As Healthfirst — the largest not-for-profit health insurer in New York state — embarks on its 30th year of serving New Yorkers, it will celebrate its roots in the communities and its ongoing commitment to ‘meet members where they are’ with a series of member appreciation events throughout September. The events, to be held at Healthfirst community offices across the boroughs of New York, will treat members to music, refreshments, activities, and the opportunity to attend health information seminars.
“Healthfirst has been providing healthcare coverage to New Yorkers for nearly 30 years in the communities where we live, work and serve our members,” said Ricky Pafundi, vice president of retention and customer loyalty at Healthfirst. “September Member Appreciation Month gives us yet another opportunity to connect with our members in a meaningful way and to remind them that we’re right here in their neighborhood to help them with health insurance needs, as well as connect them with the local community and social services they need to live a healthier, happier life.”
Because Healthfirst knows the communities it serves, each event will be specially curated to reflect the needs and interests of the diverse communities. This includes teaming up with local organizations that are embedded in the area, such as the Hispanic Federation in Ridgewood, Queens, and in Sunset Park, Brooklyn, and the Brighton Neighborhood Association in Brighton Beach, Brooklyn.
“Healthfirst is a great addition to the Brighton Beach community,” said Pat Singer, the founder of the Brighton Neighborhood Association. “The Brighton Neighborhood Association has been serving as an advocate for the residents here for over 40 years and (has) added health as a touchpoint during the pandemic. We have formed a wonderful relationship with Healthfirst. They have truly come to understand the unique characteristics of the neighborhood, and it is evident that they care deeply about the wellbeing of our residents as they help them navigate their healthcare needs.”
“Our communities face a much higher burden of chronic diseases, such as cancer and diabetes, which have been aggravated by the COVID-19 pandemic,” said Frankie Miranda, the president and CEO of Hispanic Federation. “Hispanic Federation is proud to partner with Healthfirst to help provide increased access not only to quality healthcare but also other essential services that help reduce health disparities.”
Throughout the month, health seminars focused on mental health and wellness in the community will be hosted at the community offices by local healthcare providers, including Keneca Boyce, Ph.D. and licensed mater social worker, and founder of Multiple Avenues to Success; Dr. Angela Chan, and master of public health, a development behavioral pediatrician at the Charles B. Wang Community Health Center; Dr. Daniel Chen, and chairman of the Department of Psychiatry and Addiction Services at the Flushing Hospital Medical Center; and Dr. Yuenshan Manna Chan, licensed clinical social worker “R” in psychotherapy privilege and the clinical director at Valera Health.
“Healthfirst has strong relationships with community healthcare providers across the neighborhoods of New York,” said Dr. Susan Beane, and executive medical director at Healthfirst. “It is important for our members not only to be able to access care where it is convenient for them, but also from doctors that reflect their community and can provide culturally sensitive care. Our deep connections with providers allow us to bring important and relevant health education to our members where they live.”
For more information about the member appreciation event activities and times, please visit the Healthfirst Facebook Events Page.
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