As we make our way through the beginning of 2025, I'm grateful for the renewed sense of purpose and commitment to patient care that each new year brings. And this month's newsletter has important updates that directly impact our mission of supporting those in need.

First, I'm pleased to announce that our assistance programs for Myasthenia Gravis (MG) and Chronic Inflammatory Demyelinating Polyneuropathy (CIDP) are now open for applications. If you or someone you know is living with either of these conditions, apply today.

If you've been following along with our webinar series focused on the Inflation Reduction Act and resulting changes to Medicare, make plans to attend our next event. This upcoming discussion will cover how patients, providers, and advocates are faring now that changes to Medicare Part D have taken effect.

We're conducting a brief survey the top barriers to healthcare access, which will take just moments of your time. Your input is invaluable to us, and the results will help shape how we better serve our community.

Looking ahead, our team will be attending several conferences in the coming months. We’d love to connect, whether at a conference or in a separate meeting, to discuss how we can better serve the needs of those we serve.

Finally, take a moment to read through some recent policy updates. Our government affairs team is actively engaging with lawmakers and industry stakeholders to advocate for policies that protect patient interests and expand access to vital treatments. 

Thank you for your continued support of our mission to improve access to critical care and resources. Together, we're starting this year strong and focused on making healthcare accessible for all.

We're proud to announce the opening of 2 patient programs for Chronic Inflammatory Demyelinating Polyneuropathy (CIDP) and Myasthenia Gravis (MG). Apply today for assistance*.

*Program space is limited and is offered on a first-come, first-served basis. Programs will only remain open as long as funding is available.

If a program is full, you can still submit an application to add your name to the program waitlist. Once you are on the waitlist, you will be notified if assistance becomes available.

To apply:

1. Click the button below.
2. Select 'open' under 'step two'.
3. Select the appropriate program and begin the application process.

Medicare Changes in Motion: Early Experiences and Key Insights

Mar 27, 2025 02:00 PM

Now that the Inflation Reduction Act’s changes to Medicare Part D have taken effect, how are patients faring?

Join us for a panel discussion featuring healthcare experts and patient advocates as they share real-world experiences, challenges, and early outcomes. This session will provide insights into how patients, providers, and advocates are navigating the new landscape of medication access, coverage changes, and affordability.

Panelists will also share their perspectives on what has worked, what still needs improvement, and how healthcare providers and advocates can continue supporting patients during this transition.

The 119th Congress was sworn in on January 3rd and promptly began realigning congressional committees and setting a legislative schedule. Meanwhile, the White House began issuing a series of Executive Orders on campaign promises, which varied in practicality, legality, and constitutionality.

At the end of last year, the outgoing 118th Congress failed to act on a comprehensive package to advance Fiscal Year (FY) 2025 appropriations for federal agencies and enact some key pending bills listed below.

• Fixing a scheduled reduction in Medicare physician reimbursement to protect access to healthcare providers from Medicare beneficiaries. 
• The Kids Access to Care Act which seeks to ensure children in Medicaid and CHIP can visit qualified physicians across state lines
• The Kids First Research Act which would bolster pediatric research efforts.
• Reauthorizing the Rare Pediatric Disease Priority Review Voucher Program to preserve treatment development mechanisms managed by the Food and Drug Administration.  

Instead, lawmakers chose to extend current funding until March 14th and provide disaster and farm relief. Additionally, Congress decided to defer PBM reform legislative efforts to the current Congress for further debate and refinement. The previously pending legislation will need to be considered for the March 14th package or reintroduced and possibly discussed as part of ongoing PBM reform.

In addition to completing the FY 2025 spending bills (and avoiding a government shutdown) and restarting PBM reform, the new Congress has indicated that it plans to work on several priorities. These include working on budget reconciliation, extending expiring tax cuts, increasing the debt ceiling, and reauthorizing and possibly reorganizing any healthcare programs. Congress will also need to begin the FY 2026 appropriations process in the near future. 

While this may seem like dynamic times with many bold headlines, a jam-packed and ambitious legislative agenda is likely to face encounter constraints. Narrow majorities and diverse political ideologies often slow progress when disagreements arise. 

Successfully passing legislation will require middle-of-the-road bipartisan support. With close to 80 new members who remain primarily accountable to their constituents, this presents an opportunity for patient advocates to connect with their elected officials, share their experiences, and highlight both challenges and opportunities for reform.

Accessia Health, a national charitable patient assistance organization, is dedicated to eliminating healthcare barriers for people with rare or chronic health conditions. Comprehensive services include personalized case management, financial assistance, education, and legal aid support. Our flexible funding model goes beyond copays, allowing individuals to pay for other essential medical expenses including insurance premiums, screening and diagnostics, therapy services, travel costs and more. Accessia Health works to ensure that every individual has access to the care they need to lead a healthier life. 

Accessia Health exists through generous donations like yours.

Please consider making a gift to provide health and hope to patients nationwide.