ADVOCACY: active support of an idea or cause, etc.; especially the act of pleading or arguing for something.
A major strategic goal of the Connecticut Psychiatric Society is to advocate on behalf of our patients and our profession.
The legislative and government agencies impact significantly both our profession and our patients. Hundreds of laws are introduced each legislative session – some good, some not so good. Regulatory agencies, such as the State Medical Board, the Connecticut Department of Mental Health and others, promulgate rules to which we are required to adhere.
What is lobbying?
- Lobbying is a two-pronged approach to: (1) Proactively define and execute our strategic priorities in the legislative and regulatory arenas; and (2) be prepared to quickly react to the constantly changing interests and attention of the national and state legislatures.
Why do we advocate?
- We advocate to educate elected officials, get our message out and tell our story.
Why should you advocate?
- Legislation effects patient care the practice of medicine.
- You are uniquely qualified as a physician and a constituent.
- Grassroots advocacy makes a difference as you will be affected by decision and have your voice heard.
What do we lobby for? (Issues on the Federal and State Level)
- Healthcare Reform
- Medicare/Medicaid
- Workforce/Access to Care
- Appropriations
- Veterans Affairs
- Children and Families
- Geriatrics
- Minority Mental Health and Access to Care
- Medical Records Privacy and HIT
It is vital that we make our voices heard and our position known. We do this by lobbying activities, grassroots efforts, and testifying. The most effective way requires active participation of individual members of CPS.
THE VOICE OF PSYCHIATRY IN CONNECTICUT!