To get a clear understanding of ACEP’s Council and how it functions, access ACEP’s Council 101 Webinar.

Hosted by Council Speaker Melissa Costello, MD, FACEP, and Vice Speaker Michael McCrea, MD, FACEP, the webinar also featured insights from past Council leaders and experienced participants to demystify the process and empower members to engage confidently.

In the webinar, Dr. Costello and Dr. McCrea explain that Councillors are selected through their local ACEP Chapters or constituency groups such as Sections, the Young Physicians Section, or Emergency Medicine Residents Association (EMRA). Each chartered body receives a specific number of Councillor seats based on its membership size. For example, larger state chapters may have several Councillors, whereas smaller ones may only have one. Sections and other constituency groups may also be allotted representation depending on their size and activity.

Dr. McCrea noted that “the Council is a representative democracy. Members don’t vote directly, but they elect or appoint Councillors to vote on their behalf. It’s a great honor and responsibility.”

The webinar began with an explanation of structural and procedural aspects of the Council. Dr. Costello explained that the Council is governed by Robert’s Rules of Order, and its deliberative structure is designed to ensure equity of voice, order in debate, and clarity in outcomes. The roles of the speaker and vice speaker were also discussed in detail.

A portion of the session focused on the mechanics of resolution writing and submission.

Resolutions are the vehicle by which ACEP policy is created. Any member, Section, or Chapter can propose a resolution, which then goes through a reference committee process before reaching the full Council floor. The reference committees, made up of Council volunteers, hear testimony on each resolution and make recommendations.

Dr. Costello emphasized that good testimony matters.

“Whether you’re speaking in favor, against, or suggesting amendments, your voice helps shape the final product,” she said.

Dr. Costello and Dr. McCrea stressed preparation as key to effective participation. Delegates are expected to read the resolutions in advance, understand their implications, and consult with their chapters or sections for guidance. Technology was also discussed, with a walk-through of the electronic voting system and how delegates can follow the debate, raise points of order, and track amendments in real-time. There was also a brief overview of how to engage in Council testimony, both live and in writing.

Closing out the session, both speakers reminded attendees that the Council is not just a governance body. It’s a vibrant gathering of leaders shaping the future of emergency medicine. It represents a rare and essential opportunity for practicing physicians to directly influence their professional organization’s policies and priorities.

“If you want to make a difference in emergency medicine, the Council is the place to do it,” Dr. Costello said. “Come prepared, speak up, and remember that your voice truly matters.”

Mr. Scheid is ACEP’s Communications Director.