Darrin LaHood, the Republican Congressman representing Illinois’s 18th District, visited the Hopedale Medical Center on Friday, January 14 to discuss the challenges facing rural healthcare facilities.

LaHood spoke with doctors, nurses, administrators and other healthcare workers regarding the stress on the healthcare system created by the COVID-19 pandemic.

“I am grateful to Hopedale’s workforce for their commitment to their patients despite the challenges of the last year”, LaHood said.  “In Congress, I will continue to support Illinois’ rural health facilities, support nurse training, and work to stem healthcare workforce shortages that are adding stress to our health system.”