RhAPPcast: Introducing the RhAPP Advocacy Program

In this special edition of RhAPPcast, the official podcast of Rheumatology Advanced Practice Providers (RhAPP), Heather Finlayson and Kevin Daley discuss rheumatology advocacy and the importance of strengthening the APP voice in healthcare policy. They introduce the RhAPP Advocacy Committee and explore how nurse practitioners, physician assistants, and pharmacists can get involved in addressing insurance barriers, supporting medication access, and advocating for their patients and practices. This episode highlights key advocacy issues in rheumatology, including step therapy, non-medical switching, prior authorization, prescription drug affordability boards (PDABs), and the federal 340B Drug Pricing Program. Heather and Kevin discuss how insurance requirements and policy decisions intersect with everyday patient care, sharing practical ways clinicians can participate through legislative outreach, letter writing, virtual testimony, and patient education. The conversation also explores payer advocacy and the importance of bringing clinical experiences and patient perspectives into state and federal policy discussions. Designed for rheumatology APPs and other healthcare professionals, this discussion outlines the committee’s plans for regional leadership, virtual meetings, and ongoing advocacy education. Whether you are new to healthcare advocacy or looking for ways to become more involved, this episode offers an approachable starting point for making your voice heard and helping patients do the same. For more rheumatology education and podcasts, visit RhAPP’s website and explore the RhAPP ACE app.