AAHC Applauds Proposed Additional NIH Funding

WASHINGTON, May 15, 2015 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- The Association of Academic Health Centers (AAHC) commends the leadership of the Committee on House Energy & Commerce for their inclusion of additional funding for the National Institutes of Health (NIH). The additional funding comes through the 21^st Century Cures Act, which aims to expedite the path from research to cures by supporting scientists, improving the clinical trial process, and funding patient-focused drug development.

"We commend the bi-partisan leadership on the 21^st Century Cures Initiative and the resulting legislation. Not only will it encourage younger scientists to enter and remain in the field but the additional funding will also allow for the development of transformative—and potentially lifesaving—drugs and devices," said AAHC President and CEO Dr. Steven Wartman. "We appreciate the recognition of and dedication to a 21^st Century healthcare system that our nation needs."

Currently, fewer than 16 percent of new NIH requests for funding are granted. With so few new proposals receiving funding, it becomes increasingly difficult for younger scientists to enter or stay in a particular field of research. It also has the potential impact of limiting promising breakthroughs, especially for rare diseases and disabilities. The 21^st Century Cures Initiative strives to make a profound difference in the discovery environment, leading to new discoveries, cures, drugs, and devices.

AAHC joined more than 150 health organizations in publicly acknowledging their support for the additional NIH funding in the 21^st Century Cures Act. AAHC's mission is to improve the healthcare system by mobilizing and enhancing the strengths and resources of the academic health center enterprise in health professions education, patient care, and research.

AAHC is a non-profit association dedicated to advancing the nation's health and well-being through the vigorous leadership of academic health centers.

SOURCE Association of Academic Health Centers

Related Links

http://www.aahcdc.org/