​​Why Contribute to Pediatrix PAC?

Read what your colleagues are saying about the Pediatrix PAC:

"I've truly enjoyed participating in the Pediatrix Government Relations and PAC activities. I've learned a lot about health care reform, advocacy and the political process. I've come to understand the importance of giving the clinician's perspective to legislators and policy makers who make decisions that affect our patients and our future. I've had a lot of fun meeting legislators, talking to candidates and giving out checks! I also enjoy helping other docs and nurse practitioners learn about advocacy. Everyone can benefit from being involved."

Susan F. Townsend, M.D., FAAP
Neonatologist
Pediatrix Neonatology of Colorado Springs
Colorado Springs, Colorado

"Historically, I had a limited appreciation of the need and importance of government relations as pertaining to the well-being of my medical practice. Over the last few years, I have learned from our Pediatrix PAC and government relations department how to access and influence our lawmakers to support legislation that insures future access of our patients to medical care. Now, I feel that I have a seat at the table with the necessary players to discuss issues that pertain to our neonatology services. I do understand that there is strength in numbers. I hope that more health care providers will join in our company's beneficial initiatives that allow our voice to be heard at all levels of government."

Michael Stevener, MD
Neonatologist and Medical Director
Pediatrix Neonatology of Texas
Fort Worth, Texas

"I have been very fortunate to be a part of the excellent Pediatrix government relations team. Darren, Sam and our regional lobbyist, Jaime Capelo, have made it easier for our physicians and nurse practitioners to meet their representatives and provide a voice for our vulnerable patients. On the occasions that I have been able to represent our company with our state and national representatives and their staffs, our government relations team has done an excellent job of updating me on the important issues prior to my visits, so that I would feel comfortable and self-assured in an often-intimidating environment. I know that the physicians and practitioners in our region appreciate the hard work of our government relations team and have become more enthusiastic and involved over the past two years. I have been at several events on behalf of the PAC and know firsthand how helpful the PAC has been in helping us meet and get to know the representatives who can make a difference on our issues. Thanks for your hard work!"

Hanoch Patt, M.D.
Pediatric Cardiologist and Medical Director
Pediatrix | Pediatric and Congenital Cardiology Associates of Texas Austin, Texas

"Many clinicians are appropriately cynical of our political process, but sitting on the sidelines is not an option — we can't afford it, literally. Having now had some experience with our Government Relations efforts and the Pediatrix PAC, there are some very good things that separate our team from traditional corporate lobbying. Our Government Relations team includes rank and file members in all activities. Physicians and advanced practice nurses work side by side with our lobbying team.

Efforts are often focused on what is in the interest of the patient, as well as profitability. A win-win. Not many other companies can say that. The Government Relations team is very effective at working with government regulatory agencies. This may be as, or more, important than the work done with legislators."

Michael Battista, M.D.
Neonatologist and Medical Director
Pediatrix Neonatology of San Antonio
San Antonio, Texas

"As an advanced practice nurse, I am committed to standing alongside my physician partners to advocate for health care policies that enhance the quality and safety of care that we provide to our patients. Our Government Relations team works diligently at state and national levels to impact legislation and regulatory models that affect our patients' ability to access, and our ability to provide safe, quality care. I am a member of the Pediatrix PAC because it is vitally important that each of us has a voice in the political process that affects our practice, our patients, and, ultimately, the health care environment of our nation. I invite my advanced practitioner colleagues to join me as a member of the PAC; together, we can make a difference in the care of our patients."

Debra A. Sansoucie, EdD, ARNP, NNP-BC
Vice President, Advanced Practitioner Program

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