Today, Rep. Pete Aguilar announced $5,120,000 in grant funding for SAC Health System's Teaching Health Center Graduate Medical Education Family Medicine, Pediatrics and Psychology Programs. The funding comes as part of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services' Health Resources and Services Administration's Fiscal Year (FY) 2024 Teaching Health Center Graduate Medical Education (THCGME) Program.

"Ensuring that underserved and rural communities in the Inland Empire have equal access to high-quality, affordable health care is crucial to the health and well-being of our community," said Rep. Pete Aguilar. "This grant will help bolster SAC Health System as they work to improve the shortage of physicians in our community, helping to close the gap in health care access and address long-standing disparities"

"SAC Health System is deeply grateful for ongoing funding provided by Health Resources and Services Administration, Bureau of Health Workforce and for Congressman Aguilar's ongoing commitment to our Teaching Health Center Graduate Medical Education Program," said Dr. Jason Lohr, President and CEO of SAC Health. "With support from HRSA, on an annual basis, thirty-two residents benefit from this funding, alongside over three hundred other residents learn the importance and value of community health.

This support has enabled medical residents of family medicine, pediatrics, and psychiatry to enhance their skills in delivering high-quality care, especially within underserved communities, and to develop the necessary competencies to effectively serve our diverse populations."

With this funding, SAC Health System will expand its primary care residency programs, training residents to deliver quality care tailored to diverse and underserved populations.

For over 65 years, SAC Health System has provided affordable health care services to the Inland Empire, primarily serving uninsured patients and their families. The organization completes around 180,000 visits annually, delivering comprehensive medical, surgical, dental and behavioral health services to meet the needs of the community.

Rep. Aguilar serves as Chair of the House Democratic Caucus and as a member of the House Committee on Appropriations.