Legislative affairs: a powerful tool for healthcare providers.

O ur complex legislative process affects all healthcare organizations. "After the rubric of patient care, nothing defines us more than legislation," says James Peters of Lifespan, an integrated healthcare deliver)' network based in Providence, RI. He adds, "Laws determine our revenues, set our standards, specify our working conditions, and, in excruciating detail, tell us how to behave. Healthcare organizations can and should participate in shaping these laws. But often they don't ." As Lifespan's director of communications and public affairs, Peters has helped craft a comprehensive legislative affairs program that encourages Lifespan employees, physicians, volunteers. And board members to participate in the legislativeprocess.