Allied Health NetWork

Reasons to Join

Want to know why an Allied Health Professional should seek membership in the American College of Chest Physicians (ACCP)? Because we can! The College offers membership to nonphysicians who are actively involved in clinical, academic, research, or administrative work in cardiopulmonary, surgical, or critical care medicine.

Prior to joining, I had the "what's in it for me" attitude. Well, I joined the College in September of 2000 and have experienced a multitude of benefits. There has truly been "a lot in it for me" as a Respiratory Therapist. The primary benefit is the access to a diverse international group of health professionals who share common goals and experience. I have personally met many nurses, therapists, and physicians from around our country and from other countries who are willing to share knowledge and experiences that can be put into practice to benefit patients.

Additionally, the College offers members the most up-to-date clinical information through the monthly journal CHEST. The CHEST journal is available online for members. Other benefits of membership include:

• CHEST Annual International Scientific Assembly
• Access to ACCP Web site
• Clinical practice guidelines
• Patient education materials
• 25 NetWorks of special interest groups that provide education and networking opportunities (These NetWorks include an allied health group and a respiratory care group.).

Leadership opportunities also exist for Allied Health Professionals in the ACCP. The individual NetWorks rely heavily on member support and activity as they complement the goals of the ACCP. As a member of the Allied Health NetWork, I jumped on the opportunity to become a Steering Committee Member when an opening became available.

I was pleased to serve as an Allied Health NetWork Steering Committee member for my 4 year term. The Allied Health NetWork, like the other NetWorks, has a primary mission to generate educational programs and products to meet the needs of members, and serve as a source of expertise on selected topics. Currently I am a member of the Respiratory Care NetWork Steering Committee.

Joining the ACCP was clearly the right decision for me. Membership in the College has given me a voice, an international voice in allied health practice, and has opened many doors.

I should also mention that the annual membership fee is only $60.

Yours truly,
Alphonso Quinones, MA, RRT, RPSGT, RPFT
Director, Respiratory Therapy
North Shore University Hospital
Manhasset, NY 11033

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