Rep. Cotter honored by R.I. Health Center Association

Rep. Megan Cotter receives prestigious Chafee Award.

The association bestows the award upon an individual, group, or organization whose work embodies the spirit of the late Senator John H. Chafee, demonstrating the commitment to strengthening the healthcare safety net and providing true justice and equity in health care for all.

Representative Cotter (D-Dist. 39, Exeter, Richmond, Hopkinton) was honored for her work to increase rural access to health care by facilitating the purchase of a van for Wood River Health through the Rhode Island Public Transit Authority, with 80 percent of the cost covered by federal grants.

“Early in her first term, Representative Megan Cotter recognized Wood River Health’s role in providing health care to constituents in her district. Transportation in the state’s rural areas is challenging, and Representative Cotter showed her support by identifying RIPTA grant funds that helped Wood River Health purchase a vehicle for patient transportation. She has proven to be a strong advocate for equitable health care, cosponsoring many health-related bills, and we look forward to seeing her continue her efforts in the legislative session ahead,” said Elena Nicolella, President & CEO of the Rhode Island Health Center Association.

The award was presented Oct. 11 at the association’s annual meeting, held at the Crown Plaza in Warwick. RIHCA’s members include eight Federally Qualified Health Centers: Blackstone Valley Community Health Care Inc., Comprehensive Community Action Program, East Bay Community Action Program, Providence Community Health Centers, Thundermist Health Center, Tri-County Community Action Agency, WellOne Primary Medical & Dental Care, and Wood River Health, as well as one rural community health center, Block Island Health Services.