Sponsored by the Illinois Society of Eye Physicians & Surgeons in conjunction with the American Academy of Ophthalmology
Background Information
Each year the American Academy of Ophthalmology holds an Advocacy Day and Mid-Year Forum in Washington, DC. The purpose of this event is to look at and discuss the concerns facing us as physicians, and to use our constructive energy to create solutions. During Advocacy Day, residents who participate in the "Ambassador" program are placed in teams with ophthalmologists from their local area and have the opportunity to meet with their senators and representatives. They will get a first-hand experience with the political process and how to communicate effectively as a physician regarding the concerns we have about the healthcare system as it pertains to our patients. Following Advocacy Day is the Mid-Year Forum which is a two day conference. It is a symposium for the leadership of the Academy and allied organizations to identify and discuss critical issues facing ophthalmology; to provide input and advice to the Academy Board of Trustees; and to encourage cross-fertilization, communication, and cooperation among the leadership in ophthalmology. This is a great experience for any resident interested in learning more about political advocacy, leadership, and healthcare issues.
An Opportunity for Illinois Residents
The Illinois Society of Eye Physicians & Surgeons is pleased to financially support with a stipend several residents as our "Ambassadors" to the AAO Advocacy Day and Mid Year Forum. ISEPS will provide a "flat" stipend of up to $1,000 to help cover airfare and hotel. We strongly encourage the resident's training program to consider funding any additional expenses over and above the ISEPS funding.
Who is eligible to apply?
Any resident currently enrolled in an accredited ophthalmology residency program in Illinois.
When is it?
The 2014 Advocacy Day and MidYear Forum is April 9-12, 2014, in Washington, D.C.
What are the requirements to apply to be an ISEPS ambassador?
Please send an email letter to ISEPS Immediate Past-president and Young Ophthalmologist coordinator, Dr. Chris Albanis. In the email, please answer the following questions:
Name
Training program
Year of ophthalmology training
Please complete the sentence or answer all of the following questions in 5 sentences or less for each:
I would like to attend the AAO MYF because:
During my journey, I hope to gain a greater understanding of:
Physicians should advocate for:
Physician should advocate because:
The Affordable Care Act (ACA) impacts several aspects of healthcare. In your eyes, what is the most significant impact the ACA will/might have on physicians?
The subject line of the email should read: "Application for Resident Ambassador Program"
If selected, you will be expected to make a short presentation to your fellow residents at your specific program and/or at the CCO conferences to share your experiences after the MidYear Forum. Also, we require that you submit a short witten statement describing your experience to the ISEPS Board. The deadline for the application is FEBRUARY 28th, 2014. But, we encourage you to submit your request as soon as possible. If you have any questions, feel free to contact the ISEPS executive director, Rich Paul, at [email protected].
