Elizabeth Harrah Announces Run For 31st Middlesex Rep

STONEHAM, MA —Winchester resident Elizabeth Harrah announced her campaign for state representative in the 31st Middlesex District, which includes Stoneham and Winchester. Harrah said she is "excited" to announce her run after receiving encouragement from family, friends and encouragement.

Harrah is a healthcare professional and worked at a regional health insurance company, where she managed the operational activities of the newly implemented claims processing system. She also led cross-functional teams to design, analyze and evaluate process improvements, while maintaining a high standard of quality and efficiency. Other roles included planning and overseeing compliance with state and federal regulations related to health care portals and Medicare plans.

"My experience in healthcare system management and process improvement, as well as women's health and youth mental health will be of extreme value," Harrah said. "Now more than ever, we need strong leaders in the State House who are experienced and competent at partnering with health care leaders to design and implement solutions, especially for the most vulnerable populations. Transparency of data and monitoring of metrics is critical for ongoing accountability and defect resolution in order to meet patient needs at various state-funded health care facilities. Winchester and Stoneham need a representative with health care policy experience."

Harrah lives in Winchester with her husband and two children. She holds a master's degree in Public Health Policy and Management from Boston University and a bachelor's degree in Health Care Management from Towson University.

Harrah is an accredited Breastfeeding Counselor who teaches prenatal and postnatal care to expecting mothers. In addition, she provides individual counseling to moms seeking support and evidence-based information that empowers and encourages them to meet their breastfeeding goals.

Harrah also mentors young women in high school and college as they navigate the demands of school, relationships and social pressures.

"Mental health problems, especially anxiety and depression, are on the rise among adolescents and young adults," she said. "I believe in reaching out and supporting the next generation."

Her priorities will be:

• Coordinating state and local community preparedness for COVID-19 and other health-related matters, with a focus on families and seniors.
• Ensuring educational excellence for our children while adhering to pandemic-related mandates.
• Local economic growth in Winchester and Stoneham.
• State government transparency.

"I am confident that my skills and experience will be of great value. And as an Independent, I promise to give Stoneham and Winchester an independent voice on Beacon Hill," Harrah said. "I am committed to standing up for the residents of the communities I serve, and I am motivated to get results for the people in our communities. I look forward to hearing from you and welcome feedback."