Legislative Advocacy
Government affairs, advocacy or "lobbying" are usually considered to be dirty words. But the fact of the matter is that government relations affect both your patients and the stability of your profession. With a strong government relations program, SBCMS and CMA will increase both membership and its voice.
SBCMS is actively involved in medical-related legislation and issues at the federal, state and local levels. The society works closely with the California Medical Association to create awareness of physician concerns at the state capitol level and in Washington DC. Our staff, executive board members and Legislative Committee meet frequently with our local, state and federal representatives.
Click here for an overview of the March 2010 AMA National Advocacy Conference (NAC)
PACS
San Bernardino Physicians Political Action Committee (LOPAC)
The San Bernardino Political Action Committee (LOPAC) is bipartisan. Its goal is to support and elect pro-medicine candidates at the County and State level by making direct contributions to candidates seeking election to the California State Legislature for both the Assembly and Senate as well as to County Office.
California Medical Association Political Action Committee (CALPAC)
CMA's Political Action Committee is crucial for supporting and electing key members to the California Legislature. Many of these legislators hold significant leadership positions. Active participation in every election cycle ensures the election of candidates who share our philosophy toward the future of medicine. Critical issues affecting today's physicians are being decided at the local and state political levels at a rapid pace.
To find out more about hosting a fundraising event, making a contribution to either of these PAC's or to simply learn more about our efforts, please email Linda Stratton, SBCMS Executive Director, lstratton@sbcms.org or call 951-787-7700.
CMA's Legislative Hotlist
CMA's Legislative Hot List, distributed weekly during the legislative session, follows the progress of CMA-sponsored bills and other bills of interest to physicians as they move through the legislative process. Subscribe online at www.cmanet.org/news/hotlist.asp or call 916-551-2887.
CMA Legislative Day
Each spring the CMA coordinates an exciting day in Sacramento for physicians from throughout the state to visit with their state representatives and/or senior staff members to discuss healthcare related issues. Additionally, they provide an extensive morning session consisting of various key-note speakers briefing attendees on current legislation being endorsed or opposed by CMA. SBCMS coordinates the flights, legislative appointments, breakfast, lunch and dinner for nearly 50 SBCMS members each year. It's a full day at the capitol - but well worth the investment of time! To join us this April in Sacramento, please email your name and contact info to Lucy Garcia at lgarcia@sbcms.org or give Lucy a call at 951-787-7700.
CMA's Annual California Health Care Leadership Academy
Each spring the CMA sponsors an informative three-day leadership academy. Excellent speakers cover timely topics. An example - the 2010 Academy featured three main breakout tracks: health information technology, leadership skills development, and practice management. For information, contact Linda Sue Myers at SBCMS, 951/787-7700; lmyers@sbcms.org.
CMA House of Delegates
Hundreds of California physicians convene each October for the House of Delegates, the California Medical Association's annual meeting. Each year, physicians from all 53 California counties, representing all modes of practice, meet to discuss issues related to healthcare policy, medicine, and patient care.
