March 22, 2007

Your Turn to Comment on Proposed Bylaws Changes
Proposed amendments to the AARC Bylaws have just been approved on first reading by the Board of Directors and House of Delegates and are now open for comment by the membership. The AARC urges all members to review the proposals and contact their delegates or other affiliate officers with comments by May 15.

AARC Lobby Day Efforts Pay Off with Sen. Lincoln Letter
AARC members who marched up Capitol Hill in support of respiratory issues earlier this month are already seeing the fruits of their labors: influential Sen. Blanche Lincoln has just sent a letter to the Senate Budget Committee speaking out against the Bush Administration's proposal to cap the rental of home oxygen equipment at 13 months. Arguing against the proposed cap was a key component of the Lobby Day agenda.

Asthma Course Travels to Providence in April
Looking to improve your asthma management skills and prepare for the Asthma Educator-Certified exam at the same time? Then head to Providence, RI, April 28-29 for the next session of the AARC's popular Asthma Educator Certification Preparation Course. But hurry — March 29 is the early registration discount deadline, and hotel reservations must be made by April 5.

AARC Responds to CDC Request for Comments on Lab Testing
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention turned to the AARC for input on a new lab proficiency document, and we've just weighed in with comments emphasizing the need for competency testing for all clinicians performing these tests, whether in the lab or at the bedside.

Expand Your Horizons at the AARC Congress 2007
Extend your professional knowledge and earn all the CRCEs you need for licensing in one 4-day event this December. Hear programs in every area of respiratory care, with over 250 sessions presented by 170+ speakers who are leaders in the field. Join other early birds at breakfast sessions that provide credits, too. Add the Asthma Educator Preparation Course to maximize the value of your investment. Whatever options you choose, you’ll find the highest quality education the profession has to offer.

COPD Care Management Program Going Well, Says AARC Rep
AARC member Brian L. Smith says the initial conference call among members of a task force set up to advise the Joint Commission on the development of a COPD Care Management certification program went well and the group is on track to meet its objectives.

AARC Professor's Rounds 2007 Continuing Education Series
The first topic in the 2007 AARC Professor's Rounds series has now been shipped. So if you've ordered yours, you may already be viewing “Preparing for Mass Casualty and Pandemic Flu” and earning CRCE credit. If your facility has yet to ordered the series, check out the eight new topics on DVD! Order the entire 2007 season at the member price of $1,289 and save — it's like getting two FREE programs. Click on the link to learn more and take advantage of these high-quality, easy-to-earn CRCEs for your staff. 

Good Press: AARC Members in the News
AARC members continue to make headlines around the country, speaking up about everything from the care of U.S. soldiers to getting a good night's sleep.

Comments or questions? Send them to info@aarc.org .