I would like to emphasize that the College’s leadership does not see development of a QCDR as just a way to try to stave off attacks on reimbursement and facilitate measure development. We believe it is the right thing to do. We believe it is a legitimate vehicle to help us improve quality and achieve our mission to help provide the highest quality emergency care.

ACEP to Conduct Comprehensive Affiliate Member Study

At this year’s Council meeting, held Oct. 25–26 in Chicago, members of the Council voted to commission a comprehensive study and report on the feasibility of creating a non-voting, non–office-holding membership category for individuals not currently eligible for full, active membership. This report, including the financial and advocacy impact of membership expansion, will be presented to the Council in Boston at ACEP15 next October.

This issue deserves the kind of attention to detail and exhaustive study that will take nearly a year to complete. A pro-con article about affiliate membership was published in the August issue of ACEP Now, and the dozens of letters to the editor in response show that our members have strong feelings on each side. ACEP members should know that we will research this issue in depth and give a comprehensive report next year to the Council.

Thanks to Volunteers, Leaders, and Staff

Thank you for all you have done this year to help us make progress in our mission. National ACEP and our chapters are blessed to have great volunteer member leadership and talented, dedicated staff.

Mr. Wilkerson is ACEP’s Executive Director.