Training Physicians in Advocacy: Why It Matters.

At a time in our country's history when state and federal legislative regulations on medical practice and access to services are at an all-time high, effective physician advocacy in women's health is crucial to the evolution of our profession and the provision of quality and equitable patient care. Inclusion of specific advocacy training programs in residency and beyond should be considered a priority. Ensuring a unified set of goals for advocacy training is important to training the next generation of competent and skilled physician advocates for leadership in academia and professional organizations. Sharing of initiatives and efforts to integrate advocacy into the training continuum across our community may inspire broader acceptance and implementation of such programs.