Public health professionals are increasingly needed and expected to have a role in advocacy efforts. Imagine you have received an action alert from your local public health association asking you to contact your state senator and urge the lawmaker to support a bill that would raise the legal age to purchase tobacco to 21 years of age. How would you respond to the action alert? Refer to tips and suggestions provided by the American Public Health Association (APHA) Advocacy for Public Health webpage. What strategy or approaches would you implement to ensure effective communication with your state senator on this issue?
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Introduction: As a medical professor, I believe that active involvement in public health advocacy is crucial to ensure the well-being of society. It is important for medical students to understand the advocacy process and develop skills to effectively communicate with policymakers.
Answer: In response to the action alert received from the local public health association, I would follow the tips and suggestions provided by the American Public Health Association (APHA) Advocacy for Public Health webpage. Before contacting the state senator, I would research the bill and gather data and evidence to support the proposed policy. I would also develop a persuasive message that highlights the benefits of raising the legal age to purchase tobacco to 21 years of age.
To ensure effective communication with the state senator, I would find out the senator’s position on the issue and tailor my message accordingly. I would also make sure to communicate respectfully and professionally, while remaining persistent in advocating for the policy. Additionally, I would consider leveraging the support of other stakeholders, such as healthcare organizations and community leaders, to amplify the impact of the advocacy efforts.
