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PNHP Chapter Visit FAQ
This FAQ is meant to serve as an introduction to PNHP’s chapter visits across the country. If you have any questions or would like to invite a PNHP leader and Ali Thebert, national chapter organizer, to visit your chapter, please e-mail ali@pnhp.org.
Q: What is a chapter visit?
A: A chapter visit is generally a brief, 2-4 day visit from a PNHP leader, such as Dr. Oliver Fein, president of PNHP, Dr. Margaret Flowers, national board adviser, or Dr. Garrett Adams, PNHP president-elect to a local PNHP chapter. Ali Thebert, national chapter organizer, would also attend and would work with you in the months preceding the visit to ensure its success.
It is a great way for local physicians to connect and network with the national organization while honing their organizing skills and building up their local chapter. Physicians for a National Health Program is dedicated to constantly connecting with our physicians across the country in the effort to empower and further the struggle for single-payer health care.
Q: What types of events are included in a chapter visit?
A: Chapter visits can include a broad diversity of events. We suggest working on:
- Grand Rounds at the local hospital(s). This is the most important event during a chapter visit as many physicians attend Grand Rounds who would not otherwise attend a single-payer talk.
- An editorial board meeting of the local newspaper(s)
- Radio, television and print media interviews
- A meeting/dinner/meet-up with local PNHP activists
- Speaking events (usually catered at lunchtime) on college campuses to educate and connect with medical students
- Speakers trainings for PNHP activists
- Other events could include debates between the PNHP leader and private insurance spokespeople, speaking events with leaders and members of faith-based communities, unions, minority groups, and other community forums. We have also met with legislators, political candidates, and other local opinion leaders to present the case for Medicare for All.
Q: Who organizes chapter visits?
A: A chapter visit is meant to hone and build the organizing skills of local PNHP physicians and members. We hope that local PNHP members can expand their base and recruit new members with the “traveling expert with slides,” and then continue to work with stronger relations with community groups and the media for years after the chapter visit is over. Ali Thebert can assist in the organizing process by pulling media lists, editing press releases and contribute as a resource to assist physicians through the process of organizing for a chapter visit.
Q: How long does it generally take to plan a chapter visit?
A: It generally takes about 8 weeks to fully plan a chapter visit, though frequently it takes much more advance notice to schedule Grand Rounds, which we think are very useful.
Q: Is our local chapter expected to finance the PNHP visit?
A: PNHP national will pay for all reasonable expenses for both Dr. Fein and Ali Thebert and any organizing costs associated with the chapter visit. Any donations received during the chapter visit go directly to the local chapter to further their efforts.
We hope that the local chapter will use this opportunity to raise money for the local effort. The PNHP national office is happy to assist with recruiting and fundraising for your local chapter.
Q: How is housing and travel coordinated for Dr. Fein and Ali Thebert?
A: We hope that Dr. Fein and Ali Thebert can stay at the homes of PNHP members. It helps keep our costs down, and is a great opportunity for them to connect with physicians in the area. It also helps with keeps our costs down if a local PNHPer be our guide and drive with us around town (or loan us their car!).
Q: Where can I find examples of chapter visits that have already taken place?
A: Yes! An activist recently wrote an article on a chapter visit to the Twin Cities of Minnesota, email ali@pnhp.org for a copy of the article. We also keep many of our past itineraries on file, just send an email for more information.
Q: How is transportation provided for Dr. Fein and Ali Thebert during their stay?
A: We hope that local activists can accompany us on our events. It saves PNHP money since they won't have to rent a car and helps build relationships between media outlets and other organizations that activists can continue to foster long after the chapter visit is over.