In recent times, organizational advocacy has become more complex as we navigate an era marked by widespread misinformation and divisive public discourse. Increasingly, DNS members, members of the public and external partners are calling on the association to comment on or engage with issues that are not directly related to the association’s mandate, such as global conflict or broader societal issues. Doctors Nova Scotia recognizes that physicians are well respected in their communities as leaders and change makers. It is important to use this position and privilege as an organization to amplify issues.  

The advocacy framework provides clear guidance on when and how the association engages in advocacy, ensuring actions are timely, proactive, and thoughtfully informed. The framework identifies three types of advocacy:  

• that associated with daily DNS business;  
• advocacy in alignment with the association’s strategic plan; and  
• advocacy not directly linked to DNS’s purpose and strategic priorities  

The framework also outlines guiding principles and decision-making criteria, for responding to matters outside DNS’s core mandate, while maintaining alignment with the association’s purpose, vision and commitment to EDI(R)A.   

Read the full DNS advocacy framework here.