“Pack this house.” That was the challenge American Medical Association (AMA) President Willie Underwood III, MD, delivered to Indiana physicians during the 177th Annual Indiana State Medical Association (ISMA) Convention, urging them to unite, take ownership of the future of medicine and create a health care system that makes Hoosiers healthier.

“We need to create a health care system that doesn’t work for some of us but for the sum of us,” Dr. Underwood said. “If we don’t make this work, we are done. We are smart enough. We are capable and we can actually do it. One goal. One mission. That is what we do.” 

Held Sept. 25-27 at the Embassy Suites in Noblesville, the annual Convention brought together physicians, residents and medical students from across Indiana to debate policy, strengthen relationships and help shape the future of health care in the state.

During his address to the House of Delegates, Dr. Underwood challenged physicians to recognize the power of their collective voice. Rather than waiting for others to fix a system that too often creates barriers between physicians and their patients, he encouraged Indiana's medical community to take the lead in building something better.

Dr. Underwood said IMPAC should have $4.4 million in contributions.

“Thank you to Dr. Dunniway. I wouldn’t be here if it wasn’t for her. We went back and forth about the numbers. We have known each other since residency,” Dr. Underwood said. “We should be 17,000 strong in this room. People should be calling the president to make room for them at this meeting. Let’s make Indiana the healthiest state in the union.”

His message reinforced the Convention's theme, "When times change, physicians lead," and served as a call to action for greater involvement in organized medicine.

One of the resolutions that could possibly boost attendance during Convention was referred to the board for action (RESOLUTION 26-21 - ENHANCING SPECIALTY SECTION ENGAGEMENT). The board will make the final decision on whether specialty sections might have a vote at the HOD. This may require changing the ISMA bylaws. 

Another resolution that generated much debate was RESOLUTION 26-43 - ENSURING ADEQUATE MEDICAID PAYMENT FOR OBSTETRIC AND PEDIATRIC CARE, which was referred to the Board for Action. Motions from the floor suggested making the reimbursement rate 200 percent and requiring it across specialties. Though debated, the amendment was defeated and the HOD ultimately decided to refer it to the board for action. 

As physicians face mounting administrative burdens, reimbursement challenges and growing demands on their time, Dr. Underwood emphasized the importance of unity and physician leadership in creating meaningful change. His challenge to fill the House of Delegates underscored the need for physicians from every specialty and career stage to participate in decisions affecting their profession and their patients.

That spirit of engagement was central to the Convention's House of Delegates, where physician representatives considered member-submitted resolutions addressing issues affecting medical practice, patient care and public health. Adopted resolutions become ISMA policy and help guide the association's advocacy and legislative priorities.

Beyond policymaking, the weekend provided opportunities for physicians to connect with colleagues, recognize achievements and reaffirm their shared commitment to improving the health of Hoosiers.

Dr. Underwood's challenge offered a reminder that the future of medicine will not be shaped by any one physician, specialty or organization. It will require the collective efforts of a medical community willing to participate, advocate and lead.

For Indiana physicians, the message was clear: Fill the House, make your voices heard and help build a health care system that better serves physicians and the patients who depend on them.