Advocating for Innovation
I recently had the pleasure of accompanying Kivo Health, a company I advise/invest in on their trip to Washington, DC to speak with lawmakers as part of the Partnership to Advance Virtual Care. As Kivo Health specializes in virtual pulmonary rehabilitation for those suffering from chronic lung disease, they were invited to participate in discussions before the House Ways and Means Hearing on Enhancing Access to Care at Home in Rural and Underserved Communities. Kivo spent time with lawmakers communicating the importance of continued telehealth access in order to serve seniors in the United States with a specific concern that home remain a site of origination so that seniors suffering from chronic lung disease can continue pulmonary rehabilitation in the comfort of their own home. Based on the clear bipartisan consensus on this issue, we are confident that telehealth access will be protected and extended.
I’ve had the privilege to visit Washington several times over my career to advocate for crucial healthcare policies that I believe have and will positively impact the health of our nation in responsible, cost effective ways. Every time I travel there I am struck by a few key points:
People in their 20s run the country: You think you are there to meet the members, but instead you will meet with staffers, and they are awesome. Staffers, especially on the House side, hear from all sorts of constituents and have to work to turn problems and knowledge into policy. It is incredibly challenging and kudos to them for listening and their constant earnest effort. Regardless of state of origin, political affiliation, or chamber of Congress, I have been continually impressed by the diligence, passion and intelligence of those staffing congress.
So offer to be helpful. If you were 25 and had to run a country, you’d listen to every sane offer of help you receive. Stay in contact with staffers, offer your expertise and endeavor to positively influence the future of our nation.
Retaining senior healthcare access is pretty non-controversial. Despite significant controversy around healthcare, senior-focused advocacy experiences have been well-received. Perhaps because the more you vote, the more you get. Positive attitudes are great, but let’s see what turns into action.
And Innovators must take time to advocate. If you are doing something new in the world, you are used to explaining it to investors, customers, and your parents. You must also extend the same effort to our elected leaders. They hear plenty from incumbents on how the world already works. It is up to you to explain how it could work, lest we end up with a series of tubes.
Congress’s doors are open to you. (If) You are a citizen, your representatives work for you. I’ve consistently found them to be appreciative that I’ve taken the time to visit, and shared my knowledge and perspective.
But hire help. Government is a complex process (un)like any other. Having a seasoned expert with you will help prioritize meetings, get them scheduled, and understand actual specific policy fixes that can mechanistically help you achieve your goals. Going in cold may be cheaper, easier or more spontaneous, but way less useful.
Thanks again to Kivo for having me tag along!