Your Weekly Dose of Health July 1, 2016

National News:

  • The Department of Health and Human Services this week selected physician groups and insurance companies to participate in an initiative that aims to improve cancer care and lower costs. Read more here.

New York State News:

  • Governor Cuomo this week signed legislation to expand access to breast cancer screening and hosted New York’s first breast cancer motorcycle ride.
  • The governor this week also announced $10.5 million in funding over the next five years to help those struggling with addiction and their families.
  • The heroin crisis will be a central issue in at least a few Senate races this year, according to They site a recent poll from Siena College saying that 92 percent of voters thought combating heroin before the end of session was important.
  • The Department of Health has found 324 cases of the Zika virus in New York state, but none were transmitted in the state.

New York City News:

  • New City Health Commissioner Dr. Mary Bassett penned an op-ed for Huffington Post in which she argues that gun violence is a public health crisis.
  • Comptroller Scott Stringer proposed that the city offer free sunscreen during the summer months. by having dispensers installed at public parks, pools, and beaches.

Upcoming Events:

  • The United Hospital Fund is holding its annual Medicaid Conference on July 14th in New York City. Read more here.