Background- Currently, injured World Trade Center responders access either The WTCHP in NYC or the National Responders Program (for those outside of New York) in order to receive treatment for their injuries.
Problems- These programs are limited in scope and designed only to address a short list of 9/11-related injuries (breathing, etc.). Responders sometimes have to travel long distances in order to find a provider within the WTCHP network. These same services can be provided by their local physician of choice through their insurance carrier of choice.
Goal- To increase patient choice, reduce redundancy in the provision of services, and improve government efficiency.
Method- Utilize funding for ongoing administration of these programs to subsidize injured responders’ health insurance premiums of choice.