CLICK ON THE FOLLOWING LINK: http://www.midhudsonnews.com/Net_Radio/CRMC_Bonacic-12Oct06.mp3 [2]
