Be a Congressional Advocate

Description: The Academy’s Congressional Advocacy Program plays a critical role in driving our pro-ophthalmology legislative and regulatory agenda. Through the program, Congressional Advocates form a national network of ophthalmologists who provide important constituent input to their members of Congress and congressional staff on key Academy priorities. 

Instructions: Congressional Advocates represent the Academy’s position on important issues through direct, personal communication with a member of Congress or congressional staff. Academy staff can help ophthalmologists develop a relationship with their lawmakers through a variety of means, including email communications and face-to-face meetings in Washington and back in the member’s congressional district. Congressional Advocates may also represent the Academy to deliver OPHTHPAC contributions to members of Congress, when requested. Members can learn more in the Congressional Advocacy section of AAO.org and can sign up through the Become an Advocate form. Members can also contact the Academy’s Washington, D.C., office at politicalaffairs@aao.org or 202.737.6662.

Deadlines: There are no deadlines to become a Congressional Advocate.