Governmental actions affect our lives and the lives of our fellow citizens in a variety of ways. This is certainly true for both the conduct of biomedical research and the provision of medical care. Governmental policy-makers require accurate information upon which to base their decisions. Stroke researchers and clinicians are uniquely suited to provide the facts, figures and statistics to help these officials weigh alternative options, and need to become actively involved in the advocacy efforts of their professional organizations. Although written from the perspective of the United States, the issues raised are relevant throughout the world.