ACHA is pleased to be working with key members at the government relations firm Cavarocchi Ruscio Dennis (CRD) Associates to develop and implement a new comprehensive advocacy strategy. Our team has been busy meeting with key stakeholders, including members of the Board, Medical Advisory Board, patients and family members to develop an advocacy plan that raises awareness of adult congenital heart disease and ACHA’s profile in Washington, D.C.
CRD Associates plans to focus its efforts on the population with congenital heart disease that is lost to care; the team will take on issues such as access to quality care/insurance, research, and awareness/strategic positioning. These issues have been a key focus as CRD Associates have been working with Congressional champions on the reauthorization of the Congenital Heart Futures Act. We expect the reauthorization bill to be introduced in the very near future. Please watch for messages on how you can promote this important legislation.
During the strategic planning process, ACHA stakeholders made it clear that they want to better engage with policymakers throughout the year, not just during Washington, D.C. events on the Hill. We heard you and will be working to provide you with the tools needed to engage with members of Congress when they are at home in their states and districts and through social media.
—Danielle Stephens
ACHA Director of Programs