Renee D. Reid, MD

              “I have been practicing emergency medicine for over a decade and, along with others; have witnessed the growing polarization of our specialty. ACEP faces many new challenges with the rapid rise of membership in the American Academy of Emergency Medicine (AAEM) and their grassroots appeal to emergency physicians using the platform of opposition to contract groups. Therefore, it is both an honor and a challenge to be nominated for the VACEP Board of Directors.

              As an active faculty member of an EM training residency program, the issue of specialty representation is a ready topic of discussion. I believe some of this debate results from many EM physicians, especially residents, not having an appreciation for the work that ACEP does behind the scenes promoting the interests of emergency care. An essential part of our mission should be to educate EM residents about the efforts of ACEP and the subsequent benefits to our specialty, that are unmatched by any other professional organization. In fact, one of the most powerful influences of ACEP, especially in Virginia, relates to the organization’s lobbying efforts on a regional and national level, which are generally overlooked and often unnoticed. 

              As the number of EM physicians trained in Virginia increases, it is critical that ACEP has a strong presence within training programs. This is important to bolster the membership and support for VACEP, especially as these residents graduate and begin to work throughout our communities. It is essential that we make an investment early on in their training to educate them and develop creative strategies to involve them in VaCEP and maintain their participation. They are the future leaders of our specialty and national organization.

             There are currently many members at my own institution, that have a tremendous amount to offer VACEP but who are yet to affiliate. As a Director, it will be one of my personal goals to reclaim former members and to cultivate new memberships, with a special emphasis on recent graduates.

              In summary, as a member of the VACEP Board of Directors, I will work to promote the specialty of emergency medicine for the benefit of all of our members, with a special emphasis on those in-training within Virginia. I appreciate your consideration for the position.”