The 87th Texas Legislature was in full swing as I began my final fourth-year rotation with the Texas Pharmacy Association. The weeks flew by in a whirlwind as I navigated through various Zoom meetings, tried to understand the bills affecting pharmacy, and grappled with the political complexities that are the foundation of our society. Looking back, here are a few key takeaways on policy and advocacy that I learned on this rotation.

The Political Process Is Not as Complicated as It Initially Seems

The political jargon and various processes can be difficult to understand at first. Politics is like a game where you have to understand who the players are, the rules of the game, and what rules can be broken. As you piece things together, it begins to make more sense—just give it time and ask questions. This is why TPA employs a fantastic team of lobbyists to guide us through the process.

Politics Can Be Exciting

Too often, government is termed a “boring” topic, especially among us science-minded folk in the pharmacy world. I have experienced first-hand the excitement that comes with a successful public hearing or watching a bill being debated on the floor of the Texas House or Senate.

During one field trip to the state Capitol, I donned my white coat to show support for pharmacy benefit manager (PBM) reform legislation being heard in the Senate Health and Human Services Committee. In a rare move, the committee unanimously voted the bill out of committee that day. Finally, people were beginning to understand the plight of pharmacists against unfair PBM practices!

The excitement in the Senate chamber and in follow-up meetings with TPA members and lobbyists was a refreshing change of pace. Our bills were moving, and that movement spurred a glimmer of hope. Having legislators so passionate about pharmacy issues because of our advocacy efforts provided a glimmer of hope that our profession is valued and recognized.

Your Voice Matters More than You Think It Does

While I did not testify myself on behalf of TPA’s immunization and test-and-treat bills, I helped write the testimonies and helped prepare pharmacy witnesses for potential questions. Hearing words I wrote spoken in a committee hearing was an empowering and energizing experience. My voice does matter. My words do have impact. I can make a difference.

So can each and every one of you. Show up for hearings to register your support or opposition, call or email your legislators, tell your stories, and share your experiences. Legislators remember this when they are making decisions.

Involvement Is Meaningful

Whether you are a TPA Board member, just pay membership dues, or fall somewhere in between, the importance of being a TPA member is paramount if we want our profession to survive and thrive.

Pharmacy has huge opponents in the insurance and medical industries. We need as many people supportive of TPA as possible to move the profession forward for our practice abilities, for our businesses, and for our patients.

Getting involved in policy and advocacy can seem complicated, messy, and confusing. Don’t let that deter you from fighting for what you believe in or for what your profession needs. It is worth it. Regardless of your practice setting, regardless of your interest (or lack-thereof) in politics, involvement is important, impactful, and meaningful.

I encourage each and every one of you to step outside your comfort zone and go do something to advocate for our profession. Take that one extra step and venture outside the pharmacy bubble. Learn about the issues facing other people and our society. Be open minded and open to hearing new perspectives. Not only will you be better able to relate to your patients, but you may discover something new about yourself as well.

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Humpert completed a six-week rotation with the Texas Pharmacy Association during April and May of 2021.