ACC’s 2023 Legislative Conference brought together over 400 health care professionals including cardiologists at various career stages, fellows and residents who share a common goal: advocating for their colleagues and patients. As a fellow in training (FIT), it was my second time attending this conference in person. The conference provided a unique experience in many ways.

As FITS, we strive to provide excellent care for our patients and advocate for them while working towards becoming the best physicians we can be. However, we often encounter limitations. Our discussions and presentations on improving the health care system are frequently hindered by regulatory constraints. This is what fueled my enthusiasm for attending this year’s conference – the belief that this is a place where I can genuinely make a difference.

The ACC Legislative Conference is a way we can make a meaningful impact. This event readies us for our day at Capitol Hill with the lawmakers and their legislative assistants. ACC provides valuable resources in the months leading up to the conference, such as webinars, videos and articles; helping us understand what to expect. ACC also offers an excellent mentorship program where experienced individuals become our guides and meet with us the day before the conference. Following the mentorship meeting is the signature HeartPAC dinner combining networking with special guest speakers every year. This year’s keynote speakers, former senator Claire McCaskill (D-MO) and former Republican presidential advisor Mary Matalin, shared their perspectives on health care and expectations for the upcoming year.

On the first day of the conference, we participate in informative sessions discussing current health policy issues and bills to be discussed at Capitol Hill. These bills are categorized into three important sections: improving heart health for all, increasing patient access to care and protecting clinician well-being. Following these discussions, we collaborate with our state chapter and prepare for the next day's events.

When approaching your state chapter's dedicated table and meeting the remarkable people from various locations, you'll immediately notice the enthusiasm on their faces as they interact with a trainee who shows interest. They generously invest their time in educating, sharing anecdotes and providing a deeper understanding of ongoing events. Most significantly, they inspire you to take the lead in discussing your patients' stories. While cardiology is a data-driven specialty, it is these anecdotes and the individual patient experiences that win over the legislators.

Throughout the conference, there is no such thing as just observing. Even first-time participants are encouraged to share their experiences and concerns with lawmakers. After planning with your state chapter for next day’s meetings, there is a fantastic networking event for FIT and Early Career individuals, providing a chance to share your excitement while meeting new people. On day two, everyone meets for breakfast to finalize plans and walks to Capitol Hill as a group before splitting into state chapters to meet their respective state legislators and staff.

As a fellow, my first and second years at this conference marked my journey to enhance patient care and support my colleagues. We gathered to improve the well-being of our colleagues, make health care more accessible to patients and secure funding for underserved populations. One notable aspect of the Hill visits was how approachable all the senators, house representatives and their assistants were and how receptive they were to our concerns about health care. The conference left me with a profound sense of accomplishment; I knew I had made a difference for my patients.

This conference is not only about influencing legislation but also about expanding our knowledge beyond usual training settings. We gain insight into budget matters and health care system issues; particularly their impact on local practices and patient care. During discussions on health care policies, we are inspired by stories of past attendees who made positive changes for patients and colleagues. We also learn about more opportunities to engage in advocacy throughout the year.

In conclusion, ACC Legislative Conference offers a tremendous opportunity to become voices for patients and colleagues across the nation and provides a unique avenue to gain insights into crucial health care issues. This event not only enhances our training but also fosters a sense of community among trainees at all levels. We eagerly look forward to returning year after year, witnessing the growing passion of our colleagues to make a difference.

According to my conference mentors, progress occurs step by step. Advocacy is about making incremental changes and remaining committed. That is why we return to the ACC Legislative Conference annually and stay engaged throughout the year. These small steps and ongoing commitment lead us to a brighter future in health care advocacy.

Save the date for next year’s ACC Legislative Conference, Sept. 29-Oct.1, 2024 in Washington, DC!