In this episode of Backtable Urology, Dr. Suzette Sutherland invites Dr. Seth Cohen (City of Hope) and Dr. Michelle Leach (UC San Diego) to explore the importance and impact of advocacy work in the field of urology, highlighting how physicians can wield their influence to affect change within their communities and the healthcare system at large.

Dr. Cohen and Dr. Leach first discuss their personal journeys into advocacy work, the projects they’ve been involved in, and the tangible changes they have helped make, including a resident book club and increasing access to sacral neuromodulation. They both emphasize the importance of physician involvement in advocacy at both the beginning and throughout their careers. They also provide practical advice on participating in professional organizations (AUA, AMA, etc.) and the importance of surveys in guiding advocacy efforts. The discussion concludes with encouragement for medical professionals to engage in policy and advocacy to safeguard their practice and enhance patient care.

---

SHOW NOTES

00:00 - Introduction
16:50 - Real-World Success Stories
25:36 - Navigating the Complexities of Health Policy and Advocacy
33:06 - The Importance of Membership in Professional Organizations
36:14 - Highlighting Urology’s Influence in Health Policy
45:14 - The AUA Summit Experience
55:23 - The Value of Engagement and Advocacy

---

RESOURCES

Ep. 82- Advocacy Basics for the Urologist: From Your Clinic to Capitol Hill with Dr. Ruchika Talwar
https://www.backtable.com/shows/urology/podcasts/82/advocacy-basics-for-the-urologist-from-your-clinic-to-capitol-hill

Ep. 154- Navigating Healthcare Reform: Lessons from Urology Advocacy with Dr. Mara Holton
https://www.backtable.com/shows/urology/podcasts/154/navigating-healthcare-reform-lessons-from-urology-advocacy