The physician role has traditionally been defined by patient care and medical expertise. But the rapidly evolving health care landscape and unpredictable political climate require a new role — physicians as health policy influencers.¹ A U.S. health care system defined by high spending and relatively poor outcomes needs physicians to drive meaningful change, guide innovation, and serve as a voice of reason for decisions that affect patients.

Most medical schools lack sufficient health policy training, leaving physician self-education to fill the gap.² Here are some ways physicians can shape policy across the health care system — from the clinic to the federal government.

UNDERSTAND THE BROADER CONTEXT OF PATIENT CARE

By engaging with legislators on Capitol Hill and advocating for bills to enhance physician training and address financial barriers for vulnerable populations, I gained insight into the federal bureaucracy that often hampers progress in patient care. Physicians should understand that their voice can impact decisions at the highest levels. Pursuing opportunities for mentorship, networking, or internships can help reveal the systemic complexities of health care and lay the foundation to pursue richer experiences in health policy leadership.

The AAFP highlights opportunities for national health policy engagement on its website and has launched an “Advocacy Ambassador” program to build relationships with lawmakers. Moreover, much of health policy happens at the state level, where lawmakers are often more accessible.

LEAD CHANGE FROM WITHIN

While Capitol Hill might not be every physician's starting point, you can lead change from within. By engaging with organized medicine, such as your state AAFP chapter or the national AAFP's Congress of Delegates, physicians can gain experience drafting policies and resolutions. Additionally, getting involved with quality improvement or research projects within your institution can influence local health policy and provide valuable experience in publishing and health data management. Collaborating with national researchers, serving on advisory boards, and presenting research at conferences can also expand your professional network and grow your influence. If institutional research opportunities aren't available, consider NAPCRG or a similar group.

BRING CLINICAL INSIGHTS TO NATIONAL DECISION MAKING

One of my most valuable experiences was working on national health care financing and policy at the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services. It allowed me to apply clinical experience and research insights to help develop a new national alternative payment model for primary care.³

Getting involved in federal health policymaking typically comes via professional networking or appointment. Serving on medical society committees, networking with state or federal leaders, or seeking advisory committee roles⁴ may help create opportunities.

A CALL TO ACTION

We must cultivate a new generation of physician leaders capable of actively shaping health care to enhance patient outcomes and foster more effective care. Our system needs dedicated physicians to bridge the gap between theory and practice, research and operations, and policy and patient care.