Here's What YOU Can Do to Become Involved

Become an IMPAC Member: Becoming a member of your Illinois State Medical Society Political Action Committee (IMPAC) is the easiest way to get involved in political action and to show that you care about the future of our profession. IMPAC is the voice of physicians and, unfortunately, our voice is not nearly as loud as those who do not have our best interests at heart — big business and insurance. If you are not yet an IMPAC member, you are not yet part of the solution.

Urge Your Colleagues to Become IMPAC Members: If you are an IMPAC member, you may be carrying the load for your colleagues who aren't. Let them know that it's all of our responsibility, not just yours. There are many convenient ways to become a member — join online at www.impaconline.org.

Meet with Your Candidates: We are deep into our election year right now — do you know your candidates? Do you know the views of those who will be making the important decisions affecting our profession? Let your candidates know you're listening. And watching. Invite your candidates to your county medical society meeting, hospital medical staff meeting, or simply meet them at their campaign office. Ask them where they stand on our issues: Fairness in Health Care Services Contracting, Workers' Compensation, Tort Reform — just to name a few. We can help you set up the meetings and provide you with materials and talking points. For a copy of IMPAC's candidate questionnaire, visit www.impaconline.org.

Ask For Time on Your Medical Staff's Next Meeting Agenda: Did you know your medical staff can also make an IMPAC donation? Several medical staffs have demonstrated their commitment to political action, including: Carle Clinic, Condell Medical Center, Mercy Hospital and Victory Memorial, just to name a few. No support by your medical staff means no support in Springfield. An IMPAC leader would be happy to come and talk to your medical staff on the importance of IMPAC support as well as what's going on in Springfield and D.C. Please ask your medical staff president to include IMPAC on the agenda at your next medical staff meeting.