The NYS Departments of Health (DOH) and Insurance (SID) will hold a series of public hearings this fall on reforming New York's health care system, increasing access to health insurance coverage, and developing a plan for universal health care coverage in the State. Both departments are seeking input from the general public, health care stakeholders, academics, other health care experts, and legislators.

Among the topics to be explored at the hearings are increases in insurance coverage, improvement in the quality and efficiency of the State's health care delivery system, how to improve quality and control the costs of health insurance and health care, how to distribute the cost of health insurance fairly, and how to improve the State's economy and the competitiveness of its businesses. 

Specific, detailed questions posed to those who might testify are available on the State's "Partnership for Coverage" Web site at www.partnership4coverage.ny.gov/hearings/notice.htm. Testimony can also cover any additional information that a speaker believes is useful. 

GNYHA will testify at the NYC hearing.

Pre-registration: Anyone who wishes to attend a hearing must pre-register by contacting either Ms. Cindy Esterby, Office of Health Insurance Programs, NYS Department of Health, Corning Tower Building, Room 1483, Empire State Plaza, Albany, NY 12237, (518) 474-5737; or Ms. Deborah Greer, NYS Insurance Department, One Commerce Plaza, Albany, NY 12257, (518) 474-4567.