Learning to Advocate: A Guide to Creating an Advocacy Curriculum-View Presentation

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The discussion focused on creating an advocacy curriculum within a residency program, emphasizing that expertise in advocacy is unnecessary to start such initiatives. Advocacy was identified as essential for residents, as it drives change through awareness, policy influence, or fundraising. The curriculum spans four years, introducing the concept in the first year and progressing to hands-on activities, such as attending legislative hearings and engaging in advocacy day activities. It also employs the Eightfold Path framework for effective problem-solving and advocacy, encouraging residents to identify problems, assemble evidence, consider alternatives, set criteria, and formulate appealing messages for stakeholders.<br /><br />The importance of teaching systematic advocacy within healthcare was highlighted, particularly at the structural and systems level, to address broader issues like health inequalities. The curriculum also introduces collaboration with stakeholders, potentially including government relations, medical societies, and non-profits, to effectively navigate complex political landscapes. Residents are encouraged to engage with legislators and propose solutions, often working with seasoned lobbyists to understand the nuances and challenges of enacting change.<br /><br />Practical barriers were discussed, such as institutional limitations, political climates, and varying stakeholder interests. Participants noted the significance of leveraging professional societies and existing advocacy resources to support curricular activities. Ultimately, the session aimed to empower residents to become adept advocates capable of navigating and influencing healthcare policy and systems to better serve patients and the profession.

Keywords

advocacy curriculum

residency program

healthcare policy

Eightfold Path framework

legislative hearings

health inequalities

stakeholder collaboration

political landscapes

professional societies

systematic advocacy