Questions and Answers
At the American College of Cardiology (ACC), State Advocacy has
always been an important component in the representation of cardiologists.
However, more than ever, critical health care policy is decided at
the state level; whether it is in the legislatures or the state regulatory
bodies finding new ways to regulate the practice of cardiology. The
following questions and answers are meant to offer ACC members some
basic information on state advocacy and what it means to you and the
future of your profession.
Q. Why is state advocacy important?
A. Over the last three decades, state governments have evolved into
complex organizations required to deliver health care to millions of
citizens at a responsible cost. This process has become the center of
many state budgets, allocating upwards of 20 percent of the overall budget
to support state health care. This decision making process requires expertise
to make responsible choices in order to deliver health care to citizens,
and these policy makers need your guidance to make the right choices
or else your patients will be left to fend for themselves.
Q. Do state politicians even care what I have to say?
A. Yes, they do. Most state legislatures are part time, employing citizens
to represent citizens with little or no compensation. It is a demanding
job that requires a high level of dedication. Many legislators feel
that it is important to listen to their constituents and understand
what they have to say.
The best ways to address your concerns with legislators are to: 1) Meet
with a legislator in person; 2) Write a personalized letter; or 3) Place
a personal phone call to the legislator. Officials at the state level
are often accessible to their constituents. They live in your neighborhood,
own a local shop and eat in the same restaurants.
Q. Why should I participate?
A. Your expertise is needed more than ever to ensure the delivery of
quality cardiovascular care. Legislators and other local officials
want to hear what you have to say about proposed bills and agencies
polices. ACC State Advocacy has provided your state chapter with the
tools to train you and help you get your message heard.
Q. How do I get involved?
A. There are a number of ways to get involved at the state level that
can make a significant impact. You can join your state’s key
contact network, host a “Cardiologist for A Day” program,
or simply make a phone call to a local official and get to know them
better. See some of the state advocacy tools ACC has to offer and call
to your chapter office or your ACC state elected governor to learn
more about how you can best get involved in the political process.
For more information about State Advocacy, please contact stateadvocacy@acc.org,
or call 301-897-2612. |
