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The Newsroom

Find it here first! Independent Health’s press releases, news and updates.

OCTOBER 31, 2024
Independent Health named one of the nation's best insurance companies for Medicare Advantage

U.S. News & World Report, the global authority in health care rankings and consumer advice, has named Independent Health to its annual list of the best health insurance companies offering Medicare Advantage coverage in the nation. Independent Health is the only health plan in Western New York to receive this prestigious recognition for six straight years (2020-2025).

OCTOBER 1, 2024
Medicare Annual Enrollment Period begins October 15

With the Medicare Annual Enrollment Period scheduled to run from October 15 through December 7, Medicare beneficiaries will soon be able to select their Medicare medical and prescription drug coverage for 2025.

SEPTEMBER 16, 2024
Independent Health once again earns 5-Star rating from NCQA

NCQA Accredited Health Plan 5 star badge

Independent Health is the only health plan in New York state and one of just three plans in the nation to receive highest star rating of 5 out of 5 in NCQA’s 2024 Commercial Health Plan Ratings.

MAY 29, 2024
National recognition for Independent Health

Independent Health has been ranked as the second highest health plan for member satisfaction in the New York region, according to the J.D. Power 2024 U.S. Commercial Member Health Plan StudySM.

MAY 6, 2024
Bike Month 2024 presented by Independent Health

Bike Month logo

As a way to celebrate May being National Bike Month, Independent Health is once again giving Western New Yorkers a chance to win a Bike Month Prize Pack.

If you love bicycling in Western New York, we want to hear about it. In 350 words or less, tell us why you love riding a bike – is it your main mode of transportation? Has it helped you in your health and wellness journey? Is it something you enjoy doing with your family? Submit your story by May 24 and you could win the grand prize courtesy of Independent Health.

APRIL 26, 2024
Independent Health, Family of Companies Honored as Best Places to Work for in New York

Best Companies to Work For NY 2024

As part of a program that identifies and honors the best places of employment throughout the state, Independent Health and its family of companies were recently recognized as one of the “Best Companies to Work for in New York” in each of their respective categories.

MARCH 29, 2024
Reddy Bikeshare launches ninth season

Reddy Bikeshare, in partnership with Independent Health, is back for 2024. There will be more than 400 Reddy bikes available at 110+ stations across Buffalo and Niagara Falls. New this year, Reddy+ e-bikes (pedal-assist electric bicycles) can also be found at select locations.

Press Releases  Special Reports

2024

Oct 31, 2024

Independent Health named one of the nation's best insurance companies for Medicare Advantage

Independent Health is the only Western New York health plan to earn this honor from U.S. News & World Report for six consecutive years.

Medicare Annual Enrollment Period begins October 15

Oct 1, 2024

Medicare Annual Enrollment Period begins October 15

Independent Health once again earns 5-Star rating from NCQA

Sep 16, 2024

Independent Health once again earns 5-Star rating from NCQA

May 29, 2024

National recognition for Independent Health

Independent Health has been ranked as the second highest health plan for member satisfaction in the New York region, according to the J.D. Power 2024 U.S. Commercial Member Health Plan Study.

May 6, 2024

Bike Month 2024 presented by Independent Health

With May being National Bike Month, Western New Yorkers can win a prize pack and take part in exciting GObike events.

Apr 30, 2024

Variety of activities to be held at Independent Health’s Medicare Health Hub

As a way to make sure our Medicare Advantage plan members have the tools, resources and information they need to achieve better health, Independent Health is hosting a variety of health and wellness activities at our Medicare Health Hub, which is located inside our Medicare Information Center at 620 Dick Road in Depew.

Apr 26, 2024

Independent Health, Family of Companies Honored as Best Places to Work for in New York

As part of a program that identifies and honors the best places of employment throughout the state, Independent Health and its family of companies were recently recognized as one of the “Best Companies to Work for in New York” in each of their respective categories.

Apr 18, 2024

2023 Independent Health Foundation Annual Report released

In communities across the region, the Independent Health Foundation is helping to improve the health and well-being of Western New Yorkers through awareness, prevention and education programs focused on community health priorities.

Reddy Bikeshare launches ninth season

Mar 28, 2024

Reddy Bikeshare launches ninth season

Mar 27, 2024

Spring Recess returns to Buffalo RiverWorks

Families looking for an affordable, fun, and healthy way to spend their spring break can enjoy free ice skating and roller skating at Buffalo RiverWorks from April 1-5. Presented by Independent Health, there are a variety of free and discounted activities available.

Feb 26, 2024

Healthy Options Restaurant Week returns March 4-10

Western New Yorkers will have the opportunity to try new restaurants, support local businesses, and positively impact their own health as part of this year’s Healthy Options Restaurant Week presented by the Independent Health Foundation, Buffalo Niagara Medical Campus, Buffalo Urban League Young Professionals and the food delivery service appétit.

Feb 19, 2024

Jared M. Gross Named Chief Financial Officer for Independent Health

Jared M. Gross has been appointed as executive vice president & chief financial officer for Independent Health effective February 26, 2024. In this role, Gross will be responsible for the financial budgets and operations of the organization, including the development of the financial and operational strategy, managing the company’s financial assets and reporting the financial results of Independent Health and its affiliate companies. Gross succeeds James Dunlop, who was recently elevated from CFO to president for Independent Health as part of the company’s long-term leadership succession planning process. Michael W. Cropp, M.D., will remain as the company’s chief executive officer.

Feb 1, 2024

Medicare Health Hub is Back

Independent Health is always looking for more ways to help our Medicare Advantage plan members get and stay healthy. That’s why we’re excited to be back at our Medicare Health Hub, which is located inside our Medicare Information Center at 620 Dick Road in Depew.

Jan 29, 2024

Celebrating 5 Years of Health, Wellness and Community in Buffalo’s Broadway-Fillmore Neighborhood

Independent Health and Jericho Road Community Health Center have announced the renaming of its state-of-the art fitness facility, The Independent Health Gym and Wellness Center at Jericho Road, reaffirming its commitment to promoting health and well-being in East Buffalo.

Jan 18, 2024

Independent Health President and CEO, Michael W. Cropp, M.D., Announces Plans for Leadership Succession; Jim Dunlop named President.

Independent Health announced today the implementation of a strategic succession plan. As part of the leadership succession planning process, President and CEO, Michael W. Cropp, M.D., will remain CEO, and he will be supported by current Chief Financial Officer Jim Dunlop who will be elevated to the role of President effective February 26.

2023

Dec 11, 2023

Transparency-Rx Welcomes Pharmacy Benefit Dimensions as Newest Member

Transparency-Rx, a not-for-profit coalition led by transparent pharmacy benefit managers, announced that Pharmacy Benefit Dimensions (PBD) has joined as its latest member. Transparency-Rx’s growing coalition represents nearly 15 million lives across all 50 states. This membership enables PBD to collaborate on meaningful initiatives that empower patients and stakeholders across the health care spectrum.

Nov 13, 2023

U.S. News & World Report Recognizes our Medicare Advantage Plans

For the fifth consecutive year, U.S. News & World Report has named Independent Health to its annual list of the best health insurance companies offering Medicare Advantage coverage in the nation. Independent Health is the only health plan in Western New York to receive this prestigious recognition from U.S. News & World Report for 2024.

Oct 23, 2023

Step up to the Challenge

Grab your sneakers, a piece of fruit and a bottle of water. The Independent Health and Buffalo Bills Health & Wellness Challenge is back! The Buffalo Bills fe once again teaming up with Independent Health, its Official Health & Wellness Partner, to offer the Health & Wellness Challenge as a way to encourage Western New Yorkers to adopt healthy habits by offering them opportunities to win prizes.

Independent Health is WNY’s only 5-Star Rated Medicare Advantage Plan for 2024

Oct 16, 2023

Independent Health is WNY’s only 5-Star Rated Medicare Advantage Plan for 2024

It’s time to get your RedShirt® Benefit Review

Oct 2, 2023

It’s time to get your RedShirt® Benefit Review

Independent Health is one of only two health plans in the nation to receive a rating of 5 out of 5 in NCQA’s commercial Health Plan Ratings 2023

Sep 18, 2023

Independent Health is one of only two health plans in the nation to receive a rating of 5 out of 5 in NCQA’s commercial Health Plan Ratings 2023

Jun 6, 2023

Community Health Day to be held June 19

The Buffalo Museum of Science’s annual free admission day, Community Health Day sponsored by Independent Health, will take place on Monday, June 19, 2023. Many area schools will be closed for the Juneteenth holiday, giving everyone the opportunity to explore the Museum’s interactive exhibits and galleries at no cost.

Take your workout outside with Fitness in the Parks

May 30, 2023

Take your workout outside with Fitness in the Parks

May 1, 2023

Win a prize pack during National Bike Month

With May being National Bike Month, Independent Health is giving Western New Yorkers a chance to win a Bike Month Prize Pack.

Apr 26, 2023

Get rewarded for making healthy choices

Since 2014, the Bills have teamed up with Independent Health, its Official Health & Wellness Partner, to offer the Health & Wellness Challenge as a way to encourage people of all ages to adopt a healthy lifestyle and improve their overall well-being by offering them a chance to win prizes. Thousands of Western New Yorkers have participated over the years.

Reddy Bikeshare expands into State Parks in Niagara Falls

Apr 4, 2023

Reddy Bikeshare expands into State Parks in Niagara Falls

2022

Dec 6, 2022

First Night® Buffalo hosts virtual New Year’s Eve celebration for families

First Night® Buffalo, brought to you by the Independent Health Foundation in partnership with John R. Oishei Children’s Hospital, will feature an entertaining line-up of family friendly video performances for free at www.firstnightbuffalo.org the evening of December 31.

Oct 18, 2022

Take part in Health & Wellness Challenge

Western New Yorkers don’t have to train like professional football players to accomplish their health and wellness goals. Instead, they can achieve healthier lifestyles and improve their overall well-being by simply taking part in the Independent Health and Buffalo Bills Health & Wellness Challenge.

All of IH’s Medicare Advantage Plans earn 5 Stars from the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services for 2023

Oct 10, 2022

All of IH’s Medicare Advantage Plans earn 5 Stars from the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services for 2023

Talk with a Redshirt

Oct 1, 2022

Talk with a Redshirt

Independent Health among the nation’s highest-rated health plans by NCQA

Sep 23, 2022

Independent Health among the nation’s highest-rated health plans by NCQA

Independent Health Foundation Celebrates 30th Anniversary

Sep 15, 2022

Independent Health Foundation Celebrates 30th Anniversary

Independent Health Medical Office Building Dedicated at ECMC

Sep 6, 2022

Independent Health Medical Office Building Dedicated at ECMC

Aug 9, 2022

GObike and Independent Health distribute

Adjacent to the beautiful cycle track on Niagara Street with its users passing every few minutes, seventy children gathered outside of Buffalo String Works where their teachers, Independent Health, and GObike staff distributed brand new bike helmets right out of their packaging.

Aug 2, 2022

Yogathon to benefit mental health programs

Beginner and experienced yogis alike are welcome to receive the mental and physical health benefits of yoga at the 2nd annual Yogathon for Suicide Awareness & Prevention presented by Independent Health and Power Yoga Buffalo. This Yogathon will raise awareness of suicide prevention and funds to benefit mental health programs at Mental Health Advocates of WNY on Sunday, September 18 from 9am – 1pm (class from 10:30 am – 12:30 pm) at 500 Seneca St. in Buffalo.

Aug 2, 2022

Reddy Bikeshare Grows Beyond 100 stations

With more stations than ever before, Reddy Bikeshare invites Western New Yorkers to take on more active forms of transportation. As Reddy Bikeshare marks its seventh season, Western New Yorkers will now have more places than ever before to explore, exercise, and connect with folks using a Reddy Bike.

May 25, 2022

Independent Health Invites Donations of Essential Items for Tops/Jefferson Ave. Neighborhood Residents

Independent Health Invites Community to Donate Essential Items for Tops/Jefferson Ave. Neighborhood Residents

May 16, 2022

2022 Kids Run Back in Delaware Park

Returning to an in-person event to kick-off healthy activities all summer long, the Independent Health Foundation will again host their Kids Run at Delaware Park Saturday, June 4, 2022, from 9 a.m. to 12 noon. This free annual event, sponsored by Wegmans, encourages families to start the summer in a fun, healthy way with a mini-dash for children ages 2 to 5 and a 1.8-mile family run/walk for all ages.

Independent Health and its Family of Companies Honored as  Best Places to Work for in New York

Apr 21, 2022

Independent Health and its Family of Companies Honored as Best Places to Work for in New York

Apr 20, 2022

Health & Wellness Challenge is back!

The 15th round of the Independent Health and Buffalo Bills Health & Wellness Challenge is set to kick off on April 25 and run through June 5. Since 2014, Independent Health and the Buffalo Bills have teamed up to offer the Health & Wellness Challenge as a way to incentivize Western New Yorkers to make healthy lifestyle choices.

Apr 5, 2022

Reddy Bikeshare to offer upgraded bikes for 2022

Reddy Bikeshare and Independent Health announced the official start of the 2022 bikesharing season today, with plans to upgrade the 400 bikes with scan-to-unlock technology. The bikes’ new hardware will improve access to the entire fleet across Buffalo and Niagara Falls, and soon will be available in 90 different locations.

Mar 4, 2022

Free health screenings, resources and fresh produce shared

Several Good for the Neighborhood events, offering free health screenings, resources and information from healthcare professionals along with fresh fruits, vegetables and family fun activities, organized by the Independent Health Foundation returns this year to in-person gatherings in Buffalo, Niagara Falls and other neighborhoods throughout Western New York

Mar 2, 2022

Partnership with United Way Buffalo & Erie County for the Giving Challenge

United Way of Buffalo & Erie County is partnering with Independent Health to create the “Change Starts Here” challenge – a 31-day contribution match program running for the entire month of March. Every donation made to the United Way in March will be matched dollar-for-dollar up to $50,000, thanks to a generous contribution from Independent Health.

Jan 20, 2022

Awarded platinum Bell Seal for Workplace Mental Health

Independent Health has been awarded the 2022 platinum Bell Seal for Workplace Mental Health by Mental Health America (MHA). The Bell Seal is a first-of-its-kind workplace mental health certification that recognizes employers who strive to create mentally healthy workplaces for their employees.

Jan 14, 2022

IHA awards $42,000 to 65 Western New York charities

Independent Health announced the final round of $650 recipients for its “Nominate Your Favorite Charity” program. Nearly 8,000 individuals submitted nominations for the program during the 2021 Medicare annual enrollment period. All randomly selected recipients operate within the eight-county Western New York region.

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Media Relations Contact

Frank Sava
Director, Corporate Communications
(716) 635-3885
frank.sava@independenthealth.com

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