Americans Satisfied With Their Current Health Coverage, Lean Against Single Payer, Finds New PRI Survey…

Dr. Mary T. Bassett is officially commissioner of the New York State Department of Health. Her confirmation in the Democratic-led State Senate was on a party-line vote, 43-20.
Bassett released a statement saying, “I am honored to be officially appointed to serve as the 17th New York State Health Commissioner, and I thank Governor Kathy Hochul for entrusting me and the State Senate for this vote of confidence. As I have said from the beginning, I will continue to be open and transparent and make decisions based on science, data and improving the health of all New Yorkers. I will continue to work with our experts at the Department of Health and our partners at all levels of government on the COVID-19 response and other critical public health issues.”
Bassett had held the role in an acting capacity since last December, taking the charge on the COVID-19 response. She is the former commissioner of the New York City Department of Health and Mental Hygiene, serving in that role from 2014 to 2018.
In the past, Bassett has been a vocal supporter of Single Payer legislation.