Advocacy
What is advocacy?
Grassroots advocacy is working with like-minded others at the local level in support or on behalf of a cause, idea, or policy. Advocacy can also mean working at the legislative or executive levels of state or national government toward similar ends.
For community health centers advocacy involves supporting policies and initiatives that improve the ability of community health centers to serve their communities. HPCA staff acquaints legislators and their key staff with community health center issues, challenges, and areas of expertise. Our job is to help lawmakers understand the concerns vital to the community, so they can make informed decisions during the session.
Effective grassroots advocacy has two requirements; ACTION and COMMITMENT. Your level of commitment as an advocate determines your ability to have an impact.
Why Advocacy?
Advocacy is the best way for community voices to be heard by those who can enact meaningful changes in public policy and improve lives.
- One significant function of the Hawaii Primary Care Association is to organize and focus the voices of the community health centers. HPCA staff identifies areas of concern, drafts appropriate materials, and marshals the efforts of the health centers’ leadership toward a common goal. Our efforts work best when:
- Every health center invites elected officials visit frequently;
- Board and staff are in touch with elected officials throughout the year concerning the needs of the CHC;
- Before the legislative session starts, CHC staff meets with the legislators in their districts to discuss the legislative agenda;
- CHC board members, staff, and patients actively communicate with legislators throughout the session to make their views known.
- Legislators are held accountable on legislative outcomes at the end of the session.
Skilled advocacy will help determine the successful future of community health centers in Hawaii. To that end, HPCA provides a strong and unified voice for health centers to make policymakers, the media, and the public aware of the outstanding care provided by health centers.
How can I become an advocate for community health centers?
Sign up to become an advocate through the following link allowing you to:
- Receive legislative updates;
- Stay updated on important health center issues; and
- Send messages directly to both your state and federal officials regarding policies and regulations that affect your community health center.
For additional information contact advocacy@hawaiipca.net