[Congressional Record Volume 169, Number 109 (Thursday, June 22, 2023)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E602]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




  RECOGNIZING THE 50TH ANNIVERSARY OF THE FAIRFAX COUNTY HEALTH CARE 
                             ADVISORY BOARD

                                 ______
                                 

                        HON. GERALD E. CONNOLLY

                              of virginia

                    in the house of representatives

                        Thursday, June 22, 2023

  Mr. CONNOLLY. Mr. Speaker, I rise to recognize the 50th Anniversary 
of the Fairfax County Health Care Advisory Board.
  The Fairfax County Board of Supervisors recognized the importance of 
community involvement in planning comprehensive health programs and 
established the Health Care Advisory Board on June 11, 1973. Now, for 
50 years, the Health Care Advisory Board has played a vital role in our 
community through advising on health and health-related issues.
  The accomplishments of the Health Care Advisory Board have positively 
impacted the health and well-being of our community in Fairfax County. 
Their robust accomplishments have been integral in protecting the 
community alongside the Fairfax County Board of Supervisors, and I am 
happy to share in some of their accomplishments.
  They have been able to oversee and implement proactive programs, such 
as the affordable health care program and the Community Health Care 
Network, which operated for nearly 30 years before being transitioned 
to a Federally Qualified Health Care Center. The work of the Health 
Care Advisory Board has been essential in addressing health disparities 
that affect vulnerable groups in our community. They have recommended 
polices to improve accessibility and affordability of senior housing 
along with support services. This includes legislation to increase 
direct care and staffing levels to ensure that the quality of care for 
medically vulnerable individuals, such as older adults, the homeless, 
and individuals with disabilities, are not ignored.
  The impact of the Health Care Advisory Board has affected public 
participation, encouraging health care providers, other citizen boards, 
and community groups to also work to address health concerns and needs 
in the community. This model that has been developed by the Fairfax 
County Board of Supervisors is one that is admirable throughout our 
community. The Health Care Advisory Board continues to be an asset to 
the Board of Supervisors and the community as we continue to plan and 
establish health programs.
  Their leadership and commitment to our constituents continues to 
strengthen the community's resources and overall wellbeing. I sincerely 
thank the Health Care Advisory Board for their time and efforts on 
behalf of our community. Their work provides immeasurable benefits to 
their fellow neighbors and serves as a reminder of why Fairfax County 
remains such a great place to live, work, and raise a family.
  Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in recognizing the 
Fairfax County Health Care Advisory Board for their dedication to 
public service and congratulating them on their 50th Anniversary.

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