Speak Up

It is important for you to speak up if you have a concern about your health care. Key decision-makers listen to credible groups and individuals who are able to effectively communicate their issue.

If you are interested in speaking up and becoming an advocate regarding the fairness of your health care, you will need to:

1. Develop Your Key Messages
2. Identify Who You Need to Target
3. Know When to Deliver Your Messages
4. Present Your One “Ask”

Key Message Development

Start by identifying your issues. Remember to separate fact from fiction. And, if you are delivering key messages on behalf of yourself and others, make sure everyone is in agreement.

Develop two to three key messages that support your position and explain your issue in simple language. Key messages should be short, no more than 25 words each. They should also be clear, compelling and consistent. Practice presenting your key messages to someone with no knowledge of your issues.

Who You Need to Target

In the case of key health care decision-makers, start by contacting your local federal/provincial member of parliament (MPP/MLA/MNA). As a next step, you can request a meeting with the relevant Minister or political staff person.

Know When to Deliver the Message

Timing is everything when it comes to advocacy and delivering your messages to government. Take advantage of those who are newly elected. Chances are they haven’t developed a full agenda and may be seeking issues to champion.

If the issue you are advocating for is in the media and top of mind for decision-makers, you should make your views known right away.

If you plan to present your issue during an election, make sure to approach all of your local candidates with your concerns, not just those seeking to be re-elected.

Present Your One “Ask”

Your “ask” represents the one thing you need.

Using your selected advocacy tools, deliver your key messages and ask decision-makers for the one thing you need, not a long list of what you want. Getting down to “one” ask, requires you to make choices and to reach a consensus among those you are representing. This is important, because everyone engaged in your cause should have the same perspective on what is required to be successful.