Biographical Info (hometown, experience, specialty): 

West Memphis, AR. Dentist, wife of physician. 

What other leadership positions have you held (AMA, Specialties, PACs)? When? 

My husband, Dr. Scott Ferguson, is a member of the Council on Legislation and an Alternate Delegate. I have been fortunate enough to attend some of their meetings as well as the AMA meetings. 

Which Program (Campaign School/Candidate Workshop) did you attend?  

2012 Candidate Workshop 

Have you run for public office? What was the result? 

Yes, I won with 79% of the vote in 2012 and 74% in 2014. 

Why did you decide to take part in the AMPAC program? 

My husband was a State Representative from 1993 to 1996 and ran for US Senate in 1998. We attended a Campaign School together in 1992. We were neophytes to politics at the time, and the training was invaluable. 

Have the programs helped in your political/advocacy career? How? 

Yes. Beyond the campaign training, the Campaign School has connected me to a network of AMA staff who are well-informed on health issues. I turn to them often for policy positions. 

What was the most beneficial component of the AMPAC program for you? 

The public speaking session was the thing I dreaded most, but it was the most helpful. I had little to no experience in public speaking, and this requirement allowed me to really define why I was running. The speech that I gave at the school was simply terrible, but the video helped me improve my message and presentation. 

What would you say to members of the medical community thinking about becoming involved in politics? 

The importance of physicians and their spouses in legislature can’t be overstated. I was the only health care provider on the Public Health committee my first term. Other committee members relied on my opinion, and this helped drive policy. Government will play an even bigger role in health care in the future. It is crucial that we have representatives to advocate for patients and physicians.