Iowa Senator Tom Harkin Named NOSORH's 2009 Legislator of the Year

NOSORH was created in 1995 to serve as an influential voice for rural health concerns and promote a healthy rural America through state and community leadership. The organization presents its Legislator of the Year Award each year to recognize an outstanding legislator for his or her work/support of rural health initiatives that address identified national healthcare needs. Those selected have introduced or supported legislation that addresses an identified rural health need or issue; made a special effort to effect change in rural health policy; and/or demonstrated leadership in the rural community.

As co-chair of the Senate Rural Health Caucus, Sen. Harkin has successfully advanced legislation aimed at improving rural healthcare facilities and bringing health professionals to small towns and rural communities. He has placed special emphasis on women’s health, doubling funding for breast cancer research and launching a national breast and cervical cancer early detection program. Sen. Harkin also demonstrated his understanding of the purpose and value of State Offices of Rural Health (SORHs) by advocating for including the re-appropriation of the SORH program in the 2009 Labor/Health & Human Services/Education Omnibus Appropriations Bill.

As chairman of the Senate Committee on Health, Education, Labor and Pensions, Sen. Harkin has worked on transforming America into a “wellness society” focused on disease prevention, healthier lifestyles and good nutrition. Together with U.S. Senator Arlen Specter (D-Pennsylvania), Sen. Harkin led efforts to double funding for research on cardiovascular disease, cancer and Alzheimer's disease. He also led the fight to end restrictions on embryonic and stem cell research.

“NOSORH recognizes that the United States is a safer and more health-conscious nation due to the never-ending energies and leadership of Tom Harkin,” notes Gloria Vermie, director of the Iowa Office of Rural Health and the person who nominated Sen. Harkin for the award. “He is a true friend and advocate of rural communities and families.”

NOSORH presented Sen. Harkin with his award on January 25 during the National Rural Health Association’s annual Policy Institute in Washington, D.C.

For additional information, please contact NOSORH Executive Director Teryl Eisinger at teryle@nosorh.org or (586) 739-9940 or NOSORH Communications Coordinator Bill Hessert at billh@nosorh.org or (814) 308-8697.