Advocate Spotlight: Dr. Amy Watson
Dr. Amy Watson is an advocate for children's health and safety in New Hampshire. As a dedicated pediatrician, Dr. Watson brings her medical expertise to her advocacy work, making her a powerful voice for our youngest residents.
As the owner and operator of Breakthrough Pediatrics in Concord, as well as a Pediatric Hospitalist at Portsmouth Regional Hospital where she primarily cares for newborns, Dr. Watson has devoted her professional life to pediatric medicine. She recognized her calling to pediatrics early in her medical career, and has always aimed to advocate for what is best for her patients and all children in New Hampshire.
In the current legislative session, Dr. Watson has emerged as a leading voice against several concerning bills that would restrict immunization access for kids and families. Her current priority is focused on ensuring New Hampshire children have access to no-cost immunizations.
Dr. Watson's advocacy extends beyond the legislative arena into her daily practice. She takes particular pride in accompanying her patients to specialist appointments when her schedule allows. "I'm able to directly advocate for them during the appointment and coordinate with the other physician in real time, which is a win-win!" she explains. This hands-on approach to patient advocacy demonstrates her commitment to providing comprehensive care that extends beyond the walls of her practice.
Her journey with New Futures began through social media when she started posting about House Bill 524, which would’ve ended our state's current system for providing access to vaccines for children. She helped spread awareness about the harmful impact of this bill and provided important insight into what it would mean for medical practices, kids, and families across New Hampshire.
Among her favorite advocacy memories is her first time testifying at the State House, where she spoke at a public hearing to oppose HB 524. She then went on to testify against three more bills that would decrease immunization rates and harm community health in New Hampshire.
"New Futures has been a joy to work with and so incredibly informative and helpful to me as my advocacy efforts grow," she shares about her experience working with New Futures. For those considering becoming advocates themselves, Dr. Watson offers encouraging advice: "Don't be afraid to get involved! For me, I was initially very intimidated, but organizations like New Futures make advocacy fun and easy. And it feels really good to speak up and take action!!"
Thank you, Dr. Watson, for your dedication to advocating for children's health and well-being in New Hampshire!
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