|
|
"Education, Advocacy, Leadership" |
Now that the General Election is over, hospitals are encouraged to establish or solidify relationships with those who will represent them in Washington, D.C., and in Austin. Hospital trustees are encouraged to make contact with newly elected members of Congress and the Texas Legislature in their districts, and to invite them to visit the hospital between now and January. THA is providing resources to help hospitals host legislative visits. Materials are online at http://www.texashospitalsonline.org/legislativevisit. Contact me at 512/465-1051 or by e-mail or Amanda Engler, APR, at 512/465-1026 or aengler@tha.org for assistance.
AAMC projects growing shortage of physicians
A new report from the Association of American Medical Colleges projects the U.S. will face a shortage of 124,000 physicians by 2025, citing population growth, aging and other factors. “Simply educating and training more physicians will not be enough to address these shortages,” the report states. “Complex changes such as improving efficiency, reconfiguring the way some services are delivered and making better use of our physicians will also be needed.” In 2006, the association recommended a 30 percent increase in U.S. medical school enrollment and expanding Graduate Medical Education positions to accommodate an anticipated shortage of physicians.
An opportunity to hone your advocacy skills
Register now for the Health Care Policy Workshop at the THA Leadership Conference on Jan. 21-22 at the Hilton Austin Hotel. Harvey Kronberg, a noted political analyst in Austin, will discuss the dynamics that will drive the legislative session. We'll get an advocacy update from Michelle Apodaca with THA and Don McBeath with TORCH. Marsha Borling, a dynamic speaker, will offer insight on how trustees can lead their organizations through the challenging times ahead. Steve Berkowitz, M.D., medical director with St. David's HealthCare in Austin, will outline ways the board can take an active role in physician retention. Also, we're pleased to be able to offer trustees a unique learning opportunity, the AHA Advocacy Pilot Program. This two-hour, highly interactive program is designed to equip trustees to speak out and take action on the important issues. For more information on attending, click here.
The Next Generation of Trustees
Mark A. Maples Member, Board of Managers
Faith Community Hospital, Jacksboro
How long have you been on your hospital/health system board?
Eight months.
Why did you choose to become a board member of a health care organization?
To have an active role in the quality of health care in the community.
What have you found most rewarding from your board service?
The knowledge gained and responsibilities involved in governing a health care facility. Work with other board members.
| |
