Katie Morrison, MD
Associate Professor
University of Colorado
In this month’s AAHPM Membership blog feature, we spoke with Katie Morrison, MD, about the value of being part of the AAHPM community. Katie shares how her involvement with the Academy fosters connection, professional growth, and a stronger hospice and palliative medicine community. Through her work in faculty development and commitment to education, she’s helping shape the next generation of hospice and palliative medicine (HPM) leaders.
About the Interviewee
Katie Morrison, MD, is an active AAHPM member and dedicated educator who contributes to advancing hospice and palliative medicine through her work on the AAHPM Assessment Task Force and faculty development initiatives.
- Why do you think it’s so important to be a member of AAHPM?
I appreciate being a member of AAHPM for two reasons. The most important to me is being part of the large community of HPM professionals. The annual assembly is an important time for me to get together with people I might not see for the rest of the year, and I have served on a task force, which helps me to know people outside my circle. The second reason is it helps me keep up to date on the most recent research and best practices in palliative medicine. - What are some member benefits that everyone should take advantage of?
If you are an educator, utilize the educator toolbox and the HPM milestones and EPAs. I enjoy the discounts on conferences and learning tools.
- For someone who’s never been, tell us your experience attending the Annual Assembly?
I love the annual assembly. I meet up with friends, colleagues that were once my fellows, and meet new people. Everyone is friendly. - What inspires you to help AAHPM through faculty development?
Using best practices to create a bigger skillful workforce for our patients is what motivates me. I have had in-laws and friends that could have benefitted from palliative care services, and none were available. - Which programs or courses have you been involved with at AAHPM?
I am in the assessment task force which has taught workshops at the annual assembly on subjects such as the clinical competency committee. Currently we are working with ACGME to create an assessment workshop for AAHPM educators, part of which, giving feedback and direct observation, we will teach during this year’s annual assembly. - Which AAHPM benefits have been the most valuable to you personally — and why should others take advantage of them?
I like the annual assembly discounts and the resources for educators. - What advice would you give to members who want to get more involved but aren’t sure where to start?
I was told to find places you want to volunteer and do so. I was on the spiritual committee at first and now volunteer on the assessment committee.