[Congressional Record Volume 159, Number 151 (Monday, October 28, 2013)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E1581]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




  HONORING THE 3RD ANNIVERSARY OF RICHMOND AREA HEALTH CENTER'S STAR 
                                PROGRAM

                                 ______
                                 

                        HON. MICHAEL H. MICHAUD

                                of maine

                    in the house of representatives

                        Monday, October 28, 2013

  Mr. MICHAUD. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize the Richmond Area 
Health Center as it celebrates its third year of providing outstanding 
medical care through its ``Star Program.''
  The Richmond Area Health Center is a Federally Qualified Healthcare 
Center site, providing primary care to 3,500 people in a medically 
underserved community. The Health Center has worked over the last 
several years to improve health outcomes and lowers costs by inspiring 
individuals to change their lifestyles. The Health Center's ``Star 
Program'' incorporates healthy lifestyle strategies and affirmations 
into every primary care visit to improve patients' health and well-
being.
  This no-cost program has helped approximately 900 patients 
collectively lose more than 11,000 pounds. By helping patients make 
lifestyle changes, the team at Richmond Area Healthcare Center has been 
able to reduce the number of medications it prescribes and diagnostic 
tests it orders. The Health Center's model of lowering costs and 
empowering patients is now serving as a model for several similar 
programs throughout the state of Maine.
  On October 18, 2013, the Richmond Area Health Center celebrated three 
years of exceptional healthcare by hosting a reception with patients 
and members of the greater community. I am delighted to recognize the 
accomplishments of this dedicated team of healthcare workers and look 
forward to their continued success in the years to come.
  Mr. Speaker, please join me in congratulating the Richmond Area 
Health Center on three years of exceptional patient care.

                          ____________________