DENVER, Colo.—The American College of Emergency Physicians (ACEP) today announced that William Jaquis, MD, FACEP, a Florida-based emergency physician, assumed the presidency of the organization during ACEP19 in Denver. During his remarks, Dr. Jaquis outlined workplace, workforce and wellness as the three pillars he plans to focus on during his one-year term.

“This is an incredible time to be at the helm of an organization that represents emergency physicians from all walks of life and professional backgrounds,” said Dr. Jaquis. “We have a rare opportunity to save lives and serve communities. But we must act as one united voice to effectively navigate the many challenges facing our specialty.  

Together, we must protect and strengthen the vital role that emergency physicians have in the health system and take meaningful steps to enhance patient care. As president, I will focus on improving the work environment for emergency physicians. This means empowering the physician at the bedside with tools, resources and training. And it requires emphasizing a culture of safety at hospitals where violence in the emergency department is too common.

More can be done to promote physician wellness; we must do more to prevent burnout and prioritize the health and wellness of emergency physicians who are responsible for protecting millions of patients.

Under my leadership, ACEP will confront threats to the viability of emergency medicine head on. We will continue to educate policymakers about the need to protect bedrock principles such as the Emergency Medical Treatment and Labor Act (EMTALA) and the Prudent Layperson Standard. And, we will stand up for patients who deserve fair coverage and 24/7 access to the highest quality emergency care.” 

William Jaquis, MD, FACEP, is an attending physician at Aventura Medical Center in Florida. He has served on the ACEP Board in 2012 and 2015, including a term as vice president. He also served as the president of the Maryland ACEP chapter. Dr. Jaquis is the senior vice president of Envision Health East Florida Division. Dr. Jaquis earned his medical degree at the Medical College of Ohio and completed his residency at Case Western-Mt. Sinai Medical Center in Cleveland.