OHA Hospital Advocacy - Tips on Contacting Lawmakers

Tips for Writing Your Legislators

It is important that state and federal lawmakers hear from the hospitals they represent on issues facing the hospital community. Whether sending a letter or making a phone call, contacting your elected officials can be a positive and rewarding experience. It is important, however, to follow certain protocols. This site also offers tips and techniques that will help you communicate with your lawmakers more effectively.

Address the letter and envelop using the following format:
State Legislators

The Honorable Jane Smith
Ohio House of Representatives
The Riffe Center for Government
77 South High Street
Columbus, Ohio 43215

Dear Representative Smith:

The Honorable Jim Smith
Ohio Senate
Statehouse
Columbus, Ohio 43215

Dear Senator Smith:

Federal Legislators

The Honorable Kelly Smith
U.S. House of Representatives
(address)
Washington, D.C. 20515

Dear Representative Smith:

The Honorable John Smith
U.S. Senate
(address)
Washington, DC 20510

Dear Senator Smith:

Tips for Writing a Letter

Use your hospitals' letterhead.
Keep your letter short and to the point, covering only one issue per letter.
When writing about a specific piece of legislation, identify it using the House or Senate bill number and mention where it is in the legislative process, such as the committee considering the bill or the date it is up for a floor vote.
Explain how the issue will affect your hospital, its employees and the people it cares for.

Tips for Making Personal Contacts

It is best to arrange meetings when legislators are home in their districts, perhaps holding them at your hospital. Call in advance, giving them plenty of time to schedule the visit.
Use positive comments and be prepared to use facts and examples.
When legislators are unavailable, ask to speak or meet with the legislative aide. Aides serve as legislators' right hand, and will inform their lawmakers of the meeting and your position.
Follow-up a meeting with a phone call or a letter. Restate your position and thank the lawmaker or aide for his or her time. Also forward a copy of your letter to OHA so we can reinforce your position in our contacts with your legislators.