Frequently Asked Questions
What is the National Conference of Special Constituencies?
An outlet for change, the National Conference of Special Constituencies (NCSC) integrates the perspectives and concerns of AAFP members from underrepresented constituencies. This is the place where you can develop your voice and make yourself heard. NCSC gives you the chance to become an articulate policy advocate, build leadership skills, elect national officers, and meet others that share common interests.
What are the AAFP’s special constituencies?
The five constituencies with representation at NCSC are:
- Women physicians
- Minority physicians
- New physicians (in first seven years of practice following residency completion)
- International medical graduates (graduates of medical schools outside of the U.S., Canada, and Puerto Rico)
- Gay, lesbian, bisexual, and transgender physicians (those who identify as GLBT or who are supportive of GLBT issues)
Who can participate?
The reference committees and business session are open to anyone attending NCSC. To vote on resolutions and in the elections, you must be a Chapter Delegate. If you are interested in participating as a Chapter Delegate, contact your chapter executive. Or you can register as a general registrant and still be able to testify on issues during these sessions.
For a list of chapters and contact information, visit www.aafp.org/chapterlookup.
For a list of chapters and contact information, visit www.aafp.org/chapterlookup.
What is a Chapter Delegate?
Each year, AAFP chapters are encouraged to send one member from each of the five constituencies. Any Active AAFP member who meets the definition of the constituency group they will represent is eligible to serve as a Chapter Delegate. The Chapter Delegates are eligible to serve on and testify in all reference committees, vote on resolutions in the business session, and vote in the elections.
When should I arrive and how long should I plan to stay?
To take full advantage of the conference, we recommend you arrive Wednesday, April 24, 2013. There will be sessions offered Wednesday afternoon from 1:30–5:45 p.m. on the topics of leadership, negotiation, and health care reform.
Are you a first-time attendee to NCSC or simply looking for a refresher? Attend the First-time Attendee Orientation on Thursday, April 25 at 7:30 a.m.
Plan to stay until the scheduled conclusion of business (12:00 p.m.) on Saturday, April 27, 2013. (There must be a majority present in order to proceed with business.)
Are you a first-time attendee to NCSC or simply looking for a refresher? Attend the First-time Attendee Orientation on Thursday, April 25 at 7:30 a.m.
Plan to stay until the scheduled conclusion of business (12:00 p.m.) on Saturday, April 27, 2013. (There must be a majority present in order to proceed with business.)
Will travel reimbursement be available?
Currently, there is funding available from the AAFP to reimburse travel expenses for three representatives from each chapter for ALF or NCSC. Some chapters will fund additional travel expenses. Contact your chapter to learn more.
Will CME be offered this year?
Application for continuing medical education (CME) credit is pending.
