Cite 23 Deaths, Call Broader Screening, Treatment Key

By GINGER ADAMS OTIS
The Chief-Leader (New York)

U.S. Representatives Carolyn Maloney and Vito Fossella Jan. 25 called upon the Federal Government to appoint a "9/11 health czar" to oversee monitoring, screening and testing of health problems among those who worked at Ground Zero.

Must Improve Tracking
Congresswoman Maloney cited the recent deaths of three city workers who fell sick with illnesses believed to be 9/11-related as proof of the "urgent need" for improved tracking and treatment of first responders, volunteers and other workers.

Seventeen legislators - including Sens. Hillary Clinton and Charles Schumer - signed a letter to Michael Leavitt, the U.S. Secretary of Health and Human Services, urging him to appoint a health professional to better coordinate the Federal Government's attempts to get aid to the estimated 40,000 people who responded on 9/11 or aided in the clean-up and restoration operations, and for area residents and workers who have suffered daily exposures for the past 4-1/2 years.

Full Story: http://www.thechief-leader.com/news/2006/0203/News/005.html