Why it Matters
On the Right Track is making its first foray into federal lobbying by hiring Holland & Knight LLP to advocate for efforts reducing healthcare-acquired infections. This marks a strategic shift for the cubicle curtain manufacturer, aligning with Congress’s growing focus on patient safety post-pandemic.
By the Numbers
On the Right Track has never registered to lobby before, making this their inaugural federal advocacy effort. Holland & Knight has assigned three lobbyists to the account:
- Dimitrios John Karakitsos: Former Senate Environment and Public Works Committee counsel
- Robert Hunt Bradner: Veteran healthcare lobbyist specializing in appropriations
- Jordan K. Brossi: Former health policy adviser to Rep. Anna Eshoo
The team combines regulatory expertise, healthcare funding knowledge, and recent congressional experience.
The Agenda
The new client registration focuses on “efforts to reduce healthcare-acquired infections (HAIs) and improve infection prevention efforts.” On the Right Track manufactures disposable, recyclable hospital cubicle curtains. The company claims traditional fabric curtains harbor dangerous pathogens like MRSA. Their system includes a patented track system and software for tracking curtain exchanges.
Broader Context
Congress has heightened its focus on healthcare safety following COVID-19. The pandemic exposed infection control vulnerabilities in healthcare facilities, with multiple congressional hearings examining infection spread in veterans’ homes. Members cited “outdated physical infrastructure” as contributing to rapid virus transmission, creating favorable conditions for infection prevention technology advocacy.
Competitive Landscape
Magnolia Medical Technologies Inc. is lobbying on hospital quality programs and sepsis legislation. SAS Institute Inc. focuses on hospital data reporting requirements. Professional societies like the Society for Healthcare Epidemiology of America and Association for Professionals in Infection Control and Epidemiology Inc. already advocate for CDC infection prevention funding.
Between The Lines
The S.1929 – SEPSIS Act represents the most relevant legislation for On the Right Track’s agenda. The bipartisan bill seeks to improve infection prevention and treatment. House Veterans’ Affairs hearings like “Dignity Denied: the Case for Reform at State Veterans Homes” highlighted infection control failures. Rep. Angie Craig and Rep. Mike Kelly introduced sepsis diagnostic legislation. Sen. Chris Murphy linked hospital ownership to infection rates.
The Bottom Line
On the Right Track enters federal lobbying with experienced representation and favorable timing. The company’s infection prevention technology aligns with congressional priorities on healthcare safety. Success will depend on educating lawmakers about curtain contamination risks and positioning solutions within existing legislative frameworks.
All data used in this article came from Legis1. Request a demo to learn more!
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