DC AAP Updates Tell the administration and Congress that insuring every child in America should be a national priority. Sign the petition from the Campaign for Children's Health Care, which is supported by the AAP. To Congress and the President: More than 9 million children lack health insurance, and millions more have inadequate coverage in this, the wealthiest nation in the world. We must make providing health coverage for all children a national priority. Investing in children's health yields many benefits, including improved development, improved school performance, and long-term savings in health care costs. We therefore call on the President and Congress to begin work immediately on legislation that will provide comprehensive, affordable, high-quality health coverage for all children.

The District of Columbia Chapter (AAPDC) of the national American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) is the recognized Washington DC affiliate of the national organization of 60,000 pediatricians committed to the attainment of optimal physical, mental, and social health and well-being for all infants, children, adolescents, and young adults. Its mission is to utilize its talent and resources to ensure the safety and health of children in the Washington DC area.

Our purpose is multifaceted, and through your participation in the DC Chapter of the American Academy of Pediatrics we can help you:

Advocacy

• Increase your knowledge of and participation in legislative and advocacy activities at a local level.
• Increase involvement in the legislative arena to positively influence the quality of pediatric practice and the welfare of children in your state.
• Build coalitions with other organizations working toward improving children's health and well being.
• Promote the interests of District of Columbia pediatricians in the American Academy of Pediatrics.
• Participates on committees and councils of the District Health Department on behalf of the AAP's Committees on Immunization, Special Health Care Needs, Obesity, etc.

Leadership

• Participate in chapter committees in areas of interest.

Networking

• Network with other pediatricians with similar interests.
• Improve chapter membership participation on national AAP affairs.

Education

• Receive chapter newsletter and other informative mailings.
• Attend local PREP courses and Continuing Medical Education meetings sponsored by the Chapter.
• Prepare yourself for the future role of the pediatrician in the health care system and for the future management of their practices.