Elections have a direct impact on the lives of people living with lupus. Here’s why your vote matters:
The lawmakers we elect at the state and federal levels make decisions that influence access to healthcare, prescription drug affordability, insurance coverage, disability protections and workplace accommodations.
Policies such as step therapy requirements and copay accumulator programs can delay necessary treatment and create significant financial burdens for patients managing a lifelong, chronic illness.
Decisions surrounding the 340B drug pricing program can also affect access to affordable medications and healthcare services.
Limited awareness of and access to disability protections and workplace accommodations, leaving many patients without the support needed to manage their condition while maintaining employment.
These challenges can contribute to delayed treatment, disease progression, financial hardship and diminished quality of life. More than half of US states have enacted protections against copay accumulator and step therapy programs, yet these practices remain legal in Michigan. Although legislation has been introduced to address these barriers, additional legislative support by the lawmakers you elect is needed for these measures to advance through the Michigan Legislature.
For individuals with lupus, these aren’t simply political issues. They can determine whether someone can afford their medication, receive timely treatment or remain employed while managing their disease.
Voting is an opportunity to make the voices of the lupus community heard and hold elected officials accountable for policies that affect patients' health, financial stability and quality of life.
Regardless of political affiliation, we encourage everyone to learn where candidates stand on healthcare issues, advocate for policies that protect patients and make their voices heard at the ballot box.
To learn more about lupus and advocacy efforts in Michigan, visit milupus.org/advocacy.