Issue link: https://blog.providence.org/i/1526508
PROVIDENCE | ESG REPORT | 20 INTRODUCTION ENVIRONMENTAL SOCIAL GOVERNANCE ABOUT US Social ADVOCACY The Providence family of organizations is a tireless advocate for health and social programs that contribute to the health of the communities we serve. Grounded in our respect for the dignity and value of each person, we advocate for more just and equitable health care for all, especially those who are poor and vulnerable . We believe that health is a human right, and we partner with lawmakers to advance policies that bring our vision of health for a better world to life. In 2023, we engaged lawmakers on issues that affect public health and well-being, including firearm safety and supportive housing. OUR 2023 STATE AND FEDERAL ADVOCACY PRIORITIES • Preserve affordable access and coverage • Improve health system capacity and sustainability • Strengthen and develop our workforce • Advance care delivery and coordination • Promote social and environmental justice Advocacy at the federal level In October 2023, Beth Schenk, Ph.D., chief environmental stewardship officer, participated in a Health Care Climate Council advocacy event in Washington, D.C. In meetings at the event, Schenk urged lawmakers to: • Support funding for the HHS Office of Climate Change and Health Equity • Oppose efforts to reduce Inflation Reduction Act incentives and other funding for climate action • Co-sponsor the GREEN Hospitals Act and the SAFE Through Medicare Act Grassroots activation Through our online grassroots caregiver activation tool in 2023, we engaged caregivers in raising their voices on issues related to protecting and strengthening the health care workforce. Caregivers asked their representatives in Congress to support policy solutions that help recruit, revitalize and diversify the workforce, including: • Rejecting cuts to Medicare graduate medical education (GME) • Supporting the Resident Physician Shortage Reduction Act • Investing in educational opportunities and workforce development programs • Supporting the Safety from Violence for Healthcare Employees (SAVE) Act These grassroots efforts are essential to informing our caregivers about issues important to our organization and community, engaging them in action, and building a movement for change among policymakers.