Physicians have role in political process

AMA Leader Commentary. By J. James Rohack, MD, Nov. 1, 2004.

AMA LEADER COMMENTARY

A few words about current events in medical practice

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A message to all physicians from the chair of the AMA Board of Trustees, J. James Rohack, MD.

As you read this column, the American political system will be winding up the campaign process -- and moving fast toward the finish line of 2004 elections.

But what is our role, as physicians, in the political process? What should we be doing, as we elect local government officials every year, representatives to the U.S. House every two years, U.S. senators every six years, or a president every four years?

From an ethical perspective, two principles from the AMA Code of Ethics speak to physician engagement in the democratic process:

"A physician shall respect the law and also recognize a responsibility to seek changes in those requirements which are contrary to the best interests of the patient." (Principle No. 3.)

And:

"A physician shall recognize a responsibility to participate in activities contributing to the improvement of the community and the betterment of public health." (Principle No. 7.)

Each principle highlights the idea that, as physicians, we have an ethical responsibility to contribute to political changes that will benefit our patients. But how do we best accomplish such change?

First, we can begin by voting. There are some who say that the irony of the American democracy is that it is run by an elite. But the common idea of one person, one vote does allow the ballot box to be the great equalizer, provided that citizens get the message to vote and that infrastructure exists to make voting easy.

I have no research on the percentage of physicians who vote in every election for which they are eligible. However, we know that fewer than 50% of eligible American voters actually cast a ballot.