By Jason Burton, MD
PSV PAC Director
VCU Health System
Richmond, VA
As you know, this year’s political landscape is extremely important, with all 100 of Virginia’s State Delegates up for election. Plus, our scope of practice study group is going to be a major factor in shaping mental healthcare policy in Virginia.
To make sure we can effectively navigate these challenges and opportunities, the PsychMD-PAC needs strong financial support. I’m respectfully asking each member to consider making a generous contribution to the PAC. The Psychiatric Society of Virginia and the Washington Psychiatric Society Boards have both pledged a 100% board participation rate in making donations to the PAC. This is a crucial first step in reaching our goal of raising $50,000 in PAC donations this year.
We’ve seen a great uptick in donations lately, including several first-time contributions from general members and generous donations from the board of directors. We hope to continue the momentum.
Here is a link to donate to the PsychMD-PAC: https://www2.psva.org/forms/PsychMD-PAC.iphtml
Below is a way for you all to be part of our grassroots campaign this year. Connecting with your legislator via email or in-person is a very powerful tool.
Using the instructions and sample message below, please use the Who’s My Legislator? link to send an introductory message to your Delegate and State Senator. The goal throughout the year will be to introduce as many psychiatrists to legislators as possible, starting with these simple introductions.
Instructions:
- Visit Who’s My Legislator? and enter your home (and/or work) address.
- Click the “Email” link for your Delegate and State Senator.
- Send them a short message (sample below) to introduce yourself and offer to be a resource.
Sample message:
Dear Delegate/Senator _______,
Thank you for serving in the General Assembly. I’m a local psychiatrist in your district who loves taking care of patients and families in our community. Access to mental health care is a challenge here and across Virginia so I appreciate your attention to issues that affect the quality and availability of psychiatric and other medical services.
Please know that I’m available to you and your staff as a resource on these issues. Please add me to your communications and contact me directly if I can help with psychiatric, mental health, or any areas you might want the input from a physician.
I’d love to meet with you or attend events you host. Again, thanks for all you do for the region.
Yours truly,
Joe Smith MD
1234 Main Street
Town, VA 12345
Thanks for your time and consideration.
