Vote "Yes" for the Obesity Medicine Association!
As we reflect on ASBP's rich history and look toward the future, we encourage you to vote for the proposed name change to the Obesity Medicine Association. Changing our name to Obesity Medicine Association will have a positive influence on our Society and our recognition within the medical community as the leader in the clinical treatment of obesity.
The proposed name change puts our Society in a position to better align ourselves with the direction the health care industry is taking in regards to obesity and its recognition as a chronic disease. And, with great importance, the change provides better clarification for partners and patients about what our organization represents and how our members strive to serve their patients.
During the July 8 Q&A session, Dr. Deborah Bade Horn, president-elect, explained the importance of the name change:
"The important tipping point was the advent of the collaboration between the two potential board exams and the new board, which was named the American Board of Obesity Medicine. Knowing that now, and in the future, as things are formalized with the American Board of Medical Specialties, you will be referred to as obesity medicine specialists. As the clinical leader, we really wanted the name of our Society to be very closely aligned with that, so it would be easy for the public to make that transition. We're really trying to create a congruent message among all the entities that are focusing on this evolving field. And most importantly to our patients, the name change is important so they know how to find us."
We encourage you to vote "yes" in support of changing our name to Obesity Medicine Association. This is your opportunity to help us pave the way for our promising future and gain recognition as leaders in the field of obesity medicine.
Electronic voting will commence on July 15. If you are a voting-eligible member (e.g., physician, associate, physician-in-training, or retired member), look for an email tomorrow containing the ballot and your member ID number. The voting period will last 14 days and end on Wednesday, July 29.