Improving Access to Musculoskeletal Care Through Partnership
The United Federation of Teachers (UFT) Welfare Fund has launched an important partnership with the Hospital for Special Surgery (HSS), which is well-known for its expertise in musculoskeletal health. This collaboration is focused on implementing the HSS Perform program, specifically designed for unions and employers. The goal is to give UFT Welfare Fund members and their families easier access to top specialists in orthopedics and rheumatology.
Why Musculoskeletal Health Matters
Musculoskeletal health is a vital issue, impacting many adults each year. According to the Bone and Joint Initiative, nearly half of adults in the U.S. struggle with such problems, which can disrupt their everyday activities. Alarmingly, musculoskeletal conditions lead to about one-third of all work-related absences and affect close to 20% of the U.S. workforce.
An Overview of Hospital for Special Surgery
Established over 160 years ago, HSS is the first orthopedic hospital in the United States and continues to be a leader in treating musculoskeletal diseases. The institution prides itself on delivering high-quality care through a team of specialists dedicated solely to musculoskeletal health. Their patient-focused approach ensures that every diagnosis and treatment plan is customized to optimize outcomes.
What HSS Perform Brings to Members
The HSS Perform program offers members a comprehensive range of solutions for musculoskeletal issues. This includes access to a dedicated HSS Care Concierge team, available via phone and email to help connect members with leading specialists. Additionally, members can request second opinions for orthopedic or spine surgery at any HSS location.
Resources Available to Members
In addition to tailored care, members will have the advantage of a rich digital library. Developed by HSS's clinical experts, this resource covers essential topics such as injury prevention, posture, and back health, providing valuable information to boost health literacy within the membership.
Voices from Leadership
Michael Mulgrew, UFT's president, expressed his excitement about the partnership, saying, "The UFT Welfare Fund is committed to ensuring that our members have access to top-quality health care. To achieve this, we seek partners who share our vision and commitment to excellence. Hospital for Special Surgery is that partner, and this essential collaboration will greatly benefit our members and their families."
In agreement, Bryan T. Kelly, MD, MBA, who serves as the president and CEO of HSS, added, "HSS is focused on helping people return to their passions and daily activities better than any other facility in the world. By collaborating with the UFT Welfare Fund, we can enhance access to top-quality musculoskeletal care for those who are shaping our future leaders."
A Closer Look at the UFT Welfare Fund
Since its start, the UFT Welfare Fund has remained dedicated to providing high-quality health care benefits for many eligible members and their dependents. Their unwavering commitment ensures that educational professionals and their families have access to important health resources.
The Legacy of HSS
HSS is recognized globally as a premier academic medical center specializing in musculoskeletal health. It consistently ranks highly, claiming the top spot in orthopedics and third in rheumatology in U.S. News & World Report for 2024-2025, and it is known as the leading pediatric orthopedic hospital in the NY, NJ, and CT regions.
Founded in 1863, HSS has some of the nation's lowest readmission rates for orthopedic procedures and reports fewer infections and complications. As an affiliate of Weill Cornell Medical College, HSS has made significant advancements in research, education, and innovation within the musculoskeletal field.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the HSS Perform program?
The HSS Perform program is a collaborative initiative that provides access to orthopedic and rheumatology specialists, aimed at offering UFT Welfare Fund members and their families guided care.
Why is musculoskeletal health important?
Musculoskeletal conditions impact daily life and work, affecting nearly half of U.S. adults each year and contributing significantly to work-related absences.
What resources are available for members through this partnership?
Members will benefit from a Care Concierge team as well as a comprehensive digital library filled with educational content on various health topics, including injury prevention and back health.
How does HSS rank on a national level?
HSS has been recognized as the top orthopedic hospital for 15 consecutive years and is ranked No. 3 in rheumatology, according to U.S. News & World Report for 2024-2025.
What does the UFT Welfare Fund aim to achieve?
The UFT Welfare Fund strives to provide high-quality healthcare benefits for its members and their families, ensuring they have the necessary health resources available to them.
