Each August, members of Congress return home to their districts during the congressional recess, providing an important opportunity for constituents to engage with them directly. ACP is calling on internal medicine physicians to advocate for key federal priorities, including strengthening and stabilizing the Medicare payment system and protecting visa programs for physicians. Be on the lookout for more information and resources in the Legislative Action Center over the coming weeks, including an action alert, issue briefs, a guide to requesting congressional meetings, and other advocacy tools.

Advocates can earn points for their states by taking advocacy actions, including emailing members of Congress, calling congressional offices, and meeting with lawmakers during the August recess, with more impactful activities earning higher point values. States with the highest levels of engagement during this year’s August Recess Grassroots Challenge will be recognized at the Fall Board of Governors meeting in Chicago. Special recognition will also be given to all chapters that hold meetings with members of Congress.