PNWU Student Doctors Advocate at the Washington State Capitol
PNWU student doctors recently gathered at the Washington State Capitol in Olympia for DO Day 2025, using their voices to advocate for vital healthcare policies and increased access to training opportunities for future physicians.
“DO Day is a great way to practice public speaking and engage directly with policymakers,” shared Student Doctor Gleb Sych, PNWU College of Osteopathic Medicine Class of 2026. “It’s one thing to learn about healthcare policy in a classroom, but another to be in the room where decisions are being made. Advocacy isn’t just about policy — it’s also about learning how to effectively communicate and stand up for what matters.”
“It’s one thing to learn about healthcare policy in a classroom, but another to be in the room where decisions are being made.”
During their time in the Capitol Building, PNWU representatives addressed a number of causes closely connected to our mission, including the urgent need for more preceptors — practicing physicians who provide hands-on training for students.
During one impactful discussion, Student Dr. Sych addressed proposed Medicaid and Medicare cuts, highlighting their potential consequences for Washington’s most vulnerable populations.
“I appreciated that legislators were willing to listen, not just to physicians and other providers, but also to students,” said Student Dr. Sych. “Sometimes it feels like, as a medical student, my perspective doesn’t carry much weight. But the reality is, we have a direct stake in these issues because we’re about to enter this system. If we don’t engage now, we’re leaving critical decisions about our future and our patients in someone else’s hands.”
“Our students’ voices truly matter, and lawmakers recognize them as future community leaders.”
PNWU-COM Dean Thomas Scandalis, DO, reinforced the importance of student advocacy. “We encourage our students to build relationships with their legislators so they can serve as patient advocates when critical healthcare issues arise. Our students’ voices truly matter, and lawmakers recognize them as future community leaders.”
By the end of DO Day 2025, PNWU students had successfully connected with legislators on issues directly impacting their future careers and the well-being of Washington communities. “We’re not just here to learn medicine; we’re here to be part of the solution,” said Sych. “I hope our legislators recognize that Washington’s future physicians are paying attention. Cuts to Medicaid and Medicare don’t just affect numbers on a budget — they affect real people who rely on these programs for care.”
