Indian-American Congressman Raja Krishnamoorthi (D-IL) has been recognized for his dedication to improving health care by being awarded the 2024 Ruth Rothstein Award for Excellence. The award was presented by the Cook County Health Foundation at its annual gala, a prestigious event that highlights contributions to the health care landscape of Cook County. Cook County President Toni Preckwinkle had the honor of presenting the award to Krishnamoorthi, citing his efforts in making health care more accessible to the county’s residents.
The Ruth Rothstein Award, named after the former chief of the Cook County Department of Public Health, is given to individuals who follow in Rothstein’s footsteps by advancing health care initiatives that benefit the community. Krishnamoorthi has exemplified this commitment in his work both at the national and local levels, making him a fitting recipient of this year’s award.
In his acceptance speech, Krishnamoorthi expressed gratitude for receiving an award that bears Ruth Rothstein’s name, underlining his commitment to ensuring that Cook County residents have better access to affordable health care. “It is an honor to receive an award that bears Ruth’s name, and I look forward to continuing my work with the Cook County Health Foundation and President Toni Preckwinkle to fully realize Ruth’s vision of a healthier Cook County for all its residents,” Krishnamoorthi stated, emphasizing his dedication to improving the lives of those in his constituency through better health care policies.
Krishnamoorthi also touched upon specific health care-related achievements during his speech, particularly his efforts to reduce drug prices at a national level and secure funding for local health care projects. He mentioned his role in taking on Pharmacy Benefit Managers (PBMs), entities responsible for managing prescription drug benefits for health plans, in order to lower the cost of medications across the country. By addressing PBMs, he hopes to bring down the overall cost of prescription drugs, a significant issue affecting both Cook County residents and people across the U.S.
Furthermore, Krishnamoorthi highlighted a key accomplishment in securing $2 million in federal funding to support the construction of an urgent care facility in Arlington Heights, Illinois. This funding will ensure that residents of the area have access to timely and efficient health care services, which are essential for addressing urgent health issues before they become critical. “From taking on Pharmacy Benefit Managers (PBMs) to lower drug prices nationally to securing $2 million for Cook County Public Health to build an urgent care facility in Arlington Heights, I am committed to doing just that, using my position in Congress to create positive health care change for Illinoisans,” Krishnamoorthi affirmed in his speech.
His commitment to these causes is reflective of his broader legislative efforts. As a congressman, Krishnamoorthi has supported a variety of health care initiatives aimed at improving access to care and lowering costs, particularly for those in underserved or underinsured communities. One of his notable efforts has been his support for federal initiatives to restore reproductive rights in the wake of the Supreme Court’s decision to overturn Roe v. Wade. By advocating for the restoration of these rights, Krishnamoorthi aims to ensure that individuals have access to the reproductive health care they need, regardless of the political landscape or legal barriers that may arise.
In addition to his work at the federal level, Krishnamoorthi has also been deeply involved in local health care projects within Cook County. His advocacy has not only resulted in the funding of the Arlington Heights urgent care facility but has also contributed to other community health initiatives across the county. These efforts have earned him widespread praise, particularly from the Cook County Health Foundation, which highlighted his leadership and dedication to improving health outcomes for the county’s residents.
The Cook County Health Foundation, in its recognition of Krishnamoorthi’s work, lauded his efforts to bring much-needed health care resources to local communities. The foundation pointed out that his role in securing funds for health care projects, such as the urgent care facility, is just one example of his broader commitment to ensuring that all residents, particularly those in need, have access to essential health services. The foundation’s praise of Krishnamoorthi’s work underlines the impact he has made on the health care landscape in Cook County.
Krishnamoorthi’s dedication to health care reform is not just confined to his own district but extends to his broader work as a congressman. His efforts to lower prescription drug prices through federal regulation of PBMs, as well as his advocacy for reproductive rights and funding for local health care projects, demonstrate a comprehensive approach to addressing health care issues both locally and nationally.
As Cook County continues to face health care challenges, particularly in underserved areas, Krishnamoorthi’s contributions have proven invaluable. His focus on lowering costs and improving access aligns with the goals of the Cook County Health Foundation, which strives to ensure that all residents, regardless of their socioeconomic background, can access the care they need.
The Ruth Rothstein Award for Excellence serves as a recognition of Krishnamoorthi’s ongoing efforts to make health care more equitable and affordable. By following in the footsteps of Rothstein, who herself was a fierce advocate for public health during her time as the chief of the Cook County Department of Public Health, Krishnamoorthi continues to build on her legacy of improving health outcomes for the people of Cook County.
Looking forward, Krishnamoorthi remains committed to working with local health officials and national policymakers to advance health care reform. His partnership with President Toni Preckwinkle and the Cook County Health Foundation is expected to continue as they collaborate on future initiatives aimed at making health care more accessible to all residents. His leadership in these efforts will be crucial in addressing the evolving health care needs of Cook County and ensuring that its residents receive the care they deserve.
Krishnamoorthi’s receipt of the Ruth Rothstein Award is not just a personal accolade but a testament to his commitment to public service and health care reform. As he continues his work in Congress, he remains focused on using his platform to advocate for policies that will create lasting, positive change in health care, both for Illinoisans and for the nation as a whole.