On Saturday, Oct. 26, 2013, the Puerto Rican Cultural Center and Congressman Luis Gutiérrez rolled out this community’s affordable health Care Act during a Barrio Health Fair held at Norwegian American Hospital. The event began with a press conference which featured Sen. Dick Durbin, and Congressman Luis Gutierrez who were accompanied by State Senator Iris Martinez, State Representative Cynthia Soto, and Luis Arroyo, as well as Cook County Commissioner Edwin Reyes. Additionally present were community leaders Billy Ocasio, Hilda Frontany, Jaime Delgado and Marvin Garcia. José E. López, Executive Director of the PRCC welcomed the elected officials, community leaders and the nearly 200 people in attendance. He proceeded to welcome José Sanchez, Norwegian American CEO, who spoke about the importance of Norwegian American hospital and its role as a community hospital in carrying out the mandated Affordable Care Act. José Sánchez then introduced Dr. Bechara Choucair who underscored his commitment, and that of the city, as Chicago’s Health Commissioner.
Congressman Luis Gutierrez, in his remarks spoke about the unswerving leadership Sen. Durbin had demonstrated in the Senate’s adaptation of the Affordable Care Act. He also made reference to the importance of the legalization of the undocumented who are left out of this historic healthcare initiative, The audience received the Congressman’s words with resounding applause. José Sanchez, culminated the event by introducing the event’s special guest, Sen. Durbin, who was warmly received, and gave a passionate defense of the Affordable Care Act, which he considered one of the historic acts of the US body politic.
At the health fair individuals were able to obtain a flu shot at no cost, learn information about the different programs of the PRCC, and, most importantly, they were able to learn about the Affordable Care Act (ACA), also known as Obamacare. Additionally, community members were able to enroll in the newly available health insurance plans, including adult Medicaid and private insurance. The event was a success thanks to the hard work of the PRCC Navigators and In-Person Counselor staff, and through the promotion via flyers and media outlets.
To learn more about your health insurance options through Get Covered Illinois, please contact PRCC staff via phone 773-227-7794 or visit us at the office: 1112 N. California Ave. If you enroll by December 15th, your coverage will begin on January 1st 2014. We are available to provide free assistance in English and Spanish, as well as presentations to groups!
