My Journey with the AAOE Advocacy Council with Chris Roy

When I first joined the American Alliance of Orthopedic Executives (AAOE) Advocacy Council, I had a vague understanding of what advocacy was—mainly as something related to speaking up for causes. But I soon realized it was much more than that, especially when it comes to healthcare. 

Advocacy is about influencing policy through education, strategic communication, and relationship-building with decision-makers. The AAOE Advocacy Council offered me an invaluable learning experience, from understanding the legislative process to realizing how critical it is to advocate for the orthopedic community. 

At first, I attended AAOE’s Advocacy Council monthly meetings and then began listening in on calls with staffers of different legislative offices, where I learned about key healthcare issues and how to engage with legislators. I quickly realized that successful advocacy is about connecting staffers and legislators to the real world situations and emotional patient stories as well as providing data-driven arguments and clear, actionable points that can influence legislation. 

As I became more comfortable with these concepts, I started participating in calls with federal legislators. These calls were my first real exposure to policymaking, and they were eye-opening. Despite their busy schedules, legislators genuinely welcomed input from professionals in the field. I was nervous at first, but I quickly learned that concise, well-informed communication was key. 

On these calls, I help advocate for policies that would improve healthcare delivery, from reducing administrative burdens to enhancing access to care. What struck me most was the difference that building relationships with legislators over time makes. Advocacy isn't a one-off action; it's an ongoing dialogue that can make a long-lasting difference. 

Seeing the results of our efforts has been incredibly rewarding. After months of advocacy calls, I have seen several provisions included in healthcare bills that directly benefit the orthopedic community. This continues to reinforce my belief in the power of collective action. 

Looking back, my involvement in the AAOE Advocacy Council has been transformative. What started as an opportunity to learn has turned into a commitment to actively shape healthcare policy. Advocacy is not only about speaking up—it's about learning, engaging, and helping legislators understand the needs of the healthcare community. 

In 2024, the AAOE Advocacy Council partnered with Lobbyit to take part in 49 meetings with various legislative members, subcommittees, and even CMS as well has in submitting 6 comments to various bills and 6 letters of support. 

If you’re in healthcare and want to make a difference, I encourage you to get involved in advocacy. It’s an opportunity to ensure that the policies shaping our profession are grounded in the needs of both providers and patients. Your voice can truly make a difference.