By John Falardeau

Members of the U.S. House of Representatives and Senate are slated to head home to their districts and states on July 31. The start of the traditional summer recess comes after–what both parties will tell you–was a tumultuous session dominated by the Covid-19 pandemic.  Nonetheless, in August, members will hold town hall forums, listening sessions and other public events, mostly in a virtual setting, geared toward gauging constituent views and interests.

Doctors of chiropractic are especially encouraged to seek out their federal legislators at these virtual public town hall meetings because they are a great way to begin establishing a relationship, or strengthening an existing one, with your lawmaker’s office. Typically, the legislator will make some remarks about what is happening on Capitol Hill and specifically about what he or she has accomplished or is working on. In addition, there is usually time set aside for questions and answers.

If you’ve never attended a town hall meeting before—or even if you’re a seasoned pro—it might feel a bit intimidating. Here are several tips to help you navigate the political town halls:

• With the introduction last year of H.R. 3654, the Chiropractic Medicare Coverage Modernization Act, please focus on attending a virtual town hall meeting with your member of the House of Representatives.  Please use our prepared talking points and ask your representative to cosponsor H.R. 3654.  Simply put, the more cosponsors we have, the better the likelihood of our success.
• If your virtual town hall is with a senator, urge them to cosponsor S. 30, the Chiropractic Health Parity for Military Beneficiaries Act.  This bill would allow military retirees, National Guard personnel and reservists, to access the chiropractic benefit through Tricare, the Defense Department healthcare delivery system.  Access the S. 30 talking points here.
• Sign on to the virtual meeting early. Town hall meetings using Zoom or some other virtual platform, are often very crowded, and you do not want to disturb the meeting after it has started. Also, you may have a better opportunity to ask your question and speak with your member of Congress after the event if you arrive to the virtual meeting early.
• Be polite and professional even if your representative or other town hall attendees disagree with your position. Stick to the facts, even if others don’t.
• Follow up with the member of Congress and their staff. Call or e-mail the office after the town hall meeting to offer additional resources or ask follow-up questions about the issues that were discussed.
• Above all, be visible. Let your legislators know that doctors of chiropractic and the services they provide are an important part of the healthcare delivery system in your community.