The Endocrine Society serves as an advocate for its members by working with Congress and federal agencies on issues that impact the way endocrinologists conduct their research or treat their patients. The Society's members and staff also collaborate with related research and patient organizations on common issues to build coalitions and further joint causes. This year the Society’s Advocacy and Public Outreach Committee (APOC) identified the legislative and regulatory issues most relevant to the membership and created a focused agenda to reflect those needs. APOC pursues its agenda by overseeing all legislative activities for the Society, and using advocacy efforts such as; conducting member visits to Capitol Hill, organizing letter-writing campaigns, offering Congressional testimony and building member grassroots campaigns. The Society’s Government & Public Affairs Department is charged with carrying out the committee’s agenda and protecting the interests of its members.

For 2008, the Society has chosen the following agenda:
Major Agenda Items

  • Biomedical Research Funding
  • Endocrinologist Workforce Issues
  • Minority Health Disparities
  • Obesity and Diabetes
  • Physician Reimbursement

The 2008 agenda will also include advocacy work on issues such as:

  • Bioidentical Hormones
  • DXA Payment Cuts
  • FDA: Drug Safety, Shortages/Reimportation
  • Stem Cell Research
  • Hormone Abuse/Misuse
  • IRB Harmonization
  • Copyright Protection

The Endocrine Society represents more than 13,000 individuals dedicated to endocrine research, education, and patient care. Although extremely talented, one small committee of members cannot effectively carry out the Society’s legislative agenda on their own. Every member of the Society is encouraged to consider their role in our advocacy efforts. To accommodate personal availability and interest levels, the Society offers several ways to become involved in our advocacy activities. Regular advocacy updates are communicated via Endocrine News, email policy newsletter via Endocrine Insider, and legislative email alerts When you receive an email alert or, “call to action,” on an issue that you are concerned about, you should support the Society by sending your personal message to Congress. In addition, if you have an issue that you believe the Society should be involved in please contact the Government & Public Affairs Department at govt-prof@endo-society.org.

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