5 ways to get involved in advocacy as a medical student

Reflecting on my four years of medical school, my experiences in advocacy stand out as an unexpectedly transformative part of my medical education that altered how I viewed my role as a future physician. When I first entered medical school, I saw my responsibilities as limited to mastering scientific knowledge and clinical skills. This perspective shifted in the spring of my first year, when I attended my first DO Day. DO Day is the AOA’s annual advocacy conference.

Upon returning home, I realized that physicians have both the opportunity and obligation to influence health care beyond the bedside. Each year, as I advocated for policies affecting physician reimbursement, telehealth accessibility and health care staffing, I developed a deeper appreciation for how legislation directly impacts patient care.

Personal and patient influences

On my rotations, I observed uninsured patients who had to delay critical treatments because of cost and capable residents who were weighed down by student debt. Seeing these things firsthand made abstract policy turn into reality for me. Through these experiences, I learned that healing requires not only stethoscopes but also a voice at the policy table.

Advocacy also became a means for me to avoid burnout. Attending policy meetings, participating in letter-writing and helping build grassroots campaigns offered me opportunities to stay engaged in learning about the health care system while taking a break from the daily studying and activities of medical school. These moments reminded me why I chose to pursue medicine—not just to treat disease, but also to promote healing in every dimension of a patient’s well-being. Ultimately, participating in advocacy work gives me a sense of optimism—that my voice can have an impact, especially in the local systems and environments where I practice.

I feel empowered to use what I’ve learned to advocate for individual patients, such as by writing letters to support their access to necessary care. I also recognize the value of working alongside my peers and fellow practitioners to improve our local learning and working environments in ways that ultimately enhance patient outcomes. I have the chance to connect and build a network of advocates to help my patients, no matter the health care landscape in which I’ll practice.

Finally, my advocacy work became an unexpected cornerstone of my residency applications. Interviewers often asked questions about my policy experiences, sparking dynamic conversations. The interview process helped me clarify my own professional identity.

Articulating why I advocated for specific policies compelled me to define how I want to practice medicine.

Now, as a new resident, I see advocacy not just as an extracurricular activity but also as a core competency of modern medicine. Whether meeting with legislators on Capitol Hill, collaborating with community organizations or learning about policy changes, I now understand that advocacy is an important part of patient care.

My medical school journey has taught me that the most impactful physicians don’t merely adapt to the health care system; they work to reshape it. This conviction will guide me as I transition from student to resident to practicing physician, ensuring my career impacts not only my individual patients but also the health care system that determines health for all.

5 ways to get involved as a student

Getting involved in advocacy as a medical student is a powerful way to influence health care policy, promote patient-centered care and educate others about the osteopathic profession. Students can make a meaningful impact while developing skills in communication, collaboration and health care leadership. If you’re interested, here are some ways to get started:

• Attend DO Day: This annual spring event, organized by the AOA, brings together medical students and physicians to meet with legislators and discuss important health care issues that impact osteopathic medicine. It provides a unique and powerful opportunity to learn about policy and advocate for change.
• Join SOMA or SGA for leadership and advocacy opportunities: The Student Osteopathic Medical Association (SOMA) and the Student Government Association (SGA) offer leadership roles, advocacy training and opportunities to represent student voices locally and nationally.
• Join your state osteopathic organization: Many state associations host advocacy events, including state-specific DO Days, where students can engage with local policymakers and address regional health care challenges.
• Write and advocate with resolutions: Collaborate with your school’s SOMA chapter to draft policy resolutions, present them at the AOA’s House of Delegates meeting and advocate for their adoption to help bring about tangible changes in medical education or patient care.
• Attend OAN monthly meetings: The Osteopathic Advocacy Network (OAN) holds regular policy updates and discussions. Participating in these meetings keeps you informed about current legislative issues affecting DOs and offers networking opportunities with advocates.

By engaging in these activities, medical students can amplify their voices, shape health care policy and contribute to the future of osteopathic medicine.

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