News & Media
MSMS Advocacy Day – March 11
On March 11, 2026, MSMS will host Advocacy Day at the Capitol—an opportunity for physicians to engage directly with lawmakers at a pivotal moment for health care policy in Michigan. With the House nearing action on HB 4399 (allowing for nurse practitioners to practice medicine with no physician involvement) and the Legislature operating in an election year, physician voices are urgently needed in Lansing.
The day will begin with a comprehensive morning briefing, providing participants with an overview of the current legislative landscape, priority bills, and key advocacy messages. Following the briefing, physicians will participate in scheduled meetings with legislators, offering firsthand insight into how proposed policies affect patient access, physician practice, and care delivery across Michigan.
Advocacy Day is designed to be accessible and impactful for both seasoned advocates and those new to the process. MSMS will provide issue background, talking points, and logistical support to ensure meetings are productive and meaningful. Register now and make a difference.
Why This Moment Matters
Michigan’s legislative environment is moving quickly. Split government, shifting committee dynamics, and an election-year calendar have created a narrow window to influence policy outcomes. HB 4399, in particular, represents a serious and dangerous threat to patient care and the practice of medicine, underscoring the importance of physician engagement now—not later.
Lawmakers are making decisions under significant political and time pressures. When physicians are absent from these conversations, policies risk being shaped without a clear understanding of real-world clinical impact.
Advocacy Is About Relationships, Not Just Votes
Effective advocacy is built on trust and credibility over time. When legislators know you as a physician who lives and works in their district—and as a reliable resource on health care issues—they are more likely to seek your perspective and listen when it matters most.
In Lansing, where issues can move rapidly, relationships are often the difference between being heard and being overlooked.
Start by Connecting with Your Legislators
Whether or not you have engaged in advocacy before, a strong first step is introducing yourself to your State Representative and State Senator.
When reaching out:
- Identify yourself as a physician and constituent.
- Share where you practice and your role in the community.
- Express your interest in health policy issues.
- Offer to serve as a resource and meet briefly, in person or virtually.
These connections are especially valuable during an election year, when legislators are paying close attention to constituent voices.
Another Way to Get Involved: Local Legislative Events and Coffee Hours
In addition to Advocacy Day, physicians can make a meaningful impact by attending local legislative events, town halls, or coffee hours hosted by their elected officials. These informal settings offer valuable opportunities to introduce yourself, ask questions, and share your perspective on health care issues affecting your community.
Local events are often easier to fit into busy schedules and can be an effective way to begin building relationships with legislators outside of the Capitol. Even brief conversations at these gatherings help reinforce that physicians are engaged, informed constituents who care deeply about policy decisions and their consequences.
MONDAY, JANUARY 12
- Representative David Martin (R) Local Office Hours 10:30 a.m. to 11:00 a.m. Atlas Township Offices: 7386 Gale Road, Grand Blanc, MI 48439
- Representative David Martin (R) Local Office Hours 1:00 p.m. to 1:30 p.m. Biggby Coffee: 5515 Davison Rd, Burton, MI 48509
MONDAY, JANUARY 26
- Senator John Cherry (D) Community Conversation 12:00 p.m. to 1:00 p.m. Krapohl Senior Center: 5473 Bicentennial Dr G, Mt Morris Township, MI 48458
- Representatives Jason Hoskins (D) Community Conversation 5:30 p.m. to 6:30 p.m. Southfield Public Library: 26300 Evergreen Rd, Southfield, MI 48076. Special Guests: Senator Jeremy Moss (D) and Representatives Natalie Price (D) and Samantha Steckloff (D)
Now Is the Time to Be Involved
The start of a new year —and the possibility of a critical vote on HB 4399—make this a defining moment for physician advocacy in Michigan. Advocacy Day on March 11, local legislative events, and one-on-one outreach all play a role in ensuring lawmakers understand the real consequences of their decisions and know exactly who to call when health care issues arise.
Your voice matters. Engage now and help shape the future of health care in Michigan.