Resources
Use these resources to stay up to date on state and federal issues that may affect your pharmacy, locate your state pharmacy association and take action.
The ABCs of Advocacy
From federal laws and agency regulations to state legislation and board of pharmacy rules, virtually every aspect of what a pharmacist can and cannot do as a healthcare professional is in some way decided by our elected officials and government entities. The question is, how can pharmacists play a role in deciding the policies and laws that will regulate the future of their pharmacy practices? This Advocacy Toolkit is designed to give you a thorough understanding of how to get started, and includes information on how you can build relationships with your elected officials, and advocate for policies and laws that will advance the profession of pharmacy by educating decision makers on key pharmacy issues. The Advocacy Toolkit also provides resources you need to identify your legislators, stay current on critical issues impacting your patients and your pharmacy business, a conversation guide, as well as helpful do's and don'ts. The ABCs include:
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It's Time to Take Action
You've done your homework. Now its time to put your knowledge to work! Visit the
Take Action page to lend your voice to important causes impacting your patients and your pharmacy business. You can even
invite elected officials to visit your pharmacy, which is the best way to show them how you take care of your patients and your impact on your local community!
Still Have Questions?
Click here to contact the AmerisourceBergen Government Affairs Team.
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Advocacy Tips
Independent community pharmacists can follow these 7 tips to raise their collective voice and influence policy makers.
1. Set achievable goals: Plan to reach out to members of Congress twice a year
2. Send letters to your congressional leaders: Drop a line, or two, regarding issues that matter most to you and your business
3. Invite members of Congress to your pharmacy: Have them meet you staff and begin to build a relationship
4. Share how your pharmacy is part of the healthcare ecosystem: Help legislators understand what you do
5. Attend community events: Get involved locally and be politically active
6. Get to know your state representatives: Make a lasting connection and get to know them on a first name basis
7. Connect with other community pharmacists and community members: Work together and inspire others to get involved
Download the Advocacy Poster
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Building Relationships Roadmap
Strong, personal relationships are the best way to influence legislative decision-making. To help you get started in this process, here are some suggestions for building relationships with your elected officials and getting your voice heard. For more detailed information, visit our How to Build Effective Relationships with Your Elected Officials resource page.
1. Find your legislator: Use a legislator look-up tool, like the Find Your Legislators page of this website, to identify your state and federal reps
2. Send an introductory letter or email
3. Look for opportunities to meet with your legislators in person
4. Invite your legislator to tour your pharmacy or practice site
5. Engage your state and national pharmacy associations
6. Participate in "Day at the Capitol" events
7. Be a resource/pharmacy expert for your legislator
8. Consider offering campaign support
10. Make an ongoing commitment: It takes time to continue to develop relationships with your elected officials
Download the Relationship Roadmap
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