The Itch: Allergies, Asthma, Eczema & Immunology10 Apr

#152 - How to Advocate for Better Healthcare

Kortney and Dr. Payel Gupta sit down with Nissa Shaffi, MS, Director of Advocacy at the Allergy & Asthma Network, to talk about what patient advocacy really means, how the healthcare system works as a whole, and how everyday people with allergies, asthma, and related conditions can learn to use their voice to push for real change.

What we cover in this episode is patient advocacy for allergy and asthma

Anyone can be an advocate. Advocacy is not just for politicians or lawyers. It is for anyone who sees a problem and wants to do something about it, from patients, caregivers, doctors, and everyday people alike.
Forms of advocacy, from social media to Capitol Hill. You do not have to fly to Washington to make a difference. Advocacy starts with education, storytelling, and showing up in whatever way you can.
How the healthcare system actually works. No single insurance company, hospital, or drug maker is to blame for everything. Understanding the whole system is what makes advocacy effective.
Why your story can change a law. Personal experience is one of the most powerful tools in advocacy. Real patient stories have driven landmark legislation and saved lives.
PALI, the Patient Advocacy Leadership Initiative. A free monthly program from the Allergy & Asthma Network that teaches patients the language, tools, and knowledge they need to advocate confidently at any level.

More resources

PALI (Patient Advocacy Leadership Initiative):
Allergy & Asthma Day on Capitol Hill (AADCH)
AAN Advocacy Center, take action today!

Bills Allergy & Asthma Network is prioritizing this year:

Safe Step Act
EPIPEN Act
HELP Copays Act
One School One Nurse Act
See all the bills on the Network’s Advocacy page

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Made in partnership with The Allergy & Asthma Network.

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