Joyce leads bipartisan Pediatricians Accelerate Childhood Therapies Act

U.S. Rep. John Joyce (R-PA) recently sponsored a bipartisan bill that aims to ramp up science and research focused on pediatric care.

“Over the duration of my medical career, I have witnessed incredible advancements in American medical innovation,” Rep. Joyce said. “As American scientists and physicians continue to develop cutting-edge treatments and cures, it’s critical that we continue to support the research and innovation that is helping to save children’s lives.”

Rep. Joyce on July 18 introduced the Pediatricians Accelerate Childhood Therapies Act of 2023, H.R. 4714, with lead original cosponsor U.S. Rep. Kim Schrier (D-WA).

If enacted, H.R. 4714 would authorize the director of the National Institutes of Health (NIH) to make awards to outstanding scientists, including physician-scientists, to support researchers focusing on pediatric research, including basic, clinical, translational, or pediatric pharmacological research, according to the congressional record bill summary.

“As a pediatrician, my career has been focused on children’s health and I understand that pediatric-specific research leads to the development of the next generation of treatments that can save the lives of children,” said Rep. Schrier. “Investing in early career scientists focused on finding the cures and therapies of tomorrow will ensure this vital research continues to benefit children in Washington and across the country. I’m proud to introduce this bipartisan bill alongside my colleague Dr. Joyce.”

H.R. 4714 has been referred for consideration to the U.S. House Energy and Commerce Committee.