ABCD Exchange : June - July 2000 : Letter - Changes at ABCD

Changes at ABCD : New Executive Director Named; Many Projects Underway

"My commitment to improve the health of individuals not well served by our current system of care has been the driving force behind my work in reproductive health and HIV. Particularly as our demographics begin to change, the subject of end-of-life care will take on increasing importance. ABCD is in a unique position to expand upon its leading role in the evolving debate on this subject. The position of executive director provides a challenging and exciting opportunity to grow the organization. We’ve begun to roll up our sleeves – we’re moving ahead!" said Barbour.

In addition to organizational development and fundraising, Barbour plans to focus ABCD on a number of special projects that are emerging from discussions with individuals both within and outside of the organization. "It’s clear that ABCD has a leading role in policy issues surrounding end-of-life care," said Barbour, "and we are indeed fortunate to have as president an individual as committed and forceful on the subject of policy change as Dr. Lynn. "I am very much looking forward to working with her and others in the field, as we begin to chart a course that will be distinguished by collaboration with other organizations," he said.

"Our issues are really coming to the fore in policy circles and in the public agenda. As more and more Americans learn just how unreliable the care system is, for themselves or for their loved ones, more are coming to believe that we can do better. Our new location, new leadership, growing staff, and renewed commitment come at just the right time," said ABCD president Joanne Lynn, M.D. "I look forward to forging a rather unusual organization – one dedicated to the well-being of people whose serious illnesses preclude their own activism."

Other staff members and consultants include:

• Susan Emmer, J.D., Director of Public Policy
• Deborah Kurnik, Director of Program Development and Management
• Susan Rogers, Director of Education and Public Relations
• Janice Lynch Schuster, Director of Communications
• Joanne Lynn, M.D., will serve as ABCD’s Scientific Advisor, in addition to her role as president.

• Publication of Improving Care for the End of Life: A Sourcebook for Clinicians and Managers, due out from Oxford University in September

• Internet-based services located at www.medicaring.org for providers, caretakers and patients in response to the September 2000 airing of the Bill Moyers series, On Our Own Terms

• Development of innovative web-based services for ABCD members and for other organizations

• Development of public policy services and programs on end-of-life care

• Participation in congressional discussions and activities on end-of-life issues

• Co-sponsorship of two congressional events on end-of-life care for members of Congress, their staff and spouses

• Release of report written for the National Coalition for Health Care featuring nine exemplary programs from around the country (set for October 12)

• Development of short- and long-term strategies for expansion of ABCD’s role within the end-of-life community and identification of specific activities it should undertake to fulfill that role

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