PRESCRIBING CHANGE
Redefining Advocacy : From Debate to Medicine , Amplifying Voices in the Pursuit of Compassionate Care
Advocacy and a commitment to public good are integral to being a proficient medical professional ; patient care is inextricably intertwined with the health and resources of the communities in which our patients reside . Hence , as medical students , it is our duty to educate ourselves about the communities in which we train , the legislative decisions that impact those under our care and use our platforms to speak up for those who are often overlooked by the system . Albeit underestimated , this practice is merely another crucial course in our years of training . It is a skill that can be fine-tuned by anyone with the courage and passion to enact change .
The term “ advocacy ” has grown increasingly popular and is often used to describe various forms of activism and support , though its meaning can sometimes feel diluted or misunderstood . Derived
12 LOUISVILLE MEDICINE by SHRIYA DODWANI , M2
from the French word “ avocacie ,” it originally denoted the act of pleading on someone ’ s behalf . Hence , the term “ avocat ,” or “ lawyer ” came to represent spokesmen in a court of justice . To me , advocacy is the amplification of voices that so often go unheard . It spans far beyond the legal setting and can be exemplified in our daily lives . Prior to being medical students or physicians , we are someone ’ s child , partner , parent and serve a host of other social roles . Every time we stand up for our loved ones in small , though impactful , ways by listening , supporting and driving pertinent conversations , we are serving as advocates . As physicians , advocacy is at the heart of our work ; whether it is through lobbying in Washington or fighting for insurance coverage on a life altering medication right here in Louisville , ensuring our patients ’ needs are heard and addressing their barriers of care serve as prime examples of advocacy .
Retrospectively , I believe the seeds to my journey as an “ advocate ” were planted during my time in speech and debate through middle and high school . One of the earliest social dilemmas I can recall taking on and writing about was the health impact of cyber-