“Advocacy gave me a new purpose and perspective on life,” Ms. Barron said.
Every Member Can Help
Dan Redinger, the ACR manager of advocacy and policy affairs, said that simply educating yourself about how public policy can affect rheumatology is a great first step in getting involved. Easy ways to stay informed are to read the bimonthly ACR@Work newsletter and to follow the ACR’s advocacy Twitter account, @ACRheumDC.
Time is never in ample supply, but there are quick ways you can make a difference, Mr. Redinger said. From the ACR’s Legislative Action Center, members can send pre-written letters directly to federal and state legislators; it just takes a few seconds to send your message and only a minute or two to customize it, if you so choose.
“We try to make it as easy as possible,” he said.
There are also opportunities for committee involvement, and visits to Capitol Hill are effective and a fun way to share your message, Mr. Redinger said.
“While the ACR and its advocacy staff are working with legislators on your behalf every day, it’s critical for them to hear from constituents directly,” he said. “The ultimate goal is that you should be seen as a resource for that member of Congress,” providing an important physician perspective to help representatives make informed policy decisions. Making that happen “takes consistent communication,” he said.
“We want you to turn your frustration into action,” Mr. Redinger said. “There are a lot of things that are going on in your practice and with your patients that can be extremely frustrating. And we want you to know that the ACR is here to help and give you the resources you need to be a good advocate.”
Thomas Collins is a freelance medical writer based in Florida.
