Two Days on the Hill: A Recap of AMCP’s May Legislative Days

Throughout our history, AMCP has been a proud convener and advocate as we’ve strived to bring together experts across the health care industry. We recognize that conversation is key if we’re going to find solutions to some of the most challenging problems facing patients and policymakers today. This month, we tried to do just that through our AMCP Legislative Days. AMCP member advocates from across the country took to Capitol Hill to speak with lawmakers about ways to improve patient access to innovative new treatments as well as critical pharmacy legislation. 

Top of mind for these Legislative Days were two of AMCP’s highest legislative priorities, the Medicaid Value-Based Payments for Patients (MVP) Act and the Access to Prescription Digital Therapeutics (PDT) Act of 2023. Prior to meeting with lawmakers, our dedicated member advocates learned more about these legislative priorities from the AMCP team and then spoke directly with policymakers. Although these conversations varied, there were some core elements such as the gaps that exist in the health care system and how bills like the MVP and Access to PDTs Acts can contribute to greater patient access and health equity. 

AMCP member advocates participated in Legislative Days to discuss the #PDTAccessAct & the #MVPAct. Our goal is to educate lawmakers about ways to improve patient access to innovative new treatments. Learn more and join our community to increase our voice: https://t.co/fv21qbajmu pic.twitter.com/Leisazzek7

— AMCP (@amcporg) May 16, 2024

 
Looking back, I do believe the robust discussions I witnessed represent an important step toward meaningful policy change. Our collective advocacy efforts are making a difference as we strive to turn these important bills closer into law. In fact, because of our advocacy on the Hill, Congresswoman Beth Van Duyne (R-TX) agreed to co-sponsor both the MVP Act and PDT Act. It’s a sign of the powerful impact that face-to-face conversation can have. And we truly see bipartisan momentum growing for both bills!  

But we still have a lot of road ahead of us. Advocacy is the work of many hands over many years as we seek effective and inclusive solutions that balance access, affordability, and innovation. Standing alongside our partners, AMCP looks forward to continuing to educate and work toward meaningful policy changes — ones that will move the needle towards greater access and affordability for patients nationwide.   

If you were unable to attend, view the resources for AMCP members:

2024 Legislative Days Booklet
Education Slides

Learn more and send a message to your lawmaker:

Take Action!
 

Susan A. Cantrell, MHL, RPh, CAE
Chief Executive Officer
Published on May 29, 2024