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9/27/2024
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Rhode Island Medical Society awards Rep. Edwards for outstanding civic leadership and service
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 STATE HOUSE — The Rhode Island Medical Society presented Rep. John G. Edwards (D-Dist. 70, Tiverton) with the Dr. John Clarke Award for outstanding civic leadership and service last night at the organization’s annual convivium at the Squantum Association in Riverside.
The honor is presented to individuals who have made exceptional contributions to public health and created a significant impact on the health care landscape in Rhode Island through strong leadership and commitment.
“We are honored to recognize Representative Jay Edwards with the Civic Leadership Award on behalf of the Rhode Island Medical Society and the patients we serve,” said Dr. Kara Stavros, president-elect of the Rhode Island Medical Society. “His leadership on the Healthcare Provider Shield Act and his work on harm reduction centers have been essential in safeguarding access to critical care. Representative Edwards’ dedication to improving healthcare for all Rhode Islanders is deeply appreciated.”
Edwards sponsored the Healthcare Provider Shield Act (2024-H 7577) during the most recent session. The new law protects medical providers who provide transgender and reproductive health care services in Rhode Island from civil or criminal suits from other states or their residents.
In 2021, he sponsored a law (2021-H 5245A) authorizing a two-year pilot program to prevent drug overdoses through the establishment of harm reduction centers, which are a community-based resource for health screening, disease prevention and recovery assistance where persons may safely consume pre-obtained substances. Last year the law was updated to add another two years to the program.
“I am honored and humbled to be recognized by the Rhode Island Medical Society,” said Representative Edwards. “I’d like to thank all the advocates who worked so hard on this legislation, as well my colleagues in the General Assembly for getting these bills enacted. I look forward to building upon this work to make Rhode Island a safer and healthier place for doctors and patients alike.”
For more information, contact:
Daniel Trafford, Publicist
State House Room 20
Providence, RI 02903
(401)222-1922
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