Policy and Advocacy
The COPD Foundation community works with local, state, and federal policy makers to increase research funding, improve care delivery, protect access to treatments, and create policy that improves the lives of those with COPD and related lung conditions. We cannot act alone. Use the COPD Action Center to learn about pressing policy issues and to call, write, or visit your elected officials.
Add your voice to our search for a cure and a better life for all those affected by COPD, bronchiectasis and nontuberculous mycobacterial (NTM) lung disease.
Our Public Policy Priorities
At the COPD Foundation, we advocate for changes that improve the lives of people with COPD, bronchiectasis, and nontuberculous mycobacterial (NTM) lung disease. Here’s where we're focusing our priorities:
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Increasing Research Funding
We call for more investment in research and development from the National Institutes of Health (NIH) to discover better treatments for COPD, bronchiectasis, and NTM lung disease.
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Advancing Patient-Centered Treatment Approvals and Product Labeling
We work with the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) to ensure that patient and caregiver experience is included in therapy development and regulatory decisions. This includes using clinical measures that align with how patients feel and function in their daily lives.
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Facilitating Timely Access to Approved Treatments
We work to remove barriers that prevent people from getting the treatments they need. This includes working with public and private health plans to make sure patient and caregiver voices are heard and considered. We also promote policies that support access to evidence-based care.
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Improving Access to Oxygen Therapy
We advocate for legislation to make oxygen therapy more accessible, safe, effective, and affordable for everyone who needs it.
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Expanding Pulmonary Rehabilitation
We support wider access to both in-person and telehealth pulmonary rehabilitation programs. People should be able to access programs based on their needs and goals.
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Reducing Tobacco and Nicotine Use
We support stronger regulations to reduce tobacco use and nicotine addiction in both adults and children. This includes taking bold action to address the growing public health threat of vaping, which has become a major threat to lung health.
These priorities drive our mission to help millions of people live longer and healthier lives by advancing research, advocacy, and awareness to stop COPD, bronchiectasis, and NTM lung disease.
Other advocacy efforts will be in a supportive role with other leading organizations (public health and research funding, clean air, health disparities, vaccine access, etc.).
Other COPD issues: