This past month at the Leadership Forum in Las Vegas I had the pleasure of presenting the Chapter Award for Education to the Colorado Chapter for its unprecedented efforts aimed at increasing member’s professionalism, awareness of key issues and satisfaction of work.

On the professionalism side, the chapter focused a number of educational activities designed to foster relationships between cardiovascular professionals and patients. The chapter hosted monthly “Walk With A Doc” programs that provided education and exercise to an average of 40 patients per walk. Most recently, the Colorado Chapter launched a state-wide initiative to improve patient outcomes from atrial fibrillation (Afib). The program involves educating caregivers and patients about Afib and the proper treatment to reduce reoccurrences.

Several other programs focused on increasing chapter member knowledge on key issues ranging from malpractice reforms to preventive cardiology. Back by popular demand, a 2nd annual all-day CME meeting focusing on preventative cardiology, "How To Prevent A Stroke,” while a separate program conducted in partnership with the state malpractice insurance company focused on initiating a malpractice reform for cerebral palsy patients. The chapter also held a large variety of scientific and networking events on topics of nuclear cardiology, pharmacology, atrial fibrillation, and more.

The Chapter also developed several unique programs just for its Fellows in Training. One such program worked with a local University’s training program to encourage FITs to become active with the ACC, while several other FIT-focused educational events provided opportunities for the next generation of cardiovascular professionals to learn from local lawyers, stockbrokers, and business managers on topics critical to running a practice and increasing work satisfaction. Looking ahead, the Colorado Chapter is planning to host a national boot camp for ACC FITs on medical liability reform that will address how best to communicate with patients, families, and staff to alleviate potential sources of malpractice.

All of these reasons and more are why BOG Chair-Elect Dipti Itchhaporia and I presented Thomas Haffey, DO, FACC, governor of the Colorado Chapter with the award for Education. We are well aware that all of these programs require time, effort and dedication from the chapter leaders and its members. Kudos to Colorado for showing us how to successfully bring additional educational programming to its members!

What types of educational programming would you like to see in your local area?

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