• The benefits of serving on a SHSMD committee or task force are many:

  • The opportunity to receive useful background information and data developed by SHSMD and/or the American Hospital Association for use in meeting the work group’s objectives.
  • The opportunity to build a network of other strategy professionals who are involved and interested in the same subjects/issues.
  • The opportunity to learn from other strategy professionals.
  • Acknowledgement and recognition for your expertise and contributions from SHSMD and your peers.
  • Preparation for expanded roles and responsibilities in SHSMD should you be interested.

  How are committees and task forces structured?

  • Leadership groups typically have a chairperson, vice chairperson, Board liaison and SHSMD staff liaison.
  • The number of members varies according to the group’s charge and objectives.

  Is training provided?

  • Yes. A Leadership Orientation sessions will be held via conference call and the web at the end of the year prior to your service.
  • All volunteers will be expected to participate in one of the Leadership Orientation sessions.
    
  
  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 Leadership Pathways Volunteer Questionnaire.
  • Chairpersons, with the help of their respective SHSMD 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 in leadership roles previously).

  How do the leadership groups meet and conduct their work?

  • All SHSMD leadership groups (with the exception of the SHSMD Board of Directors) meet via conference calls and e-mail.
  • SHSMD staff arranges for all conference calls and can establish a discussion boards for the work group.
  • Sometimes leadership groups choose to have brief meetings during the SHSMD Annual Conference. (When this is the case, SHSMD does not cover conference travel expenses.)
  • Board liaisons are responsible for bringing the group’s plans, recommendations, and questions to the SHSMD 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 frequently 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; then the group is disbanded.

  Are committee and task force members or their organizations expected to cover any expenses related to participation in these groups?

  • No. SHSMD 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! SHSMD is eager to get new people involved.

  Do I have to be at a senior level in a healthcare organization to be selected?

  • No. Different levels of expertise and experience are needed based on the 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 December 2010. Others will be organized throughout the year based on issues, timing, needs, etc. All those who completed the Leadership Pathways Questionnaire will be contacted via e-mail.

  Is previous volunteer participation a prerequisite for consideration by the SHSMD Nominating Committee for Board membership?

  • Yes. Board members are expected to have participated in one or more leadership groups before being slated by SHSMD's Nominating Committee.

  How will I be recognized for my contributions?

  • SHSMD acknowledges volunteer members when their work is complete through established communications channels such as the SHSMD's newsletter, website, etc.
  • Upon request, acknowledgement letters can be sent to hospital and health system CEOs.
  • Certificates are sent to participants.

  Are there other ways I can get involved in the Society?

  • Yes! You can propose an article for the SHSMD's bimonthly newsletter Spectrum.
  • You can submit an RFP for a white paper.
  • You can submit a proposal to speak at the SHSMD's annual conference.
  • You can submit a proposal to facilitate a web cast or an online course.
  • You can serve as a moderator at the annual conference.
  • You can volunteer to lead a roundtable discussion at the annual conference.
  • You can help recruit your colleagues for SHSMD membership.
  • You can share information on the Knowledge Community.

Other questions? Please contact SHSMD at 312.422.3888 or shsmd@aha.org