Over 200 Health Organizations Rally to Strengthen Public Health Funding Amid Growing Threats

Advocating for Public Health: A Call to Action

In a united effort, more than 200 public health organizations have voiced their concerns to Congress about the critical need to support the Prevention and Public Health Fund. This initiative is crucial as the nation grapples with escalating healthcare costs and uncertain funding strategies that threaten community health services.

The Prevention Fund, established to provide reliable funding for public health programs, has invested over $13.5 billion across all states and territories. This has significantly contributed to improving health outcomes and mitigating rising healthcare expenses. The urgency of this call to action has been accentuated by the recent introduction of the Public Health Funding Restoration Act, sponsored by Senator Richard Blumenthal and Congresswoman Doris Matsui. This legislation aims to restore the fund to its original $2 billion allocation as initially set by the Affordable Care Act (ACA).

Historical Cuts and Future Risks

Despite its proven effectiveness, the Prevention Fund has faced drastic cuts, totaling nearly $12.95 billion from FY 2013 to FY 2029. Originally intended to reach the $2 billion mark by FY 2015, its full restoration will not occur until FY 2030—delaying funding for essential health initiatives significantly. These cuts put services that address chronic diseases, mental health, and preventive care at risk, as well as the nation's resilience against emerging public health threats.

Historically, the fund has supported critical programs run by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), Administration for Community Living, and the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration. These programs target crucial areas such as suicide prevention, Alzheimer's prevention, and management of chronic diseases.