News Releases

American Osteopathic Association Names David J. Pugach Senior Vice President of Public Policy

David J. Pugach, JD, will lead advocacy efforts in Washington D.C. for the physician organization.

By AOA Media Team

11.14.17

American Cancer Society vice president to lead Washington-based team for physician organization

CHICAGO, Nov. 14, 2017 — The American Osteopathic Association announced David J. Pugach, JD, as its senior vice president of public policy, leading advocacy efforts in Washington D.C. for the membership organization. AOA represents the interests of the nation’s more than 129,000 osteopathic physicians (DOs) and osteopathic medical students.

Pugach was previously vice president, federal relations, for the American Cancer Society Cancer Action Network, where he also served as executive director of One Voice Against Cancer, a coalition of 50 patient and professional organizations.

“Our members need their patient-centered perspectives heard by policy makers,” said Adrienne White-Faines, American Osteopathic Association CEO. “David Pugach is a mission-driven leader with deep experience connecting the health care community to Capitol Hill. His expertise in government relations will deliver extraordinary value for the osteopathic medical profession, as well as our nation’s health care system.”

Pugach joined the American Cancer Society Cancer Action Network in 2008, where he most recently managed federal legislative activities. During his tenure there, he worked with leadership to develop appropriations goals and execute advocacy strategy, and earlier served as principal lobbyist on appropriations, budget and medical research issues.

Before joining the American Cancer Society, Pugach was deputy director of the Office of Government and Congressional Relations at the National Institutes of Health, National Cancer Institute, and was detailed to the U.S. House of Representatives, Committee on Appropriations.

A graduate of George Washington University, Pugach received a juris doctorate from Rutgers University School of Law and is a member of the Maryland state bar.

About the American Osteopathic Association

The American Osteopathic Association (AOA) represents more than 129,000 osteopathic physicians (DOs) and osteopathic medical students; promotes public health; encourages scientific research; serves as the primary certifying body for DOs; and is the accrediting agency for osteopathic medical schools. Visit DoctorsThatDO.org to learn more.

Media Contact:  

Jessica Bardoulas
(312) 202-8038
jbardoulas@osteopathic.org