About Us – We the Patients

WE THE PATIENTS

A MOVEMENT FOR
PATIENT-LED HEALTHCARE REFORM

We The Patients is a megaphone for patient voices, amplifying their experiences related to health care access,

cost and quality for policymakers and the public. Supported by community advocates and informed

by the latest research, together we can improve health care in New York.

Policy Work

We The Patients is powered by The Community Service Society of New York (CSS). Through research, direct services, and advocacy, CSS ensures New Yorkers have the power to create change in their own lives—and the life of our city and state.
CSS’ health care access programs have helped more than a million New Yorkers (and counting) enroll in health insurance and navigate the complexities of the health care landscape, improving health and economic security statewide.
CSS’ research – including the Discharged Into Debt series – centers the experiences of low-income communities and communities of color. Insights from that research directly inform the organization’s policy agenda, services and campaigns.
Learn more about CSS

Become a patient advocate.

From speaking with a journalist to connecting with policymakers in Albany, we will create opportunities to advocate for real policy change in New York. Whatever level of engagement you feel comfortable with, we’re here to support your efforts.

To learn more about the inspiration behind this project – and a great read! – check out Elisabeth Rosenthal’s
An American Sickness

We the Patients is led by you, the patient, with support from members of the Community Service Society of New York.

Team

William Pan
Health Policy Digital Organizer

Kistein Monkhouse

Storytelling Advisor

Caitlin Donovan
Advisor

Chuck Bell
Advisor

Anna Allen
Literacy Advisor

Elizabeth Ryden Benjamin
Co-Chair

Claudia Knafo
Advisor

Amy Shefrin
Advisor

Karylnn Holland
Advisor

David R. Jones
Co-Chair

WE THE PATIENTS

Policy Work

We The Patients is powered by The Community Service Society of New York (CSS). Through research, direct services, and advocacy, CSS ensures New Yorkers have the power to create change in their own lives—and the life of our city and state.

CSS’ health care access programs have helped more than a million New Yorkers (and counting) enroll in health insurance and navigate the complexities of the health care landscape, improving health and economic security statewide.

CSS’ research – including the Discharged Into Debt series – centers the experiences of low-income communities and communities of color. Insights from that research directly inform the organization’s policy agenda, services and campaigns.

Learn more about CSS

From speaking with a journalist to connecting with policymakers in Albany, we will create opportunities to advocate for real policy change in New York. Whatever level of engagement you feel comfortable with, we’re here to support your efforts.

Get updates on our latest advocacy efforts and learn how you can get involved.