Washington — As Congress works on the next coronavirus-related relief package, the ADA and 37 other health care organizations are asking lawmakers to support nonprofit groups in those efforts.
In an April 14 letter to the House and Senate Small Business Committees, the organizations requested for Congress to include “emergency financial relief and stability for 501(c)(6) tax-exempt medical and dental trade associations that have been adversely impacted by this pandemic” in any new legislation.
“At a time when health care professionals across America are caring for patients on the front lines of this pandemic, 501(c)(6) nonprofit medical and dental organizations are supporting and providing educational resources so that the healthcare community has the tools needed to administer the highest quality care during this unprecedented time, and for the future,” the organizations wrote.
The health care groups said that associations “play a critical role in generating revenue for many nonprofit organizations” and noted that many have been adversely impacted by COVID-19 and warned that without federal intervention, may be forced to cut staff or scale back on services.
“Uncertainty with regard to the future can include, but is not limited to, hosting major meetings, events and conventions, coordination and development of scientific and clinical education resources and providing continuing medical education,” they wrote. “[Continuing medical education] in particular is a critical component of the benefits provided by many 501(c)(6) organizations, and ensures that physicians, dental and medical providers are providing high-quality evidence-based care throughout all stages of their careers, and is necessary for physicians, dental and other health care professionals to maintain state medical licenses.”
For the latest updates about issues surrounding COVID-19, visit ADA.org/virus.