Central Line, a platform developed by the Colorado Medical Society (CMS), offers members a way to participate in organizational governance and policy-making. Since its introduction in 2017, the platform has processed 78 proposals from members.
Members can submit policy proposals at any time throughout the year by logging into Central Line with their CMS.org credentials. The CMS policy office reviews each submission for fiduciary responsibilities and assigns it to an appropriate Interest Area.
After review, proposals enter a voting phase. Four weeks before a board meeting, members of the relevant Interest Area receive invitations to vote on new proposals and leave comments. Two weeks before the meeting, all CMS members are invited to vote. While member votes are non-binding, board representatives consider both votes and comments before making decisions on each proposal.
Following board action on a proposal, all members are asked to provide feedback on whether they agree with the decision. If most respondents disagree with the outcome, the proposal is reconsidered at the next meeting.
According to CMS, “Central Line empowers CMS members to provide their board representatives with input before and after votes on policy matters at board meetings. Your board representative will personally review and consider your feedback, ensuring your voice is heard.”
The society states that this system strengthens connections between members and leadership: “Central Line ensures real-time interaction between members and the board of directors, serving as a crucial check and balance. This enhanced connection makes CMS stronger, better connected, and more responsive to member needs. With just a few clicks from your desktop, laptop or mobile device, you can actively participate in shaping the future of CMS.”
Members interested in participating can log in at www.cms.org/central-lineand or contact membership@cms.org for assistance activating their account or resetting passwords. Upon first login, users are encouraged to update their profiles by selecting relevant Interest Areas.
###
