On a sunny spring evening, more than 50 physicians and physician assistant members and potential members gathered at the Hilton Riverwalk Terrace in Wilmington to ‘mix and mingle’ with each other and members of the North Carolina Medical Society (NCMS) Board of Directors. With the NCMS’ new governance system making the Board the policy-making body, this was an opportunity to discuss issues of importance in a casual, friendly setting.
Just before the social gathering, the NCMS Board met with representatives of the New Hanover Pender County Medical Society to hear their thoughts and concerns. NCMS staff gave brief updates on Medicaid reform and scope of practice issues.
Darrell Hester, MD, an ophthalmologist in Wilmington, asked what the role of the county societies is in this new system.
“How do we put our intellects together and do something good with it?” Dr. Hester asked. He also wondered what the voting process would be for officers and the Board. NCMS Deputy EVP Shawn Scott reported that a firm has been hired to distribute and tally ballots from the NCMS membership for the available Board positions. The NCMS would hold its annual business meeting to install the newly elected officers as part of the new M3 Conference on Saturday, Sept. 17, at the Grandover Resort and Hotel in Greensboro. [See article on the conference in this issue of the Bulletin.]
“We need to be a responsive, inclusive policymaking body,” said NCMS Board member Jeff Runge, MD. “This board understands its fiduciary responsibility to its constituents. We’ve been responsive when groups of people have requested to come speak to the Board. I hope that the word gets out that this process only works if the groups participate. Communication is very important.”
NCMS President Docia Hickey, MD, introduces Board members at the March Madness Mix and Mingle in Wilmington.
Schedule of upcoming Board events:
- May 13-15, Cary
- July 15-16, Charlotte
- 15-18, Greensboro
- 3, Raleigh
You also may submit your policy suggestions and concerns to the Board via our online form. Remember to watch your Bulletin and email for other opportunities to weigh in on issues of importance to you and your profession.
