The American Academy of Family Physicians (AAFP) recently presented its advocacy issues to the 2016 Family Medicine Congressional Conference, held at Capitol Hill.
The conference included family physicians, residents and medical students who looked forward to learning more about family medicine’s priorities before meeting with legislators' offices.
The event posted a record attendance, with 244 family medicine residents, family physicians and medical students. All wanted to show their lawmakers that they support issues that are important to their profession.
"We've got some important messages for you to carry," AAFP President Wanda Filer said. "You're going to learn a lot more about them over the next day. I will tell you that family medicine is deeply committed to advocating for our members and our patients, and your presence today is evidence of that commitment."
One of the main discussion topics was prescription drug abuse. It is crucial to develop solutions to the out-of-control prescription drug abuse crisis happening in the U.S. This was at the top of the list of discussion topics at the conference.
Another important topic was permanent funding for teaching health centers throughout the U.S., which are essential to guaranteeing that patients receive the services they need.
Attendees intend to bring their concerns to legislative offices, where they will meet with lawmakers and staff members to resolve these concerns.
