2007 Heroes in Health Care Honoree

Honorable Rod. R. Blagojevitch

Governor, State of Illinois

Gov. Blagojevich's top priority during his first and current term has been ensuring access to quality health care for everyone in Illinois. Approximately 1.4 million adults in Illinois are currently uninsured, and the proposed Illinois Covered plan will provide affordable coverage to the uninsured and also help middle-income families and small businesses save thousands a year on health care costs.

Prior to his election, Gov. Blagojevich was a Cook County Assistant State's Attorney. In 1996, he was elected to represent Illinois' 5th District in the U.S. House of Representatives. While a congressman, he secured funding for after-school tutoring programs and distinguished himself as an advocate for education. He was also a leader in the fight to establish a Patients' Bill of Rights, to assure prompt access to mammograms, and to require higher safety and care standards at nursing homes.