It’s not often that patients — real people — get a word in edgewise on Capitol Hill. But on May 9 and 10 in Washington, DC, AANMA’s having a Conversation with Congress about healthcare and we want YOU there with us at Allergy & Asthma Day Capitol Hill (AADCH)!

We’ll feature asthma, allergy and respiratory technologies that have revolutionized care from the family perspective, discuss how patient access to these technologies is often needlessly restricted, and demonstrate ways to improve care while reducing costs.

Bring the family and get screened for allergies and asthma. Have a free consultation with board-certified allergists and try out the technologies they use to make treatment recommendations. Speak up about the values you hold most dear!

Innovations in Technology Awards
Today’s children are the first to grow up with FDA-approved allergy, asthma and anaphylaxis medications, metered-dose inhalers (MDIs), inhaled corticosteroids, holding chambers, peak flow meters and spirometry. The Innovations in Technology Awards boost awareness that research and innovation give us options to overcome rather than suffer from chronic symptoms.

–>Did you know that asthma remedies of yore included “anti-asthma cigarettes” and coal tar vapors?! We’ve come a long way since those Dark Ages! Check out historic and innovative, award-winning devices at the Innovations in Technology Health Fair.

FDA Proposal: Over-the-Counter Allergy & Asthma Medications
The FDA is reviewing a proposal to make currently prescription-only allergy and asthma medications (as well as medications for diabetes, migraines, hypertension, and other conditions) available over the counter. AANMA Founder and President Nancy Sander explains why, if this measure succeeds, we will be expected to diagnose and manage all but the most severe symptoms on our own.

AANMA’s Ultimate Inhaler Contest
Winner announced at AADCH! People of all ages submitted their creative concepts. You saw them highlighted in the spring issue of Allergy & Asthma Today magazine, and they’ll be on display during AADCH.

May 9th, 2012:

Call on Congress and Virtual Advocacy Day
E-mail sfwalker@aanma.org for more info and to schedule advocacy visits with YOUR members of Congress!
Click here for Congressional “Dear Colleague” letter.

May 10th, 2012:

Congressional and Press Briefing breakfast,
9:00-10:00 a.m., Room 2103, Rayburn House Office Building, Washington, DC

Innovations in Technology Health Fair and FREE Allergy/Asthma Screening,
11:30 a.m. – 1:30 p.m., Rayburn Foyer, Rayburn House Office Building, Washington, DC
E-mail mgieminiani@aanma.org to sign up as an AADCH volunteer!