LACPAC SERIES: PART 1
Q: As chair, can you describe the LACPAC structure?
We have recently updated our by-laws to define the structure of our board of directors more accurately and to provide oversight of our operations by LACMA. We strive to maintain a broadly diverse board that reflects the membership of LACMA. Our board consists of 13 members voted on by the Administrative Members oversight board. The Administrative Members mirror the LACMA board of directors but are solely defined by the LACPAC by-laws to maintain a firewall between the organizations. In this way, LACMA maintains oversight of LACPAC and who becomes a member of the LACPAC Board.
Q: Is LACPAC partisan?
LACPAC is, by definition, non-partisan. We evaluate each candidate on their own merits regardless of party affiliation.
Q: Who is on the board, and what is/are the terms?
We have the standard set of officers, including a chair, vice-chair, development chair, secretary/ treasurer, MSS, RFS, and YPS members, and six at-large members. In addition, there is the Chair Emeriti, who are non-voting but are for past chairs to maintain institutional memory. Terms are for two years, and each person may serve up to 6 terms.
Q: If I want to serve on the board, what steps do I take?
Simply ask! We are currently forming our slate for presentation to the June 2023 Administrative Members meeting for approval. We seek motivated individuals who enjoy advocacy and politics. Previous experience is not required but is helpful, as are having relationships with current legislators or promising candidates.
Q: Why did you decide to be chair?
I returned to Los Angeles 6 years ago to take a position with the LA County Department of Mental Health. I have been involved in politics since I was a resident at the old LA County Medical Center (and am currently participating in several PACs, including CALPAC. I attended an in-person meeting of LACPAC in 2018 and was warmly welcomed. The past Chair, Dr. Thomas Horowitz, has an incredible amount of experience and personal connections to legislators in the area. LACPAC was tasked by the LACMA board to modernize our practices, and I was offered the opportunity to make this happen with Dr. Horowitz, and I eagerly jumped at the chance.
Q: What is the mission of LACPAC?
From our by-laws: "The purpose of LACPAC is to support and encourage the election of California state and local candidates and ballot measures affecting physicians and other residents of Los Angeles County. “ We seek to support those seeking legislative office, both state and local, who support the mission of LACMA: Promotion of public health, support for the practice of medicine, and advocacy for our patients.
Q: What are your goals as chair?
When I became Chair of LACPAC, I had five main goals: 1) Increase the diversity of the LACPAC Board, 2) Update the by-laws and clearly define who are the members of the LACPAC board, 3) Provide a mechanism for the LACMA board to have oversight of LACPAC, 4) Increase the yearly budget from our current level of $35K to about $100K, and 5) Once LACPAC is on a solid path forward, retire to Shady Pines and allow our younger members to take over. So far, we have accomplished goals 1 through 3. We are working on number 4, and number 5 is on the horizon.
Q: What role does LACPAC play in the political landscape?
LACPAC supports state and local candidates who share LACMA's philosophy and vision of the future of healthcare and medical practice.
Q: How can individuals support LACPAC's mission and goals?
Individuals can support LACPAC's mission and goals by donating to our PAC or participating in our advocacy efforts.
Q: What is the importance of a fair and just healthcare system?
A fair and just healthcare system is important because it ensures that all patients have access to the care they need, regardless of their socioeconomic status or other factors. It also helps to promote a healthy and productive society by ensuring that individuals have access to the care they need to maintain their health and well-being.
To get involved, visit https://www.ladocs.org/get-involved/lacpac.aspx and/or contact Henry Rogers at henry@lacmanet.org.