Advocating Migraine Care and Research at Headache on the Hill 2026

Headache on the Hill is a national advocacy event dedicated to advancing care and research for people living with migraine and other headache disorders. This year, it was held on February 9 and 10, organized by the Alliance for Headache Advocacy and supported by the American Headache Society. This annual event connects headache medicine advocates directly with lawmakers to drive meaningful policy change for the more than 40 million Americans affected by these conditions.

This year’s event may mark the largest Headache on the Hill to date, with 282 advocates traveling to Washington, D.C. This diverse group, representing 47 states, included patients, caregivers, researchers, clinicians, and approximately 20 youth advocates, all united by a shared goal of improving care, advancing research, and creating more equitable policies for the headache disorder community.

Turning Advocacy into Action

Headache on the Hill is focused on raising awareness and driving action. Throughout the event, advocates brought their voices directly to Capitol Hill, engaging in conversations with lawmakers and their staff to highlight the impact of headache disorders for millions of Americans. By sharing lived experiences and clinical insights, advocates help ensure that policymakers better understand the urgency and scale of the challenges facing the headache medicine community.

This year, advocates focused on several key legislative efforts aimed at improving access to care and addressing ongoing gaps in treatment, coverage, and research. The HEADACHE Act would establish a national strategy to address migraine and headache disorders across research, care, and public health. The Safe Step Act places guardrails on step therapy, helping patients access effective treatments more quickly. The CONNECT for Health Act expands access to telehealth services for Medicare beneficiaries.

While not all advocates were in Washington, their voices were still heard. Supporters across the country contacted their elected officials, helping carry this message forward and build momentum for change.

Supporting a Community of Advocates

This year, Headache Care Rooms were available during the conference and on Capitol Hill, offering a dedicated space for individuals to rest, manage symptoms, and access basic comfort supplies in the event of a headache attack during the day. These spaces play a critical role in ensuring that advocacy remains accessible to those living with headache disorders. In addition to care spaces, support for advocates included programming designed to engage and empower participants of all ages.

Youth advocates also had access to dedicated programming in collaboration with The Headache Alliance, US Pain Foundation and CHAMP, creating age-appropriate spaces for learning, creativity, and connection. By creating space for the next generation, Headache on the Hill continues to foster a growing and inclusive advocacy community.

We extend our sincere thanks to everyone who contributed to these efforts. Your support helped make it possible for advocates to show up, participate fully, and make their voices heard.

Looking Ahead

Headache on the Hill remains a cornerstone of advocacy for the headache medicine community. Each year, participation continues to grow, reflecting the increasing awareness, urgency, and commitment surrounding this cause. While progress in policy can take time, the collective efforts of advocates help build the foundation for meaningful, lasting change.