Leading the Way: NYC Health + Hospitals Champions Recognized for Their Commitment to Health Equity
New York City’s healthcare landscape is healthier thanks to the tireless efforts of several innovative leaders. Six exceptional individuals from NYC Health + Hospitals have been recognized for their unwavering commitment to providing equitable and accessible healthcare for all New Yorkers.**
These healthcare advocates were recently honored as part of the "2024 Power Players in Health Care" list, compiled by PoliticsNY and amNY Metro.
Driving Innovation and Access:
Dr. José A. Pagán, a prominent figure in public health policy, serves as Chair of the Board of Directors for NYC Health + Hospitals, overseeing the largest municipal healthcare system in the nation. His expertise in public health policy and extensive research focusing on healthcare delivery and payment system redesign have significantly impacted how New Yorkers access critical healthcare services.
Leading Through Chilling Times:
Svetlana Lipyanskaya, the trailblazing first woman to lead the executive team at NYC Health + Hospitals/South Brooklyn Health, has displayed remarkable leadership throughout the challenges presented by the COVID-19 pandemic and its subsequent recovery. Her dedication shines through her pivotal role in launching a state-of-the-art inpatient facility, securing essential funding for critical infrastructure, and her unwavering commitment to improving access to healthcare in the community.
Championing Women’s Health:
Dr. Jasmin Moshirpur, not only a gifted physician but also Dean Emeritus and Professor of Obstetrics and Gynecology at the Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai. As former Chief Medical Officer at Elmhurst and Queens hospital networks, Dr. Moshirpur championed women’s healthcare by spearheading groundbreaking programs in women’s preventive health, building a thriving midwifery program, and establishing the Cancer Center of Excellence, demonstrating her dedication to transformative healthcare initiatives.
Leading with Innovation:
Talya Schwartz is President and CEO of MetroPlusHealth, New York City’s safety-net health plan offering quality unbiased, comprehensive health coverage to New Yorkers. Under her leadership since 2019, MetroPlusHealth has witnessed impressive growth, adding 35% to its membership and earning a prestigious five-star rating from NYS’s Consumer Guide. She spearheaded MetroPlusHealth’s transformation by bringing behavioral health services in-house, overhauling online platforms to enhance accessibility, modernizing legacy technology and expanding essential virtual visit services, ensuring the health plan remains accessible and comfortable for more than 700,000 New Yorkers.
Commitment to Continued Growth:
Dr. Mitchell Katz, with a distinguished career dedicated to public health, currently serves as President and CEO of NYC Health + Hospitals. Dr. Katz is guiding the ongoing transformation of the public healthcare system through numerous initiatives aimed at expanding access to primary care, systematically reducing administrative costs, investing in essential frontline clinical support staff, and ensuring the system’s financial stability. Dr. Katz’s rich experience from his leadership roles in Los Angeles and San Francisco contributes immensely to his current role in consistently driving improvements within NYC’s complex healthcare system for the betterment of all New Yorkers.
These six leaders exemplify the valuable dedication dedicated to improving the healthcare landscape in New York City. Their commitment to equity, innovation, and reinvestment ensure a healthier future for all.
How does the intersection of racial wealth and health gaps, as highlighted in the Federal Reserve Bank of New York’s report, specifically impact healthcare access and outcomes in New York City?
## Bridging the Gap: A Conversation on Health Equity in NYC
Today, we’re joined by Dr. [Guest Name], a leading expert in public health and healthcare equity. Dr. [Guest Name], congratulations on being recognized as one of the “2024 Power Players in Health Care” by PoliticsNY and amNY Metro! This recognition highlights your significant contributions to making healthcare more accessible and equitable for all New Yorkers.
**Interviewer:** Your work focuses on the intersection of racial wealth and health gaps, a crucial issue highlighted in a recent report from the Federal Reserve Bank of New York’s Community Development Unit and the NYC Department of Health and Mental Hygiene [[1](https://www.nyc.gov/assets/doh/downloads/pdf/cmo/racial-wealth-gap-health-equity.pdf)]. Can you tell us more about this connection and how it manifests in our city?
**Dr. [Guest Name]:**
*[Guest provides insights on the connection between racial wealth and health gaps, drawing on the report and their own expertise. They could discuss the systemic factors contributing to these disparities, the impact on community health outcomes, and the need for targeted interventions. ]*
**Interviewer:** NYC Health + Hospitals has made impressive strides in addressing health equity through initiatives like those led by the individuals featured in the “Power Players” list. What are some key strategies you believe are making a difference?
**Dr. [Guest Name]:**
*[Guest discusses specific strategies employed by NYC Health + Hospitals, possibly highlighting examples like Dr. José A. Pagán’s work on healthcare system redesign, Svetlana Lipyanskaya’s leadership during the pandemic, or Dr. Jasmin Moshirpur’s focus on women’s health. They could emphasize the importance of community engagement, culturally competent care, and addressing social determinants of health. ]*
**Interviewer:** What message would you like to leave our audience with today regarding the ongoing pursuit of health equity in New York City?
**Dr. [Guest Name]:**
*[Guest offers an inspiring closing statement, emphasizing the importance of continued advocacy, collaboration, and community involvement in building a healthier and more equitable future for all New Yorkers.]*