SANTA ROSA, Calif.– Congressman Mike Thompson (CA-01) is being honored for his continuing efforts to expand access and improve the quality and safety of patient care by the California Hospital Association (CHA).

Rep. Thompson is the recipient of CHA’s Health Care Champion Award, presented to select elected officials who demonstrate exceptional leadership on behalf of California’s hospitals and the patients they serve.

The award was presented during a special ceremony hosted by members of the Hospital Council of Northern and Central California on June 8.

“Congressman Thompson has been a relentless advocate for both patients and health care providers throughout his career,” said CHA President and CEO C. Duane Dauner. “As a state legislator and a Member of Congress, he has always fought to ensure patients have access to high-quality, affordable care. We appreciate the Congressman’s efforts on behalf of California families and look forward to continuing to work with him on the important health care issues facing our state and our nation.”

“Rep. Thompson was actively engaged in the health care reform debate at all stages of its consideration and deliberation,” said Terry Burns, CEO and President of Ukiah Valley Medical Center. “From the very beginning of the debate, it was clear that improving access to high quality, affordable care was his number one priority. The Congressman stood with rural hospitals like ours every step of the way.”

In accepting the CHA award, Rep. Thompson noted that providing access to quality health care has been a hallmark of his career.

“Strengthening our health care system has never been a solo effort,” said Rep. Thompson. “That’s why I’ve always been proud to work with groups like the CHA that share my commitment to providing California families with high quality, affordable care. Working together, we can continue to provide Californians with the resources they need to take charge of their health.”

As one of the largest health care trade associations in our nation, CHA represents more than 400 hospitals and health systems in California. The association provides its members with public policy development, issues management, and legislative advocacy services at the state and federal levels. CHA has offices in Sacramento and Washington, D.C.