This post was contributed by David C. Youmans, MD, FACR, chair of the Radiology Advocacy Network (RAN) and practicing radiologist in Princeton, N.J.

At our recent ACR 2017 meeting, hundreds of radiologists marched up Capitol Hill to meet with their legislators and discuss issues of importance to us and to our patients.

More than 520 ACR members met with lawmakers during ACR 2017

Much more than an opportunity to get an interesting photo for your office or living room, these interactions are a vital avenue to development of better health policy and to improving patient care.

Now that the excitement of being in Washington has passed, I encourage all of us as radiologists to continue engaging decision makers year round — not just during the ACR annual meeting.

Follow-up communications or tours of your imaging facility provide effective ways to develop relationships with both federal and state legislators.

So many folks come to our offices to advocate for important issues. Today doctors are here to advocate against cuts to science and more. Watch the video with ACR members and Sen. Cory Booker: pic.twitter.com/DkYdiMI3NN

— Cory Booker (@CoryBooker) May 24, 2017

NJ Chapter meets with congressional staff

The Radiology Advocacy Network (RAN) can equip you to make critical points in discussions with local, state and federal decision makers.

This can help all of us keep them more informed as they make decisions that can help us all provide better care.

A wealth of RAN resources are available to help you:

• Understand current legislative and regulatory issues affecting radiology
• Explain why policies under consideration may or may not be the best path to follow
• Get involved — by contacting lawmakers to provide your insights on issues they may be deliberating

Please take advantage of the RAN resources. Get involved. Together, we can make health care better.

Dr. Youmans with Sen. Cory Booker (D-NJ)

A few questions:

• What did you learn from meeting with your local, state or federal lawmakers?
• What advice do you have for others who may do so?

Please share your thoughts in the comments section below and join the discussion on Engage (login required).

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