Advocacy in Radiology: What, Why and How

Amy K. Patel, MD, Chair of the American College of Radiology^® (ACR^®) Radiology Advocacy Network (RAN), contributed this post.

Advocacy is a critical component of the field and practice of radiology, but why is it important for patient care? What is #radvocacy (i.e., radiology political advocacy), and how can radiologists of all career levels get engaged? Furthermore, what resources can support involvement in radvocacy endeavors?

As radiologists, radiation oncologists, nuclear medicine physicians, medical physicists, fellows, residents and medical students, we play a central role in patient care — and we have the opportunity to make a meaningful impact on quality and access to care. From an advocacy standpoint, that can mean responding to an ACR RAN Call-to-Action, hosting a site visit of an elected official to show them what we do and the integral role we play in patient care, or participating in ACR Capitol Hill Day. The ways in which we can become engaged are endless, and the earlier you get involved in radvocacy endeavors, the sooner you will truly understand its impact on patient care, access and fair reimbursement for the services we provide.

If you’re unsure of how to get started or are simply looking for a refresher on how to advocate effectively, consider attending the upcoming RAN webinar, Advocacy 101: How to Effectively Advocate for Your Patients and Profession. I’m looking forward to sharing helpful insights to help radiologists at all career levels get involved alongside Alex Podlaski, MD, MS, Interventional Radiology Fellow at Rush University, and Joshua Cooper, ACR Vice President of Government Relations. Join us on Thursday, July 14 from 7 to 8pm ET!

In an increasingly competitive and passionate healthcare environment, radiology political advocacy is imperative. It will take a concerted effort from ALL in the house of radiology, regardless of practice type, to battle the many challenges that lie ahead, including reimbursement and, most importantly, equitable care for our patients. The days of being siloed and not being actively involved are over. We must all rise to ensure a stable and prosperous tomorrow. So, please join us as we enter this new chapter of radvocacy to ensure a brighter tomorrow for our patients and profession.