February/March 2008:

BALCONY & the American Cancer Society coordinated the
“Partnership For Coverage” Business and Labor Meetings for the New York State Department of Health & Department of Insurance in Albany, Buffalo and New York City

BALCONY and the American Cancer Society coordinated a series of roundtable discussions in Albany, Buffalo and New York City between the New York State Department of Health and Department of Insurance, meeting separately with businesses and labor unions.

At least 50 representatives of businesses from a variety of fields and as many representatives from labor unions participated in the meetings to discuss the implementation of the “Partnership for Coverage” health care proposals for New York. In conclusion, it was widely agreed among all participants that these meetings afforded a real opportunity for businesses and labor unions to articulate their concerns and objectives for health insurance reform directly to those responsible for crafting the state’s new plan.

Specifically, Kathleen Shure, Director of Division of Managed Care and Program Evaluation, and Lois Simon, Director of Bureau Program Planning and Implementation, represented the New York State Department of Health in the meetings, while Troy Oeschner, Deputy Superintendent, and Eileen Hayes, Associate Insurance Attorney for the Health Bureau, represented the New York State Insurance Department.

The meetings took place in Albany on February 27 at the Headquarters of the NewYork State United Teachers – NYSUT, in New York City on March 7 at the American Cancer Society’s Hope Lodge on W. 32d., and in Buffalo on March 18 at the Adams Mark Hotel.

Read the full report: Health Care