Beyond the Bedside : Advocating for Kids and Families
By Ellen Stern and Zach Zaslow , Government Affairs
Child health advocacy is a core part of Children ’ s Hospital Colorado ’ s mission . The Government Affairs team works to keep kids out of the hospital by advocating for laws and policies that improve kids ’ health . They work with local , state and federal leaders , community partners , families and community members to ensure kids thrive to reach their fullest potential . Their responsibility is to advocate on behalf of patients and families , the community and all kids , not only because it ’ s an investment in the nation ’ s future , but because it ’ s the right thing to do .
Children ’ s Colorado has the incredible privilege to use an advocacy megaphone in meaningful ways that contribute to significant child health policy advancements . From improved statewide investments in youth mental health to expanding access to school nurses and supporting workforce initiatives to encourage more young people to pursue careers in healthcare , the Government Affairs team could not do such work without a strong partnership with the Division of Patient Care Services . Over the past year , Children ’ s Colorado clinicians have stepped up in countless ways to advocate for patients and families . The Government Affairs team extends deep gratitude to the entire Division of Patient Care Services community and all that they do to champion kids ’ health .
14 2022 PCS Annual Report