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Alpha-1 Foundation backs MN bill ensuring access to plasma protein therapies for Alpha-1 Antitrypsin Deficiency, other health conditions
MIAMI, FL—The Alpha-1 Foundation today threw its support behind a Minnesota bill that would ensure access to care for patients with Alpha-1 Antitrypsin Deficiency and other health conditions requiring plasma protein therapies to lead healthy, productive lives.
A bill introduced today by Minnesota State Sen. Kathy Sheran specifically protects those with Alpha-1 – often called “genetic COPD” – as well as primary immunodeficiency diseases, and von Willebrand disease (a blood clotting disorder). All these conditions require biological plasma protein therapies to replace specific proteins that are missing or deficient in their blood.
“The goal of the legislation is to protect patients with rare, chronic conditions from insurance cost-cutting decisions in the future,” said Alpha-1 Foundation President & CEO John Walsh. “It could provide a template for protections for Alphas and other vulnerable patient groups in states across the country.”
