Decisions made at the state Capitol and in Congress have a major impact on medicine, making it important for physicians and patients to be educated and engaged in the political process. The Doctor of the Day program is a way for physicians to interact closely with lawmakers during session, providing physicians the opportunity to travel to Tallahassee and interact at the Capitol.
Dr. Christopher Pittman, Medical Director of Vein911, was recognized in Tallahassee as Doctor of the Day on Wednesday, March 9th! What exactly does that mean? The Doctor of the Day Program was started in the 1960’s by a former House member, Representative Walter Sackett, MD, and he encouraged the Florida Medical Association (FMA) to bring a physician to Tallahassee each day of the regular Legislative Session. The program continues to be an important part of improving and strengthening physician-legislator relations while providing needed medical services to the Capitol Clinic.
This was not Dr. Christopher Pittman’s first time serving as Doctor of the Day. He’s actually served many times over the last 20 years! “One of the most memorable parts for me is the opportunity to give back by serving in the clinic,” Dr. Christopher Pittman said. “The day is always valuable, as you can spend unprecedented time with legislators on the floor of the House or Senate.”
Actually, no other non-elected official is allowed in the House or Senate chambers other than Doctor of the Day.
“I have been involved in medical politics for 25 years. Serving as current FMA PAC President and after serving on the FMA PAC Board for 18 years, I have been engaging legislators for a very long time,” explained Dr. Christopher Pittman. He continued, “It is said that, “Politics is the only sport where the spectator always loses”. So, I understand the importance and value of ‘being in the game’.”
A day well-spent as Dr. Christopher Pittman was able to serve the needs of the clinic and talk to a large number of legislators and lobbyists from all over the state in a short period of time.
