The Washington State Legislature gaveled in this week, marking the start of a legislative session that is expected to last through the end of April.
The Northwest Kidney Council is closely tracking several bills that hold promise for improving health outcomes and equity for kidney patients and the providers who care for them. These bills touch on critical areas like healthcare access, disparities, and preventative care, all of which intersect with the challenges faced by those managing chronic kidney disease and requiring dialysis treatment.
One focus is the proposed establishment of a Rare Disease Advisory Council. By amplifying the voices of patients with rare conditions, this council could shine a light on the unique challenges of those who suffer from complex kidney-related diseases, ensuring that these patients are no longer invisible in healthcare policymaking.
Another measure would empower the Office of the Insurance Commissioner to require carriers to report on primary care expenditures. Transparency in healthcare spending is critically important, as it can lead to better allocation of resources. For kidney patients, increased investment in primary care could support early detection of kidney disease, delaying progression and reducing the need for dialysis or transplants.
Legislation to rename and expand the Governor’s Council on Health Disparities also represents a step forward. Chronic kidney disease disproportionately affects communities of color and low-income populations, and expanding this council's scope could catalyze policies aimed at reducing these inequities.
As new legislation is filed, NWKC's 2025 Legislative Priorities list will be updated. While some bills have yet to receive a bill number, NWKC stands ready to support these important pieces of legislation:
A bipartisan effort, led by Gov. Bob Ferguson, to provide free breakfast and lunch for K-12 students. Malnutrition and food insecurity can exacerbate chronic illnesses, including kidney disease. Ensuring children have consistent access to nutritious meals can create healthier futures and reduce long-term burdens on the healthcare system.
Improving access to obesity prevention and management tools — including behavioral, surgical, and prescription treatments. This effort is led by our partners at the American Diabetes Association. Obesity is a leading risk factor for diabetes and hypertension, both of which are major drivers of kidney disease. Expanding access to treatment can help mitigate these risks, ultimately decreasing the prevalence of kidney failure and the need for dialysis.
As these initiatives progress through the legislature, the Northwest Kidney Council will continue to advocate for policies that improve outcomes for kidney patients and support the vital work of dialysis providers. Together, we can advance a healthier and more equitable future for all Washingtonians.
If you have a bill or initiative that you’d like to partner with us on, please reach out anytime to info@nwkidneycouncil.org. We look forward to all the progress that will be made for the kidney community this year!
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