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Volunteering Makes ASTRO Stronger

Sameer Keole, MD, FASTRO, ASTRO President-elect
Posted: May 15, 2024

As we kick off the Call for Committee Volunteers during the month of May, I want to encourage you to think about volunteering for ASTRO. As a multi-year volunteer myself and now President-elect of the Society, I have witnessed firsthand the remarkable impact that volunteers have on our organization and the field of radiation oncology. Volunteering at ASTRO is not just about giving your time; it's about sharing your knowledge, inspiring change and helping us in our mission to improve patient care through education, clinical practice and the advancement of science.

The many faces of volunteering at ASTRO

Joining one of ASTRO’s committees is a meaningful way to influence the direction of the Society. From research and guidelines to government relations and our educational programs, committees are the backbone of bringing priority programs to life. Your input can lead to initiatives and programs that benefit patients, our members and the Society as a whole.

ASTRO volunteers come from diverse backgrounds, each bringing their unique skills and perspectives to the table. This is what makes our organization better. Whether you are a seasoned radiation oncologist, a medical physicist, a radiation biologist or a resident just starting your career, there is a place for you to contribute.

Volunteers help shape the future of ASTRO and radiation oncology by developing educational programs, patient education materials or developing scientific sessions during our Annual Meeting and other educational events. By sharing your expertise, you are directly impacting the professional growth of your peers and the efficacy of treatment practices.

If you're passionate about the impact of legislation on our field, consider lending your voice to our health policy or government relations efforts as I have done for many years. As we all know, the recent discussions around supervision sparked vigorous discussions about the needs and realities of physicians from different practice types and community of patients they serve (OR communities of patients we serve?). By joining one of these committees, you will learn firsthand all that goes into crafting communications with government agencies and the thought and process behind position statements.

Why volunteer?

Volunteering with ASTRO brings numerous benefits, not only to our Society and patients but also to you as a professional. Here are a few reasons why our volunteers find their experience rewarding:

Professional development: Learn new skills and gain leadership experience.

Networking: Meet other ASTRO members from across the country and practice types who share your passion and drive.

Personal satisfaction: Know that you are making a meaningful difference in the lives of patients and advancing the field of radiation oncology.

Apply now to serve on an ASTRO committee!

Topics:  Membership
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