STATEMENT ON THE APPOINTMENT OF DR. MARY T. BASSETT AS NEW YORK STATE COMMISSIONER OF HEALTH
By NYSSOS President John DiPreta, M.D.
“The orthopaedic community welcomes the appointment of Dr. Mary T. Bassett as New York State’s new Commissioner of Health. Muscloskeletal health and the associated quality of life issues central to orthopaedic care are critical elements of a comprehensive and accessible health care system.
“We look forward to working with Dr. Bassett to continue our efforts to address disparities in care that undermine the muscloskeletal health of many underserved communities. Many complex and fundamental issues impact these matters, including insurance company practices that restrict care, and proposed policy changes that create barriers for orthopaedic physicians. We hope to work with DOH and the Legislature to address these concerns in the coming year.
“In addition, building on the work of NYSSOS and that of our national group, the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons, we are eager to work with Dr. Bassett to build more diversity among the orthopaedic physician ranks to better address the needs of all communities.
“Governor Hochul has pledged to rely on health experts to advise her in making appropriate, evidence-based decisions for all New Yorkers. We believe such a foundation is essential for crafting effective health policy, and we are committed to helping her fulfill that pledge.”
###
