ID/HIV Physician Ambassadors: Advancing Policy to Improve Health. (24th October 2020)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Brito, Maximo O; Dugdale, Caitlin M; Collins-Ogle, Michelle; Snowden, Jessica; Wheeler, David A
• Is Part Of: Journal of the Pediatric Infectious Diseases Society. Volume 10:Number 4(2021)
• Page Start: 432
• Page End: 439
• Publication Date: 2020-10-24
• Subjects: health policy -- infectious diseases -- advocacy -- physicians; Communicable diseases in children -- Periodicals; Children -- Diseases -- Periodicals; 618.929
• DOI: 10.1093/jpids/piaa128
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 2048-7193

Abstract

Abstract: ID/HIV physicians and other healthcare professionals advocate within the healthcare system to ensure adults and children receive effective treatment. These advocacy skills can be used to inform domestic and global infectious disease policies to improve healthcare systems and public health. ID/HIV physicians have a unique frontline perspective to share with federal policymakers regarding how programs and policies benefit patients and public health. Providing this input is critical to the enactment of legislation that will maximize the response to infectious diseases. This article discusses the advocacy of ID/HIV physicians and other healthcare professionals in federal health policy. Key issues include funding for ID/HIV programs; the protection of public health and access to health care; improving research opportunities; and advancing the field of ID/HIV, including supporting the next generation of ID/HIV clinicians. The article also describes best practices for advocacy and provides case studies illustrating the impact of ID/HIV physician advocacy. Abstract : ID/HIV physician advocacy has contributed to important federal policy changes, but additional engagement is needed. IDSA, HIVMA, and PIDS offer a variety of resources and opportunities for ID/HIV physicians to get involved and refine their advocacy skills.