The health program that keeps an eye on and treats thousands of folks exposed to toxic dust after the 2001 terrorist attack is in trouble — again. The World Trade Center Health Program, which has been giving life-saving care to tens of thousands of people for more than 20 years, is facing a crisis due to a bunch of staffing cuts and agency chaos.
Experts are sounding the alarm, warning that cancer diagnoses might get delayed, mental health needs could go unattended, and the government would basically be breaking its promise to “never forget.” The program, which was set up to help first responders and survivors of the 9/11 attacks, is now struggling to keep up with the demand for its services.
The controversy centers around a series of staffing cuts at the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health, the agency that oversees the World Trade Center Health Program. Earlier this year, they cut 20% of the staff, including 16 doctors and nurses. After a big outcry, those positions were brought back in February. But then in April, another 16 staffers got the boot, leaving the program in disarray once again.
On top of the staffing cuts, Dr. John Howard, the program’s longtime leader, was also removed from his position. He was eventually reinstated after some political pressure. Right now, over 150,000 people are enrolled in the program, and the staff was supposed to grow to meet the rising demand. Instead, patients are now waiting six to eight months for appointments, which is not ideal.
The toxic dust from the 9/11 attacks contained a mix of dangerous chemicals and debris, putting those exposed at risk for various illnesses. The program is essential for saving lives and providing care to those affected, but without proper funding and support, people could end up suffering or even dying without it.
The World Trade Center Health Program was established through the James Zadroga 9/11 Health and Compensation Act, which was made permanent in 2015. However, funding issues have put the program in jeopardy, with a bipartisan bill to fix the shortfall stuck in Congress. The system is on the brink of collapse, putting the lives of many at risk.
Advocates like John Feal are fighting hard to keep the program afloat, but they need support from lawmakers across the country. Thousands of people outside of New York are also enrolled in the program and in need of care. It’s crucial that everyone reaches out to their senators and representatives to remind them of the promise made to the 9/11 community.
In meetings with lawmakers, Feal and other advocates are finding some support, but the question remains whether action will be taken to save the program. The situation is dire, and time is running out to prevent further harm to those who rely on the World Trade Center Health Program for their well-being.
An HHS spokesperson assured that the program is still providing services to its members, but the challenges it faces are putting many lives at risk. The future of the program hangs in the balance, with the fate of thousands of 9/11 survivors and first responders in the hands of lawmakers who must act swiftly to ensure their continued care and support.
