New York City - The New York City Health and Hospitals Corporation (HHC) received the 2007 Public Health Community Award from the Public Health Association of New York City (PHANYC) for its outstanding contributions to outpatient psychiatric services and treatment. HHC was only one of four organizations that received this recognition.

The award recognizes HHC’s Mental Health Peer Counseling and Case Management Services which employ individuals who are at a point in recovery from their own mental illness where they can counsel others and serve as a role model. The Peer Counselors, after receiving intensive training, are integrated into the adult out-patient mental health team.

“PHANYC is proud to honor HHC’s Mental Health Peer Counseling and Case Management Services with our 2007 Public Health Community Award,” said PHANYC Executive Director Amy J. Schwartz. “We are pleased to recognize HHC for its exemplary community-based leadership and advocacy that contributes to improvements in mental health services, and promotes public health for our communities and city.”

“This award is a testament to HHC’s patient-centered approach to behavioral healthcare and commitment to psychiatric rehabilitation and recovery,” said HHC President Alan D. Aviles. “Peer Counselors have helped thousands of our patients realize that they can reach and sustain their own recovery.”

Mental Health Peer Counseling and Case Management Services are offered at Kings County Hospital Center, Woodhull Medical and Mental Health Center, Coney Island Hospital, Elmhurst Hospital Center, and Queens Hospital Center.

The New York City Health and Hospitals Corporation (HHC), the largest municipal hospital and health care system in the country, is a $5.4 billion public benefit corporation that serves 1.3 million New Yorkers and nearly 400,000 who are uninsured. HHC provides medical, mental health and substance abuse services through its 11 acute care hospitals, four skilled nursing facilities, six large diagnostic and treatment centers and more than 80 community based clinics. For more information about HHC, visit nyc.gov/hhc.