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Editorial – Nzinga Graham, MD

Nzinga Graham, MD

Nzinga Graham, MD

Advocacy: Now more than ever

 

What a whirlwind these past few months have been! Many are feeling the after-effects of a very bitter election season. From frustration to uneasiness to downright depression, many Americans, and Californians in particular, have a lot to process over the next few months and years. 2017 and beyond will certainly bring uncharted territory. What will the future hold for us as citizens? What will the future hold for the healthcare landscape? We shall see… President Elect Trump has promised to “repeal and replace” the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act, but these days he seems to be tempering his message. Whatever your political views, you must admit that the healthcare coverage future for millions of patients is uncertain. What can we do as engaged citizens and members of the health profession? What we have always done, advocate fervently (and often tirelessly) for our patients and the most vulnerable of society. Through the efforts of so many people, for so many years, 20 million more Americans were able to obtain healthcare under the PPACA. Is this in jeopardy? Potentially. Is there fear? Absolutely. But, now, more than ever, is the time to get and stay involved. President Obama, in his farewell speech, said it best “Show up. Dive in. Persevere. Sometimes you’ll win. Sometime you’ll lose.” We need as many as are willing to roll up their sleeves, “lace up [their] shoes,” and lean in. Our patients depend our efforts and our voices. Is our resolve being tested? You better believe it. But will our passion waver? Unequivocally, I say, NO! We are Family Physicians! We deeply care about our patients, our colleagues and our communities.  Advocacy: Now more than ever!