Tester introduces measure to help Libby
Posted: Jul 28, 2010 6:45 AM
Updated: Jul 28, 2010 6:46 AM
WASHINGTON, DC - Montana Senator Jon Tester has introduced new legislation that aims to recruit health specialists to communities that are designated as Public Health Emergencies, such as Libby has been.
Tester's Health Emergencies Lack Provider Specialists Act would open up scholarships and student loan assistance to certified primary care specialists who commit at least two years to serving in such areas.
Libby is facing problems in attracting specialists to address illnesses related to asbestos exposure, such as mesothelioma, asbestosis and lung disease which stemmed from the old W.R. Grace mine.
"Senator Tester is opening a door for healthcare specialists who would otherwise have a tough time locating to a rural community like Libby," said Dr. Brad Black, Director of the Center for Asbestos Related Disease in Libby. "The high costs of medical training can often keep these folks away from rural areas. This bill is a win-win that would encourage healthcare specialists to come and help address our community's unique challenges while also creating great new opportunities for medical professionals to help an underserved population alongside leading doctors and researchers."
The Democrat says he wrote his legislation after hearing from Libby residents and health care providers about their concerns.
"I'm proud of the progress we're making getting the folks in Libby the help they need, but there's more work to be done," Tester said. "The next step is recruiting specialists to provide the specific care needed for the families who've been impacted by asbestos exposure. This legislation takes a big step forward in providing that care."
Learn more about the proposed legislation by clicking here.
