Johnson releases statement on the restoration of Vista Medical Center East’s trauma status

• Vista Medical Center East

WAUKEGAN – State Senator Adriane Johnson released a statement following the announcement that Vista Medical Center East’s trauma II designation will be fully restored made by the Illinois Department of Public Health in a letter to the medical center earlier today.

“I was pleased to hear that the Vista Medical Center East’s trauma II designation will be fully restored,” said Senator Johnson (D-Waukegan). “This is exciting news after weeks of uncertainty has left our community upset and afraid.

“Over the past few weeks, my office and I have answered calls, responded to emails and facilitated meetings regarding this issue. We heard from countless individuals wanting answers about Vista’s future. I’m thankful to everyone who came together to facilitate meaningful conversation to reach a solution. This is an important step toward keeping the doors to this health care facility open.

“In the coming weeks, I will be working with the community to make certain Vista continues to progress. We must restore the community’s trust in this vital facility.”

Johnson advances measure to enhance water quality of Lake Michigan

• Environment
• Water
• Lake Michigan

SPRINGFIELD – A measure advanced by State Senator Adriane Johnson seeks to enhance existing Illinois Environmental Protection Agency tasks by requiring regular monitoring of water quality from nearshores, harbors and public water supply intakes in Lake Michigan.

“It is imperative that we streamline the process to ensure the quality of water is being maintained,” said Johnson (D-Buffalo Grove). “Preserving the integrity of our beaches and water supply is essential.”

Senate Bill 3716 would update an existing provision to ensure that the IEPA is regularly monitoring water quality from nearshores, harbors and public water supply intakes in Lake Michigan and to provide an executive summary every two years on conditions of the water quality in Lake Michigan to the governor and General Assembly. This update further aligns Illinois with the federal Clean Water Act. 

“Protecting water quality is not just about safeguarding our environment; it’s also about securing a brighter future for generations to come,” said Johnson. “Every drop of water sustains life and vitality.”

Senate Bill 3716 passed the Senate Environment and Conservation Committee and moves to the floor for further consideration.

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Johnson acknowledges Rare Disease Day

• Public Health

SPRINGFIELD –State Senator Adriane Johnson named March 6, 2024 as Rare Disease Day in Illinois.

“People with rare diseases often face two battles: the disease itself and the lack of understanding from people around them,” said Johnson (D-Buffalo Grove). “It is time we bring more awareness and education to rare diseases and how we can help and uplift those suffering.

Senate Resolution 726 declares March 6, 2024 as Rare Disease Day in order to raise awareness and highlight the need for research and funding to support the discovery and development of therapies designed to treat or potentially cure these rare diseases. Nearly 30 million Americans are affected by rare diseases, half of whom are children.

“We must not only bring more awareness to rare diseases, but continue to fight for increased research and funding to help tackle the issue head on,” said Johnson. “This Rare Disease Day, I encourage you to learn more about the struggles many of our neighbors face and how you can advocate for change.”

Senate Resolution 726 passed the Senate Wednesday.

Johnson to host meeting on Vista Medical East trauma center

• Public Health
• Vista Medical Center East

WAUKEGAN – State Senator Adriane Johnson is hosting a meeting with State Representative Rita Mayfield regarding Vista Medical Center East in Waukegan losing its trauma center designation, causing people with serious injuries to have to be transported to hospitals more than 20 minutes away.

“I have been working to ensure that we create substantial solutions to the issue regarding Vista Medical Center East’s trauma center designation,” said Johnson (D-Buffalo Grove). “This revocation will greatly impact residents – both patients and employees alike – and it is imperative that we intervene.”

The meeting will take place on Saturday, March 9 from 11 a.m. – 1 p.m. at the Patricia A. Jones Center located at Park Place, 414 S. Lewis Ave. in Waukegan. This meeting is open to the public and also available virtually via Zoom, linked here.

For more information, residents can contact Johnson’s office at (847) 672-6201.