There are many reasons for diagnostic radiologists, radiation oncologists and medical physicists to join their local ACR chapter. Here are a few reasons to join the Virginia Chapter: GOVERNMENT RELATIONS We are the voice for radiology at the state and local level. We represent your interests before government and provide the representation necessary to effect federal and state legislation and regulations. We have a lobbyist to assist with state legislation and regulations and we have an active legislative committee dedicated to monitoring state and local action affecting the practice of radiology. INFLUENCE DECISIONS RELATED TO REIMBURSEMENT We have a representative on the Medicare Carrier Advisory Committee which makes sure that federal policy is implemented with radiology’s input. Through our relationship with the state’s Carrier Advisory Committee representatives, we can provide input and influence the decisions that are made regarding reimbursement at the local level. INPUT INTO ACR We have Councilors and Alternate Councilors who represent the Virginia Chapter in the Council of the ACR. When the ACR Annual Meeting is held, our Councilors and Alternate Councilors have an opportunity to express the needs and interests of our members. Representation is based on the number of chapter members. By participating in your Chapter, you can influence what goes on at the Council meeting. PATHWAY TO ACR FELLOWSHIP Although there are multiple pathways to ACR Fellowship, by providing opportunities for leadership and involvement, the Virginia Chapter gives members an opportunity for recognition as an ACR Fellow. This designation is attained by only an estimated 10 percent of radiologists that belong to the ACR and represents a significant career accomplishment. We serve as a vital link for recommendation of candidates for ACR Fellowship to the ACR Committee on Fellowship. EDUCATIONAL OPPORTUNITIES We host an annual meeting in the late summer for our members. Our meeting topics are selected on the basis of our members’ needs. RESIDENT AND FELLOW SECTIONS The Virginia Chapter supports its residents and fellows by sponsoring them to attend the ACR’s Annual Meeting. We help influence the education, formation and future career of the backbone of the specialty. Residents are automatically members of the ACR and being a part of the Virginia Chapter gives them additional opportunities to become involved. It also gives the resident a forum to discuss mutual interests and concerns. COMMISSIONS AND COMMITTEES The chapter provides an open door to becoming involved in the commission and committee activities of the ACR. State chapters also provide an array of opportunities for volunteerism and leadership development in the chapter committee structure. This committee involvement can provide direct experience with various issues that are important in determining the overall success of the chapter in fulfilling its mission. OPEN THE DOOR TO OPPORTUNITIES FOR VOLUNTEERISM AND LEADERSHIP DEVELOPMENT The Virginia Chapter provides an array of opportunities for volunteerism and leadership through our committee structure, be it as an officer, councilor, or committee chair. PROFESSIONAL INVOLVEMENT A great benefit of Virginia Chapter membership rests in the camaraderie and professional sharing which takes place at our annual meeting and other functions. Through chapter membership a member knows that he/she is not alone in attempting to find solutions to problems facing radiology today, both at the national and local level.