Health

NYPIRG has pressed New York to become a national leader in health care policies. NYPIRG has urged that New York State reduce the needless suffering and injuries that come from poor quality health care and from harmful exposures to tobacco and lead. NYPIRG also fights to maintain drinking water standards.

NYPIRG has strongly advocated improvements in the state's oversight of physicians. In legislation passed in 2008, New York significantly improved its doctor discipline program. In 2007, NYPIRG pushed for legislation to improve oversight of procedures done in doctors' offices. In 2000, NYPIRG successfully advanced legislation that created a physician profiles program that allows patients to review the qualifications and legal record of their doctors (see: www.nydoctorprofile.com). In addition, NYPIRG helped develop landmark legislation that protects enrollees in managed care plans by allowing them to appeal decisions to an impartial panel of health experts. NYPIRG played a prominent role in advocating for New York's strong policies to protect nonsmokers from exposure to tobacco smoke, programs designed to reduce underage smoking and legislation to ensure that cigarettes sold in New York meet strong fire-safety standards. In addition, NYPIRG is closely monitoring implementation of a $1.4 billion agreement to protect drinking water consumed by 10 million New York City and Westchester County residents. NYPIRG also works to protect children from lead poisoning through legislation and litigation.