Tue Sep 24 04:17:51 UTC 2024: ## New York’s Medical Indemnity Fund Under Fire for Denying Claims and Confusing Coverage Rules
**New York, NY** – Families of children injured at birth due to medical malpractice are facing a system riddled with delays, denials, and confusing coverage rules, according to a CBS News New York investigation.
The state’s Medical Indemnity Fund, intended to provide lifelong healthcare for these children, has become a source of frustration for families.
Denise Olivo, whose son GianRaul suffers from neurological injuries due to medical negligence at birth, says she’s “tired of fighting” with the fund for coverage. Olivo is forced to travel two hours for GianRaul’s therapy sessions, and the fund doesn’t cover the required lodging, leaving the family to pay out-of-pocket.
Her husband, Raul Moreno Carreon, claims their request for reimbursement for a van conversion and wheelchair lift was denied despite initial assurances. His claim for the structure covering their son’s elevator was also denied.
“They’re denying accessibility to our own money,” Carreon said.
Other families share similar frustrations, claiming they lost half their settlement when they were forced into the fund, only to navigate confusing and restrictive coverage policies.
In May, the state stopped accepting new applicants to the fund, highlighting its financial struggles.
State Senator Liz Krueger called for a public roundtable on the matter, but Governor Kathy Hochul has yet to make any commitments.
When asked about the fund’s shortcomings, Hochul admitted the need for improvements but emphasized the financial constraints of the program.
She promised a full review of the program during the next budget negotiations in January.
State Assembly Member Amy Paulin, who chairs the Health Committee, hopes the state will find a solution.
“We’ll know by January, when the governor unveils her budget,” Paulin said.
The families affected by the fund’s failures are hoping for a swift resolution and a system that truly supports the needs of their children.
First Piper 