Nearly two years ago, DPC expanded its advocacy footprint to establish a state advocacy program to complement our ongoing federal efforts and in response to states increasing their role in health care policy and the delivery system which impacts dialysis patients’ access to quality care.
While Congress continues its work through the remainder of 2021, a majority of state legislatures have already adjourned for this calendar year. Forty-six (46) state legislatures hold annual regular sessions and four states (MT, ND, NV and TX) hold biennial regular sessions, meeting every other year.
Working with a number of our Patient Ambassadors throughout the country, DPC helped to pass key legislation in multiple states. Such legislation includes expanding access to Medigap and providing living organ donor protections, both of which support increased access to kidney transplantation. The state advocacy team also worked in a number of states to support the establishment of public-private advisory councils or task forces to promote chronic kidney disease education and increase prevention efforts.
DPC helped to secure passage of legislation in 14 states, including:
Medigap Improvements:
- Illinois, Nevada, New Hampshire
Living Organ Donor Protections:
- Connecticut, Kentucky, Maryland, New Jersey, Pennsylvania, Texas, Washington
Chronic Kidney Disease Education and Prevention:
- Colorado, Connecticut, Kentucky, Louisiana
In addition, several states below introduced similar legislation that did not advance to final passage this session or is still being considered. DPC continues to work on these bills and initiate work in additional states in furtherance of our mission to elevate the voice and improve the quality of life for dialysis patients.
Medigap Improvements:
- Connecticut, Kentucky, Maryland, Nevada, Rhode Island, Texas
Living Organ Donor Protections:
- Michigan, North Carolina, Ohio, Oregon
Chronic Kidney Disease Education and Prevention:
- Indiana, Massachusetts, New Jersey
Many thanks to all the DPC members who participated in our advocacy efforts, and we welcome others to join us too!