Statement from RPEA Executive Director Edward Farrell on Westchester Medical Center’s Decision to Diminish Healthcare Benefits for Retirees

Retired Public Employees Association Executive Director Edward Farrell said, “RPEA stands in solidarity with more than 2,200 Westchester Medical Center retirees and their beneficiaries whose health benefits – earned during employment and in service to the Hudson Valley community, are in jeopardy of being diminished. Public employees work their entire career with the understanding that when they retire, their existing benefits will be preserved. However, the Westchester Medical Center sent a letter to retirees in late October informing them of unsolicited changes to their healthcare coverage. Retirees’ traditional Medicare will be switched to a privately administered Medicare Advantage plan beginning January 1, 2022.”

Farrell added, “Such a move could increase out of pocket expenses and reduce treatment options, since the new plan may have a more restrictive network and may not include retirees’ current providers. RPEA is urging the Westchester Medical Center to rescind its decision. Now is not the time to break promises and increase costs for New Yorkers who are on fixed incomes.”

RPEA sent a letter expressing these concerns to Westchester Medical Center President & CEO Michael D. Israel on November 12, 2021. Click here to read the letter.

The Retired Public Employees Association (RPEA) is a powerful advocate for current and future government retirees. RPEA represents the interests of nearly 500,000 retirees, and their spouses and beneficiaries, from New York state and local governments, school districts, and public authorities. Learn more at: www.rpea.org.

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For Immediate Release:  November 23, 2021

Media Contact: Chyresse Wells, APR
518-441-3203, cwells@corningplace.com