Eva’s Excerpt November 2024

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Ready to Vote?

This upcoming election presents a pivotal opportunity for you to make an impact on the policies that shape the field of medicine and the health of our communities. Yet, statistics have consistently shown that physicians are less likely to vote. A study published in JAMA Internal Medicine in 2018 revealed that, during federal elections, physicians have a voting rate approximately 20% lower than the general population. A 2021 Journal of General Internal Medicine article showed that physicians were 12% less likely, registered nurses 10% less likely, and physician assistants 11% less likely to vote than the general population. Given the demands of training and practice, finding the time and resources to vote can be challenging. Here are a few key things to consider:

  • Ensure you are registered to vote. You can check your registration status online.
  • Research the people and issues on your specific ballot. Information can be found at:
  • Develop a plan for voting:
    • Decide about whether you want to vote early, absentee or in person on day of. Take advantage of early or absentee voting if you can. Be sure to look up the hours before you go. I voted at Schlafly Library on Saturday to avoid crowds and because I have a nutty schedule on Election Day. Plus, it decreased my stress to just be done!
    • Identify a polling location that works for you.
    • Block time in your calendar to vote – if you have not done this already, do it now! Election Day, polls are open from 6 AM to 7 PM. If you are in line by 7PM you are entitled to vote.
    • Remember to bring a valid government-issued photo ID.
  • St. Louis City Polling Locations can be found here. In addition, you can vote in the McDonnell Sciences Building on election day.
  • St. Louis County Polling Locations can be found here. In addition, you can vote in the Danforth Athletic Complex on election day.
  • Illinois polling place Locations can be found here.
  • The Gephardt Institute provides comprehensive resources to address any voting-related questions you may have.
  • Recognize that this is a stressful time for many – students, residents, faculty, and staff.
    • The Gephardt has a variety of events to support you during this time
  • SOM specific events include:
    • Post-Election Mental Health Open House with Dr. Gladys Smith | No RSVP needed
      Gain tips on managing election-related anxiety and speak from a licensed therapist.
      Date: Wednesday, November 6, 11:00AM – 1:00PM
      Location: FLTC 208
    • Post-Election Animal Therapy with WU-PD Dogs | No RSVP needed
      Take a break with our furry friends! De-stress with the WU-PD therapy dogs.
      Date: Thursday, November 7, 12:00PM – 1:00PM
      Location: FLTC 402
    • Community Caminos (Community Walks) | No RSVP needed
      Practice mindfulness, build community, and connect on a walk to Forest Park.
      Dates: Thursday, November 7 and Thursday, November 14, 2:30PM
      Meeting Location: FLTC Atrium
    • TruFusion Barefoot Bootcamp Class | RSVP Link | Limited to 60 spots!
      Get moving with this heated, full body bootcamp to release stress.
      Date: Saturday, November 9, 9:00AM
      Location: TruFusion – Foundry (3730 Foundry Way, St Louis, MO 63110)
    • Sound Bath Session with Steve Coleman | RSVP Link | Yoga mats provided.
      Experience the calming effects of sound therapy with this relaxing sound journey.
      Date: Monday, November 11, 3:00PM
      Location: Danforth Chapel (between CRB & Shell Café)
    • Laughter Yoga with Gayle Rose | RSVP Link
      Boost your mood and laugh your stress away with Laughter Yoga!
      Date: Tuesday, November 12, 3:00PM
      Location: FLTC 404

There are also many events on the Danforth Campus (WUSTL key required) which we hope you will consider attending.

Let’s work together to increase voter turnout among medical professionals and ensure that our voices are heard loud and clear in the policy-making arena. And let’s take care of ourselves and each other during this often-stressful time. Remember, your vote counts. Use it!