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21st Century Access: Pain Points for Patients 

October 22, 2026
Grand Ballroom
Type: Plenary Session
The 21st Century has ushered in an unprecedented era of biotechnology innovations, bringing cures and treatments that were unimaginable just a few years ago, but even the most advanced medicines can only benefit patients who have access to them. We need 21st Century Access, with patient-centric policies that reduce barriers, bureaucracy, and delays -- so patients can get the treatment they need, when they need it.
Moderator
Kate Mevis
Associate Vice President, U.S. Federal Policy
Merck
Speakers
Leah Howard, JD
President and CEO
National Psoriasis Foundation
Carl Schmid
Executive Director
HIV+Hepatitis Policy Institute
Pam Traxel
Senior Vice President, Alliance Development and Philanthropy
American Cancer Society Cancer Action Network