Together We Advocate. Together We Make a Difference.

Advocates from across Wisconsin have been using their voices, making a lasting impact, and driving change for access to healthcare in both Wisconsin and Washington, D.C.

On February 18, we hosted our annual Wisconsin Advocacy Day in Madison. Advocates from across the state gathered with the important task of educating their legislators and sharing personal stories about living with a bleeding disorder. Together, advocates highlighted critical issues impacting the bleeding disorders community, including continued funding of the Wisconsin Chronic Disease Program, legislation to make All Co-Pays Count, and the urgent need for access to residential and inpatient treatment facilities for those navigating substance use, abuse, and mental health challenges.

The advocacy journey didn’t stop in Madison. At the National Bleeding Disorders Foundation’s (NBDF) Washington Days, advocates took their voices to Capitol Hill, meeting with federal legislators to address issues impacting the bleeding disorder community on a national scale. Meetings focused on securing support for federal bleeding disorders programs at HRSA, CDC, and NIH — programs that provide vital funding for Hemophilia Treatment Centers (HTCs), as well as support, research, care and public health monitoring.

Advocates also pressed legislators to co-sponsor the HELP Co-Pays Act, which bans abusive insurance practices and ensures patients can access the medications they need without financial barriers. In addition, they urged Congress to reject harmful healthcare cuts and policies that create red tape and barriers to coverage for those on Medicaid. With a strong commitment to preserving access to affordable care, we called on legislators to extend the enhanced tax credits and prevent cost spikes and coverage losses for those utilizing the Affordable Care Act (ACA) marketplace insurance.

Unfortunately, advocacy doesn’t stop with a few days of action. It is an ongoing effort that requires sustained involvement and commitment. GLHF remains committed to advocating for access to care year-round. And we hope you will too – because we can always use your help! If you are ready to join us in making a difference — for yourself, for others, and for the entire bleeding disorder community — reach out to Karin Koppen at kkoppen@glhf.org. Together, we will continue to push for the change we need. Because if not you, then who?

Let’s keep the momentum going! We always appreciate the support and dedication of an engaged and passionate community, which is exactly what we have found in the bleeding disorders community!