In early 2008, GNYHA launched its first-ever workgroup dedicated to issues related to the special health care needs of children and the hospitals and long term care facilities that provide such care. The group’s thirteen inaugural members represent the entire continuum of children’s health care in New York, from acute care hospitals to long term care and rehabilitation facilities to institutions that offer very specialized services, such as care for children with HIV/AIDS. GNYHA has also created a standing position on the Section for the National Association of Children’s Hospitals and Related Institutions (NACHRI), the national trade association for children’s health care institutions. Through this collaborative effort, GNYHA will enhance the ability of New York’s children’s hospitals and long term care providers to advance access and quality of care, promote financial sustainability, and influence public policy makers in both Albany and Washington.

Philosophically, the members of the GNYHA Section on Children's Health have taken a comprehensive view of children's health. We recognize that children are the only patients in our health care system who do not have direct access to coverage or care--rather, children rely on parents or guardians to interface with health care providers on their behalf. What this means, in terms of our advocacy approach, is that the GNYHA Section on Children's Health will support policies and proposals that will improve not only the health status of children, but will provide meaningful access to quality care for New York's children and their families.