Providing a united voice

for people with

chronic diseases and disabilities

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Policy Issues

The National Health Council (NHC) harnesses the collective power of the patient community to address systemic health care issues that affect all patients. We speak with one unified voice to bring about meaningful change in such areas as support for health research, speedier development of new medications, and access to effective and affordable health care for all people. Our public policy positions reflect the broad consensus of our member organizations, which represent all segments of the health care community.

Together, we work to bring about a health care system that Puts Patients First.

Our advocacy efforts are guided by an advisory group of senior staff from patient advocacy groups. Representatives from all membership categories also help to identify priorities and develop strategies. In addition, we work with coalitions of like-minded organizations to advocate for policies that help people with chronic diseases and disabilities.


Health Reform
In its continuing effort to provide a united voice for people with chronic diseases and disabilities, the NHC has sent the following letters to Congress and the White House: 


NHC Values to Ensure Patient-Focused Health Care Reform


Americans with Disabilities Restoration Act 
 
Due to several court rulings, the impact of the original Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) was limited. The ADA Restoration Act
clarifies the definition of disability to include those individuals who are able to manage their disease or disability. The National Health Council supported this legislation, which was signed into law on September 25, 2008.

Letter of support to Congress (June 24, 2008)
Letter of support to the President (April 18, 2008)  
  


Position Statements

NHC Position Statement on Stem Cell Research (Adopted July 2008)
NHC Position Statement on
Human Cloning (Adopted July 2001)
NHC Position Statement on Direct-to-Consumer Prescription Drug Advertising (Adopted January 2002)
NHC White Paper on Direct-to-Consumer Prescription Drug Advertising (Adopted January 2002)

To read more about NHC initiatives and policies visit the following areas. 

Cover Everyone

Better Care

Health Research

Curb Costs Responsibly