Standing up for health care: A story we share

If you’re anything like me, it sometimes feels like the health care news cycle spins faster each day. Between shifting public health guidance and the latest conversations about vaccines, I’ve had my share of “whiplash moments.” I’ve also felt deep concern for our patients and communities.

What gives me comfort throughout all the uncertainty is the fact that I stand shoulder to shoulder with family physicians who share an unwavering commitment to science and the integrity of public health.

We are eight months into 2025, and we’re not slowing down. We’re doubling down. Here’s just a glimpse of the ways the AAFP is continuing to show up for health care and for the families we serve.

Actions speak louder than words

Let me start by saying that our commitment to science-based vaccination is unshakeable. Through our work with the Vaccine Integrity Project and collaboration with other medical societies, the AAFP is committed to reviewing evidence and systematically considering all new recommendations. We have always followed the process for assessing ACIP recommendations and making evidence-based recommendations to family physicians.

Earlier this year, more than 300 of you traveled to Washington, D.C., for the Family Medicine Advocacy Summit to engage directly with lawmakers. You urged them to protect vaccine access, strengthen primary care and keep patient well-being at the center of every decision.

Our advocacy work doesn’t stop at FMAS. We continue to emphasize science-based, evidence-informed recommendations in every federal and congressional engagement, whether we’re testifying before Congress, commenting on a rule or advising federal partners behind the scenes.

In early September, your president-elect, Dr. Sarah Nosal, will be back in Washington, D.C., representing family physicians and pressing for policies that support evidence-based medicine and access to care for all Americans.

Additionally, I continue to be inspired by how our members use the AAFP’s Speak Out platform, which helps amplify our collective voice and makes sure Congress hears directly from you. Our latest Speak Out makes it easy for you to contact your lawmakers and urge them to protect the integrity of science and vaccines.

Our mission remains focused on supporting you through every stage of your career, and that includes ensuring you can educate patients about vaccines and public health risks. Each August, we observe National Immunization Awareness Month, where we lead efforts to educate the public about the importance of vaccines. Here’s some of the ways we are making an impact this month and year-round:

• Media outreach and public engagements: Family physicians are trusted messengers of credible health information who are featured in countless media outlets, including outlets like the Los Angeles Times, LinkedIn, STAT, the Champions for Vaccine Education, Equity and Progress, Parents and Macaroni Kid.

• Patient education materials: We offer a variety of materials to assist in patient discussions about vaccines, including fact sheets and infographics. You will also find resources on our patient-facing website, familydoctor.org, that can help your patients do their own research about vaccine safety and efficacy.

• CME opportunities: To enhance your knowledge and equip you with tools to address vaccine hesitancy, we provide free CME courses focused on boosting confidence in vaccines, including those for COVID-19, pneumococcal disease and RSV.

Why we do this work

Here’s what I know to be true: The headlines may change, but our foundation remains solid. Family medicine is about relationships, trust and a deep belief in the power of science to improve lives. We advocate because we care about our patients, our communities and the future of health care.

I am so proud to be part of a specialty that refuses to sit on the sidelines. Some of the most important work we do happens quietly behind the scenes—and it is powerful. Whether we’re pushing back against misleading rhetoric, fighting for vaccine access or ensuring our voices are heard in the halls of Congress, statehouses and at federal agencies, family physicians continue to choose the mission and meet the moment.

Thank you for all you do to live out our shared commitment to health, science and a bright future for family medicine and public health.

Your decision to choose family medicine matters now more than ever. And we couldn’t be more excited to see the impact you’ll make.