Statement from Amida Care President and CEO Doug Wirth in Response to the 2024 Election Results
As we reflect on last night’s election outcome, we know these results bring serious implications, but they will never change our commitment to our mission and those we serve. Amida Care remains resolute in providing life-saving, compassionate care including high-quality gender-affirming and HIV care.
Read MoreOctober 21 – 27, 2024 is PrEP Aware Week in New York State
Amida Care, a Medicaid health plan in New York City and experts in HIV and gender-affirming care, is proud to join the New York State Department of Health (NYSDOH) AIDS Institute in commemorating #PrEPAwareWeek2024.
Read MoreAmida Care Launches “Let’s Vote! Let Our Voices Be Heard” – A Groundbreaking GOTV Video Series Empowering Voter Participation
Amida Care, a leading advocate for healthcare access with a passion for social justice, is thrilled to announce the launch of “Let’s Vote! Let Our Voices Be Heard,” an inspiring new Get-Out-The-Vote (GOTV) video series.
Read MoreNew York Transgender Health Coalition Joins Forces with National Transgender Visibility March to Illuminate, Educate, and Advocate
The New York Transgender Health Coalition, consisting of Amida Care, Colectivo Intercultural TRANSgrediendo, Community Healthcare Network (CHN), Destination Tomorrow, NEW Pride Agenda, and TransLatinx Network, announced that it would join forces with the Transgender Visibility March to help elevate the 2024 goals of the organization.
Read MorePolicy Brief Calls on Medicaid to Make Critical Changes to Embrace the Potential of Groundbreaking Longer-Acting Medication for HIV Prevention and Treatment
The O’Neill Institute for National and Global Health Law at Georgetown University Law Center, in partnership with Amida Care and Cicatelli Associates (CAI) TAP-in project, released a policy brief calling on Medicaid officials at the federal and state levels to take crucial steps to harness the potential of breakthrough longer-acting products for HIV prevention and treatment.
Read MoreAmida Care, Colectivo Intercultural TRANSgrediendo, Community Healthcare Network (CHN), Destination Tomorrow, NEW Pride Agenda, and TransLatinx Network Launch Groundbreaking PrEP Campaign to Combat HIV Epidemic
A coalition of trans health organizations announce a pioneering campaign aimed at raising awareness and access to pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) in the fight against HIV/AIDS.
Read MoreAmida Care, Colectivo Intercultural TRANSgrediendo, Community Healthcare Network (CHN), Destination Tomorrow, NEW Pride Agenda, and TransLatinx Network Celebrate HIV Prevention and Trans Health with New PrEP Campaign
This bilingual (English/Spanish) campaign aims to educate the trans community on pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP), a game-changing medication that reduces the risk of HIV from sex by 99%.
Read MoreStanding with Trans Communities: Amida Care’s Gender Identity Support Team Provides Gender-Affirming Care to Trans Communities in Need
On this Trans Day of Visibility, Amida Care proudly announces its continued commitment to support transgender individuals in accessing vital health care through its Gender Identity and Support Team (GIST). GIST provides informed expertise for gender-affirming services, including individualized health navigation for members of trans experience.
Read MoreAmida Care and Unite Us Partner to Connect Health, Human, and Social Service Organizations in New York City
The new collaboration will enhance care coordination to address critical social needs that impact members’ health in support of the New York 1115 Waiver Demonstration.
Read MoreAmida Care Announces Tamara May as New Chief Operating Officer
Amida Care, New York State’s largest Medicaid Special Needs Health Plan specializing in providing comprehensive health coverage and coordinated care to people affected by HIV, is excited to announce that Tamara May will be serving as the organization’s new Chief Operating Officer (COO).
Read MoreThe Amida Care Fund at Stonewall Community Foundation Announces 2023 Grant Awards for HIV/AIDS Initiatives at NYC Community Organizations
The Amida Care Fund at Stonewall Community Foundation announced today that it has awarded a total of $22,500 in grant funding for innovative HIV prevention and services to several community-based organizations to help them continue their important work for populations most impacted by the HIV epidemic.
Read MoreSix Expert HIV and TGNC Health Organizations Launch ‘Your Body, Your Life, Your PrEP’ Campaign to Increase PrEP Uptake
Amida Care, Colectivo Intercultural Transgrediendo, Community Healthcare Network (CHN), Destination Tomorrow, New Pride Agenda and TransLatinx Network announced a comprehensive effort to increase awareness and usage of pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) focusing on transgender and gender nonconforming (TGNC) communities disproportionately impacted by HIV/AIDS.
Read MoreAmida Care Applauds U.S. Preventive Services Task Force for Giving ‘Grade A’ Recommendation to Three Medications Used for PrEP
We applaud the USPSTF for making this recommendation, and encourage anyone who thinks they may benefit to have a conversation with their healthcare provider about PrEP.
Read MoreAmida Care Celebrates 20 Years of Improving Health Outcomes for New Yorkers Impacted by HIV
New York’s largest Medicaid Special Needs Health Plan was launched by seven community-based healthcare providers in August 2003. Amida Care currently serves over 9,000 New Yorkers affected by HIV, including 2,800 members who identify as transgender, gender nonconforming, and non-binary.
Read MoreSenator Hoylman-Sigal and Assemblymember Rosenthal Join Amida Care and Ryan Chelsea-Clinton for Celebration of Pride Month and National HIV Testing Day
NYS Senator Brad Hoylman-Sigal and NYS Assemblymember Linda Rosenthal joined Amida Care, a not-for-profit New York community health plan, and Ryan Chelsea-Clinton, a community health center, along with advocates and members of the community for a press conference and special event ahead of National HIV Testing Day. The elected officials and advocates encouraged New Yorkers to get tested for HIV, know their status, and get linked to care and treatment.
Read MoreAmida Care Congratulates Dr. James McDonald On Appointment As Acting Commissioner of New York State Department of Health
New York, NY (December 22, 2022) — Amida Care, New York’s largest Medicaid Special Needs Plan serving people impacted by HIV, released the following statement from President and CEO Doug Wirth, in response to Dr. James McDonald being named the Acting Commissioner of the New York State Department of Health by Governor Kathy Hochul:
Read MoreAmida Care Applauds U.S. Preventive Services Task Force for Awarding Long-Acting Injectable PrEP an A Grade
Amida Care released a statement from President and CEO Doug Wirth after long-acting injectable Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis (PrEP) received a recommendation for an A grade from the U.S. Preventive Services Task Force (USPSTF). The recommendation means that Affordable Care Act (ACA)-approved health plans will be required to cover PrEP.
Read MoreAmida Care Condemns the Reprehensible Anti-PrEP Federal Ruling In Texas
Amida Care released a statement following the ruling by a federal judge in Texas in Braidwood Management vs Becerra, which overturned the Affordable Care Act’s mandate requiring health insurance companies to cover PrEP, a critical and highly-effective HIV prevention medication.
Read MoreAmida Care and TransLatinx Network Call for Unity in Fight for Bodily Autonomy
Amida Care, New York’s largest Medicaid managed care Special Needs health Plan serving people impacted by HIV, and Translatinx Network, a nonprofit with a mission to promote the healthy development of trans people, has released the following statement calling for cisgender and LGBTQAI+ people to stand together in the fight for bodily autonomy in the wake of the Supreme Court’s decision in Dobbs v. Jackson that overturned Roe v. Wade.
Read MoreAmida Care Responds to Supreme Court Ruling in Dobbs v. Jackson
The Supreme Court’s decision to overturn Roe v. Wade is horrifying and will have devastating consequences on the health and well-being of countless Americans. The decision in Dobbs v. Jackson represents one of the most damaging setbacks to human rights in our country’s history.
Read MoreAmida Care Responds to Leaked Supreme Court Decision in Dobbs v. Jackson
The draft of the Dobbs v. Jackson opinion is dangerous and terrifying. This Supreme Court decision, overturning five decades of legal precedent established by Roe v. Wade, will have devastating consequences for the health of millions of Americans.
Read MoreAmida Care Applauds Biden-Harris Administration for Plans to Rescind Trump-era HHS Rule That Allowed for Discrimination in Health Care
We applaud the Biden-Harris Administration for planning to rescind the bigoted ‘conscience rule,’ which if implemented would have given health care workers a license to discriminate against the LGBTQ community and withhold care based on homophobia, transphobia, and other forms of bias and discrimination.
Read MoreBronx Borough President Vanessa L. Gibson, Amida Care Recognize National Transgender HIV Testing Day at Destination Tomorrow in the Bronx
The event highlighted the health disparities faced by people of transgender experience in the Bronx, and encouraged Bronxites to get tested, and learn about HIV prevention and treatment.
Read MoreBronx Borough President Vanessa L. Gibson, Amida Care, Destination Tomorrow Hold Press Conference on National Transgender HIV Testing Day
On Monday, April 18 at 10:00am, Bronx Borough President Vanessa L. Gibson and Amida Care, a not-for-profit New York community health plan, will be joined by advocates and health care providers on National Transgender HIV Testing Day for a press conference at Destination Tomorrow (2134 Barnes Avenue) in the Bronx.
Read MoreAmida Care Celebrates Success of New York City’s Supervised Injection Sites
According to data released this week,114 overdoses have been reversed in less than two months in New York City, thanks to new supervised injection sites and their trained staff.
Read MoreAmida Care Responds to Settlement Requiring NYC to Provide Separate Housing for TGNC People in Homeless Shelters
This historic agreement between the City of New York and Mariah Lopez of STARR will help to ensure that transgender and gender non-conforming New Yorkers who are experiencing homelessness are treated with dignity and respect in our city’s shelter system.
Read MoreAmida Care Applauds Governor Hochul for Proposals to Address Health Equity and Strengthen Medicaid in State of the State Address
Amida Care applauds Governor Hochul for outlining several proposals that will advance health equity, strengthen Medicaid and support LGBTQ communities throughout New York State.
Read MoreAmida Care Responds to Suicide of Trans Teen Haley Gabriella Feldmann, Calling for Access to Gender-Affirming Care
Our hearts go out to the family and friends of Haley Gabriella Feldmann and everyone grieving her loss. This tragedy underscores the discrimination people of transgender and gender non-conforming experience face at every turn – in education, employment, housing, health care and health insurance.
Read MoreThe Amida Care Fund at Stonewall Community Foundation Announces 2021 Grant Awards for HIV/AIDS Initiatives at NYC Community Organizations
The Amida Care Fund at Stonewall Community Foundation announced today that it has awarded a total of $20,000 in grant funding for innovative HIV prevention and services to five community-based organizations to help them continue their important work in the communities they serve.
Read MoreNew Report from George Washington University and Amida Care Details Importance of HIV Special Needs Plans in Improving Health Outcomes and Ending the HIV Epidemic
George Washington University Milken Institute School of Public Health, together with Amida Care, New York State’s largest not-for-profit Medicaid Special Needs Plan designed for New Yorkers affected by HIV, released a new report outlining the history of HIV Special Needs Plans (HIV-SNPs) in New York State.
Read MoreAmida Care and NEW Pride Agenda Host Virtual Town Hall on HIV Prevention National Gay Men’s HIV/AIDS Awareness Day
On Wednesday, September 29, Amida Care, New York’s largest nonprofit Medicaid Special Needs Health Plan (SNP) designed for New Yorkers affected by HIV, co-hosted a town hall event with the NEW Pride Agenda, a nonprofit LGBTQ advocacy organization that works to promote LGBTQ rights in New York State, to discuss sexual health services and PrEP, with a focus on men who have sex with men (MSM) and particularly MSM of color.
Read MoreAmida Care Celebrates Dr. Mary T. Bassett’s Appointment As Commissioner of New York State Department of Health
Amida Care congratulates Dr. Mary T. Bassett on her appointment as the new Commissioner for the New York State Department of Health. Governor Hochul has made an inspired choice in Dr. Bassett, who has a long and distinguished track record as both a leading public health expert and a dedicated public servant.
Read MoreAmida Care Responds to Recent Actions Against Haitian Asylum Seekers at the Border
Let us join the many lawmakers as well as civil rights and immigrant advocates in denouncing the treatment of Haitian migrants attempting to cross the Rio Grande, who were violently charged by agents on horseback, as we’ve seen in disturbing images and videos.
Read MoreAmida Care Responds to Report Highlighting Housing Insecurity in the LGBTQ Community
The recent report from the Williams Institute is deeply concerning on a number of levels. We have a looming housing crisis on our hands that disproportionately impacts less-resourced communities, including LGBTQ communities.
Read MoreAmida Care Celebrates Appointment of Tori Cooper to the Presidential Advisory Council on HIV/AIDS
Ms. Cooper’s appointment – the first ever Black trans woman to serve on the Presidential Advisory Council on HIV/AIDS – is historic. If we are to end the HIV/AIDS epidemic in the United States, we need diversity and inclusion in leadership.
Read MoreAmida Care Applauds New York City Budget for Prioritizing Trans Equity Programs and Initiatives to End the HIV Epidemic
Amida Care applauds New York City Council Speaker Corey Johnson, Council Finance Chair Daniel Dromm, Council Health Chair Mark Levine, and the entire New York City Council for passing a budget that prioritizes the health and well-being of LGBTQ communities–particularly transgender and gender non-conforming New Yorkers–and efforts to end the HIV epidemic in New York once and for all.
Read MoreAmida Care and NEW Pride Agenda Host Town Hall on Trans Health and HIV Prevention in Queens
On Tuesday, June 29, Amida Care, New York’s largest nonprofit Medicaid Special Needs Health Plan (SNP) designed for New Yorkers affected by HIV, co-hosted a town hall event with the NEW Pride Agenda, a nonprofit LGBTQ advocacy organization that works to promote LGBTQ rights in New York State, to discuss gender-affirming health care, sexual health services including HIV prevention and PrEP, and support resources in Queens.
Read MoreAmida Care Applauds Governor Cuomo for Signing the Gender Recognition Act into Law
Individuals of transgender and gender non-conforming experience face discrimination at every turn — in housing, employment, education, and in health care settings. Allowing transgender, non-binary, and intersex New Yorkers to select a gender that accurately reflects their identity is a critical step that will support them not only in living with dignity, but in accessing the health care they need to live healthy, authentic lives.
Read MoreAmida Care Affirms the Continued Need for Access to Telehealth Services
Governor Cuomo has announced that New York’s disaster emergency designation will expire this week—and along with it, waivers expanding access to telehealth services may expire as well. In light of this news, Amida Care affirms the continued need for access to telehealth services in New York, especially among people who rely on telehealth for connection to HIV, sexual health, and behavioral health services.
Read MoreAmida Care Condemns Hate-Fueled Attack on Transgender Man and His Wife in NYC Subway
Amida Care condemns the heinous and hateful attack on a transgender man and his wife in New York City this past week. Across the country, people of transgender experience are facing alarming acts of violence and hate crimes.
Read MoreAmida Care Congratulates Kelsey Louie, CEO of GMHC, on His New Position as CEO of The Door
Kelsey Louie, who has served for the last seven years as Chief Executive Officer of GMHC, the world’s first HIV/AIDS service organization, recently announced that he has accepted a position as Chief Executive Officer of The Door, a New York City-based organization that provides comprehensive youth development services.
Read MoreAmida Care Celebrates Biden-Harris Decision to Restore Protections for Transgender People in Health Care Settings
Amida Care applauds the Biden-Harris administration for extending protections to people of transgender experience so they can live healthy, authentic lives. After four long years of hateful and discriminatory policies under the previous administration that targeted the transgender community, today’s announcement is an important step toward advancing equity in our nation’s health care system.
Read MoreAmida Care and NEW Pride Agenda Host “All About PrEP” Town Hall, With a Focus on HIV Prevention in Upper Manhattan and Among Youth
On Tuesday, April 27, Amida Care, New York’s largest nonprofit Medicaid Special Needs Health Plan (SNP) designed for New Yorkers affected by HIV, co-hosted a town hall event with the NEW Pride Agenda, a nonprofit LGBTQ advocacy organization that works to promote LGBTQ rights in New York State, to discuss pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP), which is proven to reduce the risk of getting HIV from sex by 99%.
Read MoreThe Work Must Continue after the Chauvin Verdict
We celebrate this important legal victory while acknowledging the loss suffered by the Floyd family and everyone who knew him. And we cannot forget the many other families of color who have lost loved ones to police violence.
Read MoreAmida Care Celebrates Delay of Medicaid Pharmacy Carve-out in New York State Budget
Amida Care celebrates the two-year delay of the Medicaid pharmacy carve-out, which preserves our whole-person model of care. The proposed reform would have harmed millions of New Yorkers by changing how they access their prescription drugs.
Read MoreAmida Care Condemns New Law in Arkansas Banning Physicians from Providing Gender-Affirming Care to People of Trans Experience Under the Age of 18
Denying a person medically necessary, gender-affirming care is unconscionable. This bigoted law passed by the Arkansas General Assembly will have devastating consequences for the lives of young people of trans experience throughout the state.
Read MoreAmida Care and NEW Pride Agenda Host “All About PrEP” Town Hall, With a Focus on HIV Prevention in the Bronx and Among Women
On Thursday, March 25, Amida Care, New York’s largest nonprofit Medicaid Special Needs Health Plan (SNP) designed for New Yorkers affected by HIV, co-hosted a town hall event with NEW Pride Agenda, a nonprofit LGBTQ advocacy organization that works to promote LGBTQ rights in New York State, to discuss HIV prevention and pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP).
Read MoreAmida Care Celebrates Confirmation of Dr. Rachel Levine as Assistant Secretary for Health at HHS
Amida Care congratulates Dr. Rachel Levine on her confirmation as Assistant Secretary for Health at HHS. Dr. Levine is an inspired choice for this important position.
Read MoreAmida Care Applauds the Permanent Blocking of Trump-Era Public Charge Rule
Amida Care is thankful that the ‘public charge’ rule will no longer be implemented. This regulation targeted our foreign-born neighbors and put our collective public health at risk, undermining our ability to tackle public health crises, like Covid-19 and the HIV/AIDS epidemic.
Read MoreAmida Care Applauds U.S. House of Representatives for Passing of Equality Act; Urges Senate to Swiftly Pass Bill
Amida Care is excited by the recent news of the Equality Act’s passage in the House. This long overdue legislation will expand anti-discrimination protections for LGBTQ Americans, ensuring that people can no longer be lawfully discriminated against in employment, housing, credit, education, and other vital areas of everyday life.
Read MoreTrans Equity Consulting’s Cecilia Gentili Recognized with ACAP Leadership in Advocacy Award, Nominated by Amida Care
The Association for Community Affiliated Plans (ACAP) today presented Cecilia Gentili, Principal Consultant and Founder of Trans Equity Consulting, with its ninth annual Leadership in Advocacy Award. Ms. Gentili was nominated by Amida Care, New York’s largest Medicaid Special Needs Health Plan.
Read MoreAmida Care and EngageWell IPA Submit New York State’s First Level 2 VBP Arrangement for Shared Risk with Federally Qualified Health Centers
Amida Care, New York’s largest nonprofit Medicaid Special Needs Health Plan (SNP), and EngageWell IPA, a network of health and social care providers committed to using harm reduction to advance the health and well-being of patients, announced today the submission of a Level 2 Value Based Payment (VBP) contract to the New York State Department of Health. The contract is New York’s first example of Federally Qualified Health Centers (FQHCs) taking on a more advanced role in the financing and management of quality care in a value-based environment.
Read MoreAmida Care Applauds the Biden Administration’s Decision to Rescind Trump Era Medicaid Work Requirements
Over the weekend, the Biden administration began the process of undoing the previous administration’s harmful Medicaid work requirement policy, which resulted in tens of thousands losing their health care coverage over the last few years.
Read MoreAmida Care Commends Governor Cuomo for Including People Living with HIV in Expedited COVID-19 Vaccine Access
Governor Cuomo is right to prioritize people with comorbidities and chronic conditions like HIV for vaccination. Sound public policy becomes possible when sound scientific data drives decisions by leaders.
Read MoreAmida Care Applauds NYS Legislature and Governor Cuomo for Repealing “Walking While Trans” Loitering Law
For too long, this discriminatory loitering statute has been used to unfairly target and harass people of transgender experience, particularly transgender women of color, simply for existing.
Read MoreAmida Care Applauds President Biden for Reversing Ban on Transgender Americans from Serving in the Military and for Executive Order Protecting LGBTQ Americans from Discrimination
In America, there should be no place for denying someone health care, employment, housing, educational opportunities, or the chance to serve in the armed forces because of who they are. Discriminating against an individual based on their sexual orientation or gender identity is unconscionable and harms the health and safety of our nation.
Read MoreAmida Care Applauds NYS Legislature for Repealing “Walking While Trans” Loitering Law
For too long, this discriminatory loitering statute has been used to unfairly target and harass people of transgender experience, particularly transgender women of color, simply for existing. Transgender individuals already face discrimination at nearly every turn, as Amida Care detailed in a recent report.
Read MoreAmida Care Statement on Presidential Inauguration
New York (January 20, 2021) – Amida Care extends warm congratulations to President Joe Biden and Vice President Kamala Harris. We have much work to do to heal and to recommit to our efforts to create the world we want to live in.
Read MoreAmida Care Celebrates Selection of Rachel Levine as Assistant Secretary for Health at HHS
New York (January 20, 2021) – Amida Care applauds the Biden-Harris team for their nomination of Dr. Rachel Levine, a deeply qualified and historic choice to serve as the Assistant Secretary for Health at HHS.
Read MoreAmida Care and NEW Pride Agenda Host “All About PrEP” Town Hall on HIV Prevention
New York, NY (January 14, 2021) – On Wednesday, January 13, Amida Care, New York’s largest nonprofit Medicaid Special Needs Health Plan (SNP) designed for New Yorkers affected by HIV, co-hosted a town hall event with NEW Pride Agenda, a nonprofit LGBTQ advocacy organization that works to promote LGBTQ rights in New York State, to discuss pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP), which is proven to reduce the risk of getting HIV from sex by 99% when taken daily.
Read MoreCreating Positive Change, Unity, and Healing in Times of Turmoil
Amida Care, New York State’s largest not-for-profit Medicaid Special Needs Health Plan (SNP) designed for New Yorkers living with complex conditions like HIV, has issued the following statement from President and CEO Doug Wirth in response to the political crisis that unfolded at the Capitol on Wednesday, January 6.
Read MoreSave NY’s Safety Net Coalition Hosts Town Hall to Discuss How New York State Medicaid Carve-out Puts Patients at Risk
On Thursday, December 17, Amida Care, New York’s largest nonprofit Medicaid Special Needs Health Plan (SNP) designed for New Yorkers affected by HIV, participated in an online town hall event hosted by Save NY’s Safety Net Coalition to discuss how New York State’s proposed Medicaid reform will put patients at risk.
Read MoreThe Amida Care Fund at Stonewall Community Foundation Announces 2020 Grant Awards for HIV/AIDS Initiatives at NYC Community Organizations
New York, NY (December 10, 2020) – The Amida Care Fund at Stonewall Community Foundation announced today that it has awarded a total of $30,000 in grant funding for innovative HIV prevention and services to several community-based organizations to help them continue their important work in the communities they serve.
Read MoreAmida Care Chief Medical Officer Dr. Jerome Ernst Recognized with NYS AIDS Institute’s Linda Laubenstein Award
On December 1, Dr. Jerome Ernst, Chief Medical Officer of Amida Care, New York State’s largest not-for-profit Medicaid Special Needs Health Plan (SNP) designed for New Yorkers affected by HIV, will receive the New York State (NYS) AIDS Institute’s Linda Laubenstein Award at a special virtual ceremony during New York State’s official World AIDS Day celebrations.
Read MoreAmida Care Remembers NYC Mayor David Dinkins
(New York, NY—November 24, 2020) We are deeply saddened by the passing of Mayor David Dinkins, an iconic New Yorker, an unwavering ally of the LGBTQ community, and a leader in the fight to end the HIV epidemic.
Read MoreAmida Care Recognizes Transgender Day of Remembrance with Special “Your Health. Your Journey” Panel Discussion
New York, NY (November 20, 2020) – On Wednesday, November 18, Amida Care, New York’s largest nonprofit Medicaid Special Needs Health Plan (SNP) designed for New Yorkers affected by HIV, hosted a special Transgender Day of Remembrance event, entitled “Your Health. Your Journey.” The event was held during Trans Awareness Week (November 13—19), leading up to Transgender Day of Remembrance (November 20), an annual observance of the lives lost in acts of anti-transgender violence.
Read MoreAmida Care Responds to Results of 2020 Presidential Election, Offering Congratulations to President-Elect Biden and Vice President-Elect Harris
Across all 50 states, voters turned out in record numbers to have their voices heard in the 2020 Presidential Election. The fact that we saw record turnout despite a global pandemic underscores the strength of our democracy. After a tense few days as we waited for ballots to be counted, a clear winner has emerged. We at Amida Care would like to congratulate President-Elect Joe Biden and Vice-President Kamala Harris on their historic victory.
Read MoreAmida Care and God’s Love We Deliver Launch Program to Provide Medically Tailored Meals to Members Living with HIV
New York (November 1, 2020) – Amida Care, New York’s largest nonprofit Medicaid Special Needs Health Plan, and God’s Love We Deliver, the New York metropolitan area’s leading provider of life-sustaining meals and nutrition counseling for people living with severe illnesses, have partnered to launch a pilot program offering Medically Tailored Meals to Amida Care members living with HIV and other complex conditions.
Read MoreVirtual Event Explores COVID-19’s Impact on Ending the HIV Epidemic in New York
New York, NY (October 27, 2020) – On Thursday, October 22, Amida Care, New York’s largest nonprofit Medicaid Special Needs Health Plan (SNP) designed for New Yorkers affected by HIV, co-hosted a webinar with Gay City News, where expert panelists discussed how the pandemic has affected efforts to expand PrEP uptake and provide access to HIV testing and treatment.
Read MoreAmida Care Releases Policy Brief on How the Pandemic Has Affected New York’s Effort to End the HIV Epidemic
New York, NY (October 23, 2020) – Yesterday, Amida Care, New York’s largest nonprofit Medicaid Special Needs Health Plan (SNP) designed for New Yorkers affected by HIV, released a policy brief on how the COVID-19 pandemic has impacted New York’s effort to end the HIV epidemic. “A Pandemic and an Epidemic: COVID-19 and Ending HIV in New York” outlines recommendations for public health agencies, health plans and providers, and all New Yorkers on ways to increase PrEP uptake, strengthen Medicaid, and break down barriers to access for HIV prevention and treatment.
Read MoreAmida Care and Gay City News to Host Panel Discussion on COVID-19’s Impact on New York’s Plan to End HIV
New York, NY (October 14, 2020) – Amida Care, New York’s largest nonprofit Medicaid Special Needs Health Plan (SNP) designed for New Yorkers affected by HIV, and Gay City News, New York’s chief newspaper for the LGBTQ community, will host “COVID-19’s Impact on New York’s Plan to End HIV: A Discussion” on Thursday, October 22 from 1PM to 2PM. Just one week before New York State’s annual PrEP Aware Week, expert panelists at this event will discuss how the pandemic has affected efforts to expand PrEP uptake and provide access to HIV testing and treatment.
Read MoreAmida Care Honors Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg
Like all those who work for and care about issues of equity and justice, we were deeply saddened to learn about the passing of U.S. Supreme Court Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg on Friday evening. Her commitment to human rights and equity for all was unwavering.
Read MoreAmida Care Applauds Court Ruling Blocking Trump Administration’s Attempt to Roll Back Health Care Protections for People of Transgender Experience
Denying a person health care based on their sexual orientation or gender identity is unconscionable. This ruling, halting HHS’s hateful and discriminatory attempt to overturn protections for transgender people in the Affordable Care Act, is not only a victory for the LGBTQ community, but for everyone who believes that health care is a right, not a privilege.
Read MoreAmida Care Condemns Trump Administration’s Recent Filing Urging the Supreme Court to Overturn the Affordable Care Act
For over three years, the Trump administration’s relentless assault on the Affordable Care Act has jeopardized health care for millions of Americans. We condemn this latest attempt to overturn the ACA, which would leave millions of Americans without health insurance in the midst of the COVID-19 pandemic and severely set back our nation’s efforts to end the HIV/AIDS epidemic.
Read MoreNational Black Leadership Commission on Health’s C. Virginia Fields Recognized with ACAP Leadership in Advocacy Award
The Association for Community Affiliated Plans (ACAP) today presented C. Virginia Fields, President and Chief Executive Officer of the National Black Leadership Commission on Health (Black Health), formerly, National Black Leadership Commission on AIDS, Inc. with its eighth annual Leadership in Advocacy Award. Ms. Fields was nominated by Amida Care of New York; she serves on Amida Care’s Board of Directors.
Read MoreAmida Care Condemns Discriminatory HHS Rule That Erases Health Care Protections for People of Transgender Experience, Applauds Supreme Court for Protecting LGBTQ Americans in the Workplace
(New York, NY – June 16, 2020) On Friday, the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) under Section 1557 of the Affordable Care Act (ACA) finalized a regulation that would remove nondiscrimination protections for people of transgender experience in health care settings. On Monday, the Supreme Court served a direct rebuke to this discriminatory move with the ruling that Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, which makes it illegal for employers to discriminate because of a person’s sex, also covers sexual orientation and transgender status.
Read MoreAmida Care Applauds the Repeal of 50-a and Calls for New York City to Reduce Funding to the NYPD to Support Social Services
New York, NY–The current Black Lives Matter movement is about racial justice, and it’s also about breaking down systems of oppression. We applaud the New York State legislature for their repeal of 50-a, an unjust law that has barred the path to transparency in our state’s police departments.
Read MoreThe National Black Leadership Commission on Health and Amida Care Call for Urgent Attention to Address COVID-19’s Disproportionate Impact on Communities of Color
New York (April 10, 2020) –The National Black Leadership Commission on Health (NBLCH), a nonprofit organization that promotes health and prevention of diseases within the Black community, together with Amida Care, New York’s largest Medicaid Special Needs Health Plan are calling for urgent attention to address COVID-19’s disproportionate impact on the Black community.
Read MoreAmida Care Celebrates Affordable Care Act’s 10th Anniversary
New York, NY (March 23, 2020) – 10 years ago today, the Affordable Care Act became the law of the land, providing health coverage to 21 million Americans. The ACA is particularly crucial during a health crisis like the current COVID-19 pandemic to ensure access to care. This crisis reaffirms how critical it is to have a reliable, effective, and comprehensive health system that serves all Americas.
Read MoreAmida Care Urges New York State to Establish Overdose Prevention Centers
(New York, March 2, 2020) – Overdose prevention centers are sites where people who use injection drugs can do so in a medically supervised setting with linkages to a host of support services. These spaces are proven to reduce the amount and frequency that clients use drugs, help protect people from overdose, increase the delivery of medical and social services, and reduce behaviors such as syringe sharing—which increases the likelihood of HIV and Hepatitis C diagnoses.
Read MoreNYC Council Member Ritchie Torres, NYC Council Member Vanessa Gibson, Amida Care, and Bronx Community Health Organizations Call for More Resources to Fight HIV on National Black HIV/AIDS Awareness Day
Bronx, NY (February 7, 2020) — This morning, at a press conference marking National Black HIV/AIDS Awareness Day, New York City Council Members Ritchie Torres and Vanessa Gibson were joined by Amida Care, a not-for-profit New York community health plan, VIP Community Services, and community advocates at the Union Community Health Center in Fordham Heights to call for more resources to fight the HIV/AIDS epidemic in the Bronx and encourage residents to get tested for HIV and learn about HIV prevention and treatment.
Read MoreAmida Care Condemns Proposed Legislation Targeting Transgender Care
We are appalled at South Dakota’s attack on the transgender community. We strongly condemn the content of this bill—which is not only discriminatory, but also dangerous. Legislation such as this further marginalizes an already-vulnerable community and sends a message to LGBTQ youth that they are unworthy of care.
Read MoreAmida Care Responds to CBS New York Story Containing Stigmatizing Language About HIV
New York, NY (January 10, 2020) – The language used by CBS New York in their report on an incident between a Port Authority Police Officer and a suspect living with HIV is not just careless and false – it’s extremely dangerous.
Read MoreAmida Care View Community Magazine Wins 2019 MarCom Award
New York, NY (December 16, 2019) – The Spring 2019 issue of Amida Care View magazine, entitled At Risk, is the winner of a 2019 Gold MarCom Award, administered by the Association of Marketing and Communication Professionals (AMCP).
Read MoreAmida Care Urges Increased Attention to Trans Communities to End the Epidemic
New York, NY (December 10, 2019) – PrEP is a game-changing pill that is 99% effective at preventing sexual transmission of HIV when taken daily. New York has made tremendous progress towards an AIDS-free future, due in large part to the expansion of PrEP awareness and education.
Read MoreThe Amida Care Fund at Stonewall Community Foundation Announces 2019 Grant Awards for HIV/AIDS Initiatives at NYC Community Organizations
New York, NY (December 10, 2019) – The Amida Care Fund at Stonewall Community Foundation announced today that it has awarded a total of $30,000 in grant funding for innovative HIV prevention and services to several community-based organizations to help them continue their important work in the communities they serve.
Read MoreAmida Care Calls for Final Push to End the HIV Epidemic in New York
New York, NY (November 22, 2019) – Thanks to Governor Andrew Cuomo, public health officials, research scientists, health care providers, people living with HIV, and community leaders, New York State has a plan to End the HIV Epidemic by 2020, and the numbers released by the New York City Department of Health and Mental Hygiene show that plan is working.
Read MoreAmida Care Applauds Federal Judge’s Blocking of Discriminatory HHS Rule
New York, NY (November 6, 2019) –Today, a federal judge in New York struck down the Trump administration’s “conscience rule,” which would have allowed health care workers and health plans to discriminate against and refuse health services and care to individuals based on religious or moral objections.
Read MoreBrooklyn Borough President Eric L. Adams, Amida Care, and National Black Leadership Commission on Health Recognize PrEP Aware Week
BROOKLYN, NY (October 21, 2019) – On Wednesday, October 23rd, Brooklyn Borough President Eric L. Adams, Amida Care, and the National Black Leadership Commission on Health (NBLCH) will host a press conference at Brooklyn Borough Hall (209 Joralemon Street) to support and promote the first annual PrEP Aware Week, from October 20 through October 26, organized by the New York State Department of Health’s AIDS Institute. Events will take place statewide throughout the week to increase PrEP awareness and uptake.
Read MoreCommunity Healthcare Network Hosts 9th Annual Conference on Transgender Health: Inclusion & Visibility: Acceptance vs. Tolerance
(New York, NY) – Community Healthcare Network (CHN), a federally qualified health center with 15 sites throughout New York City, will host its 9th Annual Conference on Transgender Health: Inclusion & Visibility: Acceptance vs. Tolerance, on October 24-25. Amida Care is the lead health plan sponsor.
Read MoreCommunity Healthcare Network Hosts 9th Annual Conference on Transgender Health: Inclusion & Visibility: Acceptance vs. Tolerance
(New York, NY) – Community Healthcare Network (CHN), a federally qualified health center with 15 sites throughout New York City, will host its 9th Annual Conference on Transgender Health: Inclusion & Visibility: Acceptance vs. Tolerance, on October 24-25. Amida Care is the lead health plan sponsor.
Read MoreAmida Care Applauds Initial Blocking of Public Charge Rule
New York, NY (October 15, 2019) – Doug Wirth, president and CEO of Amida Care, New York’s largest not-for-profit Medicaid Special Needs Health Plan, released the following statement after a federal judge blocked the Trump Administration’s ‘public charge’ rule. The rule, which would penalize immigrants who use public benefits like food stamps and Medicaid by denying them green cards and visas, was set to take effect today.
Read MoreAmida Care Supports First Ever “PrEP Aware Week” in New York State
(New York – October 8, 2019) Amida Care is joining the New York State Department of Health (NYSDOH) AIDS Institute, Governor Andrew Cuomo, Commissioner Howard A. Zucker, advocates, New York City elected officials, community organizations, and health care providers from across the state to support and actively promote PrEP Aware Week.
Read MoreAmida Care Applauds Federal Ruling Paving the Way for Safer Consumption Spaces
Amida Care is excited that the nation’s first safer consumption space is one step closer to becoming reality after Judge McHugh’s landmark decision on October 4. Safer consumption spaces are sites where people who use drugs can do so in a medically supervised setting with linkages to a host of support services.
Read MoreAmida Care Celebrates New York State’s Success in Achieving Largest Decrease in HIV Diagnoses Since 2014
(New York – October 8, 2019) – Governor Andrew Cuomo has announced that 2018 had the largest decrease in new HIV diagnoses in New York since the launch of the Ending the Epidemic initiative in 2014, and that the State is on track to end the HIV/AIDS epidemic by the end of 2020.
Read MoreAmida Care Supports Governor Andrew Cuomo’s Actions to Expand Medicaid to Inmates 30 Days Before Release
New York, NY (August 16, 2019) – Governor Andrew Cuomo’s request to CMS to expand Medicaid to incarcerated New Yorkers will go a long way towards ensuring that individuals exiting the criminal justice system are connected to care upon release.
Read MoreAmida Care Condemns Trump Administration’s New Public Charge Rule
New York, NY (August 12, 2019) – The Trump Administration’s decision to penalize immigrants who access vital social services undermines our ideals as a nation and will adversely impact public health and state budgets.
Read MoreAmida Care Applauds Cuomo Administration for Standing Up for Transgender New Yorkers and Opposing Discriminatory HHS Rule
(New York, NY – August 7, 2019) Amida Care applauds the Cuomo administration for opposing discriminatory rules that target people of transgender experience and gender nonconforming individuals.
Read MoreAmida Care Responds to Newest CDC Data, Urges Further Action to Expand Access to PrEP
(New York – July 29, 2019) Doug Wirth, President and CEO of Amida Care, released the following statement in response to the latest data from the Centers for Disease Control (CDC), showing that despite progress, the use of pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) among men at elevated risk for HIV remains low.
Read MoreAmida Care Applauds Governor Cuomo for Expanding Access to PrEP and Taking Action to Protect LGBTQ New Yorkers from Discrimination
New York – July 24, 2019) Governor Cuomo’s new actions, which will make PrEP affordable for more New Yorkers, ensure that everyone has the information they need to access quality health care, and send a clear message that discrimination will not be tolerated, will help us reach our goal of ending the HIV/AIDS epidemic in New York by 2020.
Read MoreAmida Care Applauds PrEP Access and Coverage Act
(New York – July 19, 2019) Not only does PrEP enable people to take control of their health, it can save millions of taxpayer dollars associated with treating HIV. We thank Representatives Adam Schiff and Bonnie Watson Coleman for introducing the PrEP Access and Coverage Act, legislation that will greatly accelerate our efforts to end the HIV/AIDS epidemic.
Read MoreAmida Care President and CEO Doug Wirth to Be Honored Among City & State Pride Power 100
(New York, June 25, 2019) – Doug Wirth, President and CEO of Amida Care, New York’s largest Medicaid Special Needs health Plan (SNP), will be honored among the City & State Pride Power 100 on June 27.
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Amida Care President and CEO Doug Wirth to Be Honored Among City & State Pride Power 100
(New York, June 25, 2019) – Doug Wirth, President and CEO of Amida Care, New York’s largest Medicaid Special Needs health Plan (SNP), will be honored among the City & State Pride Power 100 on June 27.
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Amida Care to Be Honored with Corporate Partner of the Year Award by Transgender Legal Defense and Education Fund (TLDEF)
(New York, NY, June 5, 2019) – Amida Care, New York’s largest Medicaid Special Needs Plan (SNP) for people living with or at elevated risk for HIV, will be honored by Transgender Legal Defense & Education Fund (TLDEF) as Corporate Partner of the Year at the 2019 Trans Advocacy Awards on Tuesday, June 11, at the Manhattan Penthouse in New York City.
Read MoreAmida Care Condemns Discriminatory New HHS Rule
(New York, NY – May 24, 2019) Doug Wirth, President and CEO of Amida Care, released the following statement in response to a new proposal to rollback protections for people of transgender experience in health care settings:
Read MoreAmida Care Statement on U.S. House of Representatives Oversight Committee Hearing on PrEP Pricing and Access
(New York, NY – May 20, 2019) – The following is a statement from Amida Care on the May 16 House of Representatives Oversight Committee hearing on pricing and access as it relates to pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP):
Read MoreAmida Care Joins Call for NYC Mayor and City Council to Provide Stopgap Public Health Funds Cut by State; Urges State to Fully Restore Funding
(New York, May 13, 2019) – New York State reimburses localities across the state for critical health programs and services, but the FY2020 enacted budget has reduced the reimbursement rate in New York City from 36% to 20%, resulting in a loss of $59 million in funding.
Read MoreAmida Care Condemns Trump Administration and HHS Over New Rule That Allows Discrimination and Limits Access to Health Care
New York, NY (May 6, 2019) – Amida Care, New York’s largest not-for-profit Medicaid Special Needs Health Plan (SNP), strongly opposes the new rule issued by the Health and Human Services Department (HHS) Office of Civil Rights, protecting health care workers who refuse to provide health services and care to individuals based on religious or moral objections.
Read MoreAmida Care Applauds Gov. Cuomo for Pledging to Protect Transgender New Yorkers
On Friday, Governor Cuomo condemned the Trump administration’s plan to roll back protections for transgender Americans.
Read MoreAmida Care Condemns Ban on Transgender Americans Serving in the Military As Policy Goes Into Effect
Today, the Trump Administration’s ban on transgender Americans serving in the military will take effect. Amida Care, a New York State Medicaid Special Needs Health Plan (SNP) and advocate for transgender health, supports efforts to defeat the ban.
Read MoreAmida Care Releases Report on Transgender Health
Amida Care’s new report, “Breaking Barriers to Transgender Health Care,” addresses challenges facing the transgender community and offers recommendations to improve health outcomes.
Read MoreAmida Care Statement Condemning DOJ Filing in Support of Decision to Strike Down ACA
The DOJ is seeking the affirmation of a lower court ruling in the Texas v. United States health care lawsuit, which would result in the end of the Affordable Care Act (ACA) that provides health coverage to 21 million Americans:
Read MoreAmida Care Responds to President Trump’s Pledge to End HIV Transmissions by 2030
President Trump’s home state of New York can provide a national model to End the HIV/AIDS Epidemic.
Read MoreAmida Care Condemns Supreme Court Decision Allowing Ban on Transgender Americans Serving in the Military
Today’s ruling from the highest court in our land allows the Trump administration to discriminate against brave Americans who are willing to put their lives on the line in service to our country.
Read MoreAmida Care Applauds Governor Andrew Cuomo, New York State Legislature Action on GENDA, Ban on Conversion Therapy
We’re grateful to Governor Andrew Cuomo and New York State lawmakers for prioritizing this long-overdue legislation. The Gender Expression Non-Discrimination Act (GENDA) legally codifies protections for transgender and gender non-conforming (TGNC) people against discrimination in employment and health care.
Read MoreAmida Care Praises Governor Cuomo’s Commitment to Advance GENDA Legislation, Urges Swift Action by Legislature
The Gender Expression Non-Discrimination Act (GENDA) will legally codify protections for transgender and gender non-conforming (TGNC) people against discrimination in employment and health care. We applaud Governor Cuomo’s commitment to advance this essential legislation that will ensure gender equity and safeguard patient protections in the Affordable Care Act (ACA).
Read MoreAmida Care Calls on New York State to Expand Access to Medicaid Special Needs Health Plans
Amida Care, New York’s largest not-for-profit Medicaid Special Needs Health Plan (SNP), is calling on the New York State Department of Health (DOH) and the AIDS Institute to use their existing authority to allow SNPs to expand eligibility to communities at higher risk for HIV by April 2019.
Read MoreDoug Wirth, President and CEO of Amida Care, Honored with “Responsible 100” Award from City & State
Doug Wirth, President and CEO of Amida Care, New York’s largest Medicaid Special Needs Health Plan (SNP), was recognized with a Responsible 100 award from City & State on December 18 at Sony Hall.
Read MoreDoug Wirth, President and CEO of Amida Care, Honored with “Responsible 100” Award from City & State
Doug Wirth, President and CEO of Amida Care, New York’s largest Medicaid Special Needs Health Plan (SNP), was recognized with a Responsible 100 award from City & State on December 18 at Sony Hall.
Read MoreAmida Care Condemns Texas Judge’s Ruling on Affordable Care Act
The December 14 federal ruling puts the health of 20 million Americans into jeopardy. For those individuals who live with chronic conditions, such as HIV and Hepatitis C, playing politics with health care is a life or death situation.
Read MoreAmida Care Praises Governor Cuomo and Department of Health on Latest Progress to End the AIDS Epidemic
New York has been and remains a national leader in addressing the HIV/AIDS epidemic, thanks to the leadership and dedication of Governor Cuomo and his administration. The state’s latest data continues to show a decline in new HIV diagnoses – making the mission of ending the epidemic by 2020 closer to a reality.
Read MoreAmida Care Joins Advocates, Elected Officials, and Health Care Leaders in Albany for 2018 Ending the Epidemic Summit
On December 4 and 5, Amida Care, New York’s largest not-for-profit Medicaid Special Needs Health Plan, joined advocates, health care leaders, and elected officials at the 2018 Ending the Epidemic Summit at the Empire State Plaza Convention Center.
Read MoreThe Amida Care Fund at Stonewall Community Foundation Announces 2018 Grant Awards for HIV/AIDS Initiatives at NYC Community Organizations
The Amida Care Fund at Stonewall Community Foundation announced today that it has awarded a total of $20,000 in grant funding for innovative HIV prevention and services to several community-based organizations to help them continue their important work in the communities they serve.
Read MoreAmida Care, National Black Leadership Commission on AIDS (NBLCA), and Brooklyn Borough President Eric L. Adams Host World AIDS Day Event in Brooklyn
Amida Care, a not-for-profit New York-based community health plan, the National Black Leadership Commission on AIDS (NBLCA), representatives from Brooklyn Borough President Eric L. Adams’ office, and Assembly Member Walter T. Mosley gathered days before World AIDS Day on November 28 to raise awareness around ending the HIV/AIDS epidemic in Brooklyn.
Read MoreAmida Care Applauds Outcomes That Uphold Access to Health Care in 2018 Midterm Elections
For months leading up to the midterm elections, voters told pollsters that health care was their number one priority for this election. The results of the midterms prove that to be true.
Read MoreAmida Care Condemns the Trump Administration’s Reported Move to Roll Back Recognition and Protection for Transgender and Gender-Nonconforming Americans
This weekend, The New York Times reported that the Trump Administration is considering narrowly defining gender as a biological condition determined by genitalia at birth. This is the latest effort by the administration to roll back hard-fought protections and rights for Americans of transgender experience.
Read MoreAmida Care Applauds Mayor de Blasio, New York City Council, and Speaker Corey Johnson for Helping to Make Birth Certificates Accurately Reflect Gender Identity
Thanks to legislation passed by the New York City Council and signed into law by Mayor de Blasio today, New York City will allow individuals to change the gender on their birth certificate to one that affirms their gender identity, including the option to select “X” to designate their gender as non-binary, intersex, or another form of gender identity.
Read MoreAmida Care Condemns Trump Administration’s Proposed Public Charge Rule
The Trump Administration’s proposed rule to penalize documented immigrants who access vital social services undermines our ideals as a nation, and the impact on public health and state budgets will be catastrophic.
Read MoreCommunity Healthcare Network Hosts 8th Annual Conference on Transgender Health: TRANSforming Social Justice through Healthcare
Community Healthcare Network (CHN), a federally qualified health center with 15 sites throughout New York City, will host its 8th Annual Conference on Transgender Health: TRANSforming Social Justice through Healthcare, on October 18-19. The conference, hosted at The New School in New York City, is co-sponsored by Amida Care, New York’s largest Medicaid not-for-profit Special Needs Health Plan.
Read MoreAmida Care Applauds Lawsuit Against Short-Term, Limited-Duration Plan Final Rule, Which Would Undermine Americans’ Health Care Needs
Doug Wirth, President and CEO of Amida Care issued the following statement commending a lawsuit filed by seven health care organizations against the short-term, limited-duration plan final rule. This rule will harm patients and their families as well as others in the health care system by undermining access to quality, affordable coverage, and will destabilize the Affordable Care Act (ACA), significantly disrupting insurance markets in states across the country.
Read MoreAmida Care Urges Increased Access to PrEP for Communities at Higher Risk of HIV
If we are committed to ending the HIV/AIDS epidemic once and for all, communities that are at higher risk for contracting HIV must have access to prevention tools like PrEP.
Read MoreAmida Care Condemns Discriminatory “Deploy or Get Out” Policy for People Living with HIV, Urges Immediate Action
Building on decades of stigma and discrimination that service members living with HIV have endured, the Trump Administration’s ‘Deploy or Get Out’ policy is a thinly veiled attempt to purge the military of the 1,000+ service members who live with HIV and serve this country with dignity.
Read MoreAmida Care and National Black Leadership Commission on AIDS Inc. (NBLCA) Host Hepatitis C Testing Event on National African American Hepatitis C Action Day with Support from Bronx Council Member Andy King
On Wednesday, July 25, Amida Care, a not-for-profit New York community health plan; the National Black Leadership Commission on AIDS, Inc. (NBLCA); New York City Council Member Andy King and Deputy Bronx Borough President Marricka Scott-McFadden partnered with advocates, local leaders and health care providers at The Mall at Bay Plaza on National African American Hepatitis C Action Day to encourage Bronx residents to get screened for Hepatitis C.
Read MoreAmida Care and End AIDS NY 2020 Community Coalition Urge New York State to Expand HIV Special Needs Health Plan Eligibility to All Medicaid-Eligible Men Who Have Sex with Men Regardless of HIV Status
Amida Care, New York’s largest not-for-profit Medicaid Special Needs Health Plan (SNP), along with the End AIDS NY 2020 Community Coalition, sent a letter to New York State Medicaid Director Donna Frescatore and New York State AIDS Institute Director Johanne E. Morne urging the state to allow HIV Special Needs Health Plans (HSNPs) to provide services to all men who have sex with men (MSM) who qualify for Medicaid, regardless of HIV status.
Read MoreAssociation for Community Affiliated Plans Recognizes Amida Care President and CEO Doug Wirth with ACAP Advantage Award
Doug Wirth, President and CEO of Amida Care, New York’s largest not-for-profit Medicaid Special Needs Health Plan (SNP), has been named by the Association for Community Affiliated Plans (ACAP) as the recipient of the 2018 “ACAP Advantage Award.”
Read MoreAmida Care Applauds Governor Cuomo’s Expanded Health Care Protections for New Yorkers of Trans Experience
We applaud Governor Cuomo’s steps to safeguard basic rights for New Yorkers of transgender experience, to protect them from discrimination by health care providers and insurers in the face of anticipated federal rollbacks.
Read MoreAmida Care Condemns Trump Administration’s Draconian Immigration Policies
Like so many other people of conscience, we are appalled by the Trump Administration’s immigration policy toward people coming to this country to better their lives and the lives of their children and loved ones. Make no mistake — the executive order signed by President Trump yesterday, ending the separation of families at the border, is no solution at all.
Read MoreAmida Care Applauds Mayor de Blasio, Council Speaker Johnson, and Board of Health for Fighting to Make Birth Certificates Accurately Reflect Gender Identity
Under a proposed amendment passed unanimously by the New York City Board of Health on Tuesday morning, and legislation introduced at the City Council this afternoon, New York City is set to allow individuals to change the gender on their birth certificate to one that affirms their gender identity, including the option to select “X” to designate their gender as non-binary, intersex, or another form of gender identity.
Read MoreAmida Care Commends New York State for Upholding Gender Non-Conforming New Yorkers’ Right to Health Care
In a historic, precedent-setting ruling on May 11, the New York State Office of Temporary and Disability Assistance (OTDA) upheld the right of gender non-conforming New Yorkers to access medically necessary, gender-affirming health care.
Read MoreNew York City Council-Funded Program Creates Jobs for New Yorkers Living with HIV
Amida Care, New York’s largest Medicaid Special Needs Health Plan (SNP), is approaching two years of success with the Innovator Employment Project, which is made possible with funding from New York City Council.
Read MoreAmida Care Applauds American Medical Association’s Stand Against President Trump’s Discriminatory Ban on Military Service for Transgender People
This week in a letter to Secretary of Defense James Mattis, American Medical Association (AMA) Executive Vice President and CEO James L. Madara, MD, expressed concern with the Trump Administration’s discriminatory ban on transgender Americans serving in the military, stating that there is “no medically valid reason…to exclude transgender individuals from military service.” Amida Care, the largest Medicaid Special Needs Health Plan (SNP) in New York State and advocate for transgender health, applauds the AMA for standing up for transgender Americans who wish to serve their country.
Read MoreAmida Care Applauds Governor Andrew Cuomo on Commitment to End Hepatitis C and Expand Rental Assistance for People Living with HIV in New York State
Amida Care Applauds Governor Andrew Cuomo on Commitment to End Hepatitis C and Expand Rental Assistance for People Living with HIV in New York State.
Read MoreThe Atlantic Terminal Tenants’ Association and Amida Care Host Black History Month Event in Brooklyn with Support from NYC Council Majority Leader Laurie Cumbo
On February 24, Amida Care, a not-for-profit New York community health plan, co-sponsored the fourth annual Black History Month Event organized by the Atlantic Terminal Tenants’ Association.
Read MoreAmida Care Condemns Trump Administration’s FY2019 Budget Proposal That Would Undermine Access to Health Care
President Trump’s executive budget proposal will not make America great—it will make America poorer and sicker. Access to quality and affordable health care is already a challenge for far too many individuals in this country.
Read MoreAmida Care Commends Congress for Passing Budget with Funding for Community Health Centers and Other Health-Related Priorities
We congratulate members of Congress for passing this budget agreement that helps to provide essential care for nearly 27 million Americans, including 2 million New Yorkers, who otherwise could not afford care. However, we are concerned that the appropriation doesn’t go far enough.
Read MoreNYS Budget Expands State-wide Housing Access for People Living with HIV, But More Is Needed to Meet Ending the Epidemic Goals and Produce Long-Term Cost Savings
Governor Andrew Cuomo’s executive budget takes a step forward in expanding housing support for people living with HIV outside of New York City. For the first time, enhanced rental assistance and a 30 percent rent cap for people living with HIV across New York State were included in the executive budget.
Read MoreAmida Care, Advocates Descend on Albany to Demand More Support for New Yorkers Living with HIV/AIDS
Amida Care, New York’s largest not-for-profit Medicaid Special Needs Health Plan (SNP), joined forces with over 60 other organizations from across New York State today in Albany to advocate for more support for New Yorkers who live with, or are at high-risk of contracting, HIV/AIDS.
Read MoreAmida Care Condemns Trump Administration and HHS Steps that will Promote Discrimination, Limit Access to Health Care
It is hard enough for too many Americans to get their health needs met. Allowing health care workers who are biased, racist, homophobic, transphobic, or against women’s reproductive rights to withhold health services will hurt our neighbors.
Read MoreAmida Care, Advocates Call for Increased Investment to End the AIDS Epidemic
Amida Care, New York’s largest not-for-profit Medicaid Special Needs Health Plan (SNP), applauds New York State on achieving record-low levels of new HIV diagnoses – down 13 percent from 2015 to 2016. But, increased investment is needed in the FY19 state budget to meet the goal of Governor Andrew Cuomo’s Blueprint to End the HIV/AIDS Epidemic (EtE) by the year 2020.
Read MoreAmida Care Congratulates Council Member Mark Levine on Appointment as City Council Health Committee Chair
Congratulations to Council Member Mark Levine on his appointment as the next New York City Council Health Committee Chair. We have been fortunate to have him as a supporter of quality health care that produces positive outcomes for all New Yorkers.
Read MoreAmida Care Congratulates New York City Council’s New Speaker Corey Johnson
Congratulations to Council Member Corey Johnson on his election as the next New York City Council Speaker. Council Member Johnson is the first openly HIV-positive New York City Council Speaker and has always been a champion for improving the health of New Yorkers.
Read MoreAmida Care Condemns the Trump Administration’s Exclusionary CDC Word Ban
Amida Care is appalled by the Trump Administration’s ban on using certain words in the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s (CDC) budget documents for Congress.
Read MoreAmida Care Condemns Tax Reform Bill That Would Undermine Access to Health Care
Amida Care strongly opposes continued actions by Congress and President Trump’s administration to undermine America’s safety net programs and access to health care.
Read MoreAmida Care Commemorates World AIDS Day 2017
As Amida Care commemorates World AIDS Day 2017, we remember those we’ve lost, celebrate the advancements we’ve made in the fight against HIV/AIDS, and take and urge continued action to break through the remaining hurdles to end the epidemic once and for all.
Read MoreAmida Care, NYS AIDS Institute, and NYC Community Organizations Publish “Hire Me! End AIDS with Jobs”
In connection with World AIDS Day on December 1, 2017, Amida Care has published a special community publication, “Hire Me! End AIDS with Jobs,” produced in partnership with Alliance for Positive Change, Alpha Workshops Studio School, Cicatelli Associates Inc., Exponents, The Fortune Society, GMHC, Housing Works, The LGBT Center, National Working Positive Coalition, NYS AIDS Institute, NYS Education Department, and Translatina Network.
Read MoreThe Amida Care Fund at Stonewall Community Foundation Announces 2017 Grant Awards for HIV/AIDS Initiatives at NYC Community Organizations
The Amida Care Fund at Stonewall Community Foundation announced today that it has awarded a total of $20,000 in new grants for innovative HIV prevention and services to several community-based organizations to help them continue their important work in the communities they serve.
Read MoreAmida Care Condemns Tax Proposal That Would Undermine Access to Health Care
Amida Care strongly opposes continued actions by Congress and President Trump’s administration to undermine America’s safety net programs and access to health care. The proposed “Tax Cuts and Jobs Act” in the U.S. Senate and the recently passed House tax bill will cut taxes for large corporations and the extremely wealthy at the expense of hard-working Americans.
Read MoreNYS Medicaid Special Needs Health Plans (SNPs) Expand Access to All Medicaid-Eligible Transgender Individuals Regardless of HIV Status
New York State Medicaid Special Needs Health Plans (SNPs) will be open to all transgender individuals who qualify, regardless of their HIV status. Until now, New York SNPs have only enrolled eligible individuals who are HIV-positive or people who are experiencing homelessness (regardless of HIV status). Amida Care, the largest of the three Medicaid SNPs in New York, currently provides comprehensive health coverage and coordinated care to over 6,400 New Yorkers, including more than 400 people of transgender experience.
Read MoreAmida Care Condemns Dr. Betty Price’s Comments Promoting Misinformation and Stigma Around HIV
Amida Care condemns the questions posed by Dr. Betty Price, Georgia state representative and physician, suggesting a “quarantine” for patients living with HIV as a solution to ending the HIV epidemic.
Read MoreAmida Care Denounces Trump Administration’s Actions to Degrade the ACA
Last week, President Trump signed two executive orders for policy changes that would wreak havoc on the health of the nation. These measures would erode patient protections and are a strategy to sabotage the Affordable Care Act (ACA) following repeated legislative defeats to repeal it.
Read MoreCommunity Healthcare Network Hosts 7th Annual Transgender Health Conference in New York at The New School
Community Healthcare Network (CHN) will host its 7th annual Transgender Health Conference, in collaboration with The New School, New York City community health plan Amida Care, and the New York State Department of Health, on October 26th and 27th at The New School.
Read MoreAmida Care Condemns Trump Administration’s Elimination of Deferred Action Childhood Arrival (DACA) Program
Amida Care vehemently opposes President Trump’s decision to rescind the Deferred Action Childhood Arrival (DACA) program, which grants 800,000 young Americans the right to work in the country they’ve called home for the majority of their lives.
Read MoreAmida Care Reaffirms Our Strong Opposition to President Trump’s Discriminatory Ban on Military Service for Transgender People
In July, Amida Care issued a statement rejecting President Trump’s intention to ban transgender Americans from serving in the military. Last Friday, the President signed a memorandum formalizing this intention. We condemn this discriminatory stance and reaffirm our commitment to support equal rights and fair treatment for the transgender community.
Read MoreFinding Strength After Charlottesville
Amida Care is deeply saddened by the violence this weekend in Charlottesville, Va. We send our condolences to the families of those who died and wish recovery to the counter-protesters who were injured as well as healing to the Charlottesville community and our nation.
Read MoreAmida Care Opposes President Trump’s Discriminatory Ban on Military Service for Transgender People
Amida Care strongly rejects President Trump’s ban preventing transgender Americans from serving in the military. Currently, 15,000 transgender men and women serve our country.
Read MoreAmida Care Recognized for Service in LGBTQ Community with PRIDE Award
Amida Care, a not-for-profit, Medicaid Special Needs health Plan (SNP) that provides comprehensive medical, behavioral, and psychosocial support to over 6,000 New Yorkers, has received the City & State and New York Nonprofit Media PRIDE Award.
Read MoreIn Celebration of LGBTQ Pride Month, Amida Care and NYC Community Organizations Publish “Sexual Health + Pleasure” Magazine
In honor of Pride Month 2017, Amida Care has published a special community publication called “Let’s Start a Conversation: Sexual Health and Pleasure,” produced in partnership with The Ali Forney Center, Callen-Lorde, Housing Works, Iris House, The LGBT Center, and SAGE.
Read MoreAmida Care Presents Free Community Fitness Class in Brooklyn with Support from NYC Council Member Robert E. Cornegy, Jr.
On June 14, not-for-profit New York community health plan Amida Care and Bedford Stuyvesant Restoration Corporation presented a community fitness class, a “Live Your Life” wellness event.
Read MoreAmida Care Presents Free Community Zumba Class in Brooklyn with Support from NYC Council Member Laurie A. Cumbo
On June 10, with support from Brooklyn Council Member Laurie A. Cumbo, not-for-profit New York community health plan Amida Care presented “It’s Time to Zumba,” a community “Live Your Life” wellness event at Ebbets Field Apartments in Brooklyn.
Read MoreAmida Care Presents Community Dance Event in Brooklyn with Support from NYC Council Member Robert E. Cornegy, Jr.
On May 25, with support from Brooklyn Council Member Robert E. Cornegy, Jr., not-for-profit New York community health plan Amida Care presented “African Music and Dance,” a free community “Live Your Life” wellness event at Restoration Plaza in Brooklyn.
Read MoreAmida Care Strongly Opposes Devastating Health Care Cuts in President Trump’s Budget
Amida Care believes that President Trump’s fiscal year 2018 budget blatantly jeopardizes the health of the nation, particularly those who rely on affordable health care and safety-net programs to get and stay healthy.
Read MoreCherie Raymond of Amida Care Named ACAP Making a Difference Award Honorable Mention Winner for Transgender Health Care Coordination
The Association for Community Affiliated Plans (ACAP) named Ms. Cherie Raymond, RN and Manager of Medicaid Clinical Services at Amida Care, a 2017 Making a Difference Award Honorable Mention winner.
Read MoreAmida Care Denounces House Passage of the Disastrous American Health Care Act
On May 4, the House of Representatives voted for the American Health Care Act (AHCA), a bill that would set back efforts to end the HIV/AIDS epidemic and be catastrophic for millions of people with chronic conditions while giving tax breaks to the wealthiest Americans.
Read MoreAmida Care Presents Community Dance Event in the Bronx with Support from NYC Council Member Ritchie Torres
On March 25, with support from Bronx Council Member Ritchie Torres, not-for-profit New York community health plan Amida Care presented “Movement with Rhythm,” a free community “Live Your Life” wellness event at Grand Slam Banquet Hall in the Bronx.
Read MoreSima Toussi, MD, Pediatric HIV/AIDS Specialist, Joins Amida Care as Medical Director
Amida Care, New York’s largest Medicaid Special Needs Health Plan (SNP) for people with chronic conditions such as HIV/AIDS, today announced that Dr. Sima Toussi, MD, has joined the organization as Medical Director. Dr. Toussi brings more than eight years of experience focused on infectious diseases, particularly HIV.
Read MoreDr. Luis Freddy Molano of Community Healthcare Network Named ACAP Leadership in Advocacy Award Honorable Mention Winner; Nominated by Amida Care
The Association for Community Affiliated Plans (ACAP) yesterday named Dr. Luis Freddy Molano, Vice President of Infectious Diseases and LGBTQ Programs at Community Healthcare Network (CHN), a 2017 Leadership in Advocacy Award Honorable Mention winner. The Leadership in Advocacy Award recognizes individuals who exceed the norm in advocating for Medicaid and other safety net health programs and on behalf of the vulnerable populations that these programs serve.
Read MoreAmida Care Spearheads New NYC Innovator Accountable Care Organization
Amida Care, New York’s largest Medicaid Special Needs health Plan (SNP) for people with chronic conditions including HIV/AIDS and behavioral health disorders, is developing a provider-led Innovator Accountable Care Organization (IACO) pilot focused on utilizing Medicaid Redesign to prevent new HIV infections and improve health outcomes for people living with HIV/AIDS in New York City.
Read MoreThe Amida Care Fund at Stonewall Community Foundation Announces 2016 Grant Awards for HIV/AIDS Initiatives at NYC Community Organizations
The Amida Care Fund at Stonewall Community Foundation announced today that it has awarded new grants for innovative HIV prevention and services to several of its current grantees, to help them continue their important work in the communities they serve. The 2016 grantees are HEAT, Pride for Youth, Sylvia Rivera Law Project, and Translatina Network. Grant recipients are selected based on their outstanding work to address HIV/AIDS in LGBTQ communities throughout New York City.
Read MoreMarking World AIDS Day 2016, Amida Care and End AIDS 2020 Community Coalition Publish “Together We Can End AIDS in NYS by 2020”
In advance of World AIDS Day on December 1, 2016, Amida Care is publishing “Together We Can End AIDS in NYS by 2020,” a special edition of The Amida Care View magazine produced in collaboration with members of the End AIDS 2020 Community Coalition. The magazine explores the history and key social drivers of the HIV/AIDS epidemic in New York and provides updates on Governor Andrew Cuomo’s Blueprint to End the AIDS Epidemic (EtE) in New York State by the year 2020.
Read MoreAmida Care Presents Community Dance Event in the Bronx with Support from NYC Council Member Ritchie Torres
On October 15, with support from Bronx Council Member Ritchie Torres, not-for profit New York community health plan Amida Care presented “Dance to the Rhythm,” a free community “Live Your Life” wellness event at Webster Police Athletic League in the Bronx.
Read MoreNY City Council Funds Amida Care’s Consumer Workforce Initiative
The New York City Council has allocated $200,000 under the End the Epidemic budget to fund Amida Care’s Consumer Workforce Initiative program. Amida Care, New York’s largest Medicaid special needs health plan (SNP) for people with chronic conditions such as HIV/AIDS, is launching the new initiative to create living-wage jobs for graduates of peer workforce training programs.
Read MoreAmida Care Hosts Community Zumba Event in Brooklyn with Support from NYC Council Member Laurie Cumbo
Amida Care hosted “Zumba,” a community “Live Your Life” wellness event at Ebbets Field Apartments in Brooklyn. With the goal of inspiring fitness and healthy living in Brooklyn, this free event featured a lively Zumba class and other activities designed for all ages.
Read MoreAmida Care Presents Community Wellness Art Event in Brooklyn with Support from NYC Council Member Robert Cornegy, Jr.
Amida Care presented “The Beauty of Art Within You,” a free “Live Your Life” community wellness event, at Restoration Plaza in Brooklyn. By exploring the healing power of art, this interactive art workshop taught Brooklynites creative ways to improve their health and have fun in the process.
Read MorePride Center of Staten Island Announces Amida Care as the Official Presenting Sponsor for Staten Island PrideFest 2016
The Pride Center of Staten Island is partnering with Amida Care to present PrideFest 2016. PrideFest is held each summer in commemoration of National Pride Month. The partnership pairs New York’s largest special needs health plan with Staten Island’s LGBT communities, and will underwrite a dynamic series of programs and events to the broader community.
Read MoreAmida Care and AIDS Service Center of NYC Celebrate Graduation From Workforce Initiative Network Program in Peer Education and Health Outreach
Members of the latest class of Amida Care’s Workforce Initiative Network (WIN) and the AIDS Service Center of New York City’s (ASCNYC) Peer Training Institute’s collaborative program celebrated their graduation from the program. Amida Care WIN program in collaboration with Housing Works and ASCNYC to empower people living with HIV/AIDS to position themselves as successful job candidates.
Read MoreAmida Care Joins NYS HIV/AIDS Legislative Awareness Day in Albany
On March 9, Amida Care joined hundreds of other New Yorkers in the HIV/AIDS community in Albany to urge support among New York State elected officials to fund the Blueprint to End the AIDS Epidemic (EtE) in New York State by the year 2020.
Read MoreGay City News Honors Amida Care CEO with LGBT Impact Award
Doug Wirth, President and CEO of Amida Care, was among those honored with an inaugural LGBT Community Impact Award from the Gay City News at a ceremony on March 3 in Brooklyn.
Read MoreNew Research Findings Reveal Health Benefits of Targeted Case Management for People Living With HIV
Providing comprehensive, holistic case management to people dealing with multiple comorbid conditions, including HIV, can yield tangible health improvements and long-term cost savings, according to a new joint study released by Amida Care and ACRIA, an HIV/AIDS research organization.
Read MoreCharles King of Housing Works Recognized with ACAP Leadership in Advocacy Award; Nominated by Amida Care
Charles King, a founding board member of Amida Care and President and CEO of Housing Works, Inc., received the Association for Community Affiliated Plans (ACAP) Leadership in Advocacy Award.
Read MoreAmida Care Applauds NYC Mayor Bill de Blasio’s Budget to Expand HASA
Amida Care applauds Mayor Bill de Blasio’s proposal of $26.2 million in his preliminary budget to expand HASA services and rental assistance to New Yorkers as part of the city’s commitment to Ending the AIDS Epidemic (EtE).
Read MoreWith Support From NYC Council Member Ritchie Torres, Amida Care Presents Bronx Latin Dance Class for Fitness and Healthy Living
Bronx Council Member Ritchie Torres provided support for Amida Care’s “Movimiento con Ritmo/Movement with Rhythm,” a free Live Your Life community wellness event that featured Latin dance to inspire fitness and healthy living.
Read MoreSpecial Needs Health Plans Added to the New York State of Health Marketplace
Beginning on January 15, eligible health care consumers have the ability to select and enroll in a Special Needs Health Plan (SNP) through the New York State of Health (NYSoH) Marketplace, for the first time since the NYSoH was established in 2012.
Read MoreAnnual Event Raises Record Amount to Fund Amida Care’s Live Your Life Program and Amida Care Fund Grant Awards
Amida Care’s 10th annual Live Your Life Celebration raised a record amount of over $170,000, which will fund Amida Care’s 2016 Live Your Life program and will also help to finance the Amida Care Fund at Stonewall Community Foundation.
Read MoreThe Amida Care Fund at Stonewall Community Foundation Announces New Grant Awards for HIV/AIDS Initiatives at Two NYC Community Organizations
On World AIDS Day, the Amida Care Fund at Stonewall Community Foundation announced that it has awarded grants for innovative HIV prevention and service to the Audre Lorde Project and the Sylvia Rivera Law Project.
Read MoreDriving the Conversation Around PrEP: Amida Care, Callen-Lorde, and The LGBT Community Center Host World AIDS Day Event and Webinar
Marking World AIDS Day, Amida Care co-hosted a community event and concurrent webinar to drive the public conversation around pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP), a critical component of NYS Gov. Andrew Cuomo’s Blueprint to End the AIDS Epidemic.
Read MoreAmida Care CEO Honored with Health Care Leadership Award From Acacia Network
Doug Wirth, President and CEO of Amida Care, received the Health Care Leadership Award from the Acacia Network, one of Amida Care’s founding sponsor organizations. The award recognizes notable contributions to health care on local, state, and national levels.
Read MoreAmida Care and Latino Commission on AIDS Kick-Off National Latino AIDS Awareness Day at City Hall
Amida Care joined the Latino Commission on AIDS and other community partners at City Hall to raise awareness of HIV prevention among Latinos in the U.S. and kick-off activities for National Latino AIDS Awareness Day.
Read MoreAmida Care Expands Behavioral Health Benefits for Members
Amida Care, New York’s largest Medicaid Special Needs Health Plan (SNP), is expanding its behavioral health services available to members. As of October 1, 2015, members of Amida Care’s Medicaid Live Life Plus plan are covered for mental health and substance use services that were previously reimbursed by fee-for-service Medicaid.
Read MoreAmida Care Honored at American Liver Foundation Gala
Amida Care received the Spirit of New York award at the American Liver Foundation Greater New York Division’s 15th Annual Honors Gala, recognizing its contribution to curing 400 members of Hepatitis C.
Read More$5M From NYC FY2016 Budget Allocated to End Aids Epidemic in New York
Amida Care applauds Mayor de Blasio, Speaker Melissa Mark-Viverito, Council Health Committee Chair Corey Johnson, and the entire City Council for voting to adopt the City’s Fiscal Year (FY) 2-16 budget comprising $78 billion in total funding, including a $3.9 million in City Council funding to End the AIDS Epidemic (EtE).
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