It is with deep humility and awe that I accept the role of President of Doctors for America. And it is with profound gratitude that I thank each of you—our members—for everything you do.
Twenty-six years ago, nearly to the day, I experienced medical bankruptcy. I became seriously ill and was hospitalized for more than two months. Because I could no longer qualify as an active student under my parent’s health plan, I lost my insurance. I was penalized for a pre-existing condition, exhausted my annual coverage by the end of January, and maxed out my prescription benefits by March.
I was unlucky enough to get sick before the Affordable Care Act.
So when the ACA debate unfolded years later, I watched closely—not just as a physician, but as a patient whose life could have been very different had those protections existed. What truly caught my attention, though, was a small but mighty group of doctors in white coats—showing up again and again in the news, on Capitol steps, speaking plainly about what this meant for their patients.
As a young physician, I was in awe. Where did they learn to do this? As a patient, I was moved to tears. I had never seen doctors publicly stand up for people like me. I felt overwhelming gratitude.
That group became Doctors for America.
I signed up. I followed their work. I signed petitions and donated—but I stayed on the sidelines, unsure and intimidated, wondering how advocacy actually worked.
That changed in 2017, when it became clear that the care protecting my patients—and that could have changed my own life—was at risk. I heard through a group chat that DFA would be at the Women’s March in Washington, DC. I didn’t know what I was doing. I joined a group of women making signs and boarded a bus early one January morning. I was the only one wearing a white coat.
But as I moved through the swelling crowds, I began spotting others in white coats—drawn there by the same instinct, the same call. We held onto one another, determined not to get separated.
image above: a growing group of doctors at Women’s March, Washington DC 2017
And something remarkable happened. We started hearing: “Here come the doctors. Make way for the doctors.”
Then someone grabbed my arm. I turned to see a young woman, crying, who simply said, “Thank you.”
I only had time to say, “You’re welcome.” But what I wish I had said was, “This is our job.”
image below: view of the doctor in front of me as we weaved through crowds
Because in that moment, I learned something essential: you don’t need to know how to advocate to be an advocate. You just need to show up. Our oath is not only to the patients we see in the clinic or hospital—it is to the communities we serve.
In the years since, I have been proud to become more deeply involved in DFA—joining the Board during the pandemic, helping launch the Public Health Task Force, serving on the Executive Board. One thing has never changed: my awe and gratitude for this community.
To those who sign petitions—thank you.
To our dues-paying members—thank you. Your support sustains our work.
To those who attend meetings, contribute to statements, toolkits, advocacy grand rounds, or litigation—thank you.
To our Impact Area and Committee leaders—your energy and service embody the truth that we never stop fighting until the fight is over.
To our staff and Executive Director—there are truly no words.
And to our outgoing President, Dr. Christine Petrin—thank you for your vision and leadership that have made DFA the force it is today.
The work, unfortunately, is far from done. The threats—to health care, to science, to the very practice of medicine—are growing. Many feel demoralized, exhausted, afraid.
I understand that. But I don’t feel alone.
Every time I join a DFA meeting, whether online or in person, I feel lighter. I laugh. I am reminded that there are extraordinary people standing beside me—and these are the people I want with me in this fight.
image above: all of us at the front of the Women’s March (it’s a real Where’s Waldo moment, but I am visible!)
This is not a moment for the sidelines. Every one of us has a role—from scientists to community clinicians, from emergency physicians to specialists, from retirees to trainees. This is a call to fulfill the most basic promise of our oath.
So I invite you to join us in Washington, DC this June for DFA’s National Leadership Conference, themed “Good Trouble.” There has never been a more important time to cause some good trouble—together—to put patients above politics and stand up for science that protects our communities.
No experience is required. If you show up, you are an advocate. And I promise you—every patient is grateful. I am grateful.
It is an absolute honor to serve alongside each of you.
Meena Bewtra, MD, MPH, PhD
President, Doctors for America
Advocacy Grand Rounds: Prescription Coverage in a Changing Policy Landscape
This session will explore recent policy changes and announcements affecting GLP-1 therapies and emerging prescription drug initiatives, including TrumpRx. Dr. Dusetzina will examine how these developments may influence insurance coverage, patient access, and prescribing considerations. The discussion will place these changes in the broader context of evolving coverage and affordability pressures, highlighting potential implications for clinical practice in the months ahead.
Community Health and Prevention (CHP) - If you’re interested in working on gun violence prevention, public health or substance use disorder, join us on Monday, 1/26, at 8 pm ET to meet others with the same interests.
Health Justice and Equity (HJE) - If you’re interested in working on reproductive rights, sexual and gender health, or fighting for decriminalization and liberation, join us on Sunday, 1/25, at 8 pm ET to work with others fighting for the same causes.
There’s never been a more important moment to join Doctors for America.
Real change happens when advocates come together. By joining our organization, you become part of a powerful community advancing evidence-based medicine, protecting patients, and driving meaningful reform. Step into 2026 ready to shape change, elevate your leadership, and strengthen our national movement for a healthier, more just future.
Join today and save 30% off your first year of membership with code "WINTER25". This offer is valid through January 31.
