In this episode, we delve into the critical aspects of radiology advocacy, where building relationships, understanding healthcare policy, and navigating the political landscape play pivotal roles. Ted Burnes shares invaluable insights that shed light on the importance of strategic advocacy in radiology.

1. Building Relationships with Legislators

Building individual relationships with legislators is essential for effective radiology advocacy. Ted Burnes emphasizes the significance of developing trust and focusing on key issues:

"I think developing individual relationships with your legislators is huge and developing that trust and you know you don't have 20 different things you want to ask them you have one thing and you don't you don't make that ask unless you really need that ask. I mean, I've been doing this 21 years; there's only been three times I've really ever had to make an ask with a member of Congress, and they were all big issues for us."

2. Elections and Healthcare Policy

Elections significantly impact healthcare policy, yet only a small percentage of Congress members have healthcare backgrounds. Ted Burnes points out the challenge this presents:

"Only about six percent of members of Congress have a healthcare background, so most don't understand healthcare. They don't know anything about Medicare fee schedule, workforce issues, or resident funding. Why would they? Because they were a real estate agent, lawyer, or something else previously."

3. The Role of RADPAC

RADPAC, the largest radiology PAC, plays a crucial role in advocating for the field. Ted Burnes highlights its influence:

"RADPAC is the biggest of all those PACs. That's not me just saying that to say because I'm biased, but it's just empirically true. There's probably a default, which stinks for some of those other PACs, that people just hear radiology, and they probably think RADPAC."

4. Navigating Social Media and Public Perception

Navigating social media and public perception is a challenging aspect of political advocacy. Ted Burnes shares his experience:

"I was like, okay, you know you're never going to convince someone who's against you in this type of political atmosphere. This was several years ago, let alone now when it's even more toxic. So, I was like, you just got to shake your head, bite your tongue, and move on, which is really hard for me to do because instinctively, I want to fight back."

5. Unity Among Radiology Organizations

Unity among radiology organizations is essential for effective legislative influence. Ted Burnes stresses the importance of presenting a united front:

"I think we have to really figure out a way to be as united as possible because members of Congress don't want to get in the middle of food fights. If there are two different radiology entities fighting, they'll stay out of it. But if we can be united and work towards one common goal, we have the resources, skill set, and talent to make a significant impact."