Advocacy 101
Lobbying Basics
- Rely On Your Expertise
You know more about medicine and health care than legislators ever will. They want and need to learn what your experience has taught you. No one expects you to be an expert on the politics or the legislative process. - Keep It Simple
Most meetings with legislators last only 15 minutes, sometimes less. Think about the two or three key points you want to make and make them. Don’t try to cover too many topics. - Be Understanding
Put yourself in the legislator’s place. Try to understand his/her problems, outlook and aims. Then you are more likely to persuade him/her to do the same in understanding yours. - Be Reasonable
Recognize that there are legitimate differences of opinion. Never indulge in threats or recriminations; they are confessions of weakness. Keep working to change the legislator’s mind. - Always Be Honest
If you don’t know, don’t say. Exaggeration or misrepresenting information will destroy your credibility. It’s always fine to say, “I don’t know” or “I’ll find out that information and get back to you.”
Effective advocacy isn’t as hard as most of the work you do, but it does take some effort and a stretching of your comfort zone. Fortunately, the reward of knowing you made a difference is well worth it.
Other Learning Resources
Oregon’s Healthcare System
Healthcare Advocacy Terminology and Acronyms
Video Explaining Oregon Healthcare System, Coordinated Care Organizations, Medicaid 1115 Waiver
Oregon Health Authority Public Health Organizational Chart
Health Resources and Services Administration: HRSA Organization Chart
Federally Qualified Health Centers
Other Advocacy Resources
Explore the fundamentals of advocacy with these FREE Advocacy Modules from the Society of Teachers of Family Medicine.
Watch AAFP’s has a short video for members on Lobbying 101.
Use Your Voice
- Social media is a quick, easy way to get the attention of your legislators, colleagues and others on issues that interest you. Follow the OAFP’s advocacy conversations on Twitter with hashtag #OAFPAdvocates.
- Letters to the editor are a great way for you to bring attention to an issue—they will be noticed by legislators and policymakers. Check out the National Council on Aging’s tips.
- Reach out directly to your legislators. Check out the AAFP Speak Out system, which helps you message legislators. It’s quick and easy!
Find Your Legislators
Oregon State Legislature Website