SHCA Committee - Frequently Asked Questions
What are the benefits of serving as a member of a SHCA leadership group?
The benefits of serving on a SHCA committee or task force are many:
- The opportunity to receive useful background information and data developed by SHCA and/or the American Hospital Association for use in meeting the work group’s objectives.
- The opportunity to build a network of other healthcare consumer advocates who are involved and interested in the same subjects/issues.
- The opportunity to learn from other healthcare consumer advocates.
- Acknowledgement and recognition for your expertise and contributions from the Society and your peers.
- Preparation for expanded roles and responsibilities in SHCA should you be interested.
How are committees and task forces structured?
Leadership groups typically have a chairperson, Board liaison and SHCA staff liaison. The n umber of members varies according to the group’s charge and objectives.
How will members be chosen for participation in these groups?
Committee and task force chairpersons will use the information provided by members who complete the online Committee Interest Form. Chairpersons, with the help of their respective SHCA Board liaisons, will select participants based on their core competencies, experience, types of healthcare organizations/firms represented, geographical distribution, and prior contributions (for those who have served on leadership bodies previously).
How do the leadership groups meet and conduct their work?
All SHCA leadership groups (with the exception of the Board), meet via conference calls and e-mail. Society staff arranges for all conference calls and can establish a listserv for the work group.Chairpersons meet via conference calls on a quarterly basis to share their work plans and the progress of their committees/task forces. Board liaisons are responsible for bringing the work group’s plans, recommendations and questions to the SHCA executive committee and Board of Directors.
How often do the leadership groups meet?
It depends on the charge and objectives of the leadership group. Some groups meet throughout the year. Other groups come together for a specific, short-term task and disband upon completion of their objectives.On average, a leadership group meets no more than once a month unless the group has been brought together to address an urgent issue. In those cases, the group’s work is typically done over a brief period, and then the group is disbanded. SHCA covers all costs related to conference calls, sharing of information, materials etc.
Do I have to be recommended by someone on the Board or currently serving in a leadership capacity to be considered for committee membership?
No! SHCA is eager to get new people involved.
Do I have to be at a senior level in a healthcare organization to be selected?
No. Multiple levels of expertise and experience are needed based on the work group’s goals and objectives.
When can I expect to hear if I have been chosen for one of these groups?
Some leadership groups will be selected by the end of May. Others will be organized throughout the year based on issues, timing, needs, etc.
How will I be recognized for my contributions?
SHCA acknowledges work group members when their work is complete through established communications channels such as the Society’s newsletter, website, etc.
Committee Rosters are also listed on the SHCA committee pages of the website.
- Upon request, acknowledgement letters can be sent to hospital and health system CEOs.
- Certificates are sent to all participants.
Are there other ways I can get involved in the Society?
Yes!
- You can propose an article for the Society’s bimonthly newsletter SHCA News.
- You can submit an RFP for a white paper.
- You can submit a proposal to speak at the Society’s annual conference.
- You can serve as a Presider at the annual conference.
- You can help recruit your colleagues for SHCA membership.
- You can share information in SHCA's weekly electronic newsletter, News You Need.
Other questions: please contact a SHCA Board or staff member at: (312) 422-3700 or SHCA@aha.org