Dr. Kilpatrick
Three physician Board Member terms end on October 31, opening the door for up to three new physicians to help, as NCMB's authorizing statute puts it, “regulate the practice of medicine and surgery for the benefit and protection of the people of North Carolina."
By law, the independent body responsible for nominating Board Member candidates for the Governor's consideration must select two individuals for each open seat, or six total nominees. This year one of the physician seats is reserved for a physician who is a member of the Old North State Medical Society, making applications from within this particular professional association especially important.
Although the North Carolina Medical Board (NCMB) is not directly involved in the selection process, we do have a strong interest in cultivating a robust pipeline of dedicated and diverse potential future Board Members to ensure the continued success of this organization. So, I and others with NCMB were concerned to learn in the days leading up to our May Board Meeting that the current call for applicants has received a decidedly muted response.
It is this concern that compels me to write this message to licensees with a sense of urgency and a profound belief in the importance of public service, the protection of the integrity of our profession, and the urgent need to address emerging health care concerns. I urge you to consider applying to serve as a Board Member and contribute your expertise to this vital organization. NCMB plays a pivotal role in ensuring public safety and maintaining the highest standards of medical practice in our state. As licensed medical professionals it is our responsibility to advocate for the well-being and welfare of our patients. Serving on the Medical Board allows us to do just that on a broader scale.
I applied to serve as a Board Member in 2017 at the strong suggestion of one of my colleagues in the Old North State Medical Society. In hindsight, the decision to serve has been one of the most consequential choices I have ever made. Serving as a Board Member has given me the opportunity to participate in meaningful work that goes far beyond the confines of my individual practice. Board Members help shape the future of healthcare in North Carolina, leaving a legacy of progress and improved patient care that benefits countless patients who rely on the expertise and integrity of our profession.
It is worth noting that we have reached a point where the external demands on our profession often lead to moral injury and disillusionment. Being part of the Medical Board offers the unique chance to contribute to the betterment of our profession while also enhancing your own sense of well-being by doing meaningful work. I understand that taking on additional responsibilities can be daunting, but I assure you that the rewards and personal growth that come with this role are immeasurable.
I am gratified to tell you that in recent weeks the Review Panel for the NC Medical Board, the nominating body for potential Board members, has received additional applications and is now likely to have enough qualified physician applicants to meet its statutory requirement of two nominees per open seat. That said, there is still time to apply before the June 29 deadline. Learn more and
apply online here. If now is not the time for you, please remember that Board Members rotate off of NCMB annually due to staggered terms and know there will be other opportunities to serve in the future.
Be well.
