Morristown, Overlook Medical Centers Assist Furloughed Workers

MORRISTOWN, NJ — As the federal government shutdown drags into a second month, Atlantic Health Systems has announced it is waiting co-pays for federal employees in emergency departments and Atlantic Medical Group practices. This includes Morristown Medical Center and Overlook Medical Center in Summit.

"At a time when many families face uncertainty due to the government shutdown, Atlantic Health System is committing additional resources to support the health and financial well-being of our communities," Brian Gragnolati, the president and CEO of Atlantic Health System said.

Atlantic Health Systems is the latest New Jersey health system to attempt to ease the burden federal employees are facing during the shutdown. RWJ Barnabas Health and Hackensack Meridian Health recently announced similar policies.

The federal government shutdown is now in its 33rd day, and 800,000 federal employees are going without pay. That includes some 5,000 New Jersey residents.

In addition to waiving co-pays, the health system will hold a job fair to help government workers find temporary positions during the shut down. Those roles include clerical, clinical support, food services, nursing support and more. The job air will be held on Thursday, Jan. 24 and 31 at 475 South Street, Morristown.

Atlantic Health Systems is also organizing food drives and providing assistance to employees that are part of households with government workers.

(Photo courtesy of Morristown Medical Center)

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