Thread by @USofCare

Yesterday, we responded to @SenAlexander’s request for feedback on his white paper, unitedstatesofcare.org/covid-19/usofc…

We commend the Chairman’s recommendations, and want to ensure they address a few key issues to ready our country for the next crisis. THREAD 1/10

In the face of public health threats, the U.S. needs clear federal leadership. Implementing fifty unique, uncoordinated strategies to the COVID-19 pandemic will only extend the crisis and put American lives at risk. 2/10 covidexitstrategy.org

The CDC is our nation’s first line of defense during a pandemic, and we need it to do better. Examination of its mission and authorizing statutes may make the 73-year-old institution more effective. 3/10

Any legislation aimed at improving disease surveillance must establish clear privacy standards that balance the protection of personal information with urgent public health needs. 4/10

COVID-19 disproportionately impacts vulnerable populations and communities of color. Proactive identification of groups at the highest risk during a public health crisis must inform future pandemic response so that they get the help they need. 5/10

Price and ability to pay should not impede people’s access to treatment or a vaccine during this pandemic or future crises. Plus, Congress should invest in infrastructure for a permanent, national, coordinated system of testing. 6/10

Congress should pass legislation providing HHS w/ funding to ensure the national stockpile is properly maintained and monitored at all times. Federal gov’t must update disaster readiness plans to include using DPA authority. 7/10

It is a matter of national security that the United States commit to prioritizing long-term public health efforts ranging from combating infectious diseases to addressing disparities in access to care. 8/10

COVID-19 has revealed the critical need for trusted & accurate public health information. Congress should appropriate funding for a national public information campaign about the critical nature of public health preparedness.
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