Central Line, a communications platform from the Colorado Medical Society (CMS), serves as a key member benefit aimed at increasing engagement and participation in governance. Introduced in 2017, Central Line has processed 78 proposals since its inception.
The platform allows CMS members to submit policy proposals at any time throughout the year by logging in with their CMS.org credentials. Once submitted, proposals are reviewed by the CMS policy office to ensure they meet organizational standards and are then assigned to an appropriate Interest Area.
After review, the proposal enters a voting phase. Members within the relevant Interest Area receive an email invitation four weeks before a board meeting to review and vote on the proposal, choosing “yes,” “no,” or “maybe” and leaving comments if desired. Two weeks before the meeting, all CMS members are invited via email to participate in voting. Although these votes are non-binding, board representatives consider both the results and member feedback before making final decisions.
Following board action on a proposal, all members receive an email summarizing the decision and requesting feedback on whether they agree with it. If most respondents disagree with the board’s choice, the issue will be reconsidered at a future 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.”
CMS states that this process fosters real-time interaction 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 into www.cms.org/central-lineand using their credentials or contact membership@cms.org for account support. Upon first login, users should update their profiles by selecting Interest Areas that align with their interests.
