SCAA has also been involved in efforts to strengthen school health programs. SCAA has been a key player in discussions on the state's hospital financing law. SCAA has always advocated for the wise use of these funds to provide care for patients. SCAA became one of the leading proponents for a move from a regulated to a competitive hospital system and helped author the new legislation. State funding for these programs comes from the national tobacco settlement, the 55-cent increase in tobacco taxes and some HCRA funds.
Funding comes from state, federal and local governments.
The program is scheduled to begin in January 2001. Existing programs for small groups and individuals will be phased out and the Healthy New York Individual and Healthy New York Group policies will take their place. There are income limits on the individuals who can apply for these contracts and restrictions on the size and income of employers. Children's Health SCAA has worked to increase access to health coverage for children in the state through the creation of the Child Health Plus program and expanded eligibility for children through Medicaid. Beginning in the late 1980s, an effort to create a children's health program commenced, with SCAA as a leader and instrumental force.