AMANDA D’AMBROSIO, JACQUELINE NEBER | September 11, 2023
New enrollments in the World Trade Center Health Program as of July 31, 2023 have increased by about 40% compared to the same period in 2022, according to new data. About 540 people joined this July–a mix of fire department responders, general responders and survivors–compared to 385 during July of last year.
The federal World Trade Center Health Program provides no-cost treatment and monitoring to New Yorkers, and people across the country, whose health was impacted by the Sept. 11, 2001 attacks. Members must certify that exposure to Sept. 11 toxins caused their health conditions, such as cancer or respiratory illnesses, for their treatment to be covered.
According to the health program, about 126,000 people are enrolled as of July.
Oren Barzilay, president of the Local 2507 union which represents New York City Fire Department emergency medical technicians, paramedics and fire inspectors, said he’s noticed more publicity around the WTCHP in recent years that could contribute to increased membership.