Summer Advocacy Campaign-Make Your Voice Heard

Published in Government Relations on June 30, 2026

Summer is the perfect time to connect with your legislators while they are back in their home states and districts. Whether you're building a new relationship or strengthening an existing one, meeting with elected officials is one of the most effective ways to advance policies that protect patient access to home medical equipment and services. 

Strong relationships with legislators help ensure they understand the challenges facing HME providers, the patients we serve, and the importance of policies that support access to care. These conversations can make a meaningful difference as legislation moves through both state and federal government. 

Ways to Get Involved 

  • Host a Facility Visit – Invite your legislator to visit your location and see firsthand how your team serves patients in the community. These meetings are memorable and impactful. Legislators gain valuable insight by meeting employees, seeing equipment in use, and hearing directly from patients whose lives have been improved through access to home medical equipment services. When possible, a member of the VGM Government Relations team may be available to attend and support the visit. 
  • Schedule a District Office Meeting – Reach out to your legislator's local office and request a meeting. While meeting directly with the legislator is ideal, meetings with congressional or legislative staff can be equally valuable and often lead to continued engagement. 
  • Meet Virtually – If an in-person meeting isn't possible, virtual meetings remain a great option for sharing your story and discussing key legislative priorities. Consider partnering with other HME suppliers in your area and your state association to host a discussion on issues impacting providers and patients. A collective voice can help demonstrate the importance of the industry within your community. 
  • Attend town halls, roundtables, and community events throughout the summer – Attending these events is an excellent way to connect with elected officials and share your experiences as a provider, business owner, employee, or patient advocate. 

VGM Is Here to Help - Get Started Today! 

Advocacy can feel intimidating, but you don't have to do it alone. Getting started is easy! Visit Congress.gov and enter your address or ZIP code to find your elected officials and their office contact information. 

The VGM Government Relations team can help you: 

  • Schedule meetings with your member of congress or their staff 
  • Coordinate in-person, virtual, or group meetings 
  • Prepare talking points tailored to current policy issues 
  • Provide coaching and guidance before your meeting 
  • Answer questions and support your advocacy efforts every step of the way 

For assistance scheduling meetings, preparing for visits, or learning more about advocacy opportunities, contact: Emily.Kettman@vgm.com 

Together, we can strengthen relationships, elevate the voice of the HME community, and help ensure policymakers understand the value of protecting access to care. 

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