Events

State consumer assistance programs are critical resources that help people resolve health care problems and gain access to care. As the economy struggles to get back on its feet and consumers learn about new coverage options and consumer protections, the services provided by these programs are in even higher demand.  Despite this growing need, Congress has allowed the consumer assistance grants provided through the Affordable Care Act for FY 2011 to end without  appropriating additional federal funds—leaving many programs struggling to find the resources they need to continue their work. 

Please join us next Wednesday, January 11, 2012, at 1:00 PM ET/10:00 AM PT for our next Health Action conference call where we will discuss strategies to educate both your state and federal elected officials about the important role these programs play in providing access to care.

Click HERE to RSVP

We will be joined by Cheryl Fish-Parcham, deputy director of health policy at Families USA; Elaine Saly, health policy analyst at Families USA; and Jen Beeson, director of government affairs at Families USA on the call. In addition, representatives from other community groups will share the challenges they are facing and approaches to raising awareness among elected officials about these programs.

Click HERE to RSVP
Wednesday, January 11, 2012
1:00 PM ET/10:00 AM PT

For an overview of the funding challenges consumer assistance programs are facing see Sarah Kliff’s recent article in the Washington Post, How Congress quietly killed health reforms Consumer Assistance Program. We are also in the process of working on a new resource section on our websitewhere we will provide best practices from consumer assistance program grantees as well as materials for visits with representatives. It should be ready just in time for the call—so stay tuned!