8th Annual Specialty Physician and Dentist Candidate Workshop a Great Success

Scores of physician and dentist leaders came together last month for the 2017 Specialty Physician and Dentist Candidate Workshop to learn what it takes to run for elected office. Experts in the field painted a comprehensive and realistic picture of the hard work running a successful campaign requires—from hours upon hours of research, to building a succinct and powerful message that clearly defines your story and purpose. Over two days, the event—jointly hosted by ASA, AAOS, NEMPAC, OB-GYNPAC, ADPAC, RADPAC, and AOIA-OPAC—covered a wealth of additional topics, including using political polls effectively; fundraising; and managing digital, direct mail, and television advertising.

ASA member and Texas State Representative Tom Oliverson, M.D., provided this year’s Campaign Case Study, sharing the story of his overwhelmingly successful run for office in the state’s House District 130. His discussion highlighted the necessity of working with an experienced and trusted consultant, the importance of “block walking” and connecting with your current neighbors and future constituents, and the intricacies involved in each and every step of the campaign journey.

Also in attendance was ASA-member Dr. Kayser Enneking, Professor Of Anesthesiology at the University of Florida College of Medicine, who is announcing her candidacy for office on July 1,2017. "It is a  terrific member benefit to be able to attend this very professional introduction into running for public office,” said Dr. Enneking.

The decision to run for public office requires significant planning, consideration, and dedication. But electing a medical professional into office is a great way to protect the future of the specialty. Who better to directly impact legislation than those with a thorough understanding of the unique challenges that physician anesthesiologists and other medical professionals and their patients face?

ASA continues to encourage members to run for local, state, and federal office and is pleased to offer the annual Specialty Physician and Dentist Candidate Workshop to assist in this endeavor.

The 9th Annual Specialty Physician and Dentist Candidate Workshop will take place in August 2018. We look forward to the continued nurturing and growth of the next generation of leaders.

For more information or questions about the Candidate Workshop, please contact Kyle Simerly at [email protected].