February 2025

Squirrel!

What a strange title of a column, but that is exactly how I’ve felt in the last few weeks. A squirrel’s attention span is generally one second and they are easily distracted by movement and food, changing their focus frequently. I think many of us have felt that same way through the barrage of executive orders such as the one that allows the U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) to enter hospitals, or the public health gag order, or the order to stop research at the National Institute of Health, and the proclamation that the U.S. government will only recognize two sexes, male and female, along with the abolishment of federal positions focused on diversity, equity or inclusion.

 

Subversion refers to a process by which the values and principles of a system in place are contradicted or reversed in an attempt to sabotage the established social order and its structures of power, authority, tradition, hierarchy, and social norms. The well orchestrated chaos going on around us is purposely designed to demoralize, destabilize and to normalize disruption, making dysfunction and chaos the new normal. 

 

I know you’re tired. We’re all tired. However, it is essential that we band together to break this cycle and here’s what you can do:

 

 

As we do our darndest to avoid the “squirrel mentality” and ignore the distractions coming at us. Instead, let’s pay attention to how our legislators are voting and stand ready to mobilize against the actual threats to our patients and public health. DFA is here and ready to stand with you arm in arm. 

 

In solidarity,

Executive Director

Join the Reproductive Health Coalition for an interactive training designed to help you effectively navigate reproductive care conversations. This program covers abortion care, the legal landscape, navigating conversations, and combating misinformation, with a 2-hour in-person or virtual training.

Medicaid is right now at risk of the largest and most damaging cuts in the program's history. With two decades of experience in Medicaid law and policy, Leo will address emerging challenges like Medicaid expansion, work requirements, and the integration of social determinants of health into Medicaid’s delivery model. This session will equip advocates and healthcare providers with the knowledge and strategies needed to navigate the policy landscape, advocate for their patients, and protect Medicaid as a vital resource for millions of Americans.

Advocates in Action

Dr. Jan Krommes, a rheumatologist from New Jersey and chair of our FDA Task Force, spoke on behalf of Doctors for America to voice our opposition to Robert F. Kennedy Jr.'s confirmation as Secretary of Health and Human Services.