The Entertainment Community Fund (formerly The Actors Fund) is a national human services organization that helps address the specific needs of musicians and other entertainment professionals — with a unique understanding of the challenges involved with a life in the arts and the knowledge of what it takes to thrive in an often-unpredictable industry.

This February, the Entertainment Community Fund is proud to shine a spotlight on the health services available to members of Local 802 through the Fund.

Located in Times Square and operated in partnership with Mount Sinai Doctors, The Samuel J. Friedman Health Center for the Performing Arts is the only health center in New York City dedicated to the primary and specialty care needs of the performing arts and entertainment community.

With support from an esteemed and caring staff of doctors, nurses and administrators, The Friedman Health Center for the Performing Arts offers primary care, internal and sports medicine, HIV and trans care, gynecology and podiatry. In addition to the primary and specialty care available, The Friedman Health Center offers expedited referrals within the Mount Sinai Health System and accepts most insurance plans, including commercial insurances, several Marketplace/Exchange plans, Medicare and Workers’ Compensation. In 2024, The Friedman Health Center was awarded the Tony Honor for Excellence in Theatre, recognizing their commitment to the wellness of the entertainment community.

Keeping the unique needs and demanding schedules of performing arts and entertainment professionals in mind, the health center is open Monday through Saturday. The Friedman Health Center’s current operating hours are:

Monday to Thursday: 8 am to 8 pm
Friday: 8 am to 5 pm
Saturday: 9 am to 4 pm

For individuals in need of assistance enrolling in a health plan, free and unbiased insurance counseling and enrollment services are available on-site through the Fund’s Artists Health Insurance Resource Center.

Whether seeking a routine check-up, specialty care, ongoing management of a chronic health condition or more, The Samuel J. Friedman Health Center for the Performing Arts is available to all members of Local 802 and here to help manage your health needs every step of the way.

To learn more, please visit entertainmentcommunity.org/HealthCenter.