How to Conduct an Effective Meeting with Your Member of Congress Always Remember… What’s Most Important You’re Building a Relationship Over time… With a Purpose For the Long-Term

Before Your Meeting… Review the Ask Review basic facts about your legislators o Political party? o Personal connection? o Health Committee? o First meeting or return visit? Remember, you are a constituent You’re the EXPERT on your specialty

Meeting With Your Legislators Expect the unexpected, schedule changes May meet with legislative aide – that’s OK! Provide brief introduction Hit high points of issues – keep it SIMPLE o Tell a story, localize issue, connect to patients Say it with conviction

Meeting With Your Legislators Expect to hear partisan perspectives Acknowledge, but don’t denigrate opposition Engage – any questions? o Don’t have an answer? Offer to follow up Offer to be a resource Leave issue piece and business card

Meeting With Your Legislators MAKE THE ASK! Don’t expect quick sale Members and staff may be cautious Invite Member of Congress to visit your laboratory to learn more