News & Media
Physicians, Your Vote Matters: Navigating Partisanship and Professional Responsibility This Election
With Election Day, Tuesday, November 5, 2024, nearing, the Michigan State Medical Society (MSMS) encourages physicians to recognize the vital importance of casting their vote. The medical field is inherently tied to policies affecting healthcare access, medical liability, practice sustainability, public health, and patient rights, many of which are determined by elected officials. Yet, despite the high stakes, physician voting rates are about 12 percent lower than those of the general public. This gap signifies a significant portion of the medical community that remains underrepresented in the political sphere, potentially missing the chance to impact decisions that affect not only their patients but also the future of the medical profession itself.
MSMS understands that voting choices are influenced by deeply personal beliefs, policy preferences, and an array of professional considerations and that the current partisan landscape may be challenging to navigate. Physicians may find the endorsements made by MDPAC helpful as they reflect on which candidates may be best aligned with policies relevant to healthcare and the profession as a whole. When making endorsements, the MDPAC Board considers many factors, including but not limited to questionnaire responses, past voting records, ties to the physician community, staff and consultant recommendations, and previous endorsement status.
Regardless of party lines or policy disagreements, voting itself is essential, enabling physicians to contribute to shaping a government that best represents the needs of patients, the healthcare system, and society at large. Physicians play a crucial role in advocating for the well-being of their patients and communities. Voting is one way to ensure voices and values are represented, as well as to influence future policies that will ultimately affect both the quality and accessibility of healthcare.
This election is an opportunity to step forward, set aside political fatigue, and demonstrate commitment to the nation's health—not just as physicians, but as active, engaged citizens. If you need any information about the election, from what’s on the ballot to where to vote, you can go to the Michigan Secretary of State’s website.