Catalyst prioritizes systems change work to improve the health care system and the health of Virginians. Systems change, which addresses the root cause of a problem, often involves changes in policies that impact large numbers of people. To affect policy change, advocacy is needed at the local, state, and federal levels. Effective advocacy depends on the dedication and enthusiasm of the people, for policy change requires trust, patience, and persistence.
Catalyst works to identify policy priorities and engage partners in advocacy by lifting up community voices.
Since Catalyst began in 2010, advocacy has been a cornerstone of our work. Sarah Holland, prior to being the Catalyst CEO, put her communications expertise and passion for activism to work by lobbying at the state and federal levels on behalf of patient rights and preventive health policies. Sarah now leads Catalyst’s work with expertise in public health policy, clinical care infrastructure, and an understanding of the ways in which systemic racism and inequities affect health care systems. Over the years, Catalyst and its partners advocate for policy changes that pave the way towards a more accessible, equitable, and comprehensive health care system.
Policy is a foundational pillar in the strategic vision that guides work at Catalyst.
Learn more about how that fits in with the other pillars - public awareness, clinical and community care, and public health - here.
