OPINION/COLUMN
Rep. Cynthia Roe
This past week, I was honored to attend more events, this time in New Orleans for the Milbank Fellows Program. It was so exciting to join lawmakers and health leaders from across the country for our second in-person meeting.
These sessions are designed to help us better serve our communities by improving how states approach public health, primary care and long-term planning. I want to share a brief look at what we covered, because everything I learn here is aimed at strengthening outcomes for the people back home.
Our first day opened with Bruce Greenstein, Secretary of the Louisiana Department of Health. He spoke about high-stakes leadership and the challenges states face as funding and regulations continue to shift.
His message was about health systems across the nation that are adapting to uncertainty, and how leaders must be ready to respond as financial pressures and stakeholder needs continue to evolve.
The discussion focused on how to navigate this changing landscape in a way that keeps care accessible and effective for families. This discussion was especially meaningful for our district, as I continually view these issues through the lens of rural health care. The second day centered on using evidence to guide decisions when resources are tight. Pam Curtis, director of the Center for Evidence-Based Policy, walked us through the growing financial strain many states will face as federal support for public health, mental health and Medicaid declines.
Her presentation emphasized the importance of relying on solid data to make tough choices about coverage and benefits so states can focus on the most urgent needs of their residents.
We also had the chance to break away for some lighter moments. Emily Johnson, managing director at the Colorado Health Institute, led a fun, entertaining session that tested our knowledge of the legislative and executive branches through a game modeled after the Newlywed Game.
It gave us a chance to laugh, compare notes and reflect on how both branches can work together more effectively to improve population health.
Our final day centered on primary care and the policy opportunities that come with strengthening it.
Christopher Koller, former president of the Milbank Memorial Fund, and Rep. Dustin Miller of Louisiana spoke about ways states can build momentum for policies that improve population health. They highlighted tools available to legislatures and the importance of moving good ideas into practical action.
I am grateful for the chance to take part in these conversations and to bring Oklahoma’s perspective, where rural health care remains a top priority. I also appreciated the fellowship with other lawmakers and the opportunity to learn how different states are approaching these challenges as we continue working to bring more health providers to our rural communities.
Every lesson I bring home will not only guide my work at the Capitol, but also guide my work as we embark on the changes our state needs to make pertaining to healthcare that benefits all Oklahomans.
As always, I pray for every family in our district each day. I want the very best for you, and I am here to support you however I can.
Thank you for letting me represent you at the Capitol and across our great nation!
I am here to listen to your concerns and answer any of your questions. My email address is cynthia.roe@okhouse.gov, or you can call my office at 405-557-7365.
Rep. Cynthia Roe, a Republican, represents House District 42 in the Oklahoma House of Representatives. Her district includes portions of Cleveland, Garvin and McClain counties.