Blog

By Sioned Kirkpatrick, MS, OMS-III, University of the Incarnate Word School of Osteopathic Medicine, Immediate Past National 2nd Vice Chair, AACOM Council of Osteopathic Student Government Presidents

Being an advocate means being vulnerable, which is synonymous with being brave. It means speaking up for and on behalf of those who cannot. With COVID-19 overworking our health care providers and isolating our medical students, we need people who are brave and capable of speaking up and asking for necessary resources and spaces to talk about and confront our struggles without fear of retribution or failure. Now more than ever, we need each other.

By Mary-Lynn Bender, AACOM Interim Vice President of Government and Public Relations

March 30th is National Doctors’ Day! Join us in celebrating the current and future physicians who contribute to the health of individuals and communities around the world.

By Mary-Lynn Bender, AACOM Interim Vice President of Government and Public Relations

Women’s History Month is the perfect time to acknowledge the women who inspire the ED to MED community to become the best advocates they can be! Learn about the female advocates, leaders, and role models our advocates look up to and admire.

By Mary-Lynn Bender, AACOM Interim Vice President of Government and Public Relations

With an extra day in 2020, students are getting a jump on their advocacy efforts, and you can too! Make a difference for health professions students, professionals, and patients today.

By Maria D. Jones, OMS-III, University of New England College of Osteopathic Medicine

While Valentine’s Day has come and gone, its ambiance lingers all month inspiring people to focus on their loved ones and show them appreciation. In the spirit of Valentine’s Day, I’m focusing on one of my more recent passions: my love of advocacy.

By Mary-Lynn Bender, AACOM Interim Vice President of Government and Public Relations

Calling all ED to MED advocates: share your story about why federal financial aid and loan forgiveness must be preserved to ensure patient health and equitable access to higher education. Join in this collective effort to #SavePSLF and #SaveGradPLUS today!

By Mary-Lynn Bender, AACOM Interim Vice President of Government and Public Relations

ED to MED’s Outstanding Advocate of the Year Award is presented to an advocate who has gone above and beyond to fight for the future health care workforce and patients around the country. In addition to raising their voice, this stand out advocate has made advocacy a priority in their lives, led by example, and encouraged others to get involved. Get inspired to advocate this awards season!

By Katie Marney, OMS-II, Oklahoma State University Center for Health Sciences College of Osteopathic Medicine

I have benefited and will continue to benefit from receiving Grad PLUS loans. Pursuing my dream of becoming a physician who serves the underserved would not be possible without it. Join me in advocating to #SaveGradPLUS.

By Judith Mun, AACOM Director of Government Relations

ED to MED gives health professions students a platform to raise the profile of graduate student debt issues in the halls of Congress. As the 2020 elections draw nearer, ED to MED is calling on its advocates to remain committed to the effort to save the Public Service Loan Forgiveness and Grad PLUS Loan Programs.

By Judith Mun, AACOM Director of Government Relations

It’s never too early to prepare for the upcoming election season. Make sure you are ready to head to the polls in 2020 as an informed voter.