BCMS ALLIANCE
Why First Tuesdays? By Martha Vijjeswarapu Texas Medical Association Alliance President
First Tuesdays at the Capitol began when Susan Todd, an Alliance member, advocated for a law requiring that all motorcycle riders wear helmets. While it was passed into law, the following session, the people opposing stood strong and it was reversed. This was proof that a conversation was needed at every session to remind legislators of the importance of issues. Following the success of First Tuesdays at the Capitol, First Tuesdays in the District was created to foster strong relationships and promote effective communication with legislators throughout the year. These programs offer an avenue to advocate for issues affecting the Family of Medicine and to gain support for our communities and patients. This year, First Tuesdays will be held virtually. There will be a noon briefing and an action plan given on the issues at hand to communicate with our legislators. Please plan to be a part of the action calls for your legislators. First Tuesdays have long been known as the time for white coats to show at the Capitol. This year, those coats may not be seen in person, but our voices will still be heard through Zoom calls, emails, and text messages to our legislators. When a medicine-related bill comes up on the House or Senate floor, they pull the file to see how local physicians and Alliance members stand. Did they weigh in with their support or opposition by phone, email, or with an office visit? If they don’t hear from YOU — their local constituents — then they assume we don’t care about the bill. Our voices do matter and they do make a difference. TMA will provide all the information regarding the issues. Please pass this information on to the legislative offices. The avenue we have with TMA/TMAA for advocacy is not to be taken lightly. Let's use this opportunity for the Family of Medicine. Martha Vijjeswarapu is the Texas Medical Association Alliance President.
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SAN ANTONIO MEDICINE • March 2021
