UMass Medical Students Advocate for Health, Justice Reform

BOSTON — Thirteen medical students from the Population-based Urban & Rural Health (PURCH) program at UMass Chan Medical School – Baystate gathered at the Massachusetts State House on March 26 for PURCH on the Hill 2026, an initiative that equips future healthcare professionals with the skills and confidence to advocate for policies that address non-medical factors that greatly impact health.

During their visit, students met with legislators and aides to champion two public health measures: Clean Slate legislation and increased funding for the Healthy Incentive Program (HIP). They urged lawmakers to help advance the Clean Slate bills sponsored by state Sens. Cindy Friedman and Adam Gomez that are currently in the Senate Ways & Means Committee, and to increase HIP funding for FY 2027. While these initiatives extend beyond traditional healthcare, they play a crucial role in preventing health problems by promoting economic stability, food security, stable housing, and overall community well-being.

The group included PURCH students and faculty from UMass Chan Medical School – Baystate, Gomez and state Rep. Lindsay Sabadosa, as well as staff from Baystate Health, the Public Health Institute of Western Massachusetts, Clean Slate Massachusetts, and Men of Color Health Awareness. These leaders and organizations helped the future physicians understand Massachusetts’ policy-making process and how they, as medical professionals, can be strategic advocates for systemic changes.

“The PURCH students bring an incredible level of knowledge, compassion, and commitment to their work. They’re focused on more than the care of individual patients; they are also passionate about strengthening the health and well-being of entire communities,” said Andrea Freeman, policy director with the Public Health Institute of Western Massachusetts. “It’s truly inspiring to collaborate with them and see the future of healthcare and public health.”