Sometimes we disagree personally with some of our candidate’s positions, but their support of EM cannot be discounted. The political process works well if you continue to support NEMPAC‘s efforts to advance the interests of the specialty, and in your personal life, continue to support the elected officials you feel best represent your political views. It’s important to be objective in this matter, just as you practice medicine.

Emergency physicians are results driven, but sometimes NEMPAC’s results in politics and legislative successes on Capitol Hill can be difficult to measure (See “What Have You Done for Me Lately?” for a list of legislative wins and priorities).

How Can You Get Involved With NEMPAC?

Groups whose priorities are counter to ours are coming out to support their PACs with renewed vigor. Contributing to and participating with NEMPAC is like purchasing insurance for our specialty; we all need to make it a priority.

So how can you get involved and help us drive change?

1. Give-A-Shift: Join the more than 500 physicians who contribute one of their average shifts to NEMPAC each year, and receive many benefits including opportunities to network with leaders of ACEP and attend local fundraising events on behalf of NEMPAC.
2. Talk to NEMPAC: The NEMPAC Board and staff rely on the advice and recommendations of NEMPAC donors and state chapter leaders when evaluating candidates, especially in races where there is no incumbent. Stay informed of the congressional races in your area and reach out to the NEMPAC Board and staff if you have input. All NEMPAC donors receive the NEMPAC Pulse, our quarterly newsletter filled with information about national politics, legislative initiatives and ACEP members who are making a difference through their advocacy efforts for the specialty.

Instead of burying our heads in in the sand, hoping this too will pass or coming up with more “PACscuses,” we ask to work together on the making the environment better for our specialty and patients.

For more information or to get involved, go to the NEMPAC website.

Dr. Jacoby is chairman of the NEMPAC Board of Trustees.

Ms. Slade is director of political affairs at ACEP.