From Capitol Hill to the Clinic: Key Takeaways from WHIC’s June 10 Gathering

On June 10, the Washington Health Innovation Council (WHIC) hosted a very special meeting that brought together leaders from Congress, the medical community, and innovators in health technology.

We were grateful to the American Academy of Ophthalmology for hosting, with special thanks to Rebecca Hyder (AAO) and Catherine Cohen (JKS strategic partner) for their outstanding coordination.

The program featured remarks from Representatives John Joyce, M.D. (R-PA) and Greg Murphy, M.D. (R-NC), co-chairs of the GOP Doctors Caucus. Both shared timely insights on pressing policy issues including Medicare and Medicaid reform, artificial intelligence in health care, and proposed drug pricing changes. Their thoughtful dialogue with WHIC members underscored the importance of bringing physician voices directly into the policy conversation.

We were also privileged to hear from a distinguished panel discussing innovation in treating diabetes, diabetic retinopathy, and opportunities for broader access and collaboration. Panelists included:

Patricia Silverstein, founder and president of the Silverstein Dream Foundation, dedicated to funding cutting-edge medical research

Dr. Michael X. Repka, 129th president of the American Academy of Ophthalmology

Dave Anderson, CEO and president of Optina Diagnostics, a health IT retinal imaging platform for detection and monitoring of ocular and neurologic disease

Their perspectives highlighted the promise of new treatments and technologies, and the value of partnerships that advance patient care.

Thank you again to our speakers, partners, and all who joined us. For additional details, please see the attached slide deck.