Leadership Institute Legislative Day

25 March 2008

The 2007-08 MSVF Claude Moore Physician Leadership Institute Legislative Day was held in Richmond on January 14, 2008. A group of 25 current and alumni Institute Fellows met with Gov. Tim Kaine and three of his cabinet secretaries - Secretaries Tavenner, Chopra, and Wagner. The group was briefed on the state's health issues and given recommendations on how to advocate effectively for their profession and their patients. "I think hearing from and meeting the secretaries of Finance, Health, and Technology opened up an avenue for us as physicians to become more active in critical health discussions," said Dr. Joi Lenczowski of Dermatology Associates of Virginia in Richmond.

The group was also briefed by five members of the General Assembly House of Delegates - The Honorable Ward L. Armstrong, Minority Leader; William J. Howell, Speaker of the House; Harvey B. Morgan; John M. O'Bannon III, MD; and Shannon R. Valentine. The conversation focused on the impact physicians can have through their involvement in the legislative process. Participants came away with the understanding that building relationships with local legislators is beneficial both for their patients and their profession. Dr. Nzinga Teule-Hekima, Clinical Director for the Peninsula Health District, commented: "Until now, the legislative process has seemed vague and intangible. Now I can see how this process impacts my colleagues, my patients, and me, and I was given insight on how to have my opinions heard and make an impact in this process."

The next live Institute session will be held in May and will include Mindi McKenna, PhD, MBA, author of Physicians as Leaders: Who, How, and Why Now? Her presentation will focus on Stepping Stones for Successful Physician Leadership.

Learn more about the Leadership Institute