On June 11, CSA welcomed anesthesiology residents from across California to Sacramento for the annual Resident Advocacy Day, providing a firsthand look at how healthcare policy is developed and how physician advocacy shapes the future of patient care.
Residents representing UC Davis, UCLA, UC San Diego, Keck Hospital of USC, Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, and Sutter Roseville Medical Center spent the day learning about California’s legislative process, meeting with lawmakers and legislative staff, and discussing the key issues impacting anesthesiology and physician practice.
The day began with a legislative briefing from CSA lobbyist Jason Bryant of Bryant Government Affairs, followed by an opportunity to observe the Assembly Floor from the gallery. During the afternoon, residents met directly with legislative offices and committee staff, gaining valuable insight into how policy decisions are made and how physicians can effectively engage with elected officials.
Educational sessions included Grassroots Advocacy 101 and strategic communications training led by Alison MacLeod and Annie Galvin of KP Public Affairs, Jason Bryant of Bryant Government Affairs, and former Assemblymember Dr. Jim Wood of California Strategies. Dr. Wood also provided an inside look at the legislative process and shared perspectives from his experience serving in the California Legislature.
CSA President Dr. Christina Menor joined residents throughout the day, sharing her experiences as a physician advocate and discussing the importance of physician engagement in organized medicine and public policy.
In addition to the workshop, CSA was pleased to host Dr. Prabdit (Dovy) Sidhu, a UC Davis anesthesiology resident, for a week-long advocacy rotation. Throughout the week, Dr. Sidhu met with CSA leadership, advocacy professionals, and public affairs experts while gaining exposure to legislative, regulatory, grassroots, and communications efforts that support anesthesiology and patient care across California.
CSA extends its thanks to all participating residents and faculty for helping build the next generation of physician advocates.
