Congressman Mike Thompson visits St. Joseph Hospital in Eureka, CA

St. Joseph Health System recently thanked elected officials Congressman Mike Thompson and Assemblywoman Noreen Evans for their support over the last year to secure funding for crucial facilities projects at two of its northern California hospitals, St. Joseph Hospital – Eureka and Queen of the Valley Medical Center.

Congressman Thompson’s efforts to secure $588,000 in federal appropriations funding for state-mandated seismic code upgrades to St. Joseph Hospital’s new state-of-the-art Northeast Tower were recognized at an April reception is scheduled for completion in 2011.

During a recent ceremony, Queen of the Valley’s Board of Trustees honored Assemblywoman Evans for her support in protecting Medi-Cal reimbursements rates against cuts which would have negatively impacted participating residents of Napa County. As budget committee chair, her efforts ultimately led to the restoration of funding earlier this year.

“California’s state budget crisis has presented a challenge for community hospitals who must find ways to protect critical services for those who need them most of all,” said Ronald DiLuigi, Vice President of Advocacy and Government Relations at SJHS. “We’re grateful to both Congressman Thompson and Assemblywoman Evans for their support as we continue to provide the highest quality of care to those who need it most – now more than ever – in our communities we’re privileged to serve.”