Periodically, CAP Advocacy features one of the many CAP members who are champions for pathology in Washington through their PathPAC donations or at the state level through our grassroots and PAC programs. If you would like to get involved, you can join PathNET, contribute to PathPAC, or join your state pathology society.

Recently Advocacy Update caught up with PathPAC’s new Junior Member Patricia Lee, MD who is a third year Pathology Resident (PGY-3) at Keck School of Medicine at the University of Southern California.

What made you interested in becoming involved with PathPAC?

I was looking to become more involved in the CAP and read up on the various committees with junior member openings. It was then that I learned about PathPAC and seized upon the opportunity to work with and learn from leaders in the pathology community. As is the case for all citizens, it is incumbent on pathologists to advocate for change in law and policy, not only for the advancement of their profession, but also in the interest of improving patient care.

Before you joined the PathPAC Board as its newest Junior Member, how did you engage with the CAP’s federal advocacy efforts?

To be frank, I was not familiar with all the wonderful work that the CAP in general does on behalf of pathologists, and how PathPAC is specifically involved with federal advocacy efforts. Reversing this unawareness or apathy is what I am most excited to work on...

What are you most looking forward to as a new member of the PAC Board?

I am most looking forward to participating in outreach efforts to residents and fellows. Getting trainees (as well as new practitioners) to recognize the importance and necessity of political engagement and support of PathPAC will be challenging when their focus is on studying for boards, navigating new positions, or carving out career paths. The development and execution of an effective approach is what I am most interested in--laying the foundation for sustained and reliable support over time.

Why do you think it’s important to support and engage with the PAC?

Ours is a small community, and the key to having our goals advanced is working to generate resources that will allow our voices to be amplified and heard above the din. Through increased engagement with the PAC, we can support elected officials who champion our interests and create policies that affect our daily practice.

Who is your favorite U.S. historical figure?

US Supreme Court Justice Sandra Day O'Connor!