The Wright Center’s Dr. Sheth Named 2025 Healthcare Trailblazer Dr. Jignesh Y. Sheth, senior vice president and enterprise chief operations and strategy officer at The Wright Centers for Community Health and Graduate Medical Education, was selected as a 2025 Trailblazer in Healthcare by City and State Pennsylvania. The multimedia news organization recognized Dr. Sheth for his bold, forward-thinking leadership at The Wright Center, where he has championed the expansion of telemedicine, the modernization of clinical systems through advanced health information technology, and the advancement of Pennsylvania’s public health infrastructure. He is among a distinguished group of 2025 Trailblazers in Healthcare that includes physicians, lobbyists, educators, entrepreneurs, attorneys, and nonprofit leaders who are driving meaningful change across the commonwealth. “It’s an honor to be recognized among leaders who are working to solve some of health care’s toughest challenges,” Dr. Sheth said. “This recognition reflects the dedication of our entire team at The Wright Center to modernize care, expand access, and deliver meaningful, measurable impact for the communities we proudly serve.” City & State also acknowledged Dr. Sheth’s leadership in remote patient monitoring and his role in securing The Wright Center’s 2019 designation as a Federally Qualified Health Center (FQHC) Look-Alike. Dr. Sheth has spearheaded transformative initiatives that have significantly elevated care quality across Northeast Pennsylvania and beyond: Pioneered a cutting-edge telemedicine model that brings care directly into patients’ homes, especially in rural areas, through remote monitoring of vitals like heart rate, blood pressure, and steps. By integrating Humhealth technology into electronic health records (EHR) at The Wright Center, he ensured seamless data transfer and empowered patients to take an active role in their care. Reengineered The Wright Center’s EHR system into a powerful data platform that drives precise clinical interventions, supports population health management, and strengthens grant applications through actionable insights. Launched advanced business analytics tools that enhanced operational performance, ensured federal compliance, and supported The Wright Center’s FQHC Look-Alike designation. Introduced innovative patient-facing technologies, including a service that provides real-time interpreter services that support more than 350 languages, and “Neo,” an interactive, HIPAA-compliant chatbot that helps patients navigate services, schedule visits, and manage care online at TheWrightCenter.org. Modernized vaccine and medication management with a secure, automated system that tracks inventory to the dose level, safeguards patient safety, and improves regulatory compliance. Streamlined clinical workflows and strengthened strategic planning through the deployment of advanced technologies, including an AI-powered digital scribe; tools that focus on data visualization and business intelligence by providing real-time care analytics; and a centralized grant inventory management system that enhanced organizational efficiency and accountability. Dr. Sheth earned his Bachelor of Medicine and Bachelor of Surgery with honors in biochemistry, medicine, and public health in 2004 from Jawaharlal Nehru Medical College in Wardha, India. He later received a Master of Public Health with a specialization in health promotion in 2006 from Northern Illinois University in DeKalb. After completing his internal medicine residency in 2009 through the Scranton-Temple Residency Program, now The Wright Center for Graduate Medical Education, Dr. Sheth joined The Wright Center as an internal medicine primary care physician and lead physician for population management and reporting. Over the years, Dr. Sheth has pioneered innovative approaches that have significantly enhanced patient wellness and health care delivery. His impactful contributions have led to a series of leadership promotions at The Wright Center, beginning with vice president for patient safety and quality in 2013, followed by senior vice president and chief medical and information officer in 2018, and culminating in his current role as senior vice president and enterprise chief operations and strategy officer. Dr. Sheth has been honored with numerous national and state awards in recognition of his leadership, innovation, and contributions to advancing health care. In 2024, Dr. Sheth was recognized nationally and statewide for his visionary leadership and impact on community health. He received the Outstanding Primary Care Clinician Award from the Pennsylvania Association of Community Health Centers and the Innovative Research in Primary Care Award from the National Association of Community Health Centers, honoring his contributions to clinical innovation, care coordination, and public health. He was also named a 2024 Trailblazer in Building and Infrastructure by City & State Pennsylvania for transforming 10 facilities across three counties into The Wright Center’s state-of-the-art primary health care centers, dramatically improving access and outcomes for patients and medically underserved communities. In April 2025, Pennsylvania Governor Josh Shapiro selected Dr. Sheth to serve as a member of the state’s newly formed Alzheimer’s, Dementia, and Related Disorders Advisory Committee. Established in October 2024, the Alzheimer’s, Dementia, and Related Disorders Advisory Committee is tasked with advising the Pennsylvania Department of Aging and other state agencies on the development and implementation of a state plan for Alzheimer’s disease, dementia, and other related disorders. Dr. Sheth and his wife, Hetal Sheth, live in Clarks Summit with their children, Zian, 10, and Jiaa, 6. For more information about The Wright Centers for Community Health and Graduate Medical Education, go to TheWrightCenter.org or call 570-866-3017.
Shapiro Administration Announces $80 Million in Grant Funding Towards Community Infrastructure PennDOT will host a TA Set-Aside Webinar on Wednesday, July 9 – learn more, here. Today, the Pennsylvania Department of Transportation (PennDOT) announced the 2025 Transportation Alternatives (TA) Set-Aside of the Federal Highway Administration’s (FHWA) Surface Block Grant Program will begin accepting applications on July 14 and be open for submissions through October 31, 2025. The Shapiro Administration will offer a total of $80 million across award recipients, supporting the Administration’s goal of expanding access to a range of transportation options and improving safe access to schools in communities across Pennsylvania. A webinar for municipalities and other project sponsors will be held on Wednesday, July 9 at 10:00 AM to talk through the application process and answer questions that applicants may have; project sponsors may include regional transportation authorities, transit agencies, public land agencies, and school districts, local education agencies or schools. To join the webinar and learn more about the application process and eligible projects, please visit the TASA Webpage. “Pennsylvanians make decisions about how they travel for many reasons, the most critical of which is the infrastructure available to them,” said PennDOT Secretary Mike Carroll. “The TA Set-Aside program offers communities around the Commonwealth the opportunity to improve infrastructure and provide residents with a broader range of transportation options.” TA Set-Aside program provides funds to construct pedestrian and bicycle facilities, improve access to public transportation, create safe routes to schools, incorporate community improvements such as historic preservation and vegetation management, provide environmental mitigation related to stormwater and habitat connectivity, create trail projects that serve a transportation purpose, and provide for vulnerable road user safety assessment program projects. Draft applications must be submitted to PennDOT district offices by September 5, 2025. All participating large Metropolitan Planning Organizations’ (MPOs) selections and all District and Planning Partner application review comments will be due January 23, 2026. The statewide project selection committee will meet in March 2026 to recommend projects for receipt of statewide TA Set-Aside funds.
Shapiro Administration to Promote Safe Driving During Summer Travel Tomorrow, officials from the Pennsylvania Department of Transportation (PennDOT), Pennsylvania State Police (PSP), Pennsylvania Turnpike Commission (PA Turnpike) and Pennsylvania Traffic Injury Prevention Project (PA TIPP) will gather to promote safe summer travel, urging motorists to follow traffic laws for the safety of all road users. The statewide Fourth of July impaired driving enforcement campaign began Monday and runs through July 6. WHO: Mike Carroll, Secretary, PennDOT Mark Compton, CEO, PA Turnpike Sgt. Logan Brouse, Communications Office Director, PSP Kelly Whitaker, Central Regional Coordinator, PA TIPP WHEN: TOMORROW, Wednesday, June 18 at 1:00 PM WHERE: PA Turnpike TIP Building, 2850 Turnpike Industrial Drive, Middletown, PA. Event is outside, at the back of the main entrance parking lot. See map for details. In case of inclement weather, the event will move indoors. RSVP: Media interested in attending should RSVP with the name of reporter/photographer to morbanek@paturnpike.com.
Shapiro Administration Invests Nearly $10 Million to Improve PA Airports The Pennsylvania Department of Transportation (PennDOT) today announced a $10 million state investment in projects at five public use airports for facility improvements, infrastructure preservation, and development. Supporting safe, reliable infrastructure while growing the Commonwealth’s economy is a key priority for the Shapiro administration. Pennsylvania’s robust aviation industry employs over 226,000 people, provides nearly $12.5 billion in payroll and employment benefits, and has a $34 billion annual economic impact. In addition to providing travel options, airports also facilitate services such as air cargo and freight, police and law enforcement, emergency medical services, firefighting, and disaster and emergency response. “Pennsylvania’s aviation industry provides good-paying jobs while linking communities to a larger transportation system that moves goods and people around the world,” said PennDOT Secretary Mike Carroll. “These investments are another example of Governor Shapiro’s focus on maintaining our infrastructure while also expanding business opportunities.” The funds will support the following projects: Bucks County: Quakertown Airport – $1.1 million of state funds to construct three new hangars. Doylestown Airport – $525,000 of state funds for the continued rehabilitation of hangars. Doylestown Airport – $157,500 of state funds to demolish four structures on airport property. Doylestown Airport – $360,000 of state funds to extend public water access to the terminal area of the airport. Jefferson County: DuBois Regional Airport – $225,000 of state funds for the continued renovations of their administration building. Lehigh County: Lehigh Valley International Airport – $1.5 million of state funds to construct a parking structure to enhance terminal commercial development. Luzerne County: Wilkes-Barre Scranton International Airport – $6.2 million in state funds to expand the terminal and upgrade the Transportation Security Administration screening area. The projects will be funded by the state Capital Budget through the Aviation Transportation Assistance Program, which is supported by bonds. To learn more about how the Shapiro Administration is supporting transportation across all modes, visit PennDOT’s website.
Shapiro Administration Reminds Drivers to Put Down the Phone, ‘Paul Miller’s Law’ Signed by Governor Shapiro last year, the new hands-free law bans hand-held cell phone use while driving and increases transparency and accountability at traffic stops Today, in keeping with Governor Shapiro’s commitment to safety on Pennsylvania roads, the Shapiro Administration urged drivers to put down the phone while driving, ahead of the June 5 effective date for “Paul Miller’s Law,” which makes it illegal to use a hand-held cell phone while driving. The Pennsylvania Department of Transportation (PennDOT), Pennsylvania State Police (PSP), Pennsylvania Turnpike Commission (PA Turnpike), and Pennsylvania Insurance Department (PID) joined Senator Rosemary Brown and national advocate Eileen Miller to urge drivers to make safe choices behind the wheel. As part of his mission to provide a safe transportation system for all Pennsylvanians, Governor Josh Shapiro signed Senate Bill 37 into law on June 5, 2024. Effective June 5, 2025, the law – known as “Paul Miller’s Law” – prohibits the use of hand-held devices while driving, even while stopped temporarily due to traffic, a red light, or other momentary delay. Pennsylvania already enforces a texting-while-driving ban that prohibits drivers from using mobile devices to send, read, or write text-based communications while their vehicle is in motion. Beginning June 5, 2025, law enforcement will begin issuing written warnings for violations of Senate Bill 37. Law enforcement will have the ability to issue summary citations to violators beginning June 6, 2026. “Paul Miller’s Law is about saving lives,” said PennDOT Secretary Mike Carroll. “Your choices behind the wheel can change lives forever. Make the safe choice. Put your phone out of reach and don’t text and drive. One text, one glance down – it could kill someone. And it’s not worth it.” Under Paul Miller’s Law, drivers can still use their phones to alert emergency responders and, if they are using hands-free technology, to make phone calls, use a GPS, and listen to music. “The Pennsylvania State Police will enforce the new law to its full extent,” said PSP Commissioner Colonel Christopher Paris. “Distracted driving is not a minor offense. Just one second of inattention can result in irreversible consequences. We urge all drivers to stay focused behind the wheel.” “Distracted driving is a serious issue that undermines PennDOT and the PA Turnpike’s collective effort to create safe driving experiences for our travelers,” said PA Turnpike CEO Mark Compton. “Safety is the driving force of what we do at the Pennsylvania Turnpike, and the Paul Miller Law is a meaningful step towards safer roads for everyone.” “Focusing on the road while driving is one of the best ways to ensure your safety and the safety of those around you,” said Pennsylvania Insurance Commissioner Michael Humphreys. “Safe driving can also help reduce the cost of your insurance as insurers factor your accident and driving history into their ratemaking. We encourage consumers to speak with their insurance provider to learn more about the benefits of safe driving, the discounts they could receive, and how they can start saving today.” “As the Prime-Sponsor of Senate Bill 37, now Act 18 of 2024, seeing this law go into effect is incredibly rewarding knowing it will save lives,” said State Senator Rosemary Brown (R- Lackawanna, Monroe, Wayne). “Since day one I have always believed in this commonsense policy. It’s important that drivers remember that the cell phone has become the most consistent, repetitive, and lengthy distraction behind the driver’s wheel causing significant public safety concerns. This law will change behaviors and save lives. The legislature passed Senate Bill 37, now Act 18, with overwhelming bi-partisan support, and I am confident that my efforts, along with the efforts of my friend Eileen Miller, have Pennsylvania going in the right direction for public safety.” The law is named for Paul Miller, Jr., who was tragically killed in a crash with a tractor trailer in 2010 in Monroe County, as the result of a distracted driver who reached for their phone while driving. Since his death, Paul’s mother Eileen Miller has become a national advocate for stronger laws to curb distracted driving. “Nearly 15 years ago, two Dunmore state troopers knocked on my door to tell me that my son was killed,” said Eileen Miller, Paul Miller, Jr.’s mother. “My son did everything right – he was killed by someone else’s unsafe choices behind the wheel. This law is for every family in Pennsylvania that doesn’t have to experience two state troopers knocking on their door to tell them that their loved one was killed by distracted driving. Paul Miller’s Law will be a beacon of protection for every driver and passenger in Pennsylvania.” Paul Miller’s Law will also work to prevent bias in policing by requiring law enforcement to collect data on drivers pulled over during traffic stops, including race, ethnicity, and gender. The data will be made publicly available in an annual report. This amendment – which the Governor advocated for in conjunction with the Legislative Black Caucus – builds on the Shapiro Administration’s work to ensure Pennsylvanians can have the utmost faith in the law enforcement officers serving and protecting them every day. According to PennDOT data, in 2024 there were 9,950 crashes involving a distracted driver, resulting in more than 6,000 injuries and 49 fatalities. Distracted driving crash data is believed to be underreported due to many drivers’ reluctance to admit to being distracted at the time of a crash. If you are the driver, follow these steps for a safe drive: If you are expecting a text message or need to send one that can’t wait, pull over and park your car in a safe location before using your device. Ask a passenger to be your “designated texter.” Allow them access to your phone to respond to calls or messages. Do not engage in social media scrolling or messaging while driving. Cell phone use is habit-forming. Struggling to not text and drive? Activate your phone’s “Do Not Disturb” feature, silence notifications, or put your phone in the trunk, glove box, or back seat of your vehicle until you arrive at your destination. Cell phone use is not the only distraction while driving. Anything that takes your attention away from driving, your eyes off the road, or your hands off the wheel is a distraction. Driver behavior is the leading factor in 83% of the crashes that occur annually in Pennsylvania. These behaviors include driving distracted, impaired, or aggressive. For more information on distracted driving, visit www.PennDOT.pa.gov/safety.
Shapiro Administration Reminds Motorcyclists of Free Safety Training Through PA Motorcycle Safety Program High school training program prepares young riders and promotes lifelong safety habits May is Motorcycle Awareness Month As part of Governor Josh Shapiro’s commitment to saving lives and keeping Pennsylvania’s roads safe, the Pennsylvania Departments of Transportation, Education, and Insurance, the Pennsylvania State Police and safety advocates joined forces today at Northeastern High School in Manchester to highlight efforts to improve motorcycle safety and promote rider training for all ages. Free motorcycle safety training has been available through PennDOT’s Pennsylvania Motorcycle Safety Program (PAMSP) for 40 years. This year’s celebration also recognizes the successful implementation of a PAMSP training program at Northeastern High School. “The lessons learned through PAMSP courses provide riders with important training to mitigate crashes and reinforce the message for all motorists and riders to share the road safely,” said PennDOT Secretary Mike Carroll. “Drivers and riders alike can should remember to stay aware while driving or riding, obeying speed limits and being responsible while operating any vehicle.” In a bold move to enhance student safety on the roadways, Northeastern High School, in cooperation with the Pennsylvania Department of Education and PAMSP, now offers the Basic Rider Course to students in spring and fall classes. They can earn credits toward graduation while learning how to operate a motorcycle safely and responsibly. To date, 21 students have successfully completed the Basic Rider Course at Northeastern, with more students interested in next year’s courses. “We are proud of our budding motorcycle program for the students at Northeastern High School and hope to continue the effort to better prepare them for a safer future operating a motorcycle,” said Dr. Jason M. Bottiglieri, Northeastern School District Superintendent. “We are confident that teaching our students good riding habits early on will help save lives.” “We applaud the efforts of our individual schools and our school districts in providing meaningful and life-changing educational opportunities to our young citizens,” said PA Department of Education Deputy Secretary of Elementary and Secondary Education Amy Lena. “Anytime we can promote safety and teach a valuable life skill to our students, it’s a win-win.” There were 3,292 crashes involving motorcycles on Pennsylvania roadways in 2024, resulting in 219 fatalities. Crashes fell from the 2023 number of 3,424, while fatalities also fell from 238 in 2023. “Enjoy Pennsylvania’s roadways on your motorcycle, and share the roadways responsibly and safely,” said Major Robert Krol, Director of the Bureau of Patrol for the Pennsylvania State Police. “Never ride while impaired or distracted. Ride defensively and don’t hesitate to seek basic or advanced training to keep your skills sharp.” Through PAMSP, Pennsylvania residents with a motorcycle permit or license can earn a motorcycle license or refresh their skills through a variety of training courses , regardless of experience. The courses include: the Basic Rider Course (BRC); the Intermediate Rider Course (IRC); the Advanced Rider Course (ARC); and the 3-Wheeled Motorcycle Basic Rider Course (3WBRC). Successful completion of a basic or intermediate course waives the requirement to take a skills test at a PennDOT Driver License Center and automatically earns the permit holder their motorcycle license. Motorcycle permit holders who complete a 3-wheel basic course will earn a motorcycle license with restriction prohibiting the operation a of 2-wheel motorcycle. Classes can be scheduled at multiple training sites throughout Pennsylvania. Class schedules are coordinated by each third-party training provider for their individual locations. Additional information can be found at www.penndot.pa.gov/PAMSP. PennDOT anticipates additional training sites will become available during the riding season, and customers are encouraged to check PennDOT’s website for updated class offerings. Schools or school districts interested in starting a motorcycle training program should contact PAMSP from more information. The Pennsylvania Insurance Department (PID) reminds riders that they must have insurance to drive a motorcycle in the commonwealth. Pennsylvania’s motorcycle insurance market is competitive, and many insurers offer discounts for motorcyclists who complete safety courses, have memberships in certain associations, or have safe driving records. Insurers also offer discounts for “bundling,” also known as buying multiple policies. Pennsylvanians are encouraged to discuss available discount options with their insurer. “The Commonwealth is a wonderful place in which to ride. Motorcyclists don’t just have a passion for their bikes – it’s a way of life,” said Shannen Logue, PID Deputy Commissioner for Product Regulation. “We want motorcyclists to take the available safety courses and follow safety guidelines, so that they can continue to enjoy the beautiful roadways in Pennsylvania while staying safe. And, riding safely may also help reduce your insurance cost.” Pennsylvanians with insurance questions, or who wish to file a complaint, can contact PID’s Consumer Services Bureau online or by calling 1-877-881-6388. Some safety tips motorists can keep in mind when sharing the road with motorcycles include: Watch for Motorcycles: motorcycles are small and may be difficult to see. Check mirrors and blind spots before changing lanes and at intersections. Always signal your intentions before changing lanes or merging with traffic. Respect a motorcycle as a full-size vehicle with the same rights and privileges as any vehicle on the roadway. Allow a motorcyclist a full lane width as the motorcyclist needs the room to maneuver safely in all types of road conditions. Never drive impaired. Motorcyclists can do their part to help avoid crashes by following some simple safety tips: Be seen by wearing reflective clothing and put reflective tape on your protective clothing and motorcycle. Also wear face or eye protection and a DOT-approved helmet. Use common sense by riding sober, obeying all speed limits, and allowing enough time to react to potentially dangerous situations. Know your motorcycle and conduct a pre-ride check. Practice safe riding techniques and know how to handle your motorcycle in adverse road and weather conditions. If you’re flying domestically, you will need a REAL ID-compliant product or other federally-accepted form of identification. Visit www.dmv.pa.gov/REALID for information on how you can get a REAL-ID compliant driver’s license or identification card today.
Shapiro Administration Fuels Innovation through Transportation Safety, Maintenance, and Environmental Initiatives PennDOT ‘Focus on Innovations’ publication details nearly 40 innovative projects across the department The Pennsylvania Department of Transportation (PennDOT) today released its Focus on Innovations (FOI) publication that features the department’s work to identify and boost innovative projects improving safety, promoting efficiency, and saving money. Innovation plays a key role in getting things done for Pennsylvania travelers, building on the Governor’s commitment to ensure Pennsylvania remains a leader in delivering commonsense solutions to everyday issues. “Meeting the needs of Pennsylvania’s vast transportation network requires unique solutions,” said PennDOT Secretary Mike Carroll. “Across the Commonwealth, the PennDOT team is rolling out electric vehicle infrastructure, delivering projects faster, tackling congestion, and improving safety.” Innovation at PennDOT is a holistic process, pulling unique ideas and best practices from throughout the department. Employee-driven innovation councils and committees, the State Transportation Innovation Council (STIC), the Federal Highway Administration’s (FHWA) Every Day Counts (EDC) Program, and solutions identified and implemented by PennDOT employees, all work together to build better, more efficient, and more intuitive systems to serve all Pennsylvanians and those who travel throughout the Commonwealth. Highlighted innovations include: The Lane Reservation (or LaneRez) initiative is maximizing safety and minimizing congestion with a system to catalog upcoming construction projects, identify conflicts and plan ahead for traffic mitigation. PennDOT’s digital transformation focuses on using paperless technologies to transform the project delivery process by providing project data at the fingertips of our employees and partners. The implementation of Environmental Product Declarations is allowing the department to utilize construction materials with lower greenhouse gas emissions. Amber and green vehicle lights, enabled by Act 78 of 2024, increase safety by making construction and maintenance operations more visible. PennDOT’s continued Electric Vehicle (EV) infrastructure buildout, powered by the federal Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, has helped expand EV-charging-station availability, making EVs more accessible to those who travel across the Commonwealth. Now in its fourth year, the FOI publication – including an interactive innovation timeline – is available here.
