Public policy is a broad term that covers the decisions government lawmakers and regulators make about an issue as well as how much government funding is directed toward the issue.

In the case of lung cancer, public policy affects things like guidelines for who can get screening, funding for research into new treatments, Medicare coverage for treatments, much more. Public policy plays a critical role in making high-quality care accessible to all lung cancer patients.

LUNGevity works to educate people about public policy issues and help them to become forceful advocates for themselves and the lung cancer community. By uniting our collective voices, we can ensure an even greater, more meaningful impact.

LUNGevity Foundation engages with many public policy issues but focuses on areas that pertain to the advancement of innovation and access to care.

We present statements at Capitol Hill briefings; submit letters to legislators, regulators, and independent organizations seeking patient input; and host meetings to resolve complex issues that make it difficult for patients to access the most advanced treatments.

Read more about our main areas of focus in public policy.

In February 2020, LUNGevity released the Lung Cancer Scorecard, a state-by-state analysis comparing access to screening, comprehensive biomarker testing, and clinical trials to uncover disparities in lung cancer patient care based on location, and to offer viable solutions to achieve healthcare equity. This report laid out specific areas that need to be addressed to improve care in each state. With the Action Network, there will be opportunities for network members to easily advocate for solutions, such as pushing for improved Medicaid coverage for services, giving LUNGevity’s efforts a deeper impact.

You can make your voice heard on issues that affect the lung cancer community by taking actions such as writing your congress members, signing petitions, and commenting on new regulations.

Visit the Take Action page to find simple things you can do immediately. As a member of the LUNGevity Action Network, you will also receive timely Action Alerts delivered straight to your inbox when urgent action is needed.

When you are taking action within the LUNGevity Action network, your messages will be routed directly to the appropriate senators and representatives – you won’t need to look them up!

In the meantime, to find who your senators are, visit www.senate.gov. To find who your representative is, visit www.house.gov/representatives/find-your-representative.