CEO of Children's Memorial Hospital Testifies in Rod Blagojevich Trial

Children’s Memorial Hospital CEO Patrick Magoon told the jury he felt pressured to raise money for Gov. Rod Blagojevich after the governor promised to make a decision that would benefit the hospital.

Magoon had heard from Blagojevich himself that a decision had been made to increase the rate Illinois reimbursed hospitals for some pediatric care. It was good news for the hospital, which had sought a boost in rates for years.

“I asked if there was anything we can do to be of assistance,” Magoon testified. Blagojevich “suggested we continue to work with his staff,” he said.

Blagojevich did have one odd request though, Magoon said. He wanted absolutely no attention drawn to the fact the decision had been made before Jan. 1, he said.

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