ASA is dedicated to the education and promotion of its members so they can achieve their full potential as physicians and leaders. To accomplish these goals, both the organization and its members must learn to be effective advocates – for their patients and for the specialty of anesthesiology. Effective advocacy is difficult, however, without recognizing the importance of diversity. As demographics of the U.S. population change and the number of women and minorities entering the specialty of anesthesiology increases, efforts to incorporate this diverse membership will result in an improved understanding of and connection to our patients. Having decision-makers who are fully engaged and personally aware of the unique barriers and opportunities different patients bring to the table creates organizational policies that will result in improved health care.
A diverse leadership also yields a more effective advocacy message for our organization: it shows the true face of ASA and demonstrates...
