As the nation continues to grapple with the devastating effects of melanoma, two notable figures, Andy Slavitt and Michael Burgess, have been making waves in the fight against this deadly disease. In April 2023, they jointly sent a letter to the Department of Defense's House and Senate Appropriations Committees requesting $40 million for melanoma research funding for Fiscal 2024.

This move is seen as a crucial step forward in the ongoing battle against cancer, with Slavitt and Burgess highlighting the urgent need for increased investment in melanoma research. Their efforts are expected to pave the way for significant breakthroughs in understanding and treating this disease, which has claimed far too many lives in recent years.

Beyond their work on melanoma research funding, Slavitt and Burgess have also been vocal advocates for patient access to preventive services and cancer care. In a separate letter to United Healthcare, they urged the company to reconsider its plans to implement prior authorization requirements for certain upper gastrointestinal (GI) endoscopy, colonoscopy, and capsule endoscopy procedures.

Slavitt and Burgess argue that such restrictions would disproportionately affect patients with limited access to healthcare, ultimately exacerbating existing health disparities. By opposing these measures, they are fighting to ensure that all individuals have the opportunity to receive timely and effective care for their cancer-related needs.

In addition to their work on melanoma research funding and patient access, Slavitt and Burgess have also been involved in various other initiatives aimed at promoting skin cancer prevention and advocacy. For example, they recently sent a letter to the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) expressing gratitude for including proposed rules related to sunlamp products on its June 2023 unified agenda.

Their follow-up letter urged the FDA to finalize these rules by December 2023, emphasizing the importance of ensuring that all individuals have access to safe and effective sun protection measures. By taking a proactive role in advocating for skin cancer prevention and advocacy, Slavitt and Burgess are helping to pave the way for a safer, healthier future for millions of Americans.

Overall, Andy Slavitt and Michael Burgess are two figures who embody the spirit of hope and perseverance that is so essential in the fight against melanoma. Their tireless efforts to secure increased funding for melanoma research, promote patient access to preventive services, and advocate for skin cancer prevention serve as a powerful reminder of the importance of working together to overcome even the most daunting challenges.

Andy slavitt michael burgess