Advocacy
Join the MS Action Network, the center for advocacy at the National Multiple Sclerosis Society. Together, we represent the interests of people with MS as important policy decisions are made in both the public and private sectors. Our advocacy is focused on: federal funding for MS research; quality health care; long-term care; disability rights; and health insurance and prescription drug coverage. The MS Action Network works on these important issues at the federal, state and local levels.
Introduction to Advocacy
At the National Multiple Sclerosis Society, we represent the interests of people with multiple sclerosis (MS) through our "advocacy" efforts. This encompases our efforts to influence public policy in order to obtain benefits and resources for people with MS and their families. The public sector is where the National MS Society focuses the majority of its time and resources, working with federal, state and local legislative branches. It is possible that at times our work might extend to the executive and judicial branches of government as well. The remaining time is spent focusing on issues in the private sector, such as health insurance and employee rights in the workplace. The best part of our advocacy work on all levels is that the result of our efforts may benefit not only people with MS, but perhaps many others with chronic illnesses or disabilities.
The mission of the National Multiple Sclerosis Society is to end the devastating effects of multiple sclerosis. As there are numerous public policies that greatly influence the health and well being of people with MS, advocacy plays an important role in the attempt to achieve this mission.
Public Policy Priorities
At the federal level, the National MS Society focuses its efforts on the five major public policy areas of national concern to people with MS: medical research, health care, long-term care, health insurance, and disability issues. At the state level our Chapter, as a member of the NJ CAN, works with the other chapters in the state to focus on public policy priorities based on current issues in New Jersey that are directly affecting our clients. This year, the focus of the NJ CAN will be in the following areas: community services, transportation and patients' rights. At the local level, our Chapter works on a continual bases with our volunteer-led Government Relations Committee to identify the issues that are affecting people with MS and their families in our communities.