The countdown to Inauguration Day has begun. The Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America (AAFA) has joined 32 patient groups to represent millions of people with pre-existing conditions. We are urging lawmakers to spend their first 100 days in office working to make sure people have access to high-quality, affordable health coverage.

“The 100 Days Agenda: A Patient-First Blueprint” outlines specific steps the president and other elected officials can take to protect patients. The first 100 days of a president’s term and a new Congress are a key period. During this time, elected officials can use momentum from the election to make change. We urge lawmakers to take this chance to focus on the need for quality, affordable health care.

The blueprint outlines 29 recommendations. These would reduce administrative barriers to care, stand up for patients in courts and advance pro-patient laws. The group asks that Congress and the administration:

• Make health coverage affordable
• Expand Medicaid
• Promote access to quality insurance
• Protect patients from questionable coverage
• Defend patients in the courts
• End surprise medical bills
  
  

As we all face a devastating pandemic and a struggling economy, it is time for lawmakers to put patients first. Stay tuned for an Advocacy Action Alert to help you contact Congress and the administration once they take office on Jan. 20, 2021.