Physicians Advocate for Critical Healthcare Issues in Washington, D.C.
In 2024, pediatric specialists from Valley Children’s took their expertise and passion for patient care to Capitol Hill, advocating for essential healthcare policies that impact both patients and providers. Pediatric Rheumatologist Dr. Deepika Singh and Pediatric Plastic & Hand Surgeon Dr. Michael Galvez were among the voices championing issues related to Medicare reimbursement, patient access to care, workforce diversity and maternal health.
Dr. Galvez testified before the United States Senate Committee on Health, Education, Labor and Pensions, highlighting the severe shortage of minority healthcare professionals and the growing maternal health crisis. A longtime advocate for workforce diversity, Dr. Galvez co-founded National Latino Physician Day to promote representation in medicine.
“I’m grateful to represent Latinos and many of us in this movement for the long haul for our patients,” Dr. Galvez expressed. His testimony underscored the need for legislative action to support federal programs aimed at increasing diversity in healthcare, reducing attrition and improving patient outcomes in underserved communities.
Following the Walk to Cure Arthritis, Dr. Singh attended the Advocacy Leadership Conference in Washington, D.C., where she joined rheumatology colleagues to meet with members of Congress, including representatives from California. As a member of the American College of Rheumatology’s insurance sub-committee, she advocated for legislative solutions to address challenges in Medicare physician fee schedules and ensure continued access to care for patients.
“The timing was fortuitous as May is Arthritis and Lupus Awareness Month. It was a perfect way to raise awareness and advocate for patients with these often-invisible illnesses.”
Dr. Deepika Singh, Pediatric Rheumatologist
As national discussions continue, the advocacy efforts of Valley Children’s physicians are a powerful reminder that ensuring equitable healthcare requires systemic change. Their work in Washington, D.C., helps drive policy improvements that will shape the future of medical care, addressing disparities and strengthening the healthcare workforce for generations to come.
