2025 Policy Pulse Summit highlights urgent policy solutions to improve access, prevention, and equity in cardiovascular care
The Association of Black Cardiologists (ABC) convened policymakers, clinicians, and health equity leaders in Washington, D.C. for its Third Annual Policy Pulse Summit on October 10, 2025—bringing national attention to the urgent need for policy-driven solutions to persistent gaps in cardiovascular care.
Held as part of ABC’s 50th Anniversary observance, the Summit focused on the theme “Bridging Gaps in Cardiovascular Care Through Policy and Innovation.” Discussions centered on prevention, access to evidence-based treatments, workforce challenges, and the responsible use of technology to improve outcomes—particularly in underserved communities.
Opening remarks from ABC Health and Public Policy Committee Co-Chair Dr. Sara Collins highlighted a year of significant advocacy progress, including ABC’s role in advancing legislation to expand PAD screening, improve access to obesity treatment, support women’s heart health, and reduce administrative barriers such as prior authorization.
National leaders, including Congresswoman Yvette Clarke and Congressman Herb Conaway, Jr., MD, underscored the human and economic costs of cardiovascular disease and called for stronger investments in prevention, screening, and equitable access to care.
Throughout the day, panels examined:
- The growing impact of cardiology deserts and how telehealth, workforce solutions, and community-based care can expand access
- Persistent barriers to affordable cardiovascular treatments, including prior authorization and rising out-of-pocket costs
- The promise—and risks—of digital health and artificial intelligence, emphasizing the need for guardrails to prevent widening disparities
The Summit concluded with a call to action for policymakers, clinicians, and advocates to move beyond rhetoric toward scalable, measurable solutions that improve cardiovascular health for all.
ABC will continue to build on the momentum of the 2025 Policy Pulse Summit through advocacy, education, and cross-sector collaboration.
