IIN Advocacy Update: Health Coaches Are Needed Now More Than Ever

Every month, we’re sharing the notable work that our director of advocacy and IIN graduate, Darrell Rogers, is doing in Washington, D.C., to increase the visibility and recognition of Health Coaches.

As we strive to pull ourselves and our communities through these challenging times, it’s good to know we have people on our side. IIN is the only Health Coach Training Program that staffs an office in Washington, D.C., dedicated to increasing the recognition and visibility of our Health Coaches and growing the wellness economy.

Part of our work in D.C. is to showcase the amazing health transformations that clients experience when working with a Health Coach. And today, we’re increasingly seeing the need to put health and wellness first. 

The impact of COVID-19 on vulnerable populations and those with chronic diseases is staggering. Being well and reducing chronic disease is not just a strategy to lead a healthier and more productive life but will also make you more resilient during a pandemic.

Recently, the U.S. Secretary of Health and Human Services said that Americans experience “significantly unhealthy comorbidities,” which is one of the reasons why Americans have greater risk profiles and increased mortality during this pandemic. So, what are we going to do?

With the understanding that wellness isn’t just a nice-to-have but a need-to-have as a society, our goal is to make health coaching more available, more visible, and used by more people. Members of Congress now see Health Coaches as new advocates that are leading the charge to better health, and we’re working with them to make it happen.

IIN has drafted legislation that recognizes Health Coaches and is working with members of Congress to add “health coaching” to bills that expand the use of FSA funds. We are optimistic that more members of Congress will understand the importance of health coaching as we immerge from our sheltering in place.

Once a year, IIN gathers Health Coaches in the Washington, D.C., area to go to Capitol Hill and tell Congress about the amazing work that Integrative Nutrition Health Coaches are doing. Last year, we started the day with an intense workout with members of Congress, highlighted our important work with the NFL Players Association and U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs, and had personal meetings to discuss the importance of health coaching and supporting our legislation in Congress.

Due to the current climate, things will look a bit different this year, but stay tuned for virtual events for Health Coach Day on June 16 and learn how you can support IIN’s advocacy efforts from around the globe!

We know how valuable Health Coaches can be in the healthcare system to help bridge the gap between doctors and patients and provide the support and resources patients need to reach their health goals. IIN is committed to the success of every graduate making a difference in their communities, and this advocacy work aims to further support our graduates in all that they do. 

 
Darrell Rogers began his career in Washington, D.C., 20 years ago and has worked for members of Congress and several notable nonprofit organizations and political campaigns. More recently, his work has been committed to protecting and promoting holistic healthcare access.