Stewardship Report Volume 8 - Winter 2025

Advocacy

Advocates 50

Advocacy Days “I am now more motivated than ever to advocate for these changes. At the Melanoma Research Foundation’s advocacy days, I engage in meaningful dialogues, pushing for better insurance practices and broader understanding from congressional representatives. It’s crucial that they grasp the stakes involved and the profound impact of their decisions on patients’ lives. My message to others is clear: Be vocal, share your story, and stay engaged. Together, we can amplify our voices and foster change that not only addresses but also anticipates the needs of melanoma patients and survivors.”

States 17

— Steven Precker

Hill Meetings 54

Key Advocacy Priorities

Prevention Remove barriers to sunscreen filter approvals so that newer

Research • $ 40 million for the Congressionally Directed Medical Research Programs’ (CDMRP) Melanoma Research Program (MRP) in the Defense appropriations bill • Support $51.303 billion for NIH, $7.934 billion for NCI, $6 million for CDC Skin Cancer Prevention Program and include melanoma language under NCI in LHHS Committee Report

sunscreens can be approved that benefit a wider range of skin tones and textures. Access • R emove cost barriers to skin cancer screenings at the state level • Eliminate originating site requirements and end geographic restrictions for telehealth use • Address utilization management issues that delay and prevent melanoma treatment

23 • Stewardship Report

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