Public Policy & Advocacy
Methodist Healthcare Ministries is dedicated to advancing public policy that aligns with the Social Principles of The United Methodist Church. Our advocacy efforts focus on educating the public about the impact of health policies on communities, fostering partnerships with relevant stakeholders, and championing policies that promote the health and well-being of families and communities.
We stay informed about regional and national policy trends, conducting thorough research to understand how legislative decisions at both federal and state levels affect the health care needs of uninsured individuals in our community. Through meticulously crafted publications and data reports, we aim to inform policymakers and engage a wide range of health care stakeholders in discussions about systemic challenges and opportunities.
Our goal is to enhance access to quality health care services for South Texas. With a commitment to collaboration and evidence-based advocacy, Methodist Healthcare Ministries strives to create positive change and improve health outcomes for all.
Key Issue Updates
THE TEXAS TRIBUNE
THE TEXAS TRIBUNE
TEXANS CARE FOR CHILDREN
TEXAS HEALTH & HUMAN SERVICES
Policy Initiatives
Our policy initiatives are focused on access to care and the non-medical drivers of health. At both the state and federal levels, we champion initiatives that prioritize the well-being of the communities we serve. We seek to build coalitions and partnerships to help shape policies and make meaningful, impactful, lasting changes.
Legislative Priorities
Access to Affordable and Quality Health Care
Children’s Health
Support children’s health care coverage; Address childhood obesity/diabetes prevention; Support foster care and kinship care; and address domestic violence and child abuse.
Women’s Health
Support healthcare coverage for women; and Support reproductive health & access to contraceptives.
Behavioral Health
Detect and treat mental illness before a crisis; and target interventions for high-risk populations.
Public Health
Improve health literacy education and training for patients and providers; and support access to vaccinations.
Healthcare Workforce
Support funding for healthcare provider reimbursement rates and competitive salaries; Support loan repayment programs for health professionals; Support funding for provider training programs; and Expand scope of practice for providers.
Food Security & Nutrition
Support state and federal food assistance programs; Support food banks and food pantries; and Address obesity and diabetes prevention.
Public Infrastructure
Support affordable housing; Support funding for broadband infrastructure; Support water infrastructure; and Support public utility infrastructure.
Economic Mobility
Address financial security.
From 1995 to 2010, the prevalence of obesity in Texas adults doubled from 15.9 percent to 31.7 percent. With a current obesity rate of 34 percent, Texas has the 19th highest adult obesity rate in the US.
Contact the Team
Legislative Partners
Statement on Immigration and Human Rights
Guided by our mission of “Serving Humanity to Honor God,” and the Social Principles of The United Methodist Church, Methodist Healthcare Ministries recognizes, embraces and affirms all persons are God’s children and therefore entitled to dignity and respect. No person should be subject to hostility or social discrimination based on immigration status, country of origin, age, race or ethnicity, gender expression, religion, or sexual orientation. We affirm the right of all persons to have opportunities for health and well-being, including safety, employment, access to housing, healthcare, and education.
We strive to deeply listen and establish a dialogue that brings healing, hope, and reconciliation and will speak out when we witness hostility–either through words or deeds–towards any human whether stranger, sojourner, pilgrim or refugee in the communities we serve. We will not ignore injustice and will instead endeavor to provide opportunities for all to flourish and experience abundant life.
