WASHINGTON, DC – U.S. Congressman Donald Norcross (NJ-01) met with Jefferson Hospital leadership today to discuss the federal government’s response to the coronavirus pandemic and to discuss the measures Jefferson has taken to fight the virus as circumstances continue to change rapidly, including their firsthand experience. Norcross also briefed the faculty on Congress’ actions in protecting workers and families, including passing the Families First Coronavirus Response Act.

“South Jersey health care providers are on the frontlines protecting our community, and I’m grateful for the measures Jefferson Hospital has taken to prepare and keep its staff and patients safe, including limiting visitors. As the situation constantly changes, Jefferson has shown that it is able to adapt and set an example for health standards moving forward,” said Congressman Norcross. “Back in Congress, we have been working hard to pass strong, bipartisan bills that protect the health, economic security and well-being of American families. Congress has approved an $8.3 billion emergency funding package to fight the coronavirus crisis, as well as the Families First Coronavirus Response Act which ensures everyone who needs to be tested will be tested for free and expands paid leave to support workers and their family members in case of illness.”

Norcross added: “I will continue to work with federal, state and local officials to contain the spread and move forward, ensuring that South Jersey is prepared, residents are healthy and our workers and their families are protected.”

Norcross met with members of the Jefferson senior leadership team including:

• Joe Devine, Executive VP
• Brian Sweeney, Interim President, Jefferson NJ
• Lisa Morina, VP Government Relations
• Helen Burns, Chief Nursing Officer
• Dr. Timothy Dombrowski, Chief Medical Officer
• Dr. David Condoluci, Chief Patient Safety Officer & Head of Infectious Disease
• Marinne Kraemer, Nursing Director, Patient Safety
• Autum Shindler-Nace, AVP Nursing
• Lisa Dutterer, Chief Administrative Officer, Cherry Hill Hospital
• Diane Rossi, Chief Administrative Officer, Stratford Hospital

“We are grateful Congressman Norman took the time to meet with us today to discuss our preparedness efforts and for advocating for the immediate release of necessary medical supplies in stockpile that healthcare providers need to manage the expected influx of patients,” said Jefferson New Jersey Interim President Brian Sweeney. “This is a challenging time for our community members and healthcare workers alike, and open lines of communication are vitally important in this quickly-changing environment.”

“We very much appreciate Congressman Norcross visiting to hear from the members of our clinical team about their experience evaluating patients on the 'front lines' and behind-the-scenes,” said Jefferson New Jersey Chief Medical Officer Dr. Timothy Dombrowski. “His insight into this serious public health problem enables us to screen and identify patients more quickly for COVID-19 and will help us to effectively prepare our community for the expected increase of community members needing medical care.”

The meeting was held at Jefferson’s Voorhees Corporate Headquarters.