U.S. Representative Jeff Denham (R-Turlock) was recognized as a ‘Champion in Healthcare Innovation’ by the Healthcare Leadership Council on Thursday at its annual innovation expo. The award is presented to lawmakers in recognition of their ongoing support of patient-centered medical progress.

“It is an honor to be recognized as a ‘Champion in Healthcare Innovation’ and a privilege to be the voice that fights for those who are devastated by disease,” said Rep. Denham. “We must continue to support and advance the efforts of medical professionals in their fight to assure Americans the best quality of life.”

Rep. Denham introduced a healthcare transparency bill, the Senior’s Right to Know Act, which would establish guidelines requiring Medicare Advantage providers to notify program enrollees in a timely manner when they change any portion of their health care plans in order to comply with the Affordable Care Act. Rep. Denham additionally co-sponsored and voted in favor of H.R. 6, the 21st Century Cures Act, a landmark bipartisan bill that would accelerate the cures process for rare diseases. He has voted repeatedly to protect Medicare for seniors and was honored by the Alliance for Patient Access for his commitment to protect the thousands of patients who rely upon the physician-administered medicines under Medicare Part B.

The Healthcare Leadership Council is a coalition of leaders from all disciplines within the field of medicine, with the goal of developing policies and plans to ensure that Americans have access to medical care that is both high-quality and affordable.

Meanwhile, Denham has announced Mobile District Office Hours for the month of May, with a stop coming up this week in Riverbank. The Mobile District Office (MDO) is scheduled to be in Riverbank on Thursday, May 19 from 4 p.m. to 5 p.m. at Riverbank City Hall, 6707 Third St., Riverbank. This mobile stop is being hosted in conjunction with Senator Cathleen Galgiani and Assemblywoman Kristin Olsen’s offices.

The ‘MDO’s’ are an opportunity for 10th district residents to meet with the congressman and staff to hear more about his work in Washington, D.C. and the Central Valley, have their questions answered or get help with specific casework.