Public Policy at the National Health Council
The National Health Council (NHC) is the united voice for people with chronic diseases and disabilities and their family caregivers. The NHC Policy team advocates for federal policies that improve access to high-quality, affordable care; support innovation; and strengthen the nonprofit health ecosystem.
Across our work, we are focused on addressing the rising cost of health care and advancing policies that improve the system for all patients.
How We Set Policy Priorities
Each year, the NHC develops its policy agenda through a member-driven process that reflects the evolving national landscape. Priorities are informed by an annual issue survey, ongoing member engagement, internal expertise, and guidance from the Board of Directors and Board Policy Committee.
This approach ensures that the NHC focuses on areas where we can have the greatest impact for patients and caregivers. Our priorities are reviewed and updated regularly to remain responsive to emerging challenges and opportunities.
2026 Policy Focus
In 2026, the NHC Policy team is advancing work in three key areas:
Access and Affordability
The NHC is working to protect Medicaid, Medicare, and the Affordable Care Act while ensuring access to comprehensive, affordable coverage. Our efforts include addressing out-of-pocket costs and cost shifting; advancing reforms to utilization management practices such as prior authorization and step therapy; and engaging on broader drivers of health care costs, including drug pricing, pharmacy benefit managers (PBMs), Inflation Reduction Act (IRA) implementation, most-favored-nation (MFN) proposals, tariffs, and hospital billing practices.
The NHC also supports polices that strengthen public health infrastructure and promote equitable vaccine access. In addition, the NHC is leading efforts to support our members in navigating H.R. 1 implementation, with a focus on minimizing disruption to coverage and access.
Research and Innovation
The NHC supports sustained federal investment in the Department of Health and Human Services and other key health agencies to drive biomedical research and innovation. The Policy team is engaged in the reauthorization process of user fee agreements on behalf of our members, with a focus on meaningful patient engagement, and advancing policies to ensure the development and use of health AI is patient centered.
The NHC also continues to support member education and engagement in the Medicare Drug Price Negotiation Program (MDPNP) to ensure patient perspectives are reflected as the program evolves.
Nonprofit Sustainability
The NHC promotes policies that strengthen nonprofit patient organizations and ensure long-term sustainability. This includes protecting tax-exempt status and charitable giving incentives and safeguarding funding streams such as the Combined Federal Campaign (CFC).
In addition, the NHC supports member engagement and policy impact through monthly Government Relations Action Team (GRAT) meetings, the Washington Representatives Summer Meeting, the Washington Representatives Retreat, and NHC Policy Connect.
