ACS delegation shapes policy at AMA HOD meeting
Surgical caucus
In addition to facilitating an agenda review and business meeting for surgeons, anesthesiologists, and emergency physicians, the caucus sponsored a popular education session, Hazards of the Deep: Trauma in Paradise. Michael Hayashi, MD, FACS, Chair of the Hawaii Committee on Trauma, discussed system challenges in caring for injured patients from geographically remote and less populated areas. Lieutenant Matthew Brown, MC, USN, an undersea/diving medical officer stationed at Pearl Harbor, HI, shared insights about injuries and medical conditions experienced by scuba divers, swimmers, surfers, and other beach enthusiasts.
Leadership transition
After extended service on the delegation, including eight years as Chair, Dr. Armstrong bid “aloha” to the HOD as a retiring delegate. Dr. Turner has accepted the role as Chair, maintaining continued College leadership in the HOD.
Next meeting
The next meeting of the AMA HOD is scheduled for June 9–13 in Chicago, IL. In addition to debate on numerous issues, elections for AMA officers, trustees, and councils will be held at the meeting. Surgeons with suggestions for potential resolutions or questions about ACS activities at the AMA HOD should e-mail ahp@facs.org
ACS Delegation at the AMA HOD
John H. Armstrong, MD, FACS (Delegation Chair), acute care surgery, Tampa, FL
Brian J. Gavitt, MD, MPH (also Young Physicians Section delegate), general surgery, Cincinnati, OH
Jacob Moalem, MD, FACS, general surgery, Rochester, NY
Leigh A. Neumayer, MD, FACS, general surgery, Tucson, AZ; Chair, ACS Board of Regents
Naveen F. Sangji, MD (also Resident and Fellow Section delegate), general surgery resident, Boston, MA
Patricia L. Turner, MD, FACS, general surgery, Chicago, IL; Director, ACS Division of Member Services; member and immediate past-chair, AMA Council on Medical EducationDr. Armstrong is affiliate associate professor of surgery, University of South Florida Morsani College of Medicine, Tampa, and former Florida Surgeon General and Secretary of Health (2012–2016). He is a member, ACS Health Policy and Advocacy Group, and Past-Chair, ACS Professional Association political action committee (ACSPA-SurgeonsPAC).
Mr. Sutton is Manager, State Affairs, ACS Division of Advocacy and Health Policy.
