Federal Government Affairs
The Society's Public Policy Office in Washington, D.C. shapes federal policies and programs to better meet the needs of people affected by MS. When issues could impact people living with MS, we advocate for positive changes. We aggressively pursue healthcare policies that increase MS research, increase access to and affordability of quality health care, and provide affordable options for long-term care and more resources for caregivers.
Public Policy Conference Issues - March 2011
Funding for MS research through the Congressionally Directed Medical Research Program (CDMRP) in the amount of $15 million. Emerging evidence indicates a potential link between combat service and and increased incidence of MS. CDMRP research can help the more than 20,000 U.S. veterans receiving care through the VA who have a diagnosis of MS.
Supporting the Adult Day Achievement Center Enhancement Act. This act aims to establish a competitive grant within the Administration of Aging to sustain and grow adult day centers that focus on the younger disabled population.
Improving access to neurological care by including neurologists as primary care providers in the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act. Neurologists were omitted from the Act, thereby excluding neurology from a list of medical specialties eligible for a Medicare bonus payment.
Urging legislators to join the Congressional Multiple Sclerosis Caucus. The bi-partisan Congressional MS Caucus, in the House and the Senate, serves as a forum on the critical issues affecting people living with MS and other conditions. The 105 Representative and 22 Senate members of the Caucus engage in discussions and seek creative solutions for MS issues.