The idea of lobbying US Senators and Congressmen can be intimidating. That's why when I set off to attend the AADE 2015 Public Policy Forum in Washington DC last month, I went with more than a few questions: What will I say to my Representatives? How do I learn enough to feel confident and informed? What about logistics on Capitol Hill? My fears as a first time attendee were quickly dispelled on the first day of the two day event. The thorough agenda on advocacy prepared for the diabetes educators in attendance answered all those questions and more. We were provided detailed information about the bill we were there to advocate for, "The Access to Quality Diabetes Education Act of 2015". This legislation, if passed, will amend title XVIII (Medicare) of the Social Security Act to improve access to diabetes self-management training, (also known as diabetes self-management education or diabetes education), by authorizing certified diabetes educators to provide diabetes self-management training services, including as part of tele-health services, under part B of the Medicare program.
The full day of training included how, what, and when to share information, questions to ask, role playing, and requests to make. After such intense preparation, I felt more excited than nervous when on day two we were set loose to "storm the Hill". Armed with packets of information to leave behind, 70 CDE's enthusiastically went to our respective legislators' offices at the pre-scheduled appointment times, meeting with legislative aides to discuss the importance and request support of the bill. In all, I called on both North Carolina Senators' offices and my local Congresswoman. All were receptive, and while none committed outright, they were positive visits.
Attending the AADE Public Policy Forum was an energizing and amazing learning experience for me. But the work does not end with the Forum. Advocacy for support of diabetes education is an ongoing process and it takes the voices of many to keep the bill alive and move it forward. So look for more to come about what you can do to help this bill become a law.