Columbus 12th Legislation & Advocacy Day

Last week, my senior seminar class visited Columbus, OH for the 12th Legislation and Policy Day.  We would be covering current bill reforms, both current state and federal legislative issues, and policy related programs issues among the field of dietetics. Public policy is a topic I have stayed comfortably distanced for the primary reason that it’s simply intimidating. I have never been interested much in government, whether local, state, or federal. I didn’t particularly care for my government class in high school and never committed to memory the process, the people, or how anything operates. I have been told how vital it is that dietetic professionals advocate and speak for the people, but I never felt inspired to do so quite frankly because I didn’t know what I was doing and don’t feel that confident as a student to speak. It’s a scary thing to try and voice concern or injustice if you don’t feel self-possessed to stand up. It is also intimidating as a student for the simple fear of not being taken seriously. I am not a quiet or shy person, however when I do chose to open my mouth, I better know what I am saying. 

This was an awesome chance to network, hear a bit about what is currently happening in our field, and meet with senate representatives that are speaking for us in the senate house on many important matters. We presented the soon to be bill that will allow not only registered dietitians the ability to write diet orders, but also have these orders filled by the pharmacy per their by-laws, for many things to include TPN's (total parenteral nutrition). This not only makes logical sense, but it will help to put patients first and expedite their care. 

All and all, this was a great opportunity to see many different and passionate registered dietitians come together to motivate and advocate for the future of this profession. I now understand the importance of policy and advocating for laws to protect consumers and the public. As a subject matter expert, it is my duty to speak for those that do not have the privy to issues and also simply don't have a voice.