FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Statement attributable to:
Bruce Siegel, MD, MPH
President and CEO
America’s Essential Hospitals
WASHINGTON — We thank Congress for acting on gun violence, including by improving gun safety, expanding access to mental health services, and taking other steps to confront this urgent public health threat.
The Bipartisan Safer Communities Act offers hope to our nation and to its health care workers, who face increased personal risk as caregivers often on the front lines of workplace violence. It would make needed investments in behavioral health care for youth and families and resources for providers, including for telehealth, community clinics, and mental health training.
This legislation takes important steps toward lowering the disproportionate impact of violence on people of color and other marginalized groups. We must build on this progress with research, education, and prevention to further understand and respond to the root causes of violence.
Essential hospitals, which serve communities at greatest risk of violence, can be experienced partners in this vital public health work.
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About America’s Essential Hospitals
America’s Essential Hospitals is the leading champion for hospitals and health systems dedicated to high-quality care for all, including the most vulnerable. We support our more than 300 members with advocacy, policy development, research, and education. Communities depend on essential hospitals to provide specialized, lifesaving services; train the health care workforce; advance public health and health equity; and coordinate care. Essential hospitals innovate and adapt to lead the way to more effective and efficient care.
Contact:
Carl Graziano
cgraziano@essentialhospitals.org
202.585.0102
Author