WELLSVILLE, NY – At the June 28 HANYS Annual Awards Banquet, the American Hospital Association presented Jones Memorial Hospital CEO Eva Benedict with the 2018 Grassroots Champion Award, citing her commitment to bringing the challenges of rural hospitals to the attention of elected officials. A national honor, the Grassroots Award is presented annually to one person in each state. Eva was recognized for her effective and persistent advocacy with politicians in Albany and Washington to advance the policies that enable rural and small community hospitals to deliver innovative and patient-centered care throughout New York State. Eva continues to play a the crucial role in protecting rural hospital Medicare payment programs and promoting policies that ease barriers to innovation and improved care.
In her leadership role, Eva has made a priority of meeting with and educating elected leaders about the unique role of small and rural community hospitals. “Making sure that our elected officials understand the practical impact that the policies they are considering will have on those living and working in rural areas is crucial,” she said.
Eva active on the American Hospital Association-convened forums, including the Regional Policy Board and the AHA Task Force on Ensuring Access in Vulnerable Communities. “I am honored to represent Jones Memorial and other rural hospitals by ensuring that we have a voice in state, regional, and national discussions about healthcare policies,” she said. “I am honored to receive this award.”
Eva started her career at Jones Memorial as a staff nurse in the ICU in 1981. She has served as President/CEO at the hospital for nearly 12 years.
