MESSAGE FROM THE PRESIDENT

Let’s Build a Medical Majority

As we approach the mid-term elections, the Chicago Medical Society is monitoring races in Illinois and Cook County. Like it or not, we physicians are part of the political process. CMS needs your help reaching out in the fall campaigns so we can build a solid legislative “medical majority.” We support candidates from both sides of the political aisle, as well as independent voices.

With campaign season underway, CMS’ advocacy program is in full swing, with ongoing legislative breakfasts and mini-internships. Our online voter voice advocacy center provides updates on new and pending legislative issues. You can use it to find out who your legislators are and how they voted on key issues.

The Illinois State Medical Society’s non-partisan political action committee, IMPAC, surveys candidates to find out their positions on important issues pertaining to patient care and physician practice. Members can view the candidate questionnaire and other factors IMPAC relies on to make endorsements on the ISMS website.

Most of this year’s drama involves our hotly-contested governor’s race, with Bruce Rauner promising to shake up Springfield, and Pat Quinn touting his record of reform. U.S. House races in Illinois’ 18 legislative districts include several close contests in Cook County. State Senator James Oberweis hopes to unseat incumbent U.S. Senator Richard Durbin. And on the judicial front, numerous circuit court judges are up for retention.

Many of us overlook the dozens of unknown judges whose names appear on the ballot. But they deserve our attention. Why? Elected circuit court judges need to receive only 60% “yes” votes to stay on the bench. Second, once in office, they seldom get voted out. These individuals have a tremendous impact on the lives of ordinary citizens. Various organizations provide pocket-sized judicial recommendations for citizens to take into the voting booth.

The November ballots will include several statewide advisory questions. Cook County voters will be asked about their support for banning the sale of assault weapons and universal background checks for firearm transfers. The ballot will also ask if the state should provide more funding for mental health treatment.

As someone who takes a strong personal interest in building legislative relationships, I urge you to talk with or even volunteer to be a CMS “Key Contact.” These individuals are trained to cultivate relationships with local or state representatives, and receive ongoing support in this endeavor from CMS. Key Contacts also communicate our policies and positions to lawmakers, and report back to colleagues.

Given the upcoming elections, 2014 is the right year for physicians to build more allies. Policy outcomes are shaped by politicians who are informed by their constituents on detailed matters. And as we all know, if you are not part of the political process, you are left out of the decisions that affect your life and livelihood. We must speak up for our voice to be heard. Our future is at stake.

Kenneth G. Busch, MD
President, Chicago Medical Society