Advocacy Day Highlights Asthma Care and Affordable Treatment
Allergy & Asthma Network is gearing up for its 28th annual Advocacy Day on Capitol Hill, where important issues affecting millions of Americans with asthma and allergies will be spotlighted. Patients often struggle to access necessary treatments due to restrictive policies enforced by pharmacy benefit managers (PBMs). The Network is committed to addressing these critical issues and enhancing the quality of life for those affected.
A Call for Legislative Action
The upcoming Advocacy Day, scheduled for May 7, serves as a platform for patients, caregivers, and advocates to meet with lawmakers, sharing their stories and raising awareness about the barriers created by PBMs. Over the years, PBMs have played a major role in the medication distribution process, often leading to high prices and frustrating delays in treatment. This Advocacy Day aims to push for reforms that prioritize patient care above profit.
Addressing PBM Practices
Many advocates are calling on Congress to reevaluate the practices of PBMs, especially concerning prior authorization and the opaque pricing structures that often leave patients in the dark. "People with asthma and allergies deserve transparency and fairness in medication pricing," states Lynda Mitchell, CEO of Allergy & Asthma Network. This reform is seen as vital for ensuring uninterrupted access to life-saving treatments.
Restoring Vital Programs
In addition to advocating for PBM reforms, advocates are urging Congress to reinstate the National Asthma Control Program (NACP) at the CDC. The recent closure of this crucial program poses a significant threat to evidence-based asthma management resources. It has been instrumental in promoting awareness and caring for patients effectively, highlighting the need for legislative support to revive such programs.
Focus on Research and Development
Moreover, funding cuts at both the National Institutes of Health and the CDC jeopardize essential research into asthma and other chronic diseases. At Advocacy Day, discussions will focus on the necessity of reversing these cuts to ensure the continuation of vital research and innovation in asthma care. Without adequate funding, advancements in treatment options for patients could be severely hindered.
Key Legislative Priorities
The Allergy & Asthma Network will advocate for the passage of four significant bills aimed at enhancing the lives of asthma and allergy patients. These include:
- Chronic Disease Flexible Coverage Act: This act would allow employers with high-deductible plans to cover chronic disease treatments before employees’ deductibles are met, making vital healthcare more accessible.
- HELP Copays Act: This legislation would require health insurers to consider the value of copay assistance when calculating deductibles or out-of-pocket maximums, making treatments more affordable for patients.
- One School One Nurse Act: This act addresses the ongoing shortage of school nurses by providing funding for recruiting and retaining nursing staff in public schools, ensuring children receive the care they need.
- Protecting Children with Food Allergies Act: This would mandate training for school food staff on food allergies, promoting safety for children in educational environments.
Celebrating Milestones
The Advocacy Day will also serve as a celebration of the Allergy & Asthma Network’s 40th anniversary. The event kicked off with a reception celebrating four decades of progress and commitment to advocacy and education in the community. During Advocacy Day, there will be a Congressional Lunch Briefing featuring discussions led by members of the Congressional Asthma & Allergy Caucus and patient advocates.
Empowering Advocates
For those who cannot attend in person, the Network encourages participation through online actions. Advocates can easily email their legislators using pre-made templates to voice their concerns and push for necessary reforms in asthma care.
About Allergy & Asthma Network
Founded in 1985, Allergy & Asthma Network is dedicated to outreach, education, advocacy, and research for individuals and families living with allergies, asthma, and related conditions. Their mission is to eliminate the needless suffering and death caused by these diseases while promoting accessible healthcare and empowering individuals with the information they need to take charge of their health.
Contact: Gary Fitzgerald
Allergy & Asthma Network
703-641-9595
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Allergy & Asthma Day on Capitol Hill?
It is an annual event where advocates meet lawmakers to discuss critical asthma and allergy issues.
Why are PBMs a concern for asthma patients?
PBMs can create obstacles in accessing medications due to high prices and complicated approval processes.
What bills is Allergy & Asthma Network advocating for?
They are advocating for the Chronic Disease Flexible Coverage Act, HELP Copays Act, One School One Nurse Act, and Protecting Children with Food Allergies Act.
How can individuals support asthma advocacy?
Individuals can participate by emailing legislators and supporting initiatives through the Advocacy Center.
What is the mission of Allergy & Asthma Network?
The mission is to end needless suffering from allergies and asthma, provide education, and advocate for better healthcare policies.
