July 2026 Advocacy Champion

JP Abenstein, MSEE, MD, FASA

Anesthesiologist

1.  Why is being an advocate so important to you?
I realized, early in my career, that the only way to effect change in public policy was to actively engage in the political process.  At first, I got involved in the Minnesota Society of Anesthesiologists (MSA) and began attending the American Society of Anesthesiologists (ASA) legislative meeting every May.  That introduced me to advocacy at the federal level.  Also, relatively early on, I got involved in the Minnesota Medical Association, served as a delegate when the MMA had a House of Delegates, and got to know several state legislators and their staff.  Eventually, I was elected as an AMA delegate from Minnesota.  Finally, I served the ASA as Speaker and then President.  I’d like to think I made a bit of a difference over the years. 

2. What health-care related issue(s) have you advocated for over the past year?
As I’ve was reaching retirement, I slowed down.  Other than attending and participating in MSA, ASA, MMA, and AMA meetings, I’ve been a lot less active.  The big issues in anesthesiology - scope of practice and reimbursement - remain the top issues.

3. What advice would you offer to others who are interested in advocacy?
My advice is just get involved and look for opportunities to participate.  State and federal office holders and their staff get very little interaction with the medical community.  I found that meeting with them is very useful and they are very welcoming and interested in hearing your opinions and concerns.  If you are so inclined, all those running for office are looking for help with their campaign.  All you need to do is volunteer.

The same is true in medical organizations.  My advice is to look for opportunities to get involved with your Minnesota specialty organization and the MMA.  All medical organizations are looking for physicians to get involved.  The door is wide open.