Meet the MSS GRAF

Patrick Woodard, GRAF

My name is Patrick Woodard, and I am happy to introduce myself as the American Medical Association Government Relations Advocacy Fellow (GRAF) for this year. I am honored to serve in this position from July 2008 through June 2009. As I spend this time in Washington, D.C., during what will surely prove to be an exciting year for American politics, I am glad to be working with the AMA's D.C. office.

Those who preceded me in my role as the Fellow have done amazing work defining the position and setting tremendous precedents for me. I am excited to continue their work and to provide a little of my own vision for the job. Here in the District of Columbia, I work to help keep medical students informed and active, both in the MSS and in the larger political realm. Whether through presentations at local, regional, or national meetings; through conversations over the listserv; or through helping to plan and organize the annual Student/Resident and Fellow Lobby Day, the Fellow looks to increase awareness and advocacy among AMA members. Additionally, I work with the Governing Council, various committees, and MSS leadership at all levels to engage our MSS. I am fortunate to have the opportunity to advocate for the MSS and for the future of our profession and the health of our nation.

This year is a fantastic experience for me, as it has been for the previous four Fellows. But more than that, I am here to work for the entirety of the MSS. I will be happy to answer any questions or concerns that arise during the year, and if you have any ideas for how to make this year better or more useful for you, please let me know what I can do to help.

Patrick A. Woodard
(202) 789-7424
patrick.woodard@ama-assn.org