We are in the middle of the ASA Annual Meeting, which draws thousands of anesthesiologists from across the country to spend several days at meetings and lectures, all without compensation.  We know the incentive for the rank-and-file:  the opportunity to attend an incomparable array of refresher courses, panel discussions and other continuing education offerings.  Hundreds of anesthesiologists come to educate others and participate in committee and board activities as specialty leaders. The sight of so many physicians spending valuable time together away from the operating room, along with some questions heard lately, made us wonder how anesthesia groups secure attendance at their own internal meetings.  Board and other governance meetings, finance and employment committee meetings, and all-employee and departmental meetings are important—indeed, they are indispensable to effective group management.  While recognizing the need to conduct business by meeting, few individuals wish they could attend even more meetings, and many people will...