New York's State Department of Health is this year's winner of the Citizens Budget Commission prize for public service innovation.
The watchdog organization CBC cited the creation of NY State of Health, New York's official health plan marketplace. CBC awards the prize annually - in alternating years to either a New York City or New York State agency - to promote innovative delivery of public services.
The department will receive the prize March 25 at the CBC's annual dinner in Manhattan.
NY State of Health allows New Yorkers to shop, compare, and purchase quality health plans, as well as access federal financial assistance for health insurance. Launched last Oct. 1, it is a one-stop gateway for New Yorkers to access private insurance coverage, as well as public health insurance options such as Medicaid and Child Health Plus.
Each year the winner is selected from nominations requested from more than 150 government officials.
