At the 2025 Black Health Connect Conference, the dynamic panel “What in the Health Policy: An Update on the Shifting Landscape in Healthcare” brought fresh urgency and insight to a crucial conversation: how policy, community voice, and strategic advocacy must align to truly transform healthcare access.
Panel at a Glance: Who’s Leading This Change?
Moderator:
- Marvin B. Figueroa, Ed.M., Vice President at BGR Group
Speakers:
- Dr. Lydia A. Isaac, VP of Health Equity and Policy, National Urban League
- Ryann Hill, MPH, CEO and Founder, Indigo Strategies
Together, they unpacked the barriers and breakthroughs in health policy, emphasizing the need for grassroots collaboration, political courage, and strategic partnerships.
You May Also Like
Key Themes and Takeaways
1. Understanding Policy Starts with Knowing the Players
Community advocates must do more than protest—they must understand who makes the decisions, how votes are cast, and where everyday people can weigh in. The panel encouraged attendees to establish connections with representatives, share real-life stories, and personalize the policy conversation.
“Policy is personal. If they don’t hear from us, they’ll legislate without us.”
2. Medicaid, Resources, and Community Rebuilding
Panelists broke down the Medicaid landscape, urging communities to:
- Map out local organizations already doing the work
- Understand the rules, restrictions, and reforms of state Medicaid plans
- Identify stakeholders who influence access to care
The goal? Rebuild community health infrastructure—and regain control over clinics and services that have been shuttered or outsourced.
You May Also Like
3. Your Story is Your Superpower
From denials of care to navigating disability or chronic illness, sharing lived experiences can shift policy conversations. The panel reminded everyone: “Advocacy starts with voice. Yours matters.”
Whether it’s speaking to a legislator, supporting someone else’s fight, or amplifying stories through social media, telling the truth changes outcomes.
4. Short on Time? You Can Still Make a Difference
Even with busy schedules, your involvement matters. The panel recommended:
- Signing petitions
- Calling or emailing elected officials
- Spreading awareness through group chats and community circles
- Volunteering your skills, not just your time
They emphasized the need to “stay engaged without burnout” by finding roles that match your capacity.
5. Capitol Hill, Political Will, and the Power of Incrementalism
While some push for sweeping changes, others find success in incremental wins. Panelists urged advocates to:
- Track voting records and press releases, not just campaign slogans
- Know that political influence grows from local to federal
- Focus on building durable relationships, not just momentary demands
6. Historical Context Matters—So Does the Present Moment
Understanding past injustices helps us confront current challenges. But panelists warned against getting stuck in the past. Today’s moment is filled with real opportunities, especially as younger generations use new tools and platforms to mobilize.
“We’re not just living through history—we’re shaping it.”
Call to Action: How You Can Get Involved
- Learn your state’s Medicaid structure
- Identify your local and federal representatives, and reach out
- Join or support organizations already doing policy work
- Share stories from your community, especially healthcare denials and access issues
- Help friends and family get engaged, informed, and heard
Final Word: Policy Is Power—If You’re at the Table
The panel closed with a simple truth: health policy touches every part of our lives, from birth to end-of-life care. If we’re not in the room, our needs go unmet.
The solution? Stay connected. Share the mic. Push the agenda.
Because when community meets strategy, real change isn’t just possible—it’s inevitable.
