The American Kidney Fund advocates for policies to improve the health of millions of Americans and their families who are living with, or are at risk of developing, kidney disease.
For many kidney transplant recipients, Medicare coverage of their anti-rejection medications ends after 36 months. Urge your representatives in Congress to support legislation that would extend lifetime coverage of these vital medications to all kidney transplant patients!
Sequestration Takes Effect
After nearly two years of failed negotiations, the across-the-board cuts to the federal budget known as sequestration took effect in March. These cuts, mandated through the Budget Control Act of 2011, included a 2 percent reduction to Medicare and its ESRD program. Beginning in April, Medicare reimbursements to dialysis providers are subject to a 2 percent reduction. AKF advocated against these cuts taking effect, particularly in light of the other substantial payment reforms and reductions to the ESRD program in recent years. AKF will continue to monitor the impact of these cuts, and will continue to advocate against any reductions or reforms that jeopardize kidney patients’ access to quality care.
AKF Kicks Off National Kidney Month with Kidney Action Day on the Hill
On Thursday, March 7, the American Kidney Fund hosted its annual kidney health screening event on Capitol Hill to raise awareness of kidney disease during National Kidney Month. In addition, 10 dedicated Advocates spent the day visiting their Congressional offices to share their story and urge support for federal policies and legislation that can benefit kidney patients and their families. Click here to see a slideshow of Kidney Action Day on the Hill.
