The March of Dimes Tennessee Chapter, Tennessee Perinatal Association, and the Tennessee Initiative for Perinatal Quality Care recently honored Senator Doug Overbey (R-Maryville) by naming him “Outstanding Citizen” for 2011.  
Overbey was honored along with Representative Debra Maggart (R-Hendersonville) and Tenneessee's Director of Maternal and Child Health, Dr. Michael Warren, at their “Healthy Babies Legislative reception” held in Nashville.
The honor recognizes individuals for their outstanding achievements and career contributions toward improving the health of mothers, infants and children through maternal and child health advocacy in the state of Tennessee.
Overbey has long been an advocate for health care for those who need it, particularly the vulnerable populations of children and mothers.
He has worked closely with TN's hospitals, including sponsoring the hospital assessment bill that will ensure that TennCare can continue providing care for Tennessee's neediest citizens.
He has also worked with the TN Disability Coalition, the March of Dimes and others to pass mandated newborn hearing screening, and now he is leading the charge in the Senate to require commercial insurers to cover hearing aids for children.
In addition, Overbey has sponsored legislation that would require screening for newborn congenital heart defects.
“It is an honor to be recognized by these organizations which have such a long and distinguished record for improving the lives of children in our state,” said Overbey.  “It has been an honor to partner with March of Dimes in working toward the goal of improving the health of our youngest and most vulnerable citizens.”

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