Become an Advocate
How to be a Mercy “Justice in Health Care” Advocate
The mission of Mercy is rooted in the five core values of justice, service, excellence, stewardship, and respect for the dignity of each person. It is our collective responsibility as health care providers to offer health and social services that meet the needs of all our patients in a manner that is inspired and guided by these five values.
Of particular concern are the health care disparities in our nation. A health care system that excludes our most vulnerable populations, especially the elderly, the poor, and the very sick, is a moral injustice. Here are SEVEN WAYS that you can live out the Mercy Value of JUSTICE and speak out for a health care system that is inclusive, accessible, affordable, and accountable.
- Get started by visiting the “Advocacy” section of our website. This website will introduce you to the Mercy Principles of Advocacy and link you to news, legislation, members of the Mercy Advocacy Board, as well as educational resources on health care and social justice advocacy.
- Connect with Missouri Health Care for All, a non-partisan, grassroots movement committed to securing access to affordable, high-quality health care to all Missourians.
- Sign-up for E-Alerts, which will send the latest news in health care issues straight to your email inbox. Log on to the American Hospital Association website and choose Advocacy Action Alerts from the Advocacy drop-down menu.
- Communicate directly with your local, state, and federal officials. Visit The Catholic Health Association website and click on the link to e-Advocacy from the Advocacy drop-down menu. This web-based tool will help you search for your legislators and send them messages on issues important to the Catholic health ministry.
- Educate yourself about Medicare and Medicaid. Visit www.medicarerights.org or www.elderlawanswers.com for more information on these health insurance programs.
- Engage in dialogue about health care that is grounded in faith-inspired principles, such as commitment to the common good, shared responsibility to care for the community, and respect for the dignity of each person. Check out www.faithfulreform.org for a collection of faith resources for education and advocacy.
- Get involved in your community. Our site offers volunteer opportunities that provide social services and promote justice in the St. Louis area.
Our Services Rely on Your Support
The health and social service resources provided byMercy Neighborhood Ministry are made possible through community support. To continue offering these programs, your support is welcome. Please make an online donation or call Mercy St. Louis Foundation at 314.251.1800 to discuss how you can make a difference in the lives of others by making a financial contribution to the Neighborhood Ministry.
