The DDNC is a voluntary organization comprised of 22 patient and professional societies concerned with diseases of the digestive tract. The DDNC continually works to educate government on the need for more funding for digestive disease research, prevention, outreach, and education programs. The Public Policy Forum gives members of the DDNC the opportunity to visit congressional offices to personally reinforce the mission of the Coalition and emphasize the importance of supporting specific legislation that impacts the lives of digestive disease patients. The DDNC reminds Congress that digestive disorders affect 60 to 70 million Americans each year and consistently rank among the leading causes of hospitalization, surgery, and disability in the United States. Although each member organization that comprises the DDNC may represent a different digestive disease population, we come together as one collective voice to speak on behalf of all digestive disease patients.
Hundreds apply to testify each year, and most have to be turned down.
Among those who were selected to appear on this year's docket included the Digestive Disease National Coalition, the American Cancer Society, the March of Dimes, and the American Nurses Association - all urging the subcommittee to recommend more funding for research and education for their area of interest. Each has a compelling story to tell. However, Congress does not appropriate money on a disease specific basis. Those testifying are vying for a mention in the report that accompanies the subcommittee's bill. The National Institutes of Health pays close attention to the language in this report.