Do not send a form letter
Legislators are less likely to give a letter their time if little time was put into it.

Use the proper title
Either "The Honorable " or "Representative " and "Senator."

Be brief
A one page letter is generally sufficient.

State your purpose clearly in the first paragraph
Use the remainder of the letter to expand on your views.

Use factual arguments
Let your legislator know why this is important to you, your profession and your patients.

Include the bill number
This lets your legislator know what legislation you are communicating about.

Don't use jargon
If the legislator does not understand the language in your letter, your message will be lost.

Be polite
A positive-sounding letter will be much better received than a cursing, threatening one.

Thank the legislator
Invite him or her to discuss the issue further with you in person.

Be sure to include
Your name and address on the letter as well as the envelope. Also include your address in e-mail messages -- that's how legislators know you are their constituent. Include a telephone number in case the legislator has questions.