Nephrologist Leadership in Advocacy and Public Policy.

As a specialty and profession, nephrology has deep roots in the arenas of advocacy and public policy, with nephrologists playing a significant role in garnering legislative attention on the needs of patients with end-stage renal disease. The depth of experiences and unique perspectives of nephrologists and sharing our positions with legislators, regulators, and decision makers are central to achieving the Triple Aim for patients with kidney disease. Advocacy and public policy are conducted externally as well as internally to the House of Medicine and shape the future of kidney care and nephrology practice. This article explores the impact of nephrology leadership on government decision making and the important role of the nephrologist in advocacy and public policy at the Federal, state, and regional levels.