The Cystic Fibrosis Foundation believes that civic engagement is an important way for our community to make its voice heard. During an election season, talking with candidates can be an opportunity to learn more about their views on issues that affect people with cystic fibrosis and their families.

The questions below can serve as a conversation guide for advocates. They draw on issues that are important to the CF community and can help you learn more about candidates' views on healthcare, research, and access to care. 

Healthcare Access, Coverage, and Cost

People with cystic fibrosis may rely on comprehensive health insurance coverage and access to specialized care throughout their lives.

1. How would you work to ensure people with chronic and rare diseases can access affordable, comprehensive health insurance coverage?

2. What are your priorities for addressing the rising cost of healthcare and prescription medications?

3. How would you ensure insurance coverage allows patients to access the specialists, medications, and services they need?

4. What role do you believe telehealth should play in the future of healthcare delivery?

Medicaid and Public Programs

Many people with CF rely on Medicaid and other public health programs to access care.   

1. What role do you believe Medicaid should play in ensuring access to healthcare for people with chronic and rare diseases, including cystic fibrosis?
2. What policies would you prioritize to reduce barriers that can make it difficult for eligible individuals to maintain health coverage?

Therapeutics Development and Innovation

Continued research is essential to improving outcomes and advancing toward new treatments and a cure.

1. What are your priorities regarding federal investment in medical research? 
2. How can the federal government encourage development of treatments for rare diseases while maintaining high standards for safety and effectiveness?
3. What role should agencies such as the National Institutes of Health (NIH) and the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) play in supporting scientific discovery and advancing treatments and cures for serious and rare diseases?  
4. How should the federal government address the growing threat of antimicrobial resistance?
5. What policies would you support to encourage development of new antibiotics and other therapies for difficult-to-treat infections?

Improving Health Outcomes

People with cystic fibrosis face challenges that can affect their health across the lifespan, from early diagnosis through adulthood. 

1. What policies would you prioritize to improve health outcomes for individuals living with chronic and rare diseases?
2. How can the government help ensure people receive timely diagnoses and access to appropriate care early in life?
3. How would you address healthcare workforce challenges that affect patients’ ability to access specialized care and services?

Note: When speaking publicly or identifying yourself at events, it is important to make it clear to your audience that you are speaking in your individual capacity and not as a representative of the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation. For more information about our policy positions, email publicpolicy@cff.org.