AUSTIN, TEXAS – The Children’s Hospital Association of Texas (CHAT) honored Congressman Michael C. Burgess, M.D. with the organization’s Children’s Health Care Lifetime Achievement Award in recognition of his outstanding, lifelong support of children’s health. The award is the first of its kind, celebrating Congressman Burgess’ exemplary contributions to and advocacy for children’s healthcare initiatives.
“Throughout his more than twenty years in Congress, Congressman Burgess has been an exceptional champion for the children of Texas, making a difference in advancing health care for our most vulnerable children,” said Stacy Wilson, President of CHAT. “Children, their caregivers and their families have benefitted from his leadership and commitment to informed policymaking. We are honored to celebrate Congressman Burgess’ strong legacy through this award.”
Throughout his career, Congressman Burgess has been dedicated to supporting the health of children across the country. As the most senior medical doctor on both sides of the aisle in the House of Representatives and senior member of several key committees, he authored, sponsored or backed countless pieces of healthcare legislation that reduced costs, enhanced healthcare access, supported innovation, strengthened the healthcare workforce and ultimately improved health outcomes. In particular, Congressman Burgess sponsored the Medicare Access and CHIP Reauthorization Act of 2015, which strengthened Medicare access without adding to the deficit. His support of funding to train pediatricians and pediatric specialists also helped ensure children have timely access to care.
“I am honored to receive the Children’s Health Care Lifetime Achievement Award,” said Congressman Burgess. “Being an OB/GYN, I have made children’s health a top priority of mine. Children across Texas and the United States are experiencing unbearable challenges, and it’s up to policymakers to create legislation that will help our health care workforce deliver to the needs of the children. I am grateful for the opportunity to be recognized for this award and will continue advocating for the children in our nation.”
The award was presented to Congressman Burgess in Washington, D.C., on Thursday, June 13, 2024. Congressman Burgess was joined by the van der Merwe family from Aubrey, Texas, who receive care at Children’s Health in Dallas and the Coulter family from Liberty Hill, Texas, who receive care at Dell Children’s Medical Center in Austin. The award presentation took place during the Children’s Hospital Association’s Family Advocacy Day, which brought together patients, families and federal policymakers and staff to increase awareness and advance public policy priorities to support children’s health and health care.
“Congressman Burgess has dedicated his career to ensuring Texans can access high quality, affordable healthcare, and the children we serve in North Texas benefit greatly from his tireless, consistent efforts,” said Chris Durovich, CEO of Children’s Health. “We value and celebrate elected leaders like Congressman Burgess, who recognize the unique care that children’s hospitals provide.”
Photos from the event are accessible here.
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About the Children’s Hospital Association of Texas
The Children’s Hospital Association of Texas (CHAT) is a nonprofit association with the mission to advance children’s health and well-being by advocating for policies and funding that promote children’s access to high-quality, comprehensive health care. Learn more about CHAT at chatexas.com or follow CHAT on Twitter at https://twitter.com/ChildHospAssnTX.