Through Dr. Del Chumley, our representative on the Medicare Carrier Advisory Board, your society also is monitoring and influencing the development of policies regarding reimbursement for services. We have offered counsel to the Texas State Board of Medical Examiners during the evolution of policies on office-based anesthesia, and we are involved in the state's response to the hepatitis C epidemic. Although TSGE is the largest organized group of gastroenterologists in Texas, not every gastroenterologist in Texas is a member. We can increase our clout with state government by expanding our membership. Every gastroenterologist in Texas is affected by state actions and initiatives, and every gastroenterologist in Texas needs to have a voice in Austin.
Medical progress is the result of scientific research.
Texas is the home of several renowned medical schools and research institutions, yet clinical research in digestive diseases has been stagnant. This grant will be available yearly for research projects organized or mentored by a TSGE member. Grants will be awarded on a competitive basis as part of the ACG Research Awards Program. I urge all Texas digestive disorders researchers to join our organization and participate in this program. TSGE's heart and soul is education, especially the annual meeting and course held in September each year.