SETTING AGS PRIORITIES

Another outgrowth of the Future of Geriatric Medicine was the creation of an AGS Strategic Planning Task Force, charged with developing implementation strategies for the five major goals outlined in the report. Following a June 2005 Task Force retreat, the AGS began the process of developing a strategic plan that will guide the Society's activities over the next three years.

AGS is grateful to Task Force Chair, Dr. Gregg A. Warshaw, and all the Task Force members who contributed their time and expertise to crafting key initiatives that will enhance the healthcare of older people and promote geriatrics as a discipline. AGS also thanks the Atlantic Philanthropies for supporting the strategic planning process, which includes working with the Bridgespan Group, a nonprofit organization that uses management strategies to help nonprofit organizations increase their effectiveness.

These initiatives could not have been accomplished without the considerable commitment of AGS members. As 2005 AGS President Dr. David Reuben noted, "I continue to be overwhelmingly impressed by the dedication and commitment of the staff and membership of the Society. Although geriatricians and other geriatrics health professionals are only a small cog in the large machine of health care, we have gained the respect of our patients, policymakers, co-workers and colleagues for our untiring devotion to doing the right thing for older people."