2027 Advocacy Priorities
Strengthening Local Public Health for a Thriving Community
- Local public health programs need stable funding that keeps up with inflation. This prevents higher taxes or cuts to essential services.
- Decisions affecting local public health should include regular input from community leaders who understand local needs.
- Workforce training and hiring efforts should build a strong, skilled public health team that reflects the communities they serve, improving outreach and impact.
Addressing Iowa's Rising Cancer Rates
- Reducing radon exposure, limiting harms from tobacco and nicotine use, and improving water quality help lower cancer risks by addressing environmental factors in homes, workplaces, and communities.
- Investing in early detection and preventive care can lower healthcare costs, reduce cancer deaths, and give families the resources they need for better health.
- Cancer patients often struggle with transportation, childcare, costs, and language or cultural barriers. Policy solutions can help ensure timely and effective care.
Improving Access to Quality, Affordable Care
- Medicaid reimbursement rates should encourage physician recruitment and retention, attract more dental and mental health providers to serve those in need, and expand transportation benefits.
- Covering community health worker services, like care coordination and navigation, can help people access care.
- Behavioral health resources should be affordable and available for everyone.
- Affordable mental health and crisis support services are critical as extreme weather and other stresses impact more Iowans.
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