How MSMS Resolutions Shape Policy
The MSMS Policy Committee is the official policy-making body of the Michigan State Medical Society. Resolutions and Board Action Reports are the primary tools used to debate and determine MSMS policies, priorities, and direction for the coming year and beyond. A well-crafted resolution is essential to effectively advocate for issues important to you.
Resolutions may be submitted by any member. MSMS staff review all submissions for consistency with existing MSMS and AMA policy, legal considerations, and clarity.
Pursuant to HOD Resolution 65-14, any resolution requiring action by the AMA may only be submitted by MSMS members who are also AMA members.
The Policy Committee reviews testimony, evaluate the merits of resolutions, and make recommendations to the membership on their final disposition.
The Process
Submitting a resolution to MSMS has never been easier. Simply open the digital resolution form, complete the required fields, and click “Submit.”
Structure of a Resolution
Title
Select a title that is brief and accurately reflects the action for which the resolution calls.
Body
- Begin with the inclusion of one or more "whereas" statements.
- "Whereas" statements explain why the resolution is needed, provide documentation in support of the resolution (i.e., data, statistics, references), and contribute to the general understanding of the subject matter.
- "Whereas" statements lead into one or more "resolved" sections.
- "Resolved" sections define the "ask" or intent of the resolution (e.g., the author’s desired action).
- Because the House only adopts the "resolved" sections, each "resolved" section must be able to stand independent of the "whereas" statements.
- Example of an improperly written "resolved" statement, as the reader cannot readily identify the targeted issue(s), specific action requested, or to whom responsibility for acting upon the issue(s) is directed:
RESOLVED: That physicians need to know about the process and extent of diversion in the community and need to act as described above. - Example of a properly written "resolved" statement in which the issue and "ask" are clearly stated:
RESOLVED: That MSMS actively educate physicians about the process and extent of prescribed opiate medication diversion in the community and urge the health care providers prescribing daily opiates in chronic pain patients to monitor those patients at a minimum with yearly quantitative urine drug screens.
- Example of an improperly written "resolved" statement, as the reader cannot readily identify the targeted issue(s), specific action requested, or to whom responsibility for acting upon the issue(s) is directed:
Tips
- Paying particular attention to the following will enhance your chances of drafting a successful resolution:
- Ensure the accuracy of information presented in the resolution.
- Determine whether the topic of the resolution is existing MSMS and/or AMA policy prior to submission. MSMS and AMA policy can be found on their respective websites.
- If the Resolved statement is already existing policy, the resolution will be placed on the "Reaffirmation Calendar."
- If the Resolved statement is consistent with existing policy, specifically state the amendment you want to that policy.
- If the Resolved statement is not consistent with existing policy, indicate that you want to replace the existing policy.
- Ensure that the desired intent or "ask" is clear.
- Consider whether the requested action is feasible (i.e., is it relevant to medicine and to what the Michigan State Medical Society can reasonably affect).
- Determine whether there are cost implications to the proposed policy, program, or action and if so, select an estimated cost range.
- Contact your respective county society, specialty society, or sections to learn of their resolution vetting process should you wish for them to introduce the resolution on your behalf.
