ASDSA AdvocacyMembers OnlyCongressional Meeting Resources

Congressional Meeting Resources

Meeting with your members of Congress is an important way to advocate for issues affecting dermatologic surgery, your practice and your patients.

Use the resources below to schedule, prepare for and follow up on your meeting.

Resources for Your Congressional Meeting

How to Meet with Your Members of Congress

1. Schedule Your Meeting

Visit Find Your Member of Congress to identify your Representative and Senators. Visit your legislator's website and use the "Contact" section to call their district office or submit a meeting request.

When requesting a meeting, introduce yourself as a constituent and ASDS member, briefly share information about yourself and your practice, explain what you would like to discuss and suggest at least two dates and times.

If you do not receive a response within three business days, follow up by phone. You may need to follow up multiple times.

Use ASDSA's Sample Email Template or How to Request a Meeting video for additional help.

You may also invite your member of Congress to visit your practice. A practice visit is an opportunity to show your legislator the care you provide and discuss issues affecting dermatologic surgery and your patients.

2. Prepare for Your Meeting

  • Review ASDSA's current talking points and advocacy resources.
  • Be ready to briefly share your story and practice experience.
  • Look up your legislator's background and involvement with the issue.
  • Confirm the meeting time and location.
  • Have relevant talking points and leave-behind materials ready.

3. During the Meeting

  • Stay focused on ASDSA's key messages and tie in a personal example from your practice.
  • Clearly state what you are asking your legislator to do.
  • Don't discuss campaign contributions or share if you voted for their opponent.
  • Ask for a photo with your member of Congress or the staff member you meet with.
  • Request contact information for follow-up.

4. After the Meeting

  • Send a thank-you email and offer to be a resource.
  • Provide any additional information requested during the meeting.
  • Share your meeting outcome and photo with ASDSA at advocacy@asds.net.
  • Post your photo on social media and tag @ASDSAdvocacy.

Have questions or need assistance? Email advocacy@asds.net.