January 16, 2024 – The American Cleft Palate and Craniofacial Association (ACPA) is pleased to share its 2024 advocacy agenda.
With Congress returning and state legislatures start their legislative sessions nationwide, ACPA’s Advocacy Committee and Board of Directors have identified three legislative priorities for the year ahead:
- Improving children’s access to needed out-of-state healthcare
- Provide coverage for multiple hearing devices for children and adults who suffer from craniofacial anomalies
- Require health plans and insurers to cover items and services related to the diagnosis and treatment of a congenital anomaly or birth defect
“In 2024, ACPA will be focused on advocating for policies to uphold and improve care and access to treatment for children born with cleft lip, cleft palate, or other craniofacial differences, as well as expanding efforts to build stronger partnerships.” said Adam Levy, ACPA Executive Director.
Ongoing top priorities include:
- Championing comprehensive medical team care for patients and their families
- Supporting government policies to help improve access to care
- Communicate the importance of access to and the value of team care to legislators, the public, providers and affected individuals
- Amplifying efforts to raise awareness by building stronger collaborations with organizations that share similar goals
Throughout 2024, ACPA will also be implementing new advocacy capabilities that will allow care providers, patients, and advocates to share their stories and make their voices heard in the policymaking processes.