District IX Town Hall Meeting
Monday, September 9, 2024
6:30 pm
The District IX Town Hall will take place on Monday, September 9 at 6:30 PM via Zoom. This event will introduce AAP District IX members to the candidates running for the Chair position, Drs. Eric Ball and Alice Kuo. Attendees will also receive an overview of the 2024 legislative session and AAP-CA’s primary activities on initiatives. Dr. Sharon Pham, Co-Chair of the AAP-CA State Government Affairs Committee, will provide insights into the legislative landscape before the Q&A session with the district chair candidates.
The voting period for the District Chair position will open on September 11, coinciding with the national presidential elections. A separate email from National with voting details will be sent closer to that time.
Online: Zoom link (Zoom Meeting ID Details are in the Calendar invite)
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Meet the Speakers!
Katherine Williamson, M.D – District IX National Nominating Chair & Moderator
Dr. Williamson is board certified in pediatrics and a member of the District IX National Nominating Chair & Moderator. She is dedicated to building strong relationships with her patients and their families, viewing each child as central to their family’s world. Dr. Williamson believes that pediatrics involves more than treating physical health; it’s about being a positive role model and advocate. She strives to actively contribute to a child’s development and partners with parents to guide children toward their full potential.
Sharon Pham, M.D – Co-Chair, AAP-CA State Government Affairs Committee
Dr. Sharon Thu Diem Pham is a pediatrician with Kaiser Permanente, committed to ensuring that hospitalized children have a smooth and supportive experience and is the Co-Chair, AAP-CA State Government Affairs Committee. Growing up in Southern California, she completed her medical training at UC Davis School of Medicine and returned to her roots to practice pediatrics. Dr. Pham is board certified in Pediatric Hospital Medicine and Pediatrics by the American Board of Pediatrics. She completed her internship and residency in pediatrics at Children’s Hospital of Orange County. Dr. Pham is enthusiastic about helping children grow and thrive, drawing on her deep local roots and dedication to pediatric care.
Meet the Chairperson Candidates!
Eric Ball, M.D – District IX Chairperson Candidate
Dr. Eric Ball is a primary care pediatrician and partner at Southern Orange County Pediatric Associates, a member of the Children’s Hospital of Orange County (CHOC) Primary Care Network in Ladera Ranch, California. He earned his medical degree from the University of North Carolina School of Medicine in Chapel Hill, North Carolina, and completed his pediatric residency and chief residency at Stanford University in Palo Alto, California. Dr. Ball has been deeply involved with the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) and other professional organizations. His roles include serving as the AAP District IX Vice Chairperson, chairing the AAP District Vice Chairperson Committee, and holding various leadership positions within AAP California Chapter 4, including past president and board member. r. Ball’s motivation to seek this position stems from his commitment to advocacy, particularly after treating unvaccinated children with measles. He has been a strong advocate for stronger vaccine laws, improved access to care, reduced administrative burdens, and increased Medi-Cal payments. His leadership during the pandemic included organizing monthly educational webinars and collaborating with state partners on immunization policy.
Alice Kuo, M.D – District IX Chairperson Candidate