Hi all,

Working in government isn’t just about helping some people. It’s about helping all people. It’s about talking to individuals about the issues that impact them personally and finding solutions to problems big and small. This week, I’m proud to have worked with a special group of people – the rare disease patient community – to author and introduce the Access to Rare Indications Act, legislation to support patients in getting health insurance coverage for the care they need.

It’s no secret that health care in this country is oftentimes unaffordable and inaccessible, and our current laws in Medicare and Medicaid that help support access are extremely limiting when it comes to rare disease. For many of these patients, there is no FDA-approved drug for their rare diseases. But there are evidence-based standards of care that guide how doctors treat their patients. This bill puts coverage of these treatments for rare conditions on equal footing with more common conditions.

I’m proud to have the support of the Haystack Project, the nation’s leading advocacy organization dedicated to supporting patient access for rare and ultra-rare disease patient communities. I know this bill would have a huge impact on the lives of patients and their families across the country. In Sacramento, I have heard from a constituent with pemphigus, a rare condition with no FDA-approved therapy. She’s had her doctor prescribe her the best treatment for her condition, only to then be denied access by her health insurance. This meaningful legislation will help ensure that rare patients have access to the treatment that doctors think is best for them. Hearing stories like this is easily the best part of my job.

I am so honored to be in a position to help people every day and I look forward to continuing to do so in 2022 and beyond. To make sure I can do so, I hope you’ll make a donation to my campaign! It would be an honor.

Best,

Doris

Paid for by Matsui for Congress