New York City Council
Committee on Hospitals
Mar 05, 2024
·
01:00 PM
2 hr 48 min
Summary
A hearing on New York City's fiscal 2025 preliminary budget and the Health and Hospitals Corporation's five-year plans, focusing on services for asylum seekers, sickle cell disease treatments, conditions for medical residents, and public health concerns amidst the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic. Features testimony from NYC Health and Hospitals and the public.
Meeting chapters
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Council Member Mercedes Narcisse opens Committee on Hospitals meeting on NYC's fiscal 2025 preliminary budget and H+H plans
Council Member Mercedes Narcisse, as Chair of the Committee on Hospitals, initiates a hearing on New York City's fiscal 2025 preliminary budget and the Health and Hospitals (H+H) Corporation's five-year …
0:00:38
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4 min
Mitch Katz, President and CEO, New York City Health And Hospitals on H+H Achievements and Future Goals
Dr. Mitch Katz outlines the operational successes and financial stability of New York City Health and Hospitals (NYC H+H), emphasizing the organization's commitment to expanding services despite potential financial challenges. …
0:05:17
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5 min
Why has New York City Health and Hospitals (H+H) become heavily involved in shelter services for asylum seekers?
Mitch Katz explains that New York City Health and Hospitals (H+H) stepped up for emergency shelter provision due to previous experience with hotel rooms during COVID-19 and a city-wide shelter …
0:11:47
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5 min
How does the H + H procurement process differ and is it related to the shift in asylum seeker funding?
Mitch Katz explains that Health and Hospitals has more flexible procurement rules than other city agencies, which affects how asylum seeker funding is managed. - Health and Hospitals operates as …
0:17:43
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62 sec
How are fiscal 2024 payments allocated, and why is the city subsidizing Health and Hospitals' budget?
John Ulberg explains that the indirect rate covers administrative costs and any unused funds are either returned to the city or used for the program. - Indirect rates are intended …
0:18:47
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96 sec
What direct services does New York City Health and Hospitals provide for asylum seekers?
New York City Health and Hospitals (NYC Health and Hospitals) provides a range of services for asylum seekers, including accommodation, food, laundry, security, and medical care. - NYC Health and …
0:20:24
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57 sec
How does the allocated funding to asylum seeker services adjust to reductions due to updated population projections and maintain service levels?
City officials explain cost reduction strategies for asylum seeker services without affecting service quality despite budget changes. - Mitch Katz states that working with agencies and OMB has led to …
0:21:22
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150 sec
How many contracts for asylum seeker-related services does NYC Health and Hospitals currently manage?
NYC Health and Hospitals estimates managing 12 to 15 contracts for asylum seeker related services but commits to providing an exact number later. - John Ulberg acknowledges the need to …
0:23:53
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31 sec
What is New York City Health and Hospitals' (H&H) current vacancy rate, and how is staffing determined?
New York City Health and Hospitals reports a 9% nursing vacancy rate and emphasizes a dynamic staffing model based on patient needs rather than fixed positions. - New York City …
0:24:53
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174 sec
What is the onboarding process duration for nurses and physicians at New York City Health And Hospitals (H+H)?
The onboarding process at New York City Health And Hospitals (H+H) varies, with nurses undergoing approximately 3 months of training, while physicians face a longer process due to additional credentialing …
0:27:52
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108 sec
How are living wages for residents being ensured, and how is pay parity within residency programs addressed?
NYC Health and Hospitals (H+H) are in negotiations with the Committee of Interns and Residents, focusing on contract terms that aim to deliver equity, including strategies like loan repayment for …
0:29:44
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3 min
What is the delay in renewing contracts for resident physicians, and when will they be renewed?
Mitch Katz expresses confidence that the contract renewal for resident physicians, constituting about half of all physicians in the public hospital system in New York, will be resolved soon. - …
0:32:58
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56 sec
Can Health and Hospitals residents strike, and what would be the impact on care?
Mitch Katz explains that city-employed residents cannot strike but others might, and highlights emergency measures to maintain care during a strike. - City-employed residents of Health and Hospitals cannot strike, …
0:33:58
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120 sec
How many additional nurses have been hired and what is the impact on registry nurse numbers?
NYC Health and Hospitals reported hiring over 850 new nurses, significantly reducing the reliance on registry nurses from over 20% of the workforce to about 800-900. - Over 850 new …
0:36:32
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161 sec
What has been the spending on traveling nurses since fiscal year 2024, and how does it compare with hiring permanent nurses?
NYC Health and Hospitals has spent a considerable amount on traveling nurses since fiscal 2024, with efforts to decrease expenses by hiring permanent nurses. - NYC Health and Hospitals aims …
0:39:15
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133 sec
Will New York City Health and Hospitals rely less on temporary nurses?
New York City Health and Hospitals aims to reduce reliance on temporary nurses. - Mitch Katz, President and CEO, states the usage of temporary nurses is decreasing. - The organization …
0:41:30
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17 sec
What are the FY 24 returns to the city and staff cost uses by Health and Hospitals (H&H)?
John Ulberg commits to providing specific numbers on Health and Hospitals (H&H)'s FY 24 returns to the city and staff costs, emphasizing the entity's financial prudence. - Ulberg confirms that …
0:41:50
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39 sec
What led to the funding reduction for the Behavioral Health Emergency Assistance Response Division (B-HEARD) program, and was it solely to pause its expansion?
The funding reduction for the Behavioral Health Emergency Assistance Response Division (B-HEARD) program is linked to the freeze in increasing Emergency Medical Services (EMS) personnel, limiting the program's expansion. - …
0:42:38
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83 sec
What is the cost of expanding the B-HEARD program, and what services would it include?
The expansion's estimated cost is between $5,000,000 and $6,000,000, although details about included services remain unspecified. - An estimated cost range for the expansion is provided as $5,000,000 to $6,000,000. …
0:44:06
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28 sec
Where were the planned expansion areas for pairing social workers with EMS personnel?
Mitch Katz clarifies that New York City Health And Hospitals does not determine the locations for pairing social workers with EMS personnel, hinting at collaboration with the fire department for …
0:44:35
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46 sec
Will the planned expansion of B-HEARD, and will it focus on wider geographical reach or 24-hour service?
Mitch Katz expresses readiness to train social workers for the EMS expansion if allowed, following the cancellation of prior plans. - Mercedes Narcisse questions whether the program's planned expansion can …
0:45:22
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25 sec
What is the Department of Health's involvement with the 'Be Heard' program?
The specific involvement of the Department of Health in the 'Be Heard' program remains unclear, though there is an expressed general support for prioritizing medical health professionals over police in …
0:45:51
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31 sec
How many social workers currently staff B-HEARD and what is the vacancy rate?
The be heard program, a part of NYC Health and Hospitals, employs 39 social workers, and all positions for active teams are filled. - NYC Health and Hospitals reports 39 …
0:46:23
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32 sec
What is the progress on the evaluation of B-HEARD services for inclusion in the Mayor's Management Report (MMR)?
An evaluation to assess the effectiveness of B-HEARD services is currently underway but has not yet been completed. - Council Member Mercedes Narcisse inquires about the progress of adding B-HEARD …
0:46:59
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34 sec
Why are Health and Hospitals (H+H) hospitals excluded from distressed hospital funding?
The state did not provide a specific reason for excluding Health and Hospitals (H+H) hospitals from distressed hospital funding, attributing the decision to budget challenges and the need for equitable …
0:47:35
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69 sec
What is the annual city funding for the distressed hospital fund?
The annual city funding for the distressed hospital fund stands at $150,000,000. - John Ulberg clarifies the fund is at $150,000,000. - He notes these issues do not directly affect …
0:48:55
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22 sec
What funding would Health + Hospitals (H+H) receive from the fund?
John Ulberg explains that the allocation of discretionary funds to Health + Hospitals (H+H) is undecided by the state or city, with no set formula or received funds thus far. …
0:49:19
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26 sec
What is the current status of sickle cell funding in New York City?
President and CEO of New York City Health And Hospitals, Mitch Katz, explains there is no specific funding for sickle cell disease; instead, funding is allocated based on individual patient …
0:49:49
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3 min
How is funding allocated for sickle cell services in the fiscal 2025 budget?
New York City Health and Hospitals (H+H) officials state they do not budget for specific diseases but can estimate spending on sickle cell care based on patient data. - NYC …
0:52:55
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123 sec
How are medical professionals being prepared for sickle cell detection and treatment?
Mitch Katz confirms preparations have begun for educating medical professionals on sickle cell detection and treatment, offering to provide training materials. - Preparations for an education process on sickle cell …
0:54:59
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39 sec
Which New York City Health and Hospitals facilities provide genetic testing for sickle cell disease?
All New York City Health and Hospitals hospital facilities currently offer pre and post conception genetic testing for sickle cell disease. - Patients at Gotham Clinics need to be referred …
0:55:40
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41 sec
What is the expected cost of providing sickle cell services across Health & Hospitals facilities?
Mitch Katz highlights that New York City Health and Hospitals is not constrained by financial resources when providing necessary services, despite the undefined cost for including services in all facilities. …
0:56:23
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50 sec
What is the timeline for planning and implementing the sickle cell bill?
The New York City Health And Hospitals aims to meet all timelines specified in the sickle cell bill and has already started work, with plans to present a detailed curriculum …
0:57:14
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22 sec
Do Health and Hospitals (H+H) or the city contribute to the pension plan for residents and fellows?
Health and Hospitals (H+H) or the city do contribute to the pension plan for residents and fellows at the specified rates. - John Ulberg confirms contributions are made to the …
0:57:55
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47 sec
Has the financial situation for hospital residents changed, considering inflation and cost of living increases?
The situation for hospital residents has not changed due to the absence of a recent contract, potentially worsening this year. - Mitch Katz clarifies that there has been no improvement …
0:58:42
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20 sec
What are the factors impacting hospital occupancy rates, and how does renovation cost affect this?
Mitch Katz outlines various factors influencing hospital occupancy rates, including physical space limitations, the cost of renovations, and staffing challenges. - Physical space constraints at hospitals like Queen's Hospital and …
0:59:08
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4 min
What are the plans for hospital capacity if SUNY Downstate closes?
Mitch Katz discusses plans for potential overflow capacity at Kings and Bellevue hospitals amid concerns of SUNY Downstate closing. - Plans involve discussions with the state about renovations at Kings …
1:03:15
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55 sec
Why doesn't New York City Health and Hospitals (H+H) participate in the Rest in Peace Medical Debt program?
Mitch Katz, President and CEO of New York City Health and Hospitals (H+H), clarifies that H+H does not participate in the Rest in Peace Medical Debt program because they do …
1:04:10
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49 sec
What is the current indirect rate for asylum seeker services at NYC Health and Hospitals (H+H)?
NYC Health and Hospitals (H+H) has reduced the indirect rate for asylum seeker services from 15% to 10% and is reevaluating its needs as the program downsizes. - The indirect …
1:05:43
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117 sec
How many vacant doctor positions are there at New York City Health And Hospitals (H+H), and what are the plans to fill these slots?
New York City Health And Hospitals (H+H) has hundreds of vacant doctor positions, with recruitment challenges due to high living costs in New York City. - Mitch Katz estimates the …
1:07:47
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112 sec
How will Beth Israel’s impending closure impact Bellevue Hospital’s capacity and budget?
Mitch Katz explains that Bellevue Hospital budgets based on patient volume, with more patients usually bringing more revenue. However, he is concerned about the high capital costs of renovating Bellevue. …
1:10:16
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3 min
What is the completion timeline for the new Gotham Health Center in the Rockaways, and how was community input integrated into its planning?
The new Gotham Health Center in the Rockaways is scheduled for completion on January 26, with community involvement playing a significant role in its planning. - The council member facilitated …
1:14:02
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111 sec
What is the status of contract negotiations with doctors' unions involved in New York City Health And Hospitals?
New York City Health And Hospitals are negotiating contracts with doctors' unions to ensure fair compensation and work conditions, emphasizing the importance of happy healthcare workers for patient satisfaction. - …
1:15:55
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174 sec
Does the lack of pay increase since 2020 affect resident morale and Health And Hospitals' ability to retain physicians from local communities?
Mitch Katz acknowledges that not updating contracts and pay since 2020 likely affects resident morale and Health And Hospitals' (H+H) ability to retain physicians from local communities. - Mitch Katz …
1:18:56
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66 sec
Why is there no housing for residents, and what are the alternatives?
Mitch Katz discusses the historical shift away from city-provided housing for residents and suggests alternatives, such as building housing or vouchering. - The city once provided housing for nurses and …
1:20:36
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32 sec
If the city doesn't want to be a landlord, why are we providing housing on the Jacoby campus?
New York City Health and Hospitals (H+H) operates the Just Home project on the Jacobi campus following a directive and funding from the City Council and Mayor's office. - The …
1:21:09
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62 sec
What will the new site at the Jacoby campus turn into, and what will it look like?
The exact purpose and appearance of the new site at the Jacoby campus remain unknown as Mitch Katz, President and CEO of New York City Health And Hospitals, needs more …
1:22:20
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29 sec
What incentives are there for medical personnel to remain at NYC's safety net hospitals, and when will incoming interns at Elmhurst and Queens Hospital be employed by Health and Hospitals (H+H)?
Mitch Katz confirms the transition of incoming interns at Elmhurst and Queens Hospital to Health and Hospitals (H+H) employment, with the exact start date still undecided. - The transition aims …
1:23:23
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3 min
What is the updated timeline for the construction of therapeutic units in Woodhull, and what challenges have led to delays?
The timeline for constructing therapeutic units in Woodhull has been updated, with completion expected by the summer of 2027. - Design finalization for the outposted units at Woodhull is aimed …
1:26:38
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146 sec
What are the salaries for nurses and doctors in New York City Health and Hospitals?
Salaries for nurses in New York City Health and Hospitals start at around $100,000, while physician salaries vary with specializations like cardiac thoracic surgeons earning around $900,000. - Nurses with …
1:30:04
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111 sec
Why is renovating old hospitals oftentimes more expensive than building new ones?
Renovating old hospitals is usually more expensive than new construction due to high regulatory standards and the architectural complexities involved. - Renovation costs are high because hospitals must meet stringent …
1:31:56
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170 sec
What information did the NYC City Council's Committee on Criminal Justice and Hospital request from Belfield administrators about pediatric bariatric surgery practices?
Mitch Katz defends Bellevue Hospital Center's pediatric bariatric surgery program, emphasizing its importance in treating severe obesity and its complications. - The committee requested details on the number of surgeries, …
1:35:52
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5 min
How is funding for bariatric surgeries allocated at NYC Health and Hospitals?
NYC Health and Hospitals (H+H) allocates funding from bariatric surgeries to the overall pool of services, without specifying amounts for individual services. - H+H bills insurance for bariatric surgery without …
1:41:40
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80 sec
How often are mental health resources offered to NYC Health and Hospitals residents, and what is the participation rate?
NYC Health and Hospitals do not closely track the usage of their mental health resources to protect resident privacy. - NYC Health and Hospitals prioritize resident privacy, making it difficult …
1:43:03
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3 min
How does New York City Health and Hospitals (H+H) afford additional support to residents for mental health care needs, including options for outside counseling or requesting leave?
New York City Health and Hospitals (H+H) President and CEO Mitch Katz explains that residents have various options for mental health care, including health insurance coverage for outside counseling, anonymity …
1:46:04
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90 sec
How does New York City Health And Hospitals support mental health care needs and what budget allocation exists for this?
New York City Health And Hospitals (H+H) does not have a separate budget allocation for supporting resident and nurse mental health care needs, relying instead on volunteer-based peer programs. - …
1:47:37
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59 sec
What is the staffing composition for the Helping Healers Heal program at each hospital?
The New York City Health And Hospitals (H+H) can provide details on the staffing composition for the Helping Healers Heal program, including titles and responsibilities. - The program is staffed …
1:48:40
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33 sec
What type of housing support does New York City Health and Hospitals (H+H) provide for its residents?
New York City Health and Hospitals (H+H) does not currently provide any housing for doctors, nurses, or other staff, as explained by Mitch Katz. - H+H relies on existing housing …
1:49:15
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123 sec
Do New York City Health and Hospitals (H+H) residents receive food vouchers, and how are the amounts determined?
New York City Health and Hospitals (H+H) residents do receive food vouchers, but the amount varies based on the program and whether the day is considered a regular day or …
1:51:32
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148 sec
Why do vacancies in residency positions occur at NYC Health And Hospitals?
Despite numerous applicants, NYC Health And Hospitals experience vacancies in residency positions due to mismatches in speciality preferences and maintenance of high standards. - Out of thousands of residency positions, …
1:54:01
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122 sec
Has the state been approached about including H+H Hospital in future support plans?
Mitch Katz discusses advocating for the financial viability of all hospitals, including H+H Hospital, with the state. - Katz emphasizes the importance of financial stability for health and hospitals as …
1:56:17
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72 sec
Does NYC Health And Hospitals (H+H) provide free masks for healthcare practitioners, patients, and visitors? What types of masks are available, and are there different sizing options?
NYC Health And Hospitals (H+H) provides free masks to healthcare practitioners, patients, and visitors, including surgical masks and N95 masks, with sizing options available. - Mitch Katz confirms H+H offers …
1:58:04
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44 sec
Is there a budget for distributing masks to the general public, and which agencies are responsible?
The New York City Health And Hospitals does not have a designated budget for distributing masks to the public; responsibilities fall to DCAS and DOHMH during emergencies. - There is …
1:58:50
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39 sec
Is hand sanitizer provided to healthcare practitioners and patients?
New York City Health and Hospitals confirms the provision of hand sanitizer to healthcare practitioners and patients.
1:59:30
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5 sec
How are areas requiring more hand sanitizers identified in hospitals?
The environmental services department is responsible for tracking the need for hand sanitizers in hospitals.
1:59:36
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8 sec
Is there adequate funding for the distribution of tests and how much is allocated?
Mitch Katz explains that specific COVID test tracking in emergency rooms is not conducted, and funding details for test distribution are not provided. - COVID tests in emergency rooms are …
1:59:46
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42 sec
Is there funding in the budget for a website for free COVID-19 rapid tests and PPE requests?
Mitch Katz acknowledges the proposal's value and mentions existing distribution points for tests and masks, but indicates the initiative aligns more with the Department of Health and Mental Hygiene (DOHMH). …
2:00:30
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55 sec
Can educational materials be distributed to the public in the event of an infectious disease surge?
Mitch Katz affirms the capability to distribute educational materials in collaboration with the Department of Health and Mental Hygiene (DOH MH) amid an infectious disease surge. - Coordination with the …
2:01:26
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24 sec
What is the role of the Human Resources Administration (HRA) in Medicaid matching, and how does this funding support services?
Mitch Katz details that the Human Resources Administration (HRA) provides the local match for Medicaid, facilitating federal reimbursement for all eligible Medicaid services by New York City Health And Hospitals. …
2:01:52
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65 sec
How will the anticipated decline in Medicaid membership affect NYC Health and Hospitals' revenue?
John Ulberg explains that NYC Health and Hospitals anticipate a decrease in revenue due to a projected decline in Medicaid membership. - The adjustment specifically relates to the NYC Health …
2:03:06
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49 sec
How does New York City Health and Hospitals (H+H) ensure quality assurance to minimize medical malpractice or negligence?
Mitch Katz explains that New York City Health and Hospitals (H+H) employs a robust quality assurance plan to minimize medical malpractice or negligence. - The plan includes involvement from the …
2:04:14
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120 sec
What is the approach and rate of complaints received by Health and Hospitals (H+H)?
Mitch Katz emphasizes the importance of complaints for learning and making service recoveries, without providing specific rates. - Complaints are encouraged as a means for learning and service recovery. - …
2:06:16
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109 sec
What does the malpractice situation look like at New York City Health and Hospitals?
New York City Health and Hospitals reports having lower overall malpractice costs than other systems, attributed mainly to avoiding unnecessary surgeries. - The system focuses on the essential needs of …
2:08:05
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52 sec
How does New York City Health and Hospitals manage misdiagnosis?
New York City Health and Hospitals address misdiagnosis through electronic health records, nurse empowerment, and medical resources. - Mitch Katz notes a study indicating a 22% misdiagnosis rate among ICU …
2:08:58
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147 sec
How does New York City Health and Hospitals (HNH) address medical malpractice and prevent it from happening again?
New York City Health And Hospitals (HNH) investigates every case of medical malpractice or potential error, instituting corrective plans to prevent future occurrences. - Every incident, including 'good catches' where …
2:11:26
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150 sec
How are patient experience surveys conducted, and can the public access this information?
Mitch Katz explains that patient experience feedback is collected through various means and is publically accessible, despite low response rates. - Patient relation issues can be reported through signs available …
2:13:58
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98 sec
Nevien Swailmyeen on Sustaining Immigrant Health Initiatives and Establishing Organ Transplant Equity
Nevien Swailmyeen advocates for the continuation of the immigrant health initiative and the creation of an office of organ transplant equity to improve healthcare outcomes for New Yorkers. - Swailmyeen, …
2:18:12
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159 sec
Medha Ghosh on Fiscal Year 2025 Preliminary Budget's Impact on Mental Health Initiatives for Asian American Youth
Medha Ghosh highlights the deficiency in the New York City Fiscal Year 2025 preliminary budget for mental health initiatives serving Asian American youth. - Emphasizes the need for sustained funding …
2:21:19
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126 sec
Ginger Davis on Improving Care for Sickle Cell Disease in Adults
Ginger Davis addresses the need for improved care and continuity for adults with sickle cell disease. - Davis highlights the lack of continuity of care for those transitioning from pediatric …
2:23:40
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135 sec
Julie Lam, Founder of Mask Together America, on Promoting Free COVID-19 Tests and Masks for Equity and Protection
Julie Lam advocates for New York to adopt non-pharmaceutical interventions like free COVID-19 tests and masks to promote health equity and protect vulnerable populations. - Emphasizes the importance of a …
2:26:12
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143 sec
Lucky Tran on the Importance of Continuing Funding for COVID Prevention and Public Health Measures in New York City
Lucky Tran urges the New York City Council to continue funding and implementing COVID-19 prevention efforts due to the ongoing severity of the pandemic. - Tran emphasizes that despite reductions, …
2:28:44
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153 sec
Elana Levin, Member of Jews For Racial & Economic Justice, on the Impact of Long COVID and Healthcare System Shortcomings
Elana Levin shares her struggle with long COVID and points out flaws in NYC's healthcare system. - Levin contracted long COVID in December 2022 despite taking all precautionary measures, highlighting …
2:31:33
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161 sec
Anna Pakman on the Need for Access to Protective Health Equipment and Strict Health Safety Measures in New York
Anna Pakman advocates for a bill that ensures access to high-quality KN95 and N95 masks, and rapid tests for every New Yorker, highlighting the importance of public health safety and …
2:34:29
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127 sec
Myra Batchelder, Leader of the COVID Advocacy Initiative, on Enhancing COVID-19 Prevention and Support in New York City
Myra Batchelder testifies on the need for continued and enhanced COVID-19 prevention and support measures in New York City. - Emphasizes continuing funding for free, high-quality N95 and KN95 masks …
2:36:45
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146 sec
Greg Levine on the Challenges and Risks Faced by Long COVID Patients in Healthcare Settings and the Need for Improved Public Health Policies
Greg Levine, a freelance journalist, testifies about his ongoing battle with long COVID and the lack of precautions in healthcare settings. - Levine contracted COVID in January 2023, leading to …
2:39:25
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3 min
Member of the Public on Urging NYC to Fund Free N95 Respirators and Tests, Mandate Respirators in Key Settings, and Condemn CDC's COVID Isolation Policy
A member of the public testifies in strong support of NYC funding bill IMT 0332 for free N95 respirators and tests, and criticizes CDC's reduced COVID isolation policy. - Calls …
2:42:41
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77 sec
Ngozi Alston on Barriers and Neglect Faced by Disabled, Poor, and Black New Yorkers During the COVID-19 Pandemic
Ngozi Alston criticizes New York City's pandemic response, highlighting neglect and barriers experienced by disabled, poor, and Black communities. - Ngozi Alston, a disability justice trainer and member of Mask …
2:44:08
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125 sec
