Feb 23, 2009
Public Policy Conference in Washington
Each year, a small delegation from the SNY chapter joins activists from across the country in Washington, DC for the annual Public Policy Conference. This March 9-11 two volunteers and one staff member will visit members of Congress to discuss the following issues:
• Support for establishing a disease registry for MS which would provide accurate knowledge and information about the incidence and prevalence. A better understanding of the disease will help promote research into areas like genetic and environmental risk factors.
• Support for comprehensive Health Care Reform. The Society created a set of Principles to ensure that the needs of people with MS are met.
1. Accessible health care coverage
2. Affordable health care services and coverage
3. Standards for coverage of specific treatments
4. Elimination of disparities in care
5. Comprehensive, quality health care available to all
6. Increased value of health care
7. Access to high-quality, long-term supports and services
• Increased funding for MS Research through the Department of Defense. Money is added every year to this budget through the Office of Congressionally Directed Medical Research Programs. Last year they provided $5 million for MS research and this year we hope for $15 million.