Legislation & Politics
State Budget Recognizes Health Needs
The 2008-2009 New York State Budget makes great strides in providing essential family planning services and moving New York toward a patient-centered model of health care delivery.
Governor David Paterson, New York State Legislators and the Department of Health are designing a system that recognizes the complexity of New Yorkers’ lives and helps health care providers address the needs in their communities.
The budget includes new funding for emergency contraception, including education, outreach and provision of care. Emergency contraception can prevent unintended pregnancy if taken soon after unprotected sex, greatly reducing the need.
“This budget contains significant proposals to enable community-based health centers to meet the needs of their patients,” said JoAnn M. Smith, president and CEO of Family Planning Advocates of New York State. “Governor Paterson is demonstrating the leadership needed to protect the health of New York’s women and families in a challenging fiscal period.”
The health budget that passed on March 31 includes increased resources for preventive care, service reorganization, and cutting-edge medical treatment that will result in better health outcomes for women and families. It will provide more uninsured and underinsured New Yorkers with the health care they desperately need.
Legislation & Politics
