Connect policymaking to patient outcomes

In 2020, advocates in Maryland noticed a disturbing pattern: hospitals were suing thousands of their own patients. House delegate Robbyn Lewis, a former policy analyst, obtained court data and saw that many suits targeted the low-income districts she represented. Leaping into action, she collaborated with community groups and nurses to compile patient stories—single mothers evicted over $600 bills, seniors forced into payment plans for $300 antibiotics. Armed with charts showing that 20% of constituents faced lawsuits, she introduced two bills: one requiring automatic screening for charity-care, the other banning wage garnishments. Medical associations and faith organizations joined her, sending thousands of emails to the legislature. Policymakers listened: by 2021, Maryland capped garnishment at 5% of income and mandated presumptive eligibility. Cases fell by 80% within a year, and fewer patients avoided the ED for fear of legal action. This case shows how data-driven advocacy can transform health policy and protect vulnerable residents.

You can replicate Maryland’s approach by pulling county court records and mapping lawsuits against medical debt by ZIP code. Then draft a one-page brief combining data charts and patient vignettes—no names needed. Email it to your state representative and follow up with a small coalition of health-care workers for a coordinated letter campaign. This focused effort can spark the same rapid policy wins. Try sending your brief this week.