State and Local Advocacy
The ATS is committed to advancing respiratory health not only at the federal level, but also through impactful advocacy at the state and local levels. Our state advocacy efforts focus on improving patient access to care, supporting public health initiatives, and strengthening health systems through evidence-based policy solutions.
ATS has led and participated in targeted state-level campaigns to address critical access and coverage issues. Notably, we’ve conducted meetings with state Medicaid directors to advocate for coverage of at-home sleep testing for individuals with suspected sleep apnea (an essential step toward expanding access to timely diagnosis and treatment). We’ve also worked to address access barriers to life-saving asthma medications, including fluticasone, by advocating for policy changes that prioritize patient access and affordability.
In partnership with our local chapters and coalitions, ATS actively engages in public health policy efforts. We are currently working with the Florida Thoracic Society in preparation for the 2026 ATS International Conference, focusing on key advocacy priorities in the state. ATS has collaborated with the Denver Kids Coalition to support tobacco prevention initiatives and youth tobacco control policies. We also routinely sign on to letters with sister organizations on state-level issues ranging from tobacco control and clean air standards to Medicaid expansion and access to preventive care.
Our team continuously monitors and tracks state legislation affecting lung health, sleep, and critical care. These efforts allow ATS to respond quickly to emerging policy threats or opportunities. If there are policy opportunities in your state to collaborate with the ATS please feel free contact Kennedi Pankey (kpankey@thoracic.org) about coordinating efforts.