From my time serving in the Wisconsin Senate and later as governor, I know that passing major healthcare legislation can be a long, difficult process. However, I also know there are certain areas in healthcare where there is genuine bipartisan agreement and a willingness to come together to help patients. We’re seeing that now, and it’s time for lawmakers in Washington to take action and help a particular group of patients that desperately need it: kidney patients.

As someone whose family has been personally affected by kidney disease and dialysis, I’ve seen just how difficult it can be for patients and families whose lives are upended by this disease. Adjusting to dialysis involves new doctors, treatments, medications, and, of course, expenses. Naturally, each of these comes with its own set of challenges.