Consistent with our mission, we are asking Congress, the Administration, and state legislatures to support medical research to find cures for IBD, and to improve patient access to care. Below are our legislative priorities. Where appropriate, we indicate federal bills and provide links where you can learn more about state-based legislation. Speak out to help improve research funding and patient care nationwide. Together, we can make a difference.
Access to Care
Medical Research
Minorities are underrepresented in most clinical trials - this creates a line of disconnect and skewed information regarding ethnic/racial responses to medication and treatments.
Participants in clinical trials should represent the patients that will use the medical products. This is often not the case--racial and ethnic minorities are underrepresented in clinical research. This is a concern because people of different ages, races, and ethnicities, may react differently to medical products. We are committed to working with companies to change this.
An ambassador is an enthusiastic and dedicated chronic illness patient or professional, or the family member of a chronic illness patient, who is interested in sharing his or her time and expertise to help elevate awareness for chronic illnesses. As an ambassador you are passionate about our cause and committed to keeping abreast of new, relevant issues that may impact the community.
The goal of the Ambassador Board is to engage patients and healthcare professionals in raising awareness about chronic illnesses within their communities and among their social networks.
Be an Ambassador
What
does an Ambassador do?
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Post on your social media page (FB or Twitter) once a month
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Share COCCI’s Facebook or Instagram posts twice a month
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Be willing to be interviewed once a year about your condition
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Add "COCCI Ambassador Board Member" to your email signature
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Be willing to participate in a photoshoot/video once a year for COCCI
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Participate in 1 fundraising activity to seek contributions of time, money and/or in-kind support from individuals and corporate partners
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Ambassadors will be displayed on our website with their photo, condition, and year of diagnosis
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Be willing to lead a virtual support group 1 time a year:
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Topics will be given to the Ambassador 1 month prior
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We will do our best to pair Ambassador with a medical professional (this is when the topic is medical)
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Tools will be provided to Ambassador for conversation leadership
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Be willing to be a voice for the community, explaining why this community is relevant and necessary.