National Multiple Sclerosis Society
Explore and take action on hot issues.
Ask Congress to provide funding for MS research to stop MS in its tracks, restore what has been lost and end MS forever.
Ensure that regulatory agencies support MS research to stop MS in its tracks, restore what has been lost and end MS forever.
People living with multiple sclerosis sometimes find it necessary for them to modify their homes to increase accessibility and improve safety. Modifying a home may also allow a person with MS to maintain a connection to a job, remain an active member of the community, or even to remain independent. However, these modifications can be prohibitively expensive. People with MS may benefit from financial relief through tax credits, grants or assistance programs.
Every person with multiple sclerosis needs access to a comprehensive network of healthcare providers to meet his or her unique healthcare needs.
Every person should have access to the healthcare they need. Discover updates in our fight for affordable, quality health insurance coverage for those with MS.
Medicaid is a joint federal and state program that helps with medical costs for some people with limited income and resources. Medicaid also offers benefits not normally covered by Medicare, like nursing home care and personal care services.
To ensure Medicare is able to provide quality, comprehensive healthcare for older Americans and people with disabilities, , including many living with MS.
People living with MS need access to high-quality, affordable long-term services and supports that meet their needs, and help them remain independent and avoid financial hardship.
As passionate advocates for individuals with MS, The National MS Society and MS activists engage on the following issues at the state and federal level.
Lack of public information on the price of healthcare services, the paperwork required to attain care, and insufficient notification of benefit changes contribute to the burden of living with MS.
Caregivers of people with MS spend about 24 hours a week providing care. Of these caregivers, 64% are emotionally drained, 32% experience depression and 22% have lost a job due to caregiving responsibilities. The Lifespan Respite Care Program helps states better coordinate and deliver quality respite care that improves the health of family caregivers and allows the person living with MS to continue living at home.
Streamline Step Utilization Management (step therapy and prior authorizations) Introduced 1.27.2020 – Passed House 2.20.2020 – At Desk upon adjournment (died) 3.8.2020 The National Multiple Sclerosis Society, Oregon Chapter, supports efforts to base treatment decisions on research and medical expertise rather than cost alone
Cost of Prescription Drugs, Rebates and Markup Transparency Introduced 1.27.2020 – Passed Senate 2.20.2020 – At Desk upon adjournment (died) 3.8.2020 The National Multiple Sclerosis Society, Greater Northwest Chapter, supports efforts in continuing to make the cost of medications more transparent for all consumers with high costs.
Monitor
Implementation on Pharmacy Benefit Manager Requirements Introduced 1.27.2020 – Passed House 2.14.2020 – At Desk upon adjournment (died) 3.8.2020 The National Multiple Sclerosis Society, Oregon Chapter, monitors regulator efforts which impact access to medications for those living with MS.
Oregon Legislative Page – HB 4030
Staff Measure Summary
2019 Legislation