The Latest in ASTCT Advocacy: September 2024
ASTCT Advocates for Key Legislation at Hill Day in D.C.
ASTCT's Hill Day was held on September 9 and 10th in Washington D.C.
Members from ASTCT Government Relations Committee and Board of Directors participated in Congressional meetings with their respective representatives.
The attendees advocated for the field of transplant with the following asks of Congress:
• Support for the Accelerating Kids’ Access to Care Act (H.R. 4758/S. 2372): This bill seeks to remove barriers for pediatric patients on Medicaid to access out-of-state care without delay.
• Support for the Alleviating Barriers to Caregivers Act (H.R. 8018/S. 3109): Aimed at reducing administrative burdens on family caregivers, this act would streamline eligibility and application processes across key federal programs.
• Medicaid Mandate for Out-of-State Medicare Enrollee Benefit: A request to federally mandate that when out-of-state treatment is authorized, states accept Medicare enrollment as sufficient for Medicaid payment.
• Increased Funding for the NIH: Supporting NIH funding is vital to advancing innovative and curative therapies for immunocompromised oncology patients.
By supporting these key legislative asks, ASTCT is driving meaningful change that benefits patients, caregivers and healthcare providers alike.
ASTCT 2024 Hill Day: Grassroots Advocacy Impact
During ASTCT’s 2024 Hill Day, ASTCT members from across the country joined forces in a grassroots campaign to advocate for patient access to lifesaving transplant and cell therapy treatments. Through this effort, 86 participants reached out to their elected officials, resulting in 3,562 messages sent to Congress.
This collective action supported key legislative priorities, including the Accelerating Kids’ Access to Care Act and increased funding for the NIH. ASTCT extends its gratitude to all who took part in this advocacy effort, making a significant impact on behalf of the transplant and cell therapy community.
You too can participate in our grassroots campaign, by reaching out to your respective U.S. Congressional Elected Official!
Government Relations (GR) Committee Set 2025 Advocacy Priorities Ahead of Hill Day
The Government Relations (GR) Committee held a strategic planning meeting in Washington, D.C., ahead of Hill Day to align on key initiatives for 2025. The session focused on setting priorities and strengthening advocacy efforts for the year ahead.