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

ALBANY, N.Y. (January 3, 2017) - New York State Commissioner of Health Howard Zucker today announced additional dates for free blood testing next 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 January, including the following dates:

  • January 5th
  • January 6th
  • January 8th
  • January 10th
  • January 13th
  • January 15th
  • January 18th
  • January 20th
  • January 23rd
  • January 26th
  • January 29th

"In the new year the Department will continue its commitment to provide free blood testing and educational materials in Newburgh," Dr. Zucker said. "I encourage all Newburgh residents interested in learning more about their exposure to perfluorinated chemicals to sign up for these additional testing dates. I also want to remind Newburgh residents that the City has been connected to a clean water source since May 2016 and the process of constructing a permanent carbon filtration system for the City's water supply continues."

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 to get their blood tested to determine the extent of their exposure."

Senator William J. Larkin, Jr. said, "The announcement of additional free blood testing dates for Newburgh area residents is welcome news, and it tells us that our community has been participating in this process. This testing, continued education on the current water situation, andinfrastructure improvements will help us appropriately serve our community and address any further issues we may face."

Assemblyman Frank Skartados said, "As we begin the new year let us all keep focused on our health. I'm pleased with all of the steps the State of New York has taken to bring clean water to Newburgh. And with the Department of Health's additional dates of free blood testing, I encourage everyone to participate."

Orange County Executive Steven M. Neuhaus said," Orange County continues to work closely with the City and State to provide services and education about this issue. The announcement of additional testing dates is another example of our collaborative commitment to the meeting the needs of our residents."

Blood tests will be performed at Cornerstone Family Healthcare, located at 147 Lake Street. 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.