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Nancy W. Dickey, MD

JAMA. 1998;280:1045-1047.

	Since this article does not have an abstract, we have provided the first 150 words of the full text and any section headings.

INTRODUCTION

A WISE PERSON once said, "Always have your bags packed. You never know where life's journey is going to take you."

I couldn't agree more. In fact, I have my bag with me tonight—I've chosen to bring that traditional black bag that physicians have carried over the generations. My bag is packed and ready to go as I prepare for this year-long journey of my AMA presidency.

Of course, having one's bag packed isn't really about having a change of clothes ready. It's about being prepared to take advantage of the opportunities that come your way in life. And I am prepared.

As I start this journey, I am taking with me a lifetime of experiences that have shaped the person who stands before you now—that have shaped my thoughts about people and medicine and how this wonderful profession brings the two together.

From a South . . . [Full Text of this Article]

Packing the Essentials

A Plan for Health System Reform

Proven Strategies, New Ideas

The Code of Ethics

Dr Dickey is the current president of the American Medical Association.