NEW BEDFORD – Joseph P. Kennedy III has been named the recipient of the 2017 Southcoast Health – Hero for Health Award.
The annual Hero for Health Award is presented to leaders who, through their work, advocate for optimal health and wellness in the region, state and country.
“Congressman Kennedy represents the true meaning of the Southcoast Health — Hero for Health Award,” said Keith A. Hovan, President & CEO of Southcoast Health.
“He believes that access to quality healthcare is a right that belongs to every American. And he demonstrates that belief everyday, as he fights tirelessly for legislation that supports mental health care and substance abuse disorder treatment, and ensures that hospitals like Southcoast Health can serve the most vulnerable populations.”
Since being elected to Congress in 2013, Congressman Kennedy has sponsored or co-sponsored 157 bills aimed at improving healthcare and access to care for and the nation’s children, seniors, and low-income residents.
He has also fought to protect safety-net hospitals like Southcoast Health from cuts to Medicare and Medicaid payments.