Dr. Lloyd Stegemann, Chairman of the State Chapter Committee, held a series of conference calls during the month of December with surgeons interested in forming an ASMBS State Chapter in their state. Participation from ASMBS members was excellent and several states are now in the planning stages for starting a state chapter. If you were unable to make the call but would like to participate in helping form a state chapter in your state, please send an e-mail to the committee liaison nooriel@asmbs.org or myself lhstegemann@yahoo.com. We will make sure your name is passed along to the appropriate people in your state that have begun the organization process.

Several states have expressed interest in getting help to work through the process of becoming a state chapter. In response to this need, the leadership of the ASMBS has directed Dr. Stegemann and Joe Nadglowski, President of the Obesity Action Coalition, to put together a half-day symposium (see below) that will help states walk through the process of becoming a state chapter and provide information on how to run an effective state chapter. Several states are now looking at dates and locations to hold this symposium in their state. Please be on the lookout for e-mails regarding the symposium coming to your area and make sure you attend to have your voice heard in the formation of your ASMBS State Chapter.

Lloyd Stegemann, MD, FASMBS
Chair, State and Local Chapters Committee

Starting an ASMBS State Chapter Educational Symposium

Why Chapters are becoming even more important?
• Access To care
• • Essential Health Benefits
• • State budget issues threatening coverage
• Quality Improvement
• Education

The role of Chapters
• Case Study – Texas Chapter and their role in advocacy and insurance coverage.
• Case Study – Michigan Chapter and their role in quality improvement
• Case Study – California (or maybe NY or NJ) Chapter and their role in education.

The Basics of Starting A Chapter
• Organization
• Structure/bylaws/filings
• Dues collection and administration
• Funding

A Chapter’s First Year
• Regular Board meetings
• Building relationships with your elected officials
• Social and educational events