Vote for Improved US Healthcare System, Urge Doctors
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The American College of Physicians has stated that voting not only bolsters democracy but also improves health. The medical association asserts that by engaging with their community through voting, citizens can influence healthcare policies that determine the efficacy of the healthcare system and accessibility of services. The organization encourages healthcare professionals to discuss voting and healthcare policies with their patients to promote health equity.
Voting Boosts Democracy and Health, Says Major Medical Association
The American College of Physicians, one of the largest medical associations in the U.S., insists that voting not only fuels democracy but also benefits health. Voting empowers individuals by fostering community interaction and influencing healthcare policies through ballot initiatives and elected officials.
Dr. Omar Atiq, President of the American College of Physicians, emphasizes that voters significantly impact healthcare accessibility and the ability of physicians to provide treatment. “Increased voter turnout can yield better healthcare policies and services,” Atiq argued.
Atiq referred to studies indicating states with fewer obstacles to voting tend to have healthier citizens compared to states with restrictive voting laws or gerrymandered districts. He cited Missouri, ranking 41st for ballot access among states.
Encouraging Conversations about Voting in the Healthcare Space
The American College of Physicians encourages healthcare professionals and students to discuss healthcare-related voting issues with patients, aiming to enhance health equity. One proposed method is providing voter registration information in patient waiting areas.
“We stress discussing the importance of patients’ voices in allocating national resources towards optimal health for all,” Atiq stated.
In spite of being one of the wealthiest and technologically advanced nations, the U.S. trails in life expectancy among comparable countries. Atiq further emphasized the duty of physicians to aid their patients, including advocating for voting on healthcare improvement issues.
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