March Actions
At its March meeting, the ISMA Board of Trustees approved a study report on Resolution 24-56, which supports comprehensive coverage of chronic weight management medications. However, this resolution was subsequently amended in May to be further studied.
 
Additionally, the board approved a combined study report on Resolutions 24-26, which advocates for diversity, equity, and inclusivity in medical education, and 24-58, which focuses on reallocating resources from divisive programs to essential educational needs. This report is available on ISMA Pulse.
 
The board also addressed concerns regarding nonmembers testifying at reference committees and formed a committee dedicated to developing a code of conduct for the association’s policy-making process. Both initiatives were later approved in May.
 
May Actions
In May, the board approved a new policy and proposed amendment to the bylaws concerning nonmembers testifying at reference committees. This change was prompted by concerns raised during the 2024 convention.
 
The ISMA Bylaws, specifically Section 3.021104, permit nonmembers to present technical material to reference committees with prior approval from the committee chair. A two-part solution was approved by the Board of Trustees.
 
First, the Bylaws will be amended to require approval from the Speaker, or the Vice Speaker in their absence, for nonmembers wishing to present.
 
Second, a policy will be adopted outlining the protocol for these approvals, including the need for review of the nonmember's credentials and proposed testimony by the reference committee Chair and the Speaker.
 
These changes are intended to ensure that the interests of ISMA members are prioritized while still allowing for informative contributions from nonmembers where appropriate.
 
The board also adopted a code of conduct governing all association activities, expanding beyond the originally raised issues, which focused on the policy-making process.
 
The board approved a study report and policy position on Resolution 24-13, which addresses appropriate physician staffing in intensive care units (ICUs). The latter affirms that emergency medicine physicians must remain available to meet their obligations under the Emergency Medical Treatment and Active Labor Act (EMTALA) and endorses staffing models providing continuous physician coverage in ICUs.
 
The board also approved study reports on Resolution 24-36A, which supports gender-affirming care for minors, and Resolution 24-54, which relates to the Physician Health Program. All reports from May will be posted in ISMA Pulse.
 
Finally, the board reviewed progress on its current strategic plan and voted to form a workgroup tasked with developing a new strategic plan set to begin in 2026.
 
The board concluded its work on all seven resolutions referred from the House of Delegates as of May.
 
For further details and updates, ISMA members are encouraged to regularly check ISMA Pulse.