May

Something powerful happens when advocates find each other. This is that moment. Physicians and medical trainees nationwide are coming together in Washington, DC to tackle the health policy issues that matter most, grow as advocates, and connect with the people who will define the future of medicine. 

 

Join the growing roster of speakers and advocates from June 5 - 8 as we make good trouble together.

Former Congressman Rob Andrews, will examine how evolving federal healthcare policy, particularly the Affordable Care Act, may impact care delivery, cost, and access, alongside ongoing concerns about affordability. It will explore rising healthcare costs, driven by hospital pricing and specialty drugs, and their effects on employers and patients.

 

The discussion will highlight the role of employer coalitions, including the Health Transformation Alliance, in advancing cost containment, transparency, and value-based care. It will also address opportunities for physician advocacy in shaping policy at federal and organizational levels.

Recently, the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs ("VA") implemented a near-total ban on abortion care, prohibiting abortions even when the pregnancy poses a serious health risk or is the result of rape or incest, and prohibiting abortion counseling in all circumstances. Democracy Forward is interested in learning about the impact of this rule on providers, both providers at VA and those who see veterans in the community. If you or anyone you know has been impacted or are are concerned about being impacted by this new policy (either the ban on provision of abortions or the ban on counseling) and would be willing to speak with us confidentially, please reach out to Carrie Flaxman (cflaxman@democracyforward.org) and Kaitlyn Golden (kgolden@democracyforward.org).

The U.S. Preventive Services Task Force (USPSTF) plays a critical role in determining which preventive services, such as cancer screenings, behavioral health interventions, and other evidence-based preventive care, are recommended and covered for millions of Americans.  These recommendations serve as the basis for preventative care coverage without cost-sharing for both public and private insurers. As part of the HHS Secretary's plan to overhaul the committee, the federal government is seeking volunteers with expertise in public health, health policy, clinical medicine, and/or science communication to nominate themselves by May 23rd. This is an important opportunity for clinicians committed to evidence-based medicine, prevention, and public health to help shape national recommendations that directly impact patient care and access.

The nomination process is straightforward and requires only a CV and cover letter to be submitted through this online portal. The application deadline is May 23.

 

Additional information can be found here: Federal Register Notice on USPSTF Nominations

Ready to grow as a physician advocate and leader? Doctors for America’s Copello Fellowship is a dynamic opportunity to build the skills, confidence, and community needed to create meaningful change for your patients and your community.

 

This year, 16 exceptional fellows will come together each month to learn from experts, and from one another, through interactive sessions focused on advocacy, action planning, media relations, strategic communications, legislative engagement, and more.

 

The fellowship is open to medical students, residents, practicing physicians, and retirees. No prior advocacy experience is required, just a commitment to learning, leading, and making a difference.

Fellows are expected to:

Estimated time commitment: 1–2 hours per week

 

If you’re ready to turn your passion into action, we’d love to hear from you. For more information, please contact Angie Bakke or apply below. 

We’re working to strengthen our member community and make sure you never miss important updates, advocacy opportunities, or time-sensitive announcements from Doctors for America.

 

Please take a moment to complete this quick two-question survey and share your preferred phone number with us. It takes less than one minute to complete and will help us better connect with you as we continue to grow our movement.

 

Thank you for helping us build a stronger, more connected Doctors for America community.

Join the Community Health & Prevention Subcommittees to work on issues of substance use disorders, gun violence prevention, and public health on Monday, May 18 at 8 pm ET! Register Here.

 

Join the FDA Task Force on Tuesday, May 19 at 8 pm ET! Learn more about how to advocate for safe and effective medical product approvals. Register here.

 

Politics is failing patients—let’s fight back with our words. Join DFA’s Op-Ed Writing Workshop on Wednesday, May 27 at 8 pm ET with expert Editors Drs. Jennifer Obel and Mark Lopatin and learn how to write op-eds that drive real change. Register now and use your voice for impact.

 

Join the Health Justice & Equity Subcommittees to work on issues of gender-affirming care, reproductive rights, and immigrant health justice on Sunday, May 31 at 8 pm ET!  Register Here.

 

Join the Access to Affordable Care team on Tuesday, June 2 at 8 pm ET! We are fighting against cuts to Medicare, Medicaid, and the ACA that put millions at risk. Register here.