A number of physician anesthesiologists are thinking beyond traditional relationship development and maintenance with their lawmakers and engaging in broader approaches. For example, several ASA members recently served their respective state legislatures as “Doctor of the Day.” This volunteer program exists in some states through an agreement between the legislature and the state medical association. It allows a physician to serve his or her state legislature one day during legislative session in case there are any medical emergencies. The physician also has the opportunity to interact with legislators on the state House and Senate floors.
In several states, a physician may volunteer to serve as “Doctor of the Day” by reaching out to his or her state medical association and completing a short application form. This is a great opportunity to both serve legislators and have them remember you as a physician leader.
Some of the ASA members who have...