Health Policy Advocacy

  Becoming involved in health policy advocacy is not only a right but also a responsibility. students will research and choose current health issues or problems that they feel are important to them or the health of the community. ???? Students will send a letter to their local House Representative or Senator about the health issue the students are interested. Guidelines for Writing a Letter/Communicating with Legislators: Be polite in tone and language Identify yourself as a registered voter, constituent and a member of whatever organization in your opening sentence. Immediately identify the topic you are writing about Focus on one or two points Make brief points Describe the importance of the issue to you, your community, and nation. Clearly state what you are asking the legislator to do (co-sponsor a particular bill, or vote for or against a measure, bill, etc). Be informed. Be familiar with the basic facts and points Avoid too many details or scientific information, but have additional information available if requested Verify your facts—your story maybe told again by the legislator. Personalize your own story or that of a patient and explain the relevance to the issue at hand. Include relevant information from your district or state, and explain how the issue can affect the area. Offer to be of assistance and serve as a resource Thank the legislator. Ask for a response.