New York’s Chronic Pain Bill: A Lifeline for Patients and a Call to Action

What Is the New York Chronic Pain Bill?

This bill amends New York’s insurance laws to prioritize access to non-opioid treatments. Its core provisions are:

• Coverage Mandate: Insurance plans must cover outpatient non-opioid options like acupuncture, physical therapy, chiropractic care, and FDA-approved medications.
• Equal Access: These treatments must be covered in parity with other medical services—there must be no excessive co-pays or restrictions.
• Opioid Parity: Insurers cannot prioritize opioid treatments over safer integrative alternatives.

Backed by years of advocacy, this bill aims to improve pain care statewide.

Benefits for Chronic Pain Patients

For New Yorkers with chronic pain—from migraines to arthritis—this bill brings real change:

• More Choices: Access to various integrative therapies personalized to individual needs.
• Affordability: Mandated coverage reduces out-of-pocket costs, broadening access.
• Safety: Emphasis on non-opioid options reduces addiction and overdose risks.
• Holistic Relief: Integrative care addresses pain’s physical, emotional, and social impacts.

“This legislation is a game-changer for chronic pain patients,” says advocate Christine Sotmary. “It’s about hope and options.”

Aligned with HHS 2019 Guidelines

The HHS’s 2019 Pain Management Best Practices report called for non-opioid solutions to combat the opioid crisis, highlighting integrative care. The New York Chronic Pain Bill turns this into reality, ensuring insurance supports evidence-based, patient-focused care—a step toward better outcomes without opioid reliance.

Take Action: Support the New York Chronic Pain Bill

Your voice can help make this bill a law. We’ve drafted a letter of support for Assembly Bill A.1921 / Senate Bill S.3185, uniting New York residents, healthcare providers, and organizations in this cause. Here’s how you can join:

• Add Your Name: Complete this form to permit the inclusion of your signature on the letter of support.
• View the Letter: Want to see what you’re signing? Check out the full letter here.

If you have questions about the bill or advocacy efforts, contact Christine Sotmary (Sotmary@gmail.com) or Cindy Steinberg (cindy@uspainfoundation.org).

Why It Matters Now

Chronic pain isolates and exhausts, stripping away hope. This bill isn’t just policy—it promises relief and dignity. As it moves through the legislature, your support can amplify the voices of chronic pain patients and reshape New York’s healthcare landscape.

Sign the letter, share this blog, and join us at Anodunos in advocating for accessible, integrative care. Together, we can make a difference.