BILL NUMBER: S8542

SPONSOR: SERINO
 
TITLE OF BILL:

An act to amend the public health law, in relation to a study to analyze
the adequacy of health networks and the delivery of gerontologic
services and senior health care in New York state

 
PURPOSE:

To study the adequacy of health networks and the delivery of gerontolog-
ic services and senior health care in New York State.

 
SUMMARY OF PROVISIONS:

Section 1: Directs the Commissioner of Health, in conjunction with the
Charles D. Cook Office of Rural Health, to study to analyze the adequacy
of health networks and the delivery of gerontologic services and senior
health care in the state. The study would focus on access to care and
specialized practitioners, particularly in underserved or unserved areas
              

and at-risk senior populations, as well as transportation concerns, the
utilization of telehealth and telemedicine, highly prevalent chronic
conditions requiring additional education, prevention and service
supports. The study would also consider incentive options to encourage
physicians and nurse practitioners to focus on serving senior popu-
lations. Such report would be due by October 1, 2019.

Section 2: Provides the effective date.

 
JUSTIFICATION:

In recent history, physician shortages have been a significant concern
in many areas of our state, particularly rural areas. That said, the
growing senior population has its own unique concerns and needs with
respect to access to medical care and specialties that amplify this
deficit. As we continue to emphasize aging in place initiatives, as well
as preventative care, it is important that we ensure that there are an
adequate number of healthcare professionals to service our aging popu-
lation.

New York boasts the fourth-oldest population in the United States, and
that number is growing rapidly. It is expected that by 2025, there will
be more than 50 counties in the state with at least a quarter of their
population over 60. The challenges faced by the state's aging population
can vary greatly from one location to the next, and New York will need
to deploy an array of strategies to meet the specific needs of different
groups, such as ensuring reliable transportation services or expanding
access to telehealth and telemedicine. As this greying of New York State
continues, it is important that we assess these needs and create vital
healthcare networks now, so they can be utilized later. This legislation
will provide for that very assessment. It requires that the Commissioner
of Health, in conjunction with the Office of Rural Health, conduct a
study to examine the needs across aging populations in the state, and
determine if there are gaps in qualified practitioners and specialists,
accessible care, and supplemental supports.

As we work to make New York State a place people want to live and
retire, we cannot fall behind in addressing the needs of our aging
neighbors. It is important that we begin a comprehensive examination of
our state's healthcare options for its seniors so that we have a reli-
able and adequate health network as this population grows.

 
LEGISLATIVE HISTORY:

New bill.

 
FISCAL IMPLICATIONS:

Minimal.

 
EFFECTIVE DATE:
This act shall take effect immediately.