Drs. Joyce, Schrier Introduce Bipartisan Legislation to Promote Pediatric Medical Innovation

Press Release

Rep. John Joyce, M.D. (R-PA) and Rep. Kim Schrier, M.D. (D-WA) today introduced the Pediatricians Accelerate Childhood Therapies (PACT) Act of 2021, bipartisan legislation that would promote advancements in pediatric research and support American children.

"Over the course of my medical career, I have witnessed incredible advancements. Right now, American scientists are making unprecedented progress in innovation, and they must have the resources that they need to develop treatments and cures for the 21st century," said Dr. Joyce. "Our pediatric community is dedicated to serving American children, eliminating devastating diseases, and saving lives. It is a privilege to partner alongside Dr. Schrier to introduce the bipartisan Pediatricians Accelerate Childhood Therapies Act as we invest in pediatric innovation and serve American children and families."

"As a pediatrician, I know how important it is to have researchers and scientists studying the next generation of cures and therapies for children. Investing in these early career scientists, with a focus on those who have been historically underrepresented in research, will ensure this vital research will continue and help every child. I'm proud to introduce this bipartisan, bicameral bill alongside my colleague Dr. Joyce that will improve the health and lives of children in Washington state and across the country," said Dr. Schrier.

The Pediatricians Accelerate Childhood Therapies Act of 2021 would amend the Public Health Service Act to authorize the Director of the National Institutes of Health to make awards to outstanding scientists, including physician-scientists, to support researchers focusing on pediatric research, including basic, clinical, translational, or pediatric pharmacological research, and for other purposes.

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