 Cynthia Romero, M.D. |
BY SHERI PORTER
"They truly welcomed me with open arms," said Cynthia Romero, M.D., of Virginia Beach, Va., reflecting on her one-year term representing new physicians -- those in practice seven or fewer years -- on the AAFP Board of Directors. Because Romero was the first to hold this new seat on the Board (she was installed at the October 2002 Scientific Assembly in San Diego), FP Report asked Romero to share some thoughts about the past 11 months of her tenure.
Q: What have you enjoyed most about your position on the Board?
A: It's been an extremely productive year. What an enlightening experience to sit at the table with such dedicated, committed and passionate family physicians. It was an opportunity for me to work with individuals who keep their eyes on the bigger cause -- finding the best way to serve our colleagues across the country -- as we provide quality care to our patients.
Q: Do you feel you were able to influence Board decisions?
A: Yes. The Board has given me great respect and the freedom to express my opinions. In fact, in the beginning, Board members specifically asked me if I had anything to share. I've never felt intimidated, just humbled. The extent to which Board members take the time to listen to my perspective on issues goes far beyond what I had imagined.
Q: What specific issues has the Board tackled during your term?
A: The biggest issue has been the electronic health records project -- it was on the agenda at my first Board meeting. This project has brought the AAFP national attention and respect. Widespread implementation of an EHR system will help family physicians improve patient safety, promote quality of patient care and bring increased efficiency to our practices.
I've made it a point to share my views on topics that address specific needs of new physicians. I am sensitive to the needs of those members since I'm living through the same issues. Specific topics included providing discounts for CME programs and how to disseminate to new physicians practical "how-to" practice information on topics such as hiring and firing staff, managing supplies, and improving record keeping.
Q: How has this experience changed you?
A: Because of what I've seen at the Board level, I'm looking forward to a long, promising career in family practice. I'm more aware of the need to reach out to young minds -- students in medical school, college or even elementary school -- to show young people the quality of life we have as family physicians. I've seen the benefits of good organizational leadership, and that has convinced me to continue to seek leadership roles.
Q: Do you have any regrets?
A: My only regret is that this experience is coming to an end. My time on the Board has been limited, but I know that I have opened the door for physicians coming in behind me. It's time for someone else to enjoy this experience.
Q: Should the new physician Board seat be continued?
A: Yes, absolutely. Clearly, a physician who has been in practice fewer than seven years has a unique perspective on the issues that all family physicians face. In fact, I wish it were possible for all members to take Academy leadership roles at some point in time so they could see the good work that goes on at the Board level.
Editor's note: If approved by AAFP's Congress of Delegates in early October in New Orleans, Lisa Corum, M.D., of Fort Mill, S.C., will take over Romero's duties as new physician representative on the Board of Directors.
To reach writer Sheri Porter, e-mail sporter@aafp.org.
FP Report is published by the AAFP
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Copyright © 2003 by
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