Katko, R-Camillus, wants additional aid provided through the Provider Relief Fund. The $175 billion fund was established in a COVID-19 relief bill that President Donald Trump signed in March. The purpose of the fund is to provide financial help to hospitals and health care providers “on the front lines of the coronavirus response.” 

Many central New York hospitals and health care providers have already received millions in funding. SUNY Upstate Medical University has been awarded more than $20.3 million, according to a Department of Health and Human Services database. St. Joseph Hospital Health Center and Crouse Hospital, both in Syracuse, netted $11.4 million and $8.1 million. Auburn Community Hospital received $7.5 million. 

The Department of Health and Human Services has been distributing the funding for various purposes over the last few months. But Katko said he’s heard from hospital administrators in each of the 24th Congressional District’s four counties — Cayuga, Onondaga, Oswego and Wayne — about the need for more financial assistance. 

“With these local hospitals still recovering from the devastating impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic, they need relief now,” Katko said. “I highlighted the dire needs of our hospitals for Secretary Azar and urged the immediate distribution of additional direct funds through the Provider Relief Fund.