Cotter Wins Healthcare Award

By Cynthia Drummond for BRVCA
October 13th 2023

PROVIDENCE – State Rep. Megan Cotter D- Richmond, Hopkinton, is this year’s recipient of the John H. Chaffee Healthcare Leadership Award.

The announcement, issued by the Rhode Island General Assembly, states that the award is given by the Rhode Island Healthcare Association to an individual, group or organization “that embodies the spirit of the late Senator John H. Chaffee, demonstrating the commitment to strengthening the healthcare safety net and providing true justice and equity in health care for all.”

Cotter was honored for her work to increase rural residents’ access to health care by facilitating the purchase of a van by Wood River Health. The van was purchased through the Rhode Island Public Authority, and 80% of the cost was covered by federal grants.

Reached Friday, Cotter said,

“It is an honor to get an award named after an outstanding Rhode Island leader who exceled at reaching across party lines to move our nation forward, in health care, environmental protection and other areas. Senator Chafee set a lasting example of how working cooperatively is the most effective path to a better future. I strongly believe in that approach,

and it’s one I hope to maintain throughout my work for Rhode Islanders.”

The award was presented on Oct. 11 at the association’s annual meeting.