May 2026 Advocacy Champion

Rebecca R. Thomas, MD MHSc

Medical Oncologist

1. Why is being an advocate so important to you?
As the science of medicine continues to make extraordinary strides with new interventions and treatments, healthcare continues to evolve. As physicians, we are entrusted with understanding these advancements and ensuring they are delivered in a manner that is compassionate, ethical, and centered on the needs of each patient.

Being an advocate for my patients and peers is part of my responsibility as a physician in our community. For my patients, advocacy means using my knowledge and experience to help inform policymakers about how legislation and healthcare policies impact Minnesotans. For my colleagues, advocacy means standing alongside them as we address the challenges that impact our ability to practice medicine. Ultimately, being a physician advocate allows me to honor the trust my patients and colleagues have placed in me.

2. What healthcare related issue(s) have you advocated for over the past year?
Over the last year, I had the opportunity to serve as Chair of the Artificial Intelligence in Healthcare Task Force for the MMA. As an Oncologist, I am always encouraged by new therapies and strategies to improve the lives of patients with cancer. This is true of new treatments as well as other tools such as artificial intelligence. There is excitement with how AI may help us as clinicians with everyday tasks and the value it may bring to our patients. However, the evolution of AI is outpacing existing regulatory frameworks. Through the Task Force, we assessed the emerging role of AI in healthcare, identifying the benefits but also the risks to patients and physicians. We proposed a set of policies and guiding principles that would foster responsible AI innovation while safeguarding physicians and patients. These policies and principles will hopefully prepare Minnesota physicians to navigate the complex terrain of artificial intelligence in their practice and with resources to inform their patients.

3.  What advice would you offer to others who are interested in advocacy?  
Your voice matters. If you recognize an issue that affects your ability to provide the best possible care for your patients, it is likely that other physicians share that same concern. Or you may bring attention to challenges that have not yet been realized and in doing so can lead to meaningful and appreciated change.

Advocacy does not require acting alone. Organizations like the Minnesota Medical Association offers varied opportunities to get involved, from participating in policy committees to submitting a policy proposal on The Pulse. These spaces allow physicians to collaborate, learn from one another, and collectively elevate issues that impact themselves and patient care. By engaging with our colleagues and contributing diverse perspectives, we strengthen our shared mission of delivering thoughtful, high-quality care to every patient.