May 2025 Advocacy Champion

Katie Smentek, MD

Pediatrician
Mankato Clinic

1. Why is being an advocate so important to you?
I became a pediatrician to make a meaningful difference in the lives of children. But as a part-time pediatrician, the number of patients I can see in a single day is just a fraction of the children living in Mankato—let alone the entire state of Minnesota. Through advocacy, I can extend the reach of my training and expertise far beyond the exam room. It gives me a powerful platform to raise the voices of children and families who lack access to quality healthcare, and to champion policies that improve the well-being of all kids across the state. Advocacy doesn’t just complement my work as a pediatrician—it multiplies its impact.  

2. What health-care related issue(s) have you advocated for over the past year?
Much of my advocacy work currently centers on ensuring access to quality healthcare, mental health services, and overall community well-being. In my first year as MNAAP Chapter President, we focused on the issues of Social Drivers of Health, Youth Mental Health, Healthcare Access, Vaccination Rates, and Youth Violence.

At the state level, my current focus includes advancing Medicaid parity and championing the “Treat Yourself First” program. Locally, I’m working to help pass a city flavored tobacco ban and support initiatives aimed at reducing access to lethal means.

As federal policies continue to shift and present new challenges, one thing is certain—there’s no shortage of opportunities to advocate for the health and safety of our children now and in the future.

3. What advice would you offer to others who are interested in advocacy?
My biggest piece of advice is that if you are asked, say yes.  We as doctors are experts, we know what is best for Minnesotans.  You're not expected to lead an organization on day one. Start small: write a letter to the editor, meet with your city council or school board.  We as physicians are busy, add in personal life and we are almost always tipping the work life balance.  But it’s worth it.  Advocacy can lead to real, lasting improvements for Minnesotans’ health and well-being; it’s always worth the effort.  And you don’t have to do it alone.  There are great groups like the MMA to help.  And if we all say yes, many hands make light work.