Here's 5 Things You Should Know Today to be a More Effective Chronic Advocate.

Twice a month, we share quick advocacy tips and insights that you can use right away to become a better chronic advocate. This week, learn about the recent SCOTUS abortion pill decision, pharmacy closures, and more.

1. Women in Government, a bipartisan organization of female legislators, recently invited the Chronic Disease Coalition to speak at their June policy conference. CDC Executive Director Mary Kay Clunies-Ross presented "Data-Driven, Patient-Centered," highlighting the importance of lawmakers engaging with patients. Read Mary Kay’s recap in the blog here.

2. The Supreme Court on Thursday upheld broad access to a widely used abortion pill - mifepristone. SCOTUS’ decision affirms the importance of maintaining FDA’s authority in the drug approval process. While access to this medication is preserved, state legislatures across the country will continue to make decisions that impact the relationship between patients and their providers. We will always advocate for expanded access to necessary treatments. Read The Washington Post’s article here.

3. In case you missed it, our first 2024 Chronic University session, "First Step in Activism: Informing Policy Makers," is now available, click here to watch. Are you ready to raise your voice and advocate for change? Visit our website to learn more about Chronic University and discover how you can get involved in our advocacy efforts.

4. Patient care is at risk as revealed in the Oregonian’s article, “As pharmacies disappear nationwide, Oregonians among the hardest hit,” exploring how pharmacy benefit managers (PBMs) are taking a significant share of profits away from independent pharmacies — forcing many to close their doors. As these local pharmacies disappear, patients face longer wait times, reduced access to medications, and a loss of crucial community connections. It is imperative that we ensure the patient’s voice is being heard. Share your chronic disease story and influence legislation here.

5. June is National Men’s Health Month, and to honor men navigating chronic illnesses, we’re highlighting one of our amazing ambassadors — Dustin Miller from Wisconsin.

“Nowadays, while I still write fiction, I also write about other types of heroes. These are the people that spend their lives fighting to give people like me a voice... I decided that I, too, wanted to be one of those heroes. That is when it clicked for me. I decided to put my love of writing and my excitement for helping others with chronic diseases. I started writing journals, posting articles on social media and talking to others in the chronic disease community.”

If you’re interested in joining Dustin in our Ambassador program, click here.