In honor of his work on behalf of people around the United States who have cancer and whose treatments are covered under Medicare Part B, U.S. Rep. Fred Upton on Monday was awarded the 2013 Medicare Access Champion Award for his outstanding leadership on behalf of cancer patients and seniors. The award was presented by the American Life Sciences Innovation Council.

Upton, who is also chairman of the House Energy and Energy Committee, said he was pleased to be recognized for his actions on behalf of an important group of cancer patients.

“If it wasn’t for these community based physicians who keep their doors open for Southwest Michigan cancer patients, it’d be a sorry situation,” Upton said. “The continuation of Part B means patients can have access to the most affordable and accessible treatment close to home.”

The award was presented by a group of representatives from health-related firms: Vickie Martin of Senior Services of Southwest Michigan, Dr. Lynn Gray of the Michigan Academy of Family Physicians, and Jean Maile of Southwest Michigan Hospice.