Though the policy-minded set in Washington never really takes a break, members of Congress are preparing for their annual August recess when they return to their home states and districts. This is a good time for constituents to engage with their members of Congress, and some AAMC member institutions will host visits and tours for lawmakers. Also, in preparation for the legislative branch’s return to Washington in the fall, many organizations use this time to plan their advocacy strategies and policy priorities.
Are you seeking to get involved in advocacy issues important to academic medicine, to your community, or to your institution? We offer these tips:
- Get to know the staff of your institution’s government relations office. See what opportunities may exist for your involvement in op-eds, legislative office visits, educational events, etc.
- Join AAMC Action, a national grassroots community of students, residents, researchers, faculty members, physicians, and others who advocate on behalf of academic medicine.
- Subscribe to Washington Highlights, the AAMC’s weekly newsletter that provides updates on the latest legislative and regulatory activities affecting medical schools, teaching hospitals, and their patients and communities.
- Educate yourself about the complex issues facing academic medicine, including physician workforce shortages, student loan programs, emergency and pandemic preparedness, GME training support, health care coverage and access, and medical research funding.
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Brian Lehman
Director, Public Affairs
Association of American Medical Colleges
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