Cardin Attends National Veteran Employment Summit

BALTIMORE -- U.S. Senator Ben Cardin (D-MD) today joined more than 80 health care, government and military leaders at the Second National Veteran Employment Summit for the Hero Health Hire program eto promote hiring veterans, disabled veterans and military spouses as part of our nation’s health care workforce. 

 Since its founding in 2011, 41 health care organizations have joined Hero Health Hire program. These health care organizations collectively employ approximately one million employees, and combined, offer more than 12,600 worksites in all 50 states, the District of Columbia, Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands.

“Our veterans have served our nation and now we need to make sure that jobs are there for them when they return,” said Senator Cardin. “The health care industry is growing and it needs qualified workers.  The Hero Health Hire program is the right approach because it is working with health care companies to recruit and train veterans, wounded warriors and their spouses for jobs in the health care industry.”

“Our ability in Maryland to grow forward is directly related to our ability to create jobs and expand opportunity – including expanding opportunity for those who have selflessly served our country,” said Governor Martin O’Malley. “Our veterans do not ask for our thanks or special consideration. They just want the opportunity to compete and succeed in our global economy, and it’s our duty to secure the care they need, the benefits they’ve earned, and the job market they deserve when they come home.”

“We’ve seen tremendous growth and support for Hero Health Hire in the past 16 months, and our network is getting stronger every day,” said René Lerer, M.D., chairman and CEO of Magellan Health Services and founder of the Hero Health Hire initiative. “The health care industry continues to be one of the fastest growing sectors in our economy. We are well equipped to recruit and support the brave men and women who have fought for our country, and we will help them build a bright future for themselves and their families. All of the Hero Health Hire partners believe that is our responsibility.”

The summit focused on the challenges and opportunities for veterans entering the civilian health care workforce and the resources available to employers to help them recruit and support more veteran employees.  Veterans can access job search resources available through the Hero Health Hire partner companies, as well as other information and tips at www.HeroHealthHire.com.

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