State Comptroller Nancy Wyman's work to provide medical coverage for uninsured children was recognized today by an award from the 6,800 doctors in the Connecticut State Medical Society.

Wyman received a special leadership award for outstanding service at the society's annual ceremony in Meriden, where 23 legislators also were recognized.

Dr. David Parke, the society's chairman of legislation, said the award is a tribute to Wyman for forming the Work Group for Health Care Access, which in January drafted a proposal to expand Medicaid coverage to children of the working poor.

The proposal led the legislature in June to extend Medicaid eligibilty to about 8,500 children. Some of the group's recommendations also were incorporated into the HUSKY medical plan that was approved unanimously last month, and will cover about 90,000 uninsured children.

Parke, who served on the work group, said Wyman was instrumental in raising the issue of uninsured children, and credited her for forming a diverse committee that included physicians, legislators, advocates for the uninsured and representatives from hospitals, managed-care associations and insurance companies.

"The genesis for being concerned about uninsured children came from Nancy," Parke said. "I think it was the impetus for a lot of what became HUSKY and she deserves recognition for that."

Wyman, who procures and administers health insurance for 166,000 state employees, retirees and their dependents, said she was honored that the medical society recognized the work of her group.

"The vast majority of the uninsured are from working families," Wyman said. "They work hard and play by the rules and yet they still can't afford health coverage for themselves or their children. Health coverage for children is an investment in Connecticut's future and it will pay dividends for years to come."

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For Immediate Release
November 12, 1997
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