FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

219 Health Network recognized with award by Indiana Immunization Coalition

NORTHWEST INDIANA | 219 Health Network has been recognized by the Indiana Immunization Coalition for its work in reducing vaccine preventable diseases in children.

The Callie Van Tornhout Award is given annually to Indiana health centers that have achieved high vaccination rates for children ages 3 and younger. Callie died when she was 5 weeks old from pertussis. Her parents, Katie and Craig Van Tornhout, keep her “spirit alive by educating others about pertussis and the importance of the DTaP vaccine for infants and young children and the Tdap vaccine for pregnant women, adolescents and adult family members.”

According to data from the Indiana Department of Health, 219 Health Network had 208 patients in 2022, of which 150 have completed the childhood vaccine series – a 72.1% completion rate.

Patricia Johnson, chief executive officer of 219 Health Network, said this recognition is deeply valued. “Our team is dedicated to keeping families healthy against preventable diseases,” she said. “Immunization is key to protecting yourself, your children and future generations from infectious diseases. Every staff member contributed to our success in vaccinating and protecting the most vulnerable in our community.”

219 Health Network provides quality care to those in need, including those who are uninsured or underinsured. Located in Northwest Indiana, the network offers a variety of affordable, accessible health care services close to home. For more information about 219 Health Network, visit 219health.org.

CUTLINE: Shown with the Callie Van Tornhout Award are, from left, Rebecca Bahena; Maribel Alvarez; Rajaraman Iyer, MD; Leilani Reyes, APRN, FNP-BC; Rosio Maldonado; and Patricia Johnson, chief executive officer of 219 Health Network.

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