Press Releases

San Francisco’s Healthy San Francisco Program, established by then-Supervisor Tom Ammiano, was recently recognized as one of the top 10 policies of the year for 2008 by the Drum Major Institute for Public Policy.

The San Francisco Program makes health care services accessible and affordable for uninsured residents.  The program offers a way for San Francisco residents who do not have health insurance, to have basic and ongoing medical care. It is available to all San Francisco residents regardless of immigration status, employment status, or pre-existing medical conditions.  Participates are asked to pay for services on a sliding scale.

In it’s recognition of the Healthy San Francisco Program, the Drum Major Institute said:

“Everyone gets to see a doctor.  Not just an overworked E.R. staffer who will see you after a five hour wait when you’re facing a medical crisis, but a primary physician who can provide routine preventative care as well as treatment when you get sick… As of October, nearly 31,000 San Francisco residents – out of an estimated 73,000 who were uninsured – get to see a doctor whenever they need to.  For an innovative approach to expanding health coverage, Healthy San Francisco gets a hale and hearty place on our best of 2008 list.”
                       

“I am thrilled that the Healthy San Francisco is being recognized by this prestigious organization.  This program is just getting started and has already improved the lives of people living in San Francisco by ensuring they have access to preventative care and need not rely on our over-taxed emergency rooms for all their medical needs.  In absence of a state or national system ensuring health care for all, I hope that other communities will follow San Francisco’s example to ensure all Californians have the opportunity to live healthier lives,” said Assemblymember Ammiano.