Advocacy Efforts

Doctors in white coats stand on the steps of the Rhode Island State House

Since 1812, advocacy has been one of the primary roles of the Rhode Island Medical Society. As the leader of medicine in the Ocean State, we are committed to represent the physician voice with local, state, and federal legislators, with state and federal health agencies, and also with the private sector healthcare companies. We value your membership and encourage you to participate in advocacy efforts as we represent you and your patients with a wide array of stakeholders.

Legislative Report

Margie O'Brien, Rhode Island Department of Health

Advocacy Toolkit

2026 Priorities

Rhode Island Medical Society Advocacy Tool Kit

Presentation slide that says Making Policy through the Regulatory Process

Making Policy through the Regulatory Process
Cheryl LeClair, Rhode Island Department of Health

Rhode Island Secretary of State voter information center

Navigating the Secretary of State’s Website: Find Your Officials, Open Meeting Resources, Lobbying
Stacy DiCoia, RI Secretary of State’s Office

Navigating the General Assembly: Online Tools
Margie O’Brien and Pete Wood, RI General Assembly

Slide listing key points of the presentation

Introduction to Relevant Boards, Commissions, and Planning Processes
Lauren Nocera, Expedition Consulting

Adam Roach from the Rhode Island Attorney General's office

Open Meetings Act
Adam Roach, Special Assistant Attorney General

Advocacy Day 2026

Group of doctors in white coats sit facing the camera

Dr. Dina Himelfarb speaks into a microphone

Group of doctors and photographers at a press conference in the Rhode Island State House lobby

RIMS leadership, staff, state officials, and family of Steve DeToy honor him at the RI State House for his legislative and advocacy efforts spanning over three decades at the Rhode Island Medical Society.

Staff Contact
Stacy Paterno
spaterno@rimed.org