Monday, October 30, 2006
Contact: Jessica Robinson, 573-751-0290
Blunts’ Neo-Natal Tour Highlights Value of Technology
SPRINGFIELD–Gov. Matt Blunt and First Lady Melanie Blunt today toured Cox Medical Center Neo-Natal Intensive Care Unit.
“It is nothing short of a miracle to see technology, dedicated care and prayer work together to provide hope for these children and their families,” Blunt said. “I am encouraged by their stories and reminded of the lasting importance of inspiring a new generation of students to pursue the types of careers in technology, science and healthcare that have paved the way to give these infants a chance at life.”
In his first year in office Blunt expanded the state's newborn screening program, increasing the number of conditions screened for from five to 27. The change brought Missouri to the national forefront in the area of newborn screening and delivers the benefits of early intervention to even more Missourians.
The governor has also worked to reverse trends showing the number of healthcare providers will not keep up with healthcare needs and that Missouri students are falling behind in math, engineering, technology and science (METS). Blunt's Lewis and Clark Discovery Initiative provides $60 million over six years to Federally Qualified Health Centers and would add $2.4 million annually to provide scholarships for physicians, dentists and nurses and $1 million annually for the Area Health Education Centers, which recruit students for health care professions. His METS Initiative is working to enhance student achievement and build the foundation for strong METS education in Missouri.
Mrs. Blunt is serving as the honorary chair of the March of Dimes Signature Chef Competition, a fundraiser to benefit the March of Dimes' efforts to save babies from infant health problems. The March of Dimes mission is to “improve the health of babies by preventing birth defects, premature birth, and infant mortality.” The group works to give babies, like those being cared for in the neo-natal unit, a chance against pre-maturity, birth defects, and low birth weight.
“I am honored to help the March of Dimes’ diligent work to protect our children,” Mrs. Blunt said. “There is no greater miracle than the gift of life and no greater blessing than the birth of a child.”
The Signature Chef event is scheduled for November 9. Please contact the March of Dimes for information about the event at (417) 889-9397.
###