When something important needs to be accomplished, New York makes it happen. Governor Pataki s leadership and tireless efforts to secure the waiver are another example of this commitment to the health of all New Yorkers and I am proud to be his partner in this landmark program. Today we are welcoming millions of medically needy New Yorkers, including our precious children, into medical homes where they will receive the health care they need to live longer and healthier lives, Dr. Novello said. Imagine what it will mean for so many Medicaid families, for the first time, to have regular access to immunizations, lead screening, mammograms and tests for cervical and prostate cancer. No more waiting until serious illness strikes, or relying on expensive emergency rooms for routine medical treatment.
Today is the beginning of a bright promise of better care.
Currently 378,102 New York City Medicaid recipients have enrolled voluntarily in managed care plans. Mandatory enrollment of the additional 1.1 million eligible Medicaid recipients will be phased in over a two year period. Phase I enrollment will include 382,000 Medicaid recipients living in lower Manhattan, parts of Brooklyn and all of Staten Island. I areas will now choose a managed care plan and a primary care physician to coordinate their medical care. Existing Medicaid recipients living in Phase I zip codes will need to enroll in a managed care plan soon after their Medicaid re-certification.