On Sept. 22, 2022, AGA held its annual Advocacy Day, bringing together advocates from across the country to meet with federal lawmakers and their staff and educate about policies impacting GI patient care, including prior authorization, step therapy reform, Medicare reimbursement and federal research funding.
Although Advocacy Day was held virtually, we were thrilled to see record numbers of participants and states represented in meetings throughout the day.
From California to Connecticut, AGA members confidently met with legislators from their states and shared personal stories about the impact of healthcare policy on patient care.
Advocates provided firsthand accounts detailing how regulatory burdens caused by prior authorization and step therapy have delayed the timely — and correctly prescribed — treatment for debilitating digestive conditions, such as IBD.
Others explained the need to prevent Medicare physician cuts and the importance of supporting long-term federally funded digestive disease research, both of which are key to maintaining high-quality patient care and developing innovative treatment for digestive disorders.
Thanks to the record number of GIs who participated we were able to hold a full day of successful and constructive meetings with lawmakers and their staff — and we’re following up with their offices with materials based on your stories and input. Your voices make a difference!