Vol. 5, No. 8, August 2008
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Local 54, AtlantiCare join forces in Atlantic City
Aceremony honoring former New Jersey state Senator Bill Gormley brought focus to a regional medical center that serves members of UNITE HERE Local 54, Atlantic City’s culinary union. Gormley was recognized as the driving force behind the effort that created the AtlantiCare Special Care Center. John Wilhelm, president of the international union, said the preventive care center will benefit everyone. “When people don’t get chronic problems treated, it gets more serious,” Wilhelm said. “Costs increase not only for the individual but for the company that employs him. This facility encourages employees to get treatment and stay on the job.” The center is another “first” for Atlantic City, he said, adding that the agreement could serve as a blueprint for other gaming jurisdictions, particularly Las Vegas, where the majority of his members live and work. Bob McDevitt, president of Local 54, praised Gormley and the state, which was represented by Health and Senior Services Commissioner Heather Howard, for their foresight in setting up such a facility. “We’re hearing great reports from our members about the treatment they’re getting here,” McDevitt said. “They now have less out-of-pocket health expenses, access to preventive care, and no co-pays when using AtlantiCare physicians or the SCC on-site pharmacy.” Gormley deflected praise to others, saying it could not have happened without the full support of the union and the state. “I just put people together,” said Gormley. “Frankly, I’m confused by the acronyms and terms they throw around, and have to ask my wife to tell me what they’re talking about.”
