The legislation aims to fully fund the Prevention and Public Health Fund.
It emphasizes the importance of prevention in the U.S. healthcare system.
The Prevention and Public Health Fund was established to enhance national investment in prevention and public health programs.
Funding is crucial for the Department of Health and Human Services and various health departments to manage infectious diseases and chronic conditions.
The Fund supports evidence-based initiatives such as tobacco prevention, nutrition, mental health, lead poisoning prevention, elder care, and immunizations.
Increased funding for community-based public health programs has been shown to reduce infant and preventable deaths.
Every dollar spent on prevention is projected to save nearly $6 in health spending, and childhood vaccines save $16.50 for every dollar spent.
Investments in prevention are expected to significantly reduce overall healthcare costs.
Cuts to the Fund threaten the distribution of vaccinations and public health information.
The legislation proposes restoring the Fund’s annual budget to $2 billion to support innovative public health programs and enhance preparedness for future health crises.