For Immediate Release Contact:  Darlene Schlicher (615) 741-6336

(NASHVILLE, TN), January 27, 2010 -- State Senator Tim Burchett (R-Knoxville) said today he has been advised by Tennessee Health Commissioner of Health Susan R. Cooper that there are adequate beds in the Knox County area to accommodate residents from Hillcrest-West who wish to be relocated.  Burchett has been talking with state health officials to make sure there are adequate facilities available for residents before the deadline when federal money for indigent patients will cease.
 

“Commissioner Cooper has assured me that her staff has looked at the beds available in the Knox County area and that there are adequate facilities to take care of residents who need to be relocated,” said Senator Burchett.  “There are representatives from the ombudsman’s office, TennCare and facility staff who will be meeting with families to ensure a smooth transition for these residents.”
 

“The process of relocating the residents will occur over a thirty day time frame,” Burchett added.  “Many of these patients are in a fragile condition.  I will continue to work with the Commissioner and others at the state level to help see that everything possible is done to help these residents and their families.”
 

 

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