Rep. Chris Smith (R-NJ) praised Deborah Heart and Lung Center for its contributions to community health care over the years as he attended the grand opening of its new Deborah Specialty Physicians cardiology office. He joined over 100 Deborah guests and officials, led by President and CEO Joseph Chirichella, as well as and Ocean County and Manchester Township officials in Whiting on Friday.

Below are excerpts of Rep. Smith’s remarks at the ribbon cutting:

“When I was a kid—about 10—I knew about the extraordinary history and work of Deborah Heart and Lung. My grandmother, Ann Smith, of Asbury Park, was a volunteer and went everywhere with the Deborah donations can.

“I was a paperboy, always had a few bucks in my pocket, and Nana always ensured that I gave, too.

“But it wasn’t until 1986 when the federal government foolishly and capriciously denied Deborah millions in reimbursements under the Civilian Health and Medical Program for Uniformed Services (CHAMPUS), that I came to more fully understand that Deborah is a national treasure.

“As you know, Deborah’s proximity to what is now the Joint Base meant many military retirees came to Deborah for world-class care.

“So in 1986, I sponsored legislation passed by the House of Representatives to reverse that misguided policy, resulting in millions of dollars of payments to Deborah.

“Today, Deborah’s extraordinary mission is extended to reach new patients with its physicians specialty programs.

“This 3,000 square-foot cardiology office will offer an opportunity for quality health care in yet another setting for Deborah Specialty Physicians, a private, non-profit physician’s practice with locations all throughout South Jersey.  The facility boasts seven exam rooms where physicians can offer consultations for arrhythmias, congestive heart failure, and other cardiovascular diseases, as well as echocardiograms and stress testing. And as always Deborah accepts all patients regardless of ability to pay.”

President Chirichella said, “We are delighted that Rep. Smith was able to attend our opening ceremony. Community support—from our local township and county health department officials to our state and federal legislators working together for the health and well-being of Ocean County residents—is a win-win for all.”