ACP Advocate
The ACP Advocate is an online newsletter for ACP members interested in advocacy. An ACP login is required to access these articles. Not a member? Visit our Membership section to learn about joining.
October 24, 2025
Congressional News and Perspective
ACP Urges Congress to Extend ACA Premium Tax Credits, Resolve Government Shutdown
Without extension of the enhancements, enrollees with incomes above 400 percent of the federal poverty level could see large increases in premium payments.
ACP Regulatory News
As Insurers Increase Use of Downcoding, ACP Calls for Protections for Physician Reimbursement and Patient Care
A recent increase in automatic downcoding has been observed, with claims being downcoded through algorithms.
Advocacy in Action
Amid Shifts in Federal Policy, ACP Makes Updates to State Health Policy Toolkits
Toolkits offer resources to advocate at the state level on issues including firearm safety, transgender health care, Medicaid, and reproductive health.
In Case You Missed It
Last Chance to Apply to be an Intern in ACP's Washington, DC Office
The 2026 Health Policy Internship application cycle closes on Oct. 31. The internship provides a multifaceted opportunity for medical students and residents to learn about the legislative process, health policy, and advocacy in organized medicine. Interns will provide assistance with researching and analyzing current issues in health and medical education policy, assisting with on-going advocacy initiatives, and the development of advocacy materials. Interns will have the opportunity to attend congressional hearings, coalition meetings, and accompany government affairs staff on lobby visits to members of Congress and their staff and to events. The internship lasts from April 27, 2026 to May 21, 2026 and pays a $4,000 stipend. Find additional information and application instructions on ACP's website.
Celebrate Internal Medicine Day on October 28th
Join ACP in celebrating Internal Medicine Day on Tuesday, Oct. 28 in recognition of the essential role of internal medicine physicians around the world.
As internal medicine physicians, we are experts in complexity who serve and lead in many diverse roles and settings. We're critical thinkers who excel in the most challenging and dynamic environments and provide compassionate care for our patients throughout their health care journey. We are the cornerstone of clinical care—vital to patients, medical professionals, and the health care system.
Join us and show your pride in internal medicine:
- On social media - share or customize ACP's social media posts. Use the hashtags #InternalMedicineDay, #IMProud, and #IMPhysician. Recognize a colleague, thank a mentor, or tell your story.
- Use the I.M. Physician Toolkit for downloadable posters, email signatures, slide presentations, and more, plus an opportunity to tell us why you love being an internal medicine physician.
Learn more about how ACP is celebrating the leadership and impact of Internal Medicine Physicians.
New Long COVID Resource Hub Features Evidence-based Tools and Education
ACP, in collaboration with the Council of Medical Specialty Societies, has launched a new Long COVID Resource Hub to help clinicians navigate evolving evidence and care for patients experiencing post-COVID conditions. The hub, free to ACP members, offers easy access to curated tools, educational materials, resources from DynaMedex®, and clinical guidance in one place.
Access up-to-date research, symptom management strategies, and practical resources to enhance patient care at the Long COVID Resource Hub.
Quick Hits
Advocacy News
ACP Comment Letter to Election Assistance Commission Regarding Documentary Proof of Citizenship in Federal Elections
ACP comments in opposition to a petition from the America First legal Foundation asking the Election Assistance Commission to amend regulations to require documentary proof of United States citizenship to register to vote in federal elections.
ACP Letter of Support for the Community Training, Education and Access for Medical Students (TEAMS) Act
ACP letter supporting the TEAMS Act, which would bolster our nation's rural health care infrastructure by supporting medical education and training in rural and medically underserved communities.
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