Seven Simple Ways to Get Involved in TMA Advocacy

Your strong voice is needed to improve the practice of medicine today and for future generations. That's why it's important for all members of the family of medicine to get involved. You don't have to be an advocacy expert. All you need to do is follow these seven steps.

1. Get to Know Your Legislator. When medicine speaks, legislators do listen, especially if they've heard from you before. Work through your county medical society to set up a local physician meeting with your state representative or state senator. Very often, you or your colleagues know them personally. There is no substitute for this personal relationship.
2. Update Your Contact List. Add your elected officials' name and contact information to your phone. Here is where you can find their phone, email and mailing address, and their staff's information too.
3. Use Social Media. Follow your legislators on their Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, and LinkedIn accounts. It's an easy way to learn about your elected official and their interests. Do NOT use social media as a place to debate issues.
4. Register for First Tuesdays at the Capitol. Mark your calendars for TMA’s First Tuesdays at the Capitol. Join your colleagues the first Tuesday of each month in February, March, April, and May when physicians, medical students, and Alliance members descend on the Capitol to meet with their legislators. Learn more here.
5. Take Action. Write, email, or call your legislator when critical issues arise. TMA makes it easy. All you must do is respond to a TMA Action Alert using the message provided or write your own message. Access TMA's Legislative Action Alerts. It only takes a minute.
6. Bookmark TMA's Texas Legislature Page. Follow medicine's progress and actions during the legislative session.
7. Learn more about TEXPAC. The Texas Medical Association Political Action Committee (TEXPAC) is the political arm of TMA. It's the largest bipartisan political action committee in the state and ranks first in size among other state medical association PACs. A successful year on the campaign trail frequently translates into success at the capitol. For more information visit TEXPAC.