AAFP Family Medicine Advocacy Summit: My Experiences James Suchy, MD

Advocacy What is advocacy? Advocates are teacher and persuaders How we may feel about advocacy? Goals

Preparation Contacted legislatures office and spoke with scheduler to set up meeting Meeting with staffers vs. legislators Research and preparation for meeting

My ‘Team’ Grouped by states Diverse group of family physicians Different legislators

My ‘Team’ Benefits of large groups: Moral support and learning Multiple stories and experiences More impact

Topics at Conference The asks Topics to lobby for… Healthcare coverage Funding for teaching health center graduate medical education House primary care caucus

My Meeting Getting into the building Meeting Lou Correa (house rep for Orange and Santa Ana) Leading the discussion

How to Talk with Legislator Know the topic well Make the experience personal Personal anecdotes Pros and cons of supporting or not supporting your request

How to Talk with Legislator Why importance of talking with your legislator Healthcare committees What can your legislator do if on the committee What can your legislator do if not on the committee

Where to Advocate Literally anywhere: Home Residency/medical program Legislators local office State capital National capital Find any legislator: www.house.gov/representatives/find/

Interested in More? Consider attending the AAFP Family Medicine Advocacy Summit Multiple scholarships for state and national advocacy: AMFRD, AAFP, etc. Let me know if you need advice about applying or have further questions

Thanks to AFMRD