Volunteer as a Patient Advocate Leader (PAL)

Public policies, in the form of state or federal laws and regulations, support access to cancer detection, prevention and treatment options. However, these policies are often designed with the general population—not the high-risk, hereditary cancer community—in mind. It’s up to us to advocate for policies that address the unique needs of our community.

Share your experiences with the high cost of colonoscopy or difficulty getting affordable insurance coverage for breast screening MRIs or other access issues. Be a voice for the people who need access to fertility services or have been denied life insurance because of their genetic mutation. Whether you are a previvor, survivor, thriver, genetic counseling student, researcher or healthcare provider, you can represent our community and help ensure that lawmakers understand the issues we face.

PALs applicants participate in a self-paced, online training aimed at preparing you to become engaged in advocacy on behalf of the hereditary cancer community. The curriculum includes lessons about U.S. federal and state governments and legislatures, laws and regulations that affect access to health services and genetic protections, FORCE policy priorities, and how to be effective at sharing your story/experience and connecting with your lawmakers. No prior experience is necessary, but applicants must be eligible to vote in the United States. Time commitment is flexible, averaging two hours a month.

Start by completing the volunteer application.

If you already have public policy/advocacy experience and want to put it to good use or have questions about the PALs Program, please contact Lisa Peabody at lisapeabody@facingourrisk.org.