PathNET is the CAP's grassroots advocacy network, a resource for CAP members to connect with their elected officials at the federal and state level. Through PathNET, pathologists can build relationships with their legislators and assist the CAP in achieving our legislative goals.
Grassroots advocacy is at the root of driving change at the federal and state level on health care policies that will impact pathologists' ability to practice and protect the patients they serve. A strong network of volunteers with a strong presence in a legislator's district is critical to successful legislative action. Over 800 pathologists volunteer for PathNET, the CAP's grassroots advocacy network, to build relationships and educate Congress and state legislators on issues important to pathology. PathNET members are called to action and earn points for grassroots activities they complete.
Join the Grassroots Network
Join PathNET to receive important action alerts, updates on legislative issues impacting pathology, and to learn about other ways to get engaged in grassroots advocacy. PathNET volunteers have opportunities to receive recognition for the advocacy work they do.
Member Benefits
Participants will gain the knowledge and expertise to advocate effectively to their members of Congress and state legislators, with the support from the CAP staff. PathNET members are eligible to receive the PathNET quarterly newsletters, specialized action alerts, as well as support when setting up meetings or laboratory tours with their members of Congress. PathNET members will also get access to the resources that will enable them to develop a relationship with their representatives and are eligible to be featured in the PathNET newsletter and Advocacy Update. Contact Jake Caccavaro or PathNET@cap.org with questions.
Terms of Enrollment
- The certificate program will run on an annual basis and points will reset on December 31, 2024.
- CAP members must earn at least seven points by December 31, 2024 to earn the certificate at their level.
- PathNET members are encouraged to aim for the highest level. The highest point earners will be eligible for a series of recognition throughout the year.
View the PathNET Leaderboard here.
Eligible Point Category
| Point Categories | Maximum Point Value |
|---|---|
| Responded to 3 action alerts | 3 |
| Signed up for text alerts | 1 |
| Attended the Pathologists Leadership Summit and Hill Day | 3 |
| Supported the PathPAC at the Supporter, Representative's Club or Senator's Club level | 1 |
| Supported PathPAC at the Vice President's Club level | 2 |
| Supported PathPAC at the President's Club level or Chairman's Circle level | 3 |
| Invited CAP members to join PathNET (email them and copy PathNET@cap.org) | 1 |
| Become a member of your State Society | 1 |
| Completed and passed the Grassroots Advocacy Learning Module | 2 |
| Submitted an Op-ed/Letter to the editor | 2 |
| Gave a Grassroots pitch in a CAP committee or counsel meeting | 2 |
| Hosted a laboratory tour with their member of Congress or state legislator | 3 |
| Met with their member of Congress (outside of the Hill Day), state legislator, or attended a fundraiser | 3 |
Tools for Advocates
The resources below are ways to engage with your member of Congress or state legislator. If you have completed any of the activities below in 2024, let CAP grassroots advocacy staff know.
Track your grassroots advocacy activities achieved in 2024.
- Invite your member of Congress or state legislator to do a laboratory tour at your facility.
- Connect with your members of Congress. Learn how to schedule a personal meeting, call your legislator, attend a town hall meeting, write a letter to the editor, or send a thank you note.
- View the Guide to Congressional Staff and Roles.
- Take the CAP's grassroots advocacy course. This course will teach you how the legislative process works, some of the CAP's key health care issues, and the committees of jurisdiction the CAP tracks.
- If you're having trouble accessing the module, check these troubleshooting tips (PDF).
Contact Information
Please direct questions and comments about PathNET to:
Lauren DePutter
Director of Political Programs