Today marked a milestone moment for community health and mental health care in New York City, as Urban Health Plan proudly announced the launch of its ACGME-accredited Community Psychiatry Residency Program, in partnership with NYC Health + Hospitals/Elmhurst and NYC Health + Hospitals/Lincoln. Beginning July 1, 2026, this program represents the power of three women leaders who joined forces to address one of the most pressing challenges facing our city: the shortage of mental health providers.

Paloma Izquierdo Hernández, President & CEO, Urban Health Plan:

“Teaching health centers like Urban Health Plan play a critical role in shaping the future of health care. By embedding psychiatric training within the fabric of our community, we ensure that residents not only learn clinical excellence, but also understand the social and cultural realities that impact our patients every day.”

Dr. Helen Arteaga Landaverde, CEO, NYC Health + Hospitals/Elmhurst:

“Elmhurst has had an amazing partnership with Urban Health Plan for the past 16 years. Together, we look forward to training the next generation of psychiatric clinicians and providing much-needed behavioral health care in our underserved community.”

Cristina Contreras, CEO, NYC Health + Hospitals/Lincoln:

“This program is not only an investment in future physicians, but a direct investment in the health and well-being of our community. It will significantly improve disparities in access to psychiatric care.”

Strong providers are those who are deeply connected to the communities they serve. Our mission is to offer a program that prepares physicians to deliver care with dignity, compassion, and cultural responsiveness.

We thank NYC Health + Hospitals/Elmhurst and NYC Health + Hospitals/Lincoln for being strong, like-minded partners in this work.

Together, we are shaping a healthier future for New York City!

Learn more about our Community Psychiatry Residency Program

Read the Press Release