What is PathNET GraphicPathNET connects CAP members to the policymaking process by turning individual voices into collective action. As the CAP’s grassroots advocacy network, PathNET enables pathologists to engage with federal and state lawmakers and play a direct role in advancing policies that support high-quality laboratory medicine.
Grassroots advocacy is essential to shaping health care policy. A visible and informed presence in legislators’ districts helps ensure laboratory regulations protect patients without creating unnecessary burdens on the profession. More than 2,000 pathologists nationwide participate in our grassroots program, educating Congress and state legislators on issues critical to pathology and responding to timely calls to action.
Join the Grassroots Network
Join PathNET to receive important action alerts, updates on legislative issues impacting pathology, and to learn about other ways to get engaged in grassroots advocacy. PathNET volunteers have opportunities to receive recognition for the advocacy work they do.
Member Benefits
The CAP’s grassroots program equips pathologists with the tools, resources, and staff support needed to advocate effectively with members of Congress and state legislators on issues impacting pathology and patient care.
Through PathNET, members can also access support in coordinating congressional meetings and laboratory tours, helping deepen meaningful relationships with elected officials and their staff. Members may also be recognized for their advocacy efforts through features in the PathNET newsletter and the Advocacy Update, and be among the first groups invited to our virtual Fly-in and Hill Day.
For questions, email PathNET@cap.org
Terms of Enrollment
- The certificate program will run on an annual basis and points will reset on December 31, 2026.
- CAP members must earn at least seven points by December 31, 2026 to earn the certificate at their level.
- PathNET members are encouraged to aim for the highest level. The highest point earners will be eligible for a series of recognitions throughout the year.
View the PathNET Leaderboard here.
Eligible Point Category
| Point Categories | Maximum Point Value |
|---|---|
| Sign up for text alerts or respond to a text. | 1 |
| Support PathPAC at any level. | 1 |
| Support PathPAC at the Vice or President’s Club level. | 1 |
| Attended the Pathologist’s Leadership Summit. | 1 |
| Become a member of your state pathology society or renew membership. | 1 |
| Attend Hill Day and/or a fly in. | 2 |
| Completed and passed the Grassroots Advocacy Learning Module. | 2 |
| Gave a grassroots pitch in a CAP committee or council meeting. | 3 |
| Met with a federal legislator (outside of Hill Day), state legislator, or attended a fundraiser. | 3 |
| Hosted a laboratory tour with their member of Congress or state legislator. | 4 |
| Submitted an op-ed/letter to the editor. | 4 |
| Invited other CAP members to join PathNET (email them and copy PathNET@cap.org). | 5 |
| Send different Action Alerts. | 7 |
Tools for Advocates
The resources below are ways to engage with your member of Congress or state legislator. If you have completed any of the activities below in 2026, let CAP grassroots advocacy staff know.
Track your grassroots advocacy activities achieved in 2026.
- Invite your member of Congress or state legislator to do a laboratory tour at your facility.
- Connect with your members of Congress. Learn how to schedule a personal meeting, call your legislator, attend a town hall meeting, write a letter to the editor, or send a thank you note.
- View the Guide to Congressional Staff and Roles.