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Getting Involved with the Missouri ACC Chapter

The Missouri Chapter of the American College of Cardiology offers numerous opportunities for physicians, trainees, and cardiovascular team members to engage with colleagues across the state while contributing to the advancement of cardiovascular care. Whether your interests lie in education, advocacy, research, or professional networking, there are many ways to participate in chapter activities.

One of the most impactful ways to get involved is by joining the planning committee for the Missouri ACC Annual Scientific Session, the chapter’s annual meeting. The conference brings together cardiologists from across Missouri for case-based learning, guideline updates, and networking opportunities. Participating in the planning committee allows members to shape the agenda, highlight emerging topics, and ensure that the meeting delivers practical insights for clinicians across practice settings. 

Members can also contribute to the chapter’s Communications Committee, which produces the MO ACC newsletter and other digital communications. The committee is always looking for new voices to help share member achievements, highlight educational opportunities, and communicate advocacy initiatives across the state. 

Another rewarding way to engage is by attending local chapter events and educational programs. These include Women in Cardiology (WIC) networking events, imaging-focused educational dinners, and the multi-state virtual cath conference that brings together cardiologists from Missouri, Illinois, Kansas, and Oklahoma to review complex interventional cases. These programs provide opportunities to connect with peers, present interesting cases, and build collaborations across institutions. 

For those interested in research, the Missouri ACC Foundation offers early-career research grants, providing seed funding for pilot projects in cardiovascular science and outcomes research. These grants help support innovative ideas and enable early career investigators to develop projects that may later lead to larger national funding opportunities. 

Finally, advocacy remains a core mission of the chapter. Members can participate in activities such as Physician Advocacy Day in Jefferson City or the national ACC Legislative Conference, where clinicians meet with policymakers to discuss issues affecting cardiovascular care and the practice of medicine. Engaging in advocacy allows physicians to ensure that the voice of cardiology is represented in health policy decisions that affect patients and the profession. 

For members looking to connect with the broader cardiovascular community in Missouri, the chapter website provides information on upcoming meetings, committees, educational programs, and research opportunities. Whether by attending events, serving on committees, contributing to communications, or engaging in advocacy, there are many ways to become involved and help shape the future of cardiovascular care in Missouri.