6.8.2 - Newsmaker: GLI President and CEO Larry Holden discusses Changes in Washington and How We Can Proceed

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Global Liver Institute President and CEO Larry Holden joins Roger Green to discuss recent Washington political and regulatory activities, their potential impact on the liver community, and ways we can respond.

Larry starts by acknowledging that we are in for "dark times" under the current administration and describes some current government actions that are causing major setbacks, as well as others that have the potential to do so. Specifically, he details the challenges caused by budget cuts, reallocation of funds away from major universities, staff reductions and, along with them, a loss of expertise in technical areas where knowledge and experience are pivotal.

Without minimizing these challenges, Larry proceeds to suggest actions that individuals and organizations can take to reduce losses to the greatest extent possible — and even create some "wins" — for people living with liver disease. He describes tactics for giving legislators something they value (mainly publicity and contacts) to build a relationship, gain access and create a sympathetic ear for liver community messages.

The conversation itself shifts back and forth between some of the current challenges and the steps advocates can take to mitigate losses and, whenever possible, achieve "wins." Sometimes discouraging, sometimes educational, this is an essential conversation for all current and potential advocates for liver patients to hear.