June 15, 2008
Representative Don Young and YKHC Board Member Kathy Chase prepare to open up the crate containing YKHC's new CT Scanning machine.
Congressman Don Young visits with YKHC Governing Body and staff
by Bob Herron, YKHC Public Relations Staff
United States Congressman Don Young met with several regional agencies and community leaders in Bethel May 28 before addressing the Bethel Chamber of Commerce at their weekly luncheon.
The Congressman's first stop was the Yukon-Kuskokwim Delta Regional Hospital to hear questions and comments from Governing Body members and staff. Young listened to concerns about increasing energy costs, the upcoming federal funding cycle, subsistence protection, a much-needed comprehensive electronic billing system, and the challenges in providing care for Elders.
Young, who has represented Alaska in Congress for 35 years, addressed each question and comment, speaking also about the challenges and realities of working in Washington, DC and helping his constituents, especially those in western Alaska.
Opening a special package
Congressman Young's trip to the YK Delta coincided with the delivery of the hospital's new Computed Tomography (CT) Scanner. Hospital Services Vice President Jack Crow and Diagnostic Imaging Director Ronnie Fitzpatrick gave Young a tour of the hospital and showed him where the new imaging system will be installed.
Employees of Siemens-the company that built the scanner-were preparing the room's floor for placement of the machine when Governing Body Chair Kathy Chase asked the Congressman to assist her in opening its wooden shipping crate.
Other stops before Young's Chamber of Commerce luncheon presentation included a meeting with AVCP leadership and staff, a tour of the Yuut Elitnaurviat campus, and an AVCP Housing Full Board meeting.
