I found SGIM Hill Day to be an eye-opening, educational and inspiring event. Not only did I learn a tremendous amount about issues that impact my medical education and ability to care for patients, but I felt empowered when talking with legislators and their staff. When meeting with one staffer, I told a story about an elderly woman I cared for in my primary care clinic with hypertensive urgency. I described how my knowledge about her personal life and economic challenges combined with the help of a case manager, social worker and pharmacist enabled my patient to receive excellent, well-coordinated care while avoiding a costly emergency department visit. With one story, the staffer gained a better understanding of the larger themes we were advocating for. I greatly underestimated what a powerful effect a simple story could have in the legislative process. The possibility of having a positive effect on future policy-making was exhilarating.
University of Pittsburgh health policy advocates come to the Hill for SGIM Hill Day