Policy & Public Affairs
Fund Kidney Research Now
ASN Leads Effort to Help Patients Connect with Congress on Importance of Research
Congress often hears from managed care companies, associations, and doctors on behalf of their patients. However, Congress must also hear from the patients themselves. Members of Congress, to fully comprehend the real-life impact of kidney disease, must listen to patients living in their State or District. This process allows policy leaders to learn about the personal challenges patients must face each day. Also, our legislators can then recognize that funding for kidney disease research will ultimately improve the lives of millions across the country. To that end, the ASN is partnering with the Polysystic Kidney Foundation and American Society of Pediatric Nephrology in order to connect kidney patients with their Members of Congress. In particular, the ASN Government Relations Staff members have been implementing a public advocacy campaign that enables kidney patients and their families to spread the word to Capitol Hill about the importance of increased funding for kidney research.
The campaign has been very successful. In the summer of 2000, ASN Government Relations Staff members have received over 100 returned response cards indicating their participation in the campaign. This participation has included, in part, contact with over 120 Representatives and Senators either through letters, emails or telephone calls. Here are some quotes from the patients about this campaign:
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"Our nephrologist gave me a packet from the American Society Nephrology and Pediatric Nephrology, that contains information about writing to congress to fund kidney research. This is currently a hot topic. It is up to us to get these balls rolling. Let's go get 'em! Thanks".
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"Several people [nephrologists] met with the Louisiana delegation to discuss renal research".
A Successful Campaign Requires Your Help!
Although the ASN-patient project has enjoyed initial success, much work remains. Due to the new administration and committee changes, we need to continue this educational campaign in 2001 and the entire 107th Congress. This outreach, however, relies on the active participation of members like you! ASN members will be asked to distribute packets of information to patients that explain our program. It's as easy as that! Please contact the ASN Government Relations Staff in order to sign up and take part in this campaign. You will then receive all the materials needed to educate Congress on the need for increased funding for kidney disease. Please also feel free to contact ASN Government Relations by calling (202) 367-1175 or emailing asua_ofosu@dc.sba.com.