A Government Affairs Focus
A crucial component of ACR chapter annual meetings is the business meeting, which often involves a discussion of both federal and state legislative issues that affect radiologists. As chapter leaders plan annual meetings, they should look to the ACR Government Relations Department as a valuable resource for disseminating crucial information to members. To give a better understanding of the technical aspects of federal and state government affairs issues, staff are available to assist in developing presentations that are tailored to the particular interests and needs of each chapter.
For example, at recent chapter meetings in Nebraska and Alabama, Ariel Gonzáles, ACR state legislative specialist, spoke about inappropriate utilization of diagnostic imaging, on the federal and state levels; physician fee schedule information; federal medical liability reform efforts; and RADPAC involvement in federal campaigns. He also discussed ways chapters can become more politically involved at the state level.
In addition to annual meetings, chapters often conduct advocacy days, when member radiologists visit their state capital to speak directly with their legislators about such issues as inappropriate utilization and medical liability reform. The ACR can provide staff support for these events as well. Speaking personally with legislators is often the most effective tool in helping them to understand radiologists' concerns about current issues.
The ACR encourages each chapter to educate and mobilize members about legislative issues and advocacy. Government relations staff stand ready to offer support, information, and leadership. Contact Trina Madison in Council and Chapter Programs to request programming assistance for speakers. She can be reached at (703) 648-8998 or trinam@acr.org.