Ruth Finkelstein, ScD is currently the Director of the Division of Health Policy, a multi-disciplinary group of experts in anthropology, sociology, urban planning, public health and social work at the New York Academy of Medicine. Trained in health policy, Dr. Finkelstein has over twenty years experience working in the policy and advocacy arenas to remove barriers to health care access for vulnerable populations. Dr. Finkelstein is a leader in research and evaluation on HIV/AIDS and substance abuse treatment programs, as well as an expert in state and federal health care financing as well as private insurance.
In New York State, she was a leader in successful efforts to adopt community rating and open enrollment in the small group market, as well as other insurance reforms to facilitate access to comprehensive benefits. One of the architects of the original Ryan White CARE Act, Dr. Finkelstein has authored policy studies that have influenced changes during each reauthorization cycle. Her most recent study analyzed the relationship between each state's health care financing environment and their allocations of CARE Act funds. In addition, through Dr. Finkelstein's leadership, the NYAM is now spearheading programs to improve care and services for immigrant populations and the needs of the urban elderly.
Contact information: (212) 822-7266, rfinkelstein@nyam.org
