Norwich, NY – Even though this is the 38th year of the Great American Smokeout, tobacco use is still the leading cause of preventable disease and death killing more than 25,000 New Yorkers every year. 

Quitting smoking is the single most important step you can take to reduce your risk of cancer. The American Cancer Society suggests that 60 percent of cancers could be avoided if people stopped using tobacco.1 Smoking is the major cause of lung cancer which is responsible for more deaths than the next three most common cancers combined (colon, breast, and prostate).2

Read more: 38 YEARS LATER, TOBACCO STILL KILLS TOO MANY NEW YORKERS

The Affordable Care Act, also known as Obamacare was launched on October 1. Open enrollment to choose a health plan began, and coverage can start as early as January 1, 2014. People who want to have health coverage by January 1, will need to complete their application by December 15, 2013. In the Marketplace you have to sign up by the 15th of the month in order to have coverage begin on the first day of the next month.

Uninsured residents can sign up for health insurance at Chenango Health Network. An official New York State of Health Navigator will assist people who would like help with the application process. There is no charge for this service. Chenango Health Network has enrolled Chenango County residents for over ten years in New York State funded insurance and will continue their confidential, free and expert services with the new Affordable Care Act health insurance.

Read more: ENROLLMENT SERVICES FOR HEALTH INSURANCE AT CHENANGO HEALTH NETWORK

Event Marks 10^th Anniversary of Historic Legislation That Protects Workers and Challenges New Yorkers to Protect Kids

NORWICH, NY – New Yorkers will be gathering at events around the state today to celebrate the 10^th Anniversary of the New York State Clean Indoor Air Act, the historic legislation that protects workers from second-hand smoke and helps reduce smoking rates. 

Tobacco Control Partners from Broome, Tioga, Tompkins and Chenango counties will be hosting several speakers including government, health, and business officials at a press conference at the Number 5 Restaurant in Binghamton at 11am on July 24^th to celebrate this anniversary. 

Read more: Celebrating 10 Years of Breathing Clean Air in New York

Chenango Health Network (CHN) has unveiled a new program for Chenango County women who have received a breast cancer diagnosis. The Financial Assistance Program will provide gas cards and help with medical provider and pharmacy co-pays. The Program is funded through local donations and the St Agatha Foundation. There are certain eligibility requirements that apply. Funding allows CHN to continue to support Chenango County women to fight breast cancer. Women with a breast cancer diagnosis are encouraged to check with Chenango Health Network to see if help with other treatment or day-to-day needs is available, as well. All services are provided at no charge. 

Read more: Chenango Health Network Offers New Programming For Women With A Breast Cancer Diagnosis

Chenango Health Network is a rural health network whose objectives are to increase access to health and wellness information and to health care services. We serve individuals and work to effect change at the community level. Our goal is to improve the quality of life in every community in Chenango County.

Chenango Health Network operates collaboratively. With our partners, we identify needs and look for ways to address those needs, all in keeping with our goals and objectives. The Board of Directors is committed to maintaining a health network which provides meaningful service to the community. Staff members are dedicated to carrying out these services with integrity and respect.

24 Conkey Avenue | Norwich, New York 13815 | (P) 607.337.4128 | (F) 607.337.4276 | Email