A surge in demand for basic health services — from mental health care to food access — is driving new investments across upstate New York, with one major insurer backing local groups it says are best positioned to close persistent gaps.
Excellus BlueCross BlueShield announced it will fund 26 nonprofit organizations through its 2026 Health Equity Innovation Awards, targeting programs aimed at reducing disparities and improving outcomes in communities facing rising costs and limited access to care.
The annual awards drew nearly 300 applicants from across Rochester, Central New York, the Southern Tier, and the North Country. Selected proposals were evaluated based on their potential for measurable impact, long-term sustainability, and alignment with regional health priorities identified through community needs assessments…