Patient Advocacy Day: Advocates uniting to change the future of health

On January 30, 2025, the American Heart Association hosted a Patient Advocacy Day in Jackson, Mississippi, in collaboration with American Cancer Society – Cancer Action Network, Leukemia and Lymphoma Society, and American Lung Association. The event united nearly 90 passionate advocates and lawmakers around a critical mission—to protect and expand Medicaid.

At the event, advocates had the chance to connect with legislators over breakfast and at the state capitol. They engaged in three key meetings with legislators and staff. Notably, Dr. Dan Jones, a long-time volunteer and National President of the AHA from 2007-2008, had a productive discussion with Lieutenant Governor Delbert Hosemann, who reaffirmed his support for Medicaid expansion and expressed interest in finding a viable solution for Mississippi. Advocate Kaitleen Noah met her state senator, David Blount, for the first time and discussed the importance of expanding Medicaid—a cause he actively supports. It was also her first visit to the state capitol, making the experience even more impactful.

Legislators responded positively, with many voicing their support and committing to further discussions. The day yielded promising outcomes, including confirmed commitments from several lawmakers to continue backing Medicaid expansion efforts.

One particularly powerful moment came from advocate Neidra Fears, who shared her firsthand experience with the coverage gap—earning too little to qualify for Medicaid but also not enough for subsidized marketplace premiums. She urged lawmakers to recognize the lifesaving potential of Medicaid expansion and consider its impact on all Mississippians.

Overall, the 2025 Patient Advocacy Day was a resounding success. It demonstrated the power of advocates uniting to change the future of health by speaking out and speaking up to advance policies that are improving lives and creating healthier communities.