Q: What are some skills presented during Advocacy 101 that may be challenging for physicians and rheumatology professionals?
Many physicians may be uncomfortable with the idea of interacting with government officials, especially if they have never had advocacy experiences before. Fortunately, most rheumatologists can become more comfortable with a little bit of training. After all, the principles of effective communication—respect, transparency and honesty—are essentially the same whether between a patient and doctor or a constituent and lawmaker. And, believe it or not, they’re as scared of you as you are of them.
Q: How will Advocacy 101 work differently this year due to the pandemic?
Advocacy 101 will be entirely virtual this year. There are two components. A set of pre-event modules provides background about advocacy and governance. Then an online Advocacy 101 social program further elaborates on this information and gives participants the opportunity to interact and learn from each other.
Q: How can ACR/ARP members use their Advocacy 101 training beyond the Advocates for Arthritis event?
Advocacy is a lifelong skill that is applicable to so many different contexts. Many Advocacy 101 graduates have become involved in the ACR through committee work and regular attendance at Advocates for Arthritis. Others have become more involved with state-level specialty societies and other professional organizations, such as the American College of Physicians and the American Medical Association.
Q: Anything else you’d like to add?
Advocacy is a lot of fun. I promise. Advocacy is a great way to channel your enthusiasm and passion for making the world a better place. When we unite to solve problems together, we’re more likely to get things done.
Vanessa Caceres is a freelance medical writer in Bradenton, Fla.
