E33:Silence to Action-The Essential Role of Physicians in Healthcare Advocacy(w/Dr Jennifer Cowart)

 In this episode of Muted in Medicine,  Host Dr. Saba Fatima speaks with Dr. Jennifer Cowart about the critical role of advocacy in healthcare. They discuss the importance of physician advocacy, the barriers that prevent doctors from engaging in advocacy, and how physicians can get involved at local, state, and federal levels. Dr. Cowart shares her experiences with current healthcare issues, including rural access to care, food insecurity, and the impact of Medicaid cuts. The conversation also highlights the challenges posed by prior authorization processes in patient care, emphasizing the need for greater transparency and advocacy in the healthcare system. In this conversation, Jennifer Cowart discusses the evolving dynamics of hospital care, emphasizing the shift towards outpatient services and the challenges faced by families in providing care. The discussion also highlights the pressing issue of food insecurity, particularly its impact on children and families, and the importance of community support. Cowart advocates for healthcare workers, addressing workplace safety and the need for systemic reforms. The conversation touches on the challenges faced by rural healthcare providers, particularly regarding visa issues for international physicians. Cowart encourages healthcare professionals to engage in advocacy, providing practical steps for involvement while navigating the potential risks of political engagement. The discussion concludes with a hopeful outlook on future generations and their commitment to justice and equity in healthcare.

Dr. Jennifer Cowart is a practicing academic hospitalist and Associate Professor of Medicine. She has more than ten years of experience in patient safety and quality improvement, which led her to develop an interest in healthcare policy and legislative advocacy. She has served on policy committees for Society of Hospital Medicine and Society of General Internal Medicine. Her opinions expressed here are her own and not representative of her employer nor any medical society of which she is a member. 

takeaways
Advocacy is essential for improving patient care.
Physicians often hesitate to advocate due to fear of politics.
Small actions can lead to significant changes in healthcare.
Engaging with local policymakers can improve community health.
Advocacy can start with identifying daily frustrations in care.
Physicians can participate in advocacy days organized by medical societies.
Meetings with lawmakers can be productive and engaging.
Medicaid cuts lead to increased healthcare deserts and access issues.
Prior authorization processes can delay necessary patient care.
Advocacy is a moral responsibility for healthcare providers. Moral injury is prevalent in healthcare due to tight turnaround times.
Hospitals are no longer places for recovery but for acute care.
Food insecurity is a growing concern, especially for children.
Community support is vital in addressing food insecurity.
Staff safety is directly linked to patient safety in healthcare settings.
Advocacy can start at the local level and be impactful.
Physicians should be aware of their organization's media policies.
Younger generations are passionate about creating a more just world.
There is a need to increase the number of American medical trainees.
Engaging in advocacy can begin with small, practical s

The views and opinions expressed in this episode are those of the guest and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of the 'Muted in Medicine' podcast or its host. The information shared is intended for educational and informational purposes only and should not be taken as professional advice.

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