[Congressional Record Volume 171, Number 29 (Wednesday, February 12, 2025)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E119]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




 HONORING DR. STEVEN PACKER, PRESIDENT AND CEO OF MONTAGE HEALTH, FOR 
          HIS CONTRIBUTIONS TO HEALTHCARE AND MONTEREY COUNTY

                                 ______
                                 

                           HON. JIMMY PANETTA

                             of california

                    in the house of representatives

                      Wednesday, February 12, 2025

  Mr. PANETTA. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Dr. Steven 
Packer, whose dedication to healthcare has profoundly transformed the 
well-being of individuals and families across Monterey County. Dr. 
Packer has served as President and CEO of Montage Health since 1999, 
spearheading the growth and innovation of this integrated, nonprofit 
healthcare network. Under his stewardship, Montage Health has evolved 
from its origins as Community Hospital of the Monterey Peninsula to 
become a national model for community-centered healthcare.
  Dr. Packer has expanded access to high-quality care for countless 
residents of California's Central Coast. Through the creation of urgent 
care clinics, wellness centers, physician practices, community health 
programs, and Monterey County's first Medicare Advantage program. He 
prioritized the growth of Monterey County's healthcare workforce, 
forging partnerships with Monterey Peninsula College and California 
State University, Monterey Bay, to create career pathways for nursing 
and physician assistant students. His efforts have resulted in Montage 
Health's position as the largest private employer in Monterey County 
and a leading healthcare resource for the region.
  Beyond these achievements, Dr. Packer has dedicated his time and 
expertise to numerous boards and community initiatives. As former chair 
of the California Hospital Association and a board member of Stevenson 
School, Vizient West Coast, and NORCAL Mutual Insurance Company, he has 
consistently demonstrated a commitment to both local and industry-wide 
progress.
  I want to commend Dr. Packer's legacy of leadership, innovation, and 
compassion, as he retires from his role as President and CEO of Montage 
Health. His contributions extend far beyond bricks and mortar; they 
embody a deep compassion and unwavering dedication to improving lives. 
From his early days as a pulmonologist and ICU medical director, to his 
role as a visionary CEO, Dr. Packer has exemplified excellence, 
service, and innovation in every facet of his work.
  I know he will continue to be a voice for care, compassion, and 
community connection as he embarks on his next chapter of service.

                          ____________________