By MICHAEL CRIMMINS
Glasgow News 1
At the T. J. Health Pavilion Community Center, Kentucky State Senator David Givens was presented an award by the Kentucky Hospital Association for his continued support and the work he has done for hospitals throughout the commonwealth.
The KHA was established in 1929 and functions as a lobbyist “representing hospitals, related health care organizations, and integrated health care systems dedicated to sustaining and improving the health status of the citizens of Kentucky.” T. J. Regional Health is a member of KHA as is all the 128 hospitals in the commonwealth, Nancy Galvagni, president of KHA, said.
Neil Thornbury, CEO of T. J. Regional Health, said this award was specifically for his work in “shepherding” the Hospital Rate Improvement through the state senate and the general assembly.
“It’s really acknowledging the work he has done, his leadership in the senate and the work he’s done for Kentucky hospitals,” Thornbury said.
The improvement program — HRIP as Thornbury called it — allows the hospitals “a little better reimbursement rate” on patients on Medicaid that the hospital treats, which has helped stabilize Kentucky hospitals, and specifically rural hospitals. Galvagni said HRIP has provided Kentucky hospitals with roughly $2 billion in extra funding.
“He really was key in passing that legislation, which really has helped stabilize a lot of Kentucky hospitals,” Thornbury said. “Most other states are having to do the same thing that we’ve been able to do…because of this type of program.”
“His advocacy for Kentucky hospitals, specifically rural hospitals, has been tremendous,” Thornbury added.
After Thornbury and Galvagni spoke they turned the podium over to Givens who extended his “heartfelt thanks” at receiving this award. He said he chose this hospital to accept this award because he loved being a “connector” of people and his district was directly served by T. J. Regional Health. Given’s serves District 9, which covers Barren, Edmonson, Green, Hart and part of Warren counties.
“I accept the award not as something to put on my shelf, but I accept the award on behalf of this community,” Givens said. “Access to quality medical care is vital. Having quality care in our community is critical in moving it forward. It’s an honor to get this award but it’s more of an honor to get a chance to celebrate this system and share the spotlight [with this hospital].”
Galvagni said some legislators “but not all” get this award and shared in Thornbury’s happiness to present it to Givens.
“Senator Givens has been an exceptional representative for the constituents of this district for many years,” Thornbury said. “We’re fortunate to have him in leadership. He is really who you’d want to fight for the values we have in our communities, he’s done that very well. Big supporter of Senator Givens and very happy with this legislation.”
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