New York State Health Commissioner Howard Zucker, Congressman Maloney, Senator Larkin, Assemblyman Skartados & Orange County Executive Neuhaus Announce More Dates for Blood Tests In Newburgh

ALBANY, N.Y. (December 5, 2016) - New York State Commissioner of Health Howard Zucker today announced additional dates for free blood testing this month for Newburgh area residents concerned about their past exposures to perfluorooctane sulfonic acid (PFOS) and other perfluorinated chemicals (PFCs) from the city's public drinking water supply.

The testing is being performed throughout December, including the following dates:

  • December 8th
  • December 9th
  • December 10th
  • December 13th
  • December 15th
  • December 17th
  • December 20th

DOH continues to work with its partners to set dates for January 2017. Blood tests will be performed at Cornerstone Family Healthcare, located at 147 Lake Street.

"The free blood testing and educational materials we have been offering will help the people of Newburgh better understand their exposure to PFOS," Dr. Zucker said. "These additional blood tests dates are a part of the way New York is continuing to address the concerns of the residents there."

Congressman Sean Patrick Maloney said, "Last month I joined my neighbors in Newburgh to get my blood tested for contaminants and I urged all Newburgh residents to join me. I'm glad to hear that working with Commissioner Zucker we have added additional days for more folks toget their blood tested to determine the extent of their exposure.

Senator William J. Larkin, Jr. said, "These additional dates for blood testing for the greater Newburgh community are very welcome, said Senator William J. Larkin, Jr." We need to ensure that anyone who wishes to have their blood tested has the opportunity at no cost to them.These free blood tests are an important step for the members of the community as we move forward."

Assemblyman Frank Skartados said, "I encourage anyone who is concerned about their previous exposure to PFOSto take advantage of the opportunity the state has provided, and have your blood tested."

Orange County Executive Steven M. Neuhaus said, "Clean drinking water is essential to public health and ensuring residents are given as much information as possible about this issue is important. Governor Cuomo and his health team have worked closely with our County health department throughout this process. I appreciate his cooperation and look forward to continuing to address this matter with the state."

Residents interested in having their blood tested are strongly encouraged to pre-register for an appointment by calling 518-402-7950 or emailing BEOE@health.ny.gov. Day, evening, and weekend appointments are available and more dates will be added based on demand and feedback from the community.

The comprehensive biomonitoring program was launched by NYSDOH in October and will serve as a national model for understanding PFOS exposure. DOH has been working closely with the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry (ATSDR), Newburgh community groups, and local elected officials to develop the program and ensure participation.

Since May 2016, Newburgh has been linked to a clean alternative water supply. Through state efforts, the city first transitioned to Brown's Pond and then to the Catskill Aqueduct in early June.