Don’t let these 5 myths deter you from medical student advocacy

Health care advocacy can be intimidating for medical students. It is natural for students who are near the start of their journey in medical training to feel anxious about speaking out on health care policy or unsure of where to start. 

Are you a medical student who believes one or more of these statements is true?

• No one cares what medical students think.
• Health care advocacy is a wonks-only endeavor.
• Advocacy is a huge time sink.

If so, you are—unfortunately—not alone. But experienced medical student advocates say these and other advocacy myths that students believe can deprive future physicians of meaningful opportunities to fight for patients, hone their leadership skills and show their commitment to medicine.

In this news article, you will learn, among other things: 

• The distinct and unique advantages of medical student advocacy.
• How student advocacy in medicine can make a notable impact in a limited time.
• How the AMA can help you build your credentials as a medical student leader.