Trade Associations
Here's a look at documents from national and international trade associations
Featured Stories
Shutdown and Uncertainty Continues--A Message From NAGGL's CEO
STILLWATER, Oklahoma, Oct. 16 -- The National Association of Government Guaranteed Lenders issued the following statement on Oct. 15, 2025, by CEO Tony Wilkinson:
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Shutdown and Uncertainty Continues--A Message from NAGGL's CEO
It's NAGGL here, checking in as we enter Day 15 of the government shutdown. There is still no path forward as both sides of the aisle continue to dig in.
In fact, there are plenty of indications to signal that this shutdown could be a lengthy one. Most notably, over the weekend, the Administration announced that federal law enforcement and active duty military will
... Show Full Article
STILLWATER, Oklahoma, Oct. 16 -- The National Association of Government Guaranteed Lenders issued the following statement on Oct. 15, 2025, by CEO Tony Wilkinson:
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Shutdown and Uncertainty Continues--A Message from NAGGL's CEO
It's NAGGL here, checking in as we enter Day 15 of the government shutdown. There is still no path forward as both sides of the aisle continue to dig in.
In fact, there are plenty of indications to signal that this shutdown could be a lengthy one. Most notably, over the weekend, the Administration announced that federal law enforcement and active duty military willcontinue to be paid, and that WIC (the Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants, and Children) will remain operational and funded. These actions have been observed as removing serious pressure points for both Republicans and Democrats that might have otherwise forced Senators to come to a resolution, signaling to many that both the White House and Democratic leaders could remain in their current posture for a longer period of time.
Of course, never say never in DC. There are plenty of X factors that could just as easily turn the tide. But, I thought it important as we check in so that NAGGL membership is aware of the latest analysis that is current as of today.
NAGGL will continue to ensure that our membership is informed of all the most significant developments as it relates to the shutdown. And we are continuing to field your concerns as it relates to the remaining operational aspects of SBA. We will either help you resolve your concerns or ensure that SBA knows about them so we can work to find you an answer. Keep in close touch and we'll continue to follow up as we all work through this uncertainty together.
Tony Wilkinson
President & CEO
NAGGL
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Original text here: https://www.naggl.org/shutdown-and-uncertainty-continues-a-message-from-naggls-ceo/
[Category: Financial Services]
Ohio Bankers League: New Momentum on Mutual Capital Certificates
COLUMBUS, Ohio, Oct. 16 -- The Ohio Bankers League issued the following news on Oct. 15, 2025:
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New Momentum on Mutual Capital Certificates
The Ohio Bankers League (OBL) continues to make meaningful progress in advancing capital flexibility for Ohio's mutual institutions. Last week, OBL leaders were in Washington, D.C., meeting with senior officials at the Federal Reserve, FDIC, and OCC to push for long-overdue clarity around Mutual Capital Certificates (MCCs)--a key mechanism that would help mutual banks raise capital while maintaining their mutual ownership structure. For years, mutual
... Show Full Article
COLUMBUS, Ohio, Oct. 16 -- The Ohio Bankers League issued the following news on Oct. 15, 2025:
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New Momentum on Mutual Capital Certificates
The Ohio Bankers League (OBL) continues to make meaningful progress in advancing capital flexibility for Ohio's mutual institutions. Last week, OBL leaders were in Washington, D.C., meeting with senior officials at the Federal Reserve, FDIC, and OCC to push for long-overdue clarity around Mutual Capital Certificates (MCCs)--a key mechanism that would help mutual banks raise capital while maintaining their mutual ownership structure. For years, mutualinstitutions have faced limited avenues to access capital compared to their stock counterparts, restricting their ability to grow, invest, and respond to new opportunities. OBL has been advocating for a clear, consistent framework that allows these community-focused banks to strengthen their balance sheets while preserving their mutual heritage.
Regulatory Breakthroughs
Those efforts paid off in significant ways this past week. Shortly after OBL's meetings, the Federal Reserve issued new guidance in the form of a detailed FAQ and two model templates that mutual banks can use when exploring capital-raising opportunities through MCCs. The new documents provide practical clarification on structure, treatment, and regulatory expectations--critical information that had previously been fragmented or inconsistently interpreted.
In a further sign of progress, Comptroller of the Currency Jonathan Gould released a supportive statement soon after the Fed's announcement, signaling interagency alignment on this issue. "The OCC commends the Federal Reserve Board for its recent action to support mutual banking organizations by providing clarification regarding mutual capital certificates and alternative mutual capital instruments," Gould said. "The OCC fully supports mutual banking organizations, including OCC-supervised federal mutual savings associations...The OCC will continue to support OCC-supervised mutual savings associations by considering the specific needs of mutual associations through active engagement with the mutual industry."
This marks one of the most coordinated signals of support for mutual capital formation in years--an encouraging step toward a unified interagency approach.
OBL's Role in Driving Reform
The OBL has been engaged in this effort for several years, pressing regulators to harmonize their interpretations of capital certificates and to ensure that mutual institutions have access to practical, workable options for raising equity-like capital. OBL has emphasized the importance of standardization: mutual banks should not have to navigate three different sets of expectations depending on which agency supervises them. In meetings with all three agencies last week, OBL urged the regulators to formalize a joint clarification outlining consistent treatment of Mutual Capital Certificates. The goal is to ensure that when a mutual institution issues these instruments, the supervisory expectations are transparent, consistent, and sustainable across the regulatory spectrum.
A Path Forward for Mutual Institutions
These recent developments represent real progress for the mutual banking community. With new clarity from the Federal Reserve and an endorsement from the OCC, mutual institutions now have more concrete guidance to evaluate capital-raising opportunities that align with their mission and structure. OBL will continue to work closely with the regulatory agencies and Ohio's mutual banks to ensure these reforms are implemented effectively. The League is also gathering feedback from members on the practical implications of the Fed's templates and whether additional guidance is needed to address real-world challenges in issuing MCCs. As these efforts move forward, OBL remains committed to ensuring Ohio's mutual banks have the tools and flexibility they need to remain strong, competitive, and community-focused for generations to come.
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Original text here: https://www.ohiobankersleague.com/News-Information/Headlines/View/ArticleId/28712/New-Momentum-on-Mutual-Capital-Certificates
[Category: Financial Services]
MOAA Member Aims to Change the Narrative About Veterans
WASHINGTON, Oct. 16 -- The Military Officers Association of America issued the following news on Oct. 15, 2025:
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MOAA Member Aims to Change the Narrative About Veterans
By Kristin Davis
Robert "Bob" Tyler has just retired for the fourth time, which means his calendar is freer than it once was. But don't expect it to be entirely clear for the foreseeable future. Or maybe ever.
Tyler, a retired Marine Corps colonel, has served as MOAA's Illinois Council of Chapters president since 2017. He chairs the Illinois Veteran's Advisory Council, serves on the board of the Macon County Veterans Assistance
... Show Full Article
WASHINGTON, Oct. 16 -- The Military Officers Association of America issued the following news on Oct. 15, 2025:
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MOAA Member Aims to Change the Narrative About Veterans
By Kristin Davis
Robert "Bob" Tyler has just retired for the fourth time, which means his calendar is freer than it once was. But don't expect it to be entirely clear for the foreseeable future. Or maybe ever.
Tyler, a retired Marine Corps colonel, has served as MOAA's Illinois Council of Chapters president since 2017. He chairs the Illinois Veteran's Advisory Council, serves on the board of the Macon County Veterans AssistanceCommission, and is on the veterans advisory group for two U.S. lawmakers. He leads the Illinois State Fair's multifaceted day for veterans, volunteers with the annual Toys for Tots program, and speaks regularly at veteran and community events.
His role with MOAA has allowed him to have a voice and advocate for veterans, said Tyler, although perhaps not always in the way one might expect.
"The narrative we have most of the time for veterans is a negative narrative," he said. "Hollywood shows veterans who suffer from PTSD, homeless veterans, veterans addicted to drugs."
While those problems are very real, Tyler said, "we don't raise up the sheriff who is a veteran, the vice president of the major civil engineering company or the partner in the architecture firm who are veterans, the veteran-owned business creating jobs."
His work with MOAA and other veterans' groups allows Tyler to put forth a different narrative -- one that shows how the majority of those who wear the uniform go on to contribute to the nation they helped defend.
After dropping out of college in 1967, Tyler, who grew up in Waukegan, Ill., visited a Marine Corps recruiter who showed him a photo of pilots in front of an F-4. Tyler had wanted to fly for as long as he could remember.
The recruiter didn't tell Tyler that the program he was promised had been defunded six months before. Still, it all worked out. He trained as an aviation electrician before receiving a commission and went on to fly the CH-46 Sea Knight over south Vietnam.
"I ended up flying helicopters, jets, carriers, and multiengine transports around the world. Most guys end up getting stuck in one airplane. I flew a dozen," he said. "I spent over 30 years in the Marines, and I loved almost every minute of it."
Along the way, Tyler finished college and earned a doctorate in cognitive psychology. He joined MOAA -- then The Retired Officers Association -- in 1975 for supplemental insurance. More than two decades later, he used its transition services and began a second career as a consultant in Washington, D.C. Tyler returned to Illinois in 2009, where he worked as an instructor at a community college and then as a university professor.
He also got involved in MOAA after attending a chapter meeting to hear a fellow Marine speak. Two years later, Tyler was the chapter's president. As president of the Illinois Council of Chapters, he's always looking for innovative ways to get more veterans involved in MOAA.
"I'm trying to send the message that veterans are an important segment of our society even though only about 7% [of society historically] has ever put on a uniform," Tyler said.
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Kristin Davis is a writer based in Virginia.
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Original text here: https://www.moaa.org/content/publications-and-media/news-articles/2025-news-articles/member-spotlight/moaa-member-aims-to-change-the-narrative-about-veterans/
[Category: National Defense]
ISDA Expands Digital Regulatory Reporting Solution to Cover Hong Kong's Revised Reporting Rules
NEW YORK, Oct. 16 -- The International Swaps and Derivatives Association issued the following news release:
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ISDA Expands Digital Regulatory Reporting Solution to Cover Hong Kong's Revised Reporting Rules
ISDA has expanded its Digital Regulatory Reporting (DRR) solution to support revised derivatives reporting rules in Hong Kong, enabling in-scope firms to implement the changes cost-effectively and accurately.
The amendments from the Hong Kong Monetary Authority (HKMA) and the Securities and Futures Commission (SFC) came into effect on September 29. This represents the eighth set of reporting
... Show Full Article
NEW YORK, Oct. 16 -- The International Swaps and Derivatives Association issued the following news release:
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ISDA Expands Digital Regulatory Reporting Solution to Cover Hong Kong's Revised Reporting Rules
ISDA has expanded its Digital Regulatory Reporting (DRR) solution to support revised derivatives reporting rules in Hong Kong, enabling in-scope firms to implement the changes cost-effectively and accurately.
The amendments from the Hong Kong Monetary Authority (HKMA) and the Securities and Futures Commission (SFC) came into effect on September 29. This represents the eighth set of reportingrequirements available on the ISDA DRR following earlier launches to cover revisions in Australia by the Australian Securities and Investments Commission, Canada by the Canadian Securities Administrators, the EU under the European Market Infrastructure Regulation (EMIR), Japan by the Financial Services Agency, Singapore by the Monetary Authority of Singapore, the UK under UK EMIR and the US by the Commodity Futures Trading Commission. In total, the ISDA DRR will support 12 reporting rule sets in nine major jurisdictions and ISDA will maintain the DRR code as those rules evolve in future.
"This is another important milestone in the development of the ISDA DRR and means firms subject to those rules can implement the requirements accurately and efficiently, based on a golden-source industry interpretation of the rules. This not only cuts the burden and cost for implementing firms - it also reduces the risk of regulatory penalties for misreported data," said Scott O'Malia, ISDA's Chief Executive.
The ISDA DRR takes as its foundation a common interpretation of each ruleset that has been reviewed and agreed by an industry working group. It uses the Common Domain Model - an open-source data standard for financial products, trades and lifecycle events - to convert the industry interpretation into free, machine-executable code. That code can be used as the basis for implementing the rules or to validate that a firm's interpretation is aligned with the industry reading.
For more information on ISDA's DRR, visit the ISDA Solutions InfoHub.
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Original text here: https://www.isda.org/2025/10/15/isda-expands-digital-regulatory-reporting-solution-to-cover-hong-kongs-revised-reporting-rules/
[Category: Financial Services]
Cretex Medical Signs Agreement to Acquire Atemisa Precision, S.A. in Costa Rica
ST. LOUIS PARK, Minnesota, Oct. 16 -- Medical Alley posted the following news release from its partner company Cretex Medical:
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Cretex Medical Signs Agreement to Acquire Atemisa Precision, S.A. in Costa Rica
Cretex Medical, a leading provider of contract medical device manufacturing and engineering services, announced today that it has signed a definitive agreement to acquire Atemisa Precision, S.A. in Alajuela, Costa Rica. Dedicated to satisfying customer needs, Atemisa provides high quality machining services to the medical and industrial sectors in Costa Rica. The transaction is expected
... Show Full Article
ST. LOUIS PARK, Minnesota, Oct. 16 -- Medical Alley posted the following news release from its partner company Cretex Medical:
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Cretex Medical Signs Agreement to Acquire Atemisa Precision, S.A. in Costa Rica
Cretex Medical, a leading provider of contract medical device manufacturing and engineering services, announced today that it has signed a definitive agreement to acquire Atemisa Precision, S.A. in Alajuela, Costa Rica. Dedicated to satisfying customer needs, Atemisa provides high quality machining services to the medical and industrial sectors in Costa Rica. The transaction is expectedto close before the end of the year, subject to customary closing conditions.
Cretex Medical's mission is to make it easier to get their customers' products to patients. By integrating Atemisa's precision machining expertise with Cretex Medical's newly constructed facility in Cartago, Costa Rica, the company will strengthen its local, vertically integrated capabilities, including advanced machining, molding, laser processing, and assembly.
"The planned acquisition of Atemisa is a strategic investment that strengthens Cretex's global presence and underscores our long-term commitment to Costa Rica," said Jeff Wollerman, CEO and President of Cretex Companies. "Atemisa's reputation for excellence, deep local experience, and strong customer partnerships align perfectly with Cretex's culture of continuous improvement and customer focus. Together, we're expanding our capabilities and scale to better support our customers' growth and success for years to come."
Both companies will continue to operate independently until the transaction closes. Additional details will be provided upon closing.
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About Cretex
Cretex Companies (www.cretex.com) has been privately owned by the same family for over 100 years. Headquartered in Elk River, Minnesota, Cretex employs over 2,300 team members at facilities in the United States and Costa Rica. Under the Cretex Medical brand, the company's subsidiaries CDT, QTS, and rms provide contract manufacturing and engineering services to medical device manufacturers (OEMs). Cretex Materials and Cretex Specialty Products are leaders in the infrastructure industry. The companies are guided by a common management system, shared set of values, and focus on operational excellence.
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Original text here: https://medicalalley.org/cretex-medical-signs-agreement-to-acquire-atemisa-precision-s-a-in-costa-rica/
[Category: Medical]
Agenda Announced for 2026 MDA Clinical & Scientific Conference Featuring Leading Speakers Dedicated to Groundbreaking Research and Clinical Achievements in Neuromuscular Disease
CHICAGO, Illinois, Oct. 16 -- The Muscular Dystrophy Association issued the following news release on Oct. 15, 2025:
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Agenda Announced for 2026 MDA Clinical & Scientific Conference Featuring Leading Speakers Dedicated to Groundbreaking Research and Clinical Achievements in Neuromuscular Disease
The Muscular Dystrophy Association (MDA) today announced the agenda including tracks and chairs for the 2026 MDA Clinical & Scientific Conference being held March 8-11, 2026, in Orlando, Florida. Read the full agenda here (https://www.mdaconference.org/mda-conference-2026/agenda/).
Sharon Hesterlee,
... Show Full Article
CHICAGO, Illinois, Oct. 16 -- The Muscular Dystrophy Association issued the following news release on Oct. 15, 2025:
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Agenda Announced for 2026 MDA Clinical & Scientific Conference Featuring Leading Speakers Dedicated to Groundbreaking Research and Clinical Achievements in Neuromuscular Disease
The Muscular Dystrophy Association (MDA) today announced the agenda including tracks and chairs for the 2026 MDA Clinical & Scientific Conference being held March 8-11, 2026, in Orlando, Florida. Read the full agenda here (https://www.mdaconference.org/mda-conference-2026/agenda/).
Sharon Hesterlee,PhD, President and CEO, Muscular Dystrophy Association said, "The 2026 MDA Clinical & Scientific Conference reflects the remarkable momentum of our field as treatments for neuromuscular diseases rapidly advance. Almost every major breakthrough in research, care, and treatment has roots in the connections and collaborations formed at this conference. This year's agenda highlights the innovation driving us forward--from gene therapies and disease-modifying drugs to transformative approaches in clinical care. The breadth of expertise represented by our session chairs and speakers underscores Muscular Dystrophy Association's role as the central convener of the global neuromuscular community, bringing together the very leaders who are shaping the future of this field."
The 2026 MDA Clinical & Scientific Conference will explore the latest research and clinical advancements for neuromuscular disease in the era of treatments with sessions led by top industry professionals including:
SCHEDULE
March 8
* Welcome reception including posters in the exhibit hall.
* Invitation only sessions for MDA Care Center Directors, MDA Allied Health Workshop, MDA Trainee Networking Session, and MDA NeuroMuscular Advocacy Collaborative (NMAC) session.
March 9-10
* Conference welcome and opening remarks, keynote address, MDA Legacy and Community Awards, sessions, networking reception and posters in the exhibit hall.
March 11
* New, Novel, and Noteworthy: Neuromuscular Disease Highlights with oral presentations from abstracts and updates on clinical trials.
2026 MDA CONFERENCE TRACKS AND CHAIRS
March 9-11
Allied Health
* Managing Diet & Exercise: In Clinic and Beyond: Chairs, Meghan Moore Burk, DPT, PT, NCS, University of Colorado & Laura Watne, MS, RD, CSP, Children's Hospital of Colorado
* Adaptive Equipment in Pediatric NMD: Chair, Kaitlin Young Batley, MD, Children's Health, Dallas, TX
* Recreation: Making Exercise Fun! Chair, Diane Murrell, MSW, LCSW, Texas Children's Hospital
* Coordinating and Administering Care: Chair, Christina Trout, MD, University of Iowa Children's Hospital
* Gene Therapy: Impact on the Care Team - Goals & Roles
Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS)
* From Genes to Pathways: New Frontiers in ALS Drug Discover: Chair, Bryan Traynor, MD, PhD, MMSc, FANA, FRCPI, FRCP, National Institutes of Health
* Advancing ALS Therapeutics: Targets, Tools, and Trial Readiness: Chair, Nicholas J. Maragakis, MD, Neuromuscular Medicine, Johns Hopkins
Care Trends
* Healthcare & Policy: Practicing Medicine in Turbulent Times: Chairs, Joel Cartner, Esq, MDA and Leslie Delfiner, MD, Albert Einstein College of Medicine
* Technology & Innovation: Role in NMD Care: Chair, Chad Heatwole, MD, MS-CI, University of Rochester Medical Center
* Checking In: Asking the Right Questions to Assess Health & Well-Being: Chair, Collette Gramszolo, PhD, The Children's Hospital of Philadelphia
* ALS: Optimizing Care and Support: Chair, Kelly McCoy Gross, RN, Washington University
Disease Mechanism & Therapeutic Strategy
* Breaking the Cycle: Therapeutic Strategies for Repeat Expansion Diseases: Chair, Christopher Grunseich, MD, National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke
* Muscle Regeneration and Repair: Chair, Noah Weisleder, PhD, University of Kentucky College of Medicine
* Inherited Peripheral Neuropathies: Progress: Chair, Brett Morrison, MD, Johns Hopkins Medicine
* Inflammation & Immune Dysregulation in NMD: Chair, Kanneboyina Nagaraju, PhD, DVM, Binghampton University, SUNY
* Reimagining Delivery: Non-Viral Approaches in Gene Therapy: Chair, Scot Wolfe, PhD, University of Massachusetts, Chan Medical School
Drug Development Considerations
* Immune Response Considerations in Gene Therapy: Chair, Sergio Armando Villalta, PhD, UC Irvine School of Medicine
* Next Generation Registry Development: Chair, Andre Paredes, PhD, Muscular Dystrophy Association
* Beyond the Science: Navigating Today's Drug Development Climate: Chair, Paul Melmeyer, Muscular Dystrophy Association
Lab To Life
* Titinopathies: Chair, Sarah Foye, Team Titin, Inc.
* Therapeutic Landscape for Autoimmune Neuromuscular Diseases: Chair, Tahseen Mozaffar, MD, UC Irvine Health
* Infantile/Pediatric Forms of Adult-Onset Neuromuscular Diseases: Chair, Payam Mohassel, MD, Johns Hopkins Medicine
* Limb-Girdle Muscular Dystrophies: Chair, Nicholas E. Johnson, MD, MSci, FAAN, Virginia Commonwealth University
* Mitochondrial Myopathies: Chair, Giovanni Manfredi, MD, PhD, Weill Cornell Medicine
Neurology
* Multi-System Management of Specific Neuromuscular Diseases: Chair, Suma Babu, MBBS, MPH, Massachusetts General Hospital
* Stump the Fellow: Guess-Who Style Case Challenges: Chairs, Bakri Elsheikh, MD, MBBS, The Ohio State University, Wexner Medical Center and Katherine Mathews, MD, University of Iowa, Carver College of Medicine
* Emerging Care Strategies: Optimizing Therapies: Chair, Aravindhan Veerapandiyan, MD, Arkansas Children's Hospital
* Emerging Care Strategies: Early Intervention: Chair, Brianna Brun, MD, University of Rochester Medical Center
* Gene Therapy: Safety, Monitoring, & Reporting: Chair, Richard Finkel, MD, St. Jude Children's Research Hospital
* Office Hours: Navigating the Business of Care: Chair, Crystal Proud, MD, Children's Hospital of The King's Daughters
Angela Lek, PhD, interim Chief Research Officer, Muscular Dystrophy Association, said:
"Every year, this conference reminds us just how powerful this community is when we come together. The 2026 agenda is a testament to that strength--scientists pushing boundaries, clinicians redefining standards of care, industry partners sharing cutting-edge clinical trial results, and advocates ensuring no voice is left behind. It's more than a meeting of experts; it's where momentum becomes movement."
Abstract Submission Guidelines
The abstract submission portal is now open. All abstracts automatically qualify for poster presentations. For those submitting an abstract who would like to be considered for oral presentations at the 2026 MDA Clinical & Scientific Conference, the highest priority will be given to those who submit abstracts on or before November 14, 2025. The final deadline for oral presentation consideration is December 31, 2025. All abstracts automatically qualify for the poster session. Should there be any questions regarding this policy, please contact mdaconference@mdausa.org.
Barry Byrne, MD, PhD, Chief Medical Advisor and Board Member for Muscular Dystrophy Association, and Associate Chair of Pediatrics and Director of the Powell Gene Therapy Center at the University of Florida said, "This conference continues to be a cornerstone for sharing the most current scientific discoveries and clinical strategies in neuromuscular disease. Each year, the agenda grows to reflect the pace of innovation, from new trial results to advances in our delivery of care for patients that improve quality of life. I look forward to welcoming colleagues from around the world to Orlando as we learn from each other and build on our shared commitment to better outcomes for the neuromuscular community."
MDA Community Members
Members of the neuromuscular disease community registered with MDA are welcome to participate in the virtual conference at no cost or attend in person at a discounted rate offered for patients, caregivers, and MDA volunteers until allotted spaces are filled. Those interested in attending virtually or in-person may complete this form. Once verified by MDA, individuals will receive a separate email containing a registration link for the 2026 MDA Clinical & Scientific Conference.
Neuromuscular Focused Advocacy Organizations
Neuromuscular disease focused advocacy organizations are encouraged to register in-person for the MDA Advocacy led NeuroMuscular Advocacy Collaborative (NMAC) session. To register for the invitation only meeting, contact Advocacy@mdausa.org.
Paul Melmeyer, MPP, EVP, Public Policy & Advocacy, Muscular Dystrophy Association said, "As chair of the session on navigating today's drug development climate and host of the Neuromuscular Advocacy Collaborative meeting, I am inspired by how this conference elevates the patient voice alongside the scientific and clinical research. Advocacy and public policy play a crucial role in ensuring that every discovery translates into meaningful access for the people who need it most. By uniting researchers, clinicians, industry leaders, and advocacy organizations, we strengthen our ability to advance public policy solutions that expand care, accelerate approvals, and protect the independence of people living with neuromuscular diseases."
Social Media Engagement
MDA will be sharing updates and information on its social media channels using #MDAconference. The social media engagement toolkit is available here.
Follow MDA on Instagram, Facebook, X, Threads, Bluesky, TikTok, LinkedIn, and YouTube.
Registration
For additional information and to register, click here. Early bird registration deadline is December 31, 2025.
Sponsors
MDA extends its appreciation to the premier sponsors whose support helps bring the neuromuscular community together at the 2026 MDA Clinical & Scientific Conference, including:
Strength of Life: Argenx, Biogen, BridgeBio, Novartis
Circle of Strength: ITF Therapeutics, Scholar Rock
Media contact press@mdausa.org.
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About Muscular Dystrophy Association
Muscular Dystrophy Association (MDA) is the #1 voluntary health organization in the United States for people living with muscular dystrophy, ALS, and over 300 other neuromuscular conditions. For 75 years, MDA has led the way in accelerating research, advancing care, and advocating support and inclusion of families living with neuromuscular disease. MDA's mission is to empower the people we serve to live longer, more independent lives. To learn more visit mda.org and follow MDA on Instagram, Facebook, X, Threads, Bluesky, TikTok, LinkedIn, and YouTube
About Muscular Dystrophy Association's 75th Anniversary
In 2025, the Muscular Dystrophy Association proudly marks 75 years legacy, impact and momentum in the fight against neuromuscular diseases. Since our founding, MDA has been at the forefront of research breakthroughs, providing access to comprehensive care, and championing the rights of people living with muscular dystrophy, ALS, and over 300 other neuromuscular diseases. This milestone has been made possible by generations of dedicated support from people living with neuromuscular disease, their families, researchers, clinicians, volunteers, and donors--who boldly drive our mission forward. As we look ahead, we remain committed to honoring this legacy, building on the impact we've made together, and continuing our momentum toward transformative progress for people living with neuromuscular disorders. Learn more at MDA75.org.
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Original text here: https://www.mda.org/press-releases/agenda-announced-for-2026-mda-clinical-scientific-conference
[Category: Health Care]
AARP Urges Seniors to Review Medicare Plans During Open Enrollment
WASHINGTON, Oct. 16 -- AARP issued the following news release:
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AARP Urges Seniors to Review Medicare Plans During Open Enrollment
AARP is urging seniors to review their Medicare plan options during this year's Medicare Open Enrollment period (October 15 - December 7, 2025) to determine the coverage that best meets their needs for 2026, and that their doctors, hospitals, and prescription drugs are covered by their plan selected.
"Medicare Open Enrollment is the one time each year when older Americans can review their coverage and make sure it meets their health and financial needs," said
... Show Full Article
WASHINGTON, Oct. 16 -- AARP issued the following news release:
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AARP Urges Seniors to Review Medicare Plans During Open Enrollment
AARP is urging seniors to review their Medicare plan options during this year's Medicare Open Enrollment period (October 15 - December 7, 2025) to determine the coverage that best meets their needs for 2026, and that their doctors, hospitals, and prescription drugs are covered by their plan selected.
"Medicare Open Enrollment is the one time each year when older Americans can review their coverage and make sure it meets their health and financial needs," saidNancy LeaMond, AARP's Executive Vice President and Chief Advocacy and Engagement Officer. "With major changes coming to Medicare drug and health plan benefits in 2026, it's more important than ever for seniors to compare their options and choose the plan that will best help them afford the care they need."
Changes You Can Make During Open Enrollment
* Switch from Original Medicare to a Medicare Advantage plan, or vice versa.
* Switch from one Medicare Advantage plan to another.
* Switch from one Medicare Part D prescription drug plan to another.
* Join, drop, or switch to a Medicare Part D prescription drug plan.
What's New for 2026
* The first Medicare-negotiated drug prices will go into effect for Eliquis, Jardiance, Xarelto, Januvia, Farxiga, Entresto, Enbrel, Imbruvica, Stelara, and NovoLog/Fiasp.
- The savings are expected to lower enrollees' out-of-pocket spending by an estimated $1.5 billion in 2026, according to the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS).
* The cap on annual out-of-pocket expenses for Part D drugs will increase to $2,100 in 2026.
Beware of Scams and Fraud
Open Enrollment is also prime time for fraud. Scammers may pose as Medicare representatives or offer "free" medical equipment in exchange for your Medicare number. Remember: Medicare will never call, email, or text out of the blue to ask for personal information or payment. If you're unsure, hang up and call 1-800-MEDICARE to verify.
Free Help Is Available
* Medicare Help Line: 1-800-633-4227.
* Medicare Plan Finder Website
* State Health Insurance Assistance Program (SHIP) Website
* AARP Medicare Resource Center Website
* AARP article, 7 Changes Coming to Medicare in 2026
* AARP video, Medicare Explained
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About AARP
AARP is the nation's largest nonprofit, nonpartisan organization dedicated to empowering people 50 and older to choose how they live as they age. With a nationwide presence, AARP strengthens communities and advocates for what matters most to the more than 125 million Americans 50-plus and their families: health security, financial stability and personal fulfillment. AARP also produces the nation's largest circulation publications: AARP The Magazine and AARP Bulletin. To learn more, visit www.aarp.org/about-aarp/, www.aarp.org/espanol or follow @AARP, @AARPenEspanol and @AARPadvocates on social media.
For further information: Ilse Zuniga, izuniga@aarp.org
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Original text here: https://press.aarp.org/2025-10-15-AARP-Urges-Seniors-to-Review-Medicare-Plans-During-Open-Enrollment
[Category: Sociological]
