ONE YEAR FROM NOW, on Tuesday, Nov. 7, 2000, we-the American electorate-will go to the polls in what may well be the most decisive and historic election in more than 100 years. Decisive for the United States in general, but equally decisive for the home health industry and the patients we serve. How we vote and whom we elect could well determine the course of history for the nation and our industry well into the 22nd century.

Because of some of the dynamics and demographics in Washington, this election, for the first time in memory, could be "winner take all." As such, it could determine which political party and what kind of philosophy will control all three branches of the federal government-the Executive, the Legislative and the Judicial-for years to come.

Each of these branches of government has the ability, individually and collectively, to profoundly influence ourbusinesses and lives. Fortunately, we do have the ability to influence what happens in Washington.

An Eye to the Next Century WE HAVE A significant opportunity to directly affect the outcome of the upcoming election and, in so doing, affect future government policy.

We all feel frustrated at times, threatened and helpless as the federal government, no matter how benevolent its motivation, intrudes more and more into our lives. But as Americans, we also have the freedom to speak out on issues, to petition the government, and most of all, to support and elect candidates who reflect and support our philosophies and viewpoints.

Perhaps never has a greater opportunity existed for us to do this than in the next 12 months as we prepare to elect our next government. Our efforts will help set the agenda for perhaps as long as half of the next century. Next year's election also provides us with a rare opportunity to lay a strong foundation for future educational and lobbying efforts. This is critical because no matter who is elected president or which party controls Congress, our industry will have to continue intensive educational and lobbying efforts to make our positions prevail on critical issues.

Successful government education and lobbying depend almost as much on access and information as on the merits of the arguments being pursued. Without access to decision-makers, it is impossible to present or make a case. Government officials with prior knowledge of the industry are also more understanding of industry problems and receptive to our proposed solutions.

But to establish relationships and take advantage of the opportunity that next year's election affords us, we must participate in the political process, starting now. Here are some of the things you can do:

Play your part: TAKING PART IN our own governance is not only our right, it is also our responsibility. At the very least, we should become informed citizens. We should study the issues that affect us, our families, our community and our businesses. We should research where the various candidates and parties stand on these issues by reading, visiting candidates' offices and participating in campaign functions.

If we can't personally meet with the candidates, we can still call them, e-mail them or write to them. Don't be reluctant to ask where they stand on issues of interest and to educate them on what stance they should take. "Our position on XYZ issue is ... and for these reasons ... . What would be your position on that issue if you are elected or re-elected?" Personal communication is one of the most effective of all educational tools.

As former Speaker of the House "Tip" O'Neill once said, "All campaigns, even presidential campaigns, are local." So after studying the candidates and the issues, pick a candidate or a party that reflects your positions and become active in that campaign. Not only will this help elect your chosen candidate, but it will also give you easier access to that candidate whenever you want to discuss an issue of importance.

Pay your dues: MONEY IS THE mother's milk of politics, so you need to personally contribute and get others to contribute to your candidate's campaign-no matter how little or how much.

You can also invest in the political process-and your hoped-for outcomes-by volunteering to work on the campaign. There is always a need for people to help staff the local campaign office or drive through the community, giving out materials, hanging signs, and the like.

Or try inviting the candidates of your choice and even their opponents to visit your facilities. Ask them to speak to your employees, friends and customers on the issues that affect them. The candidate will benefit from exposure to potential voters, and you will benefit by having the opportunity to talk with him or her about key issues.

Another way to do your share in the political process is by actively discussing political issues with friends, neighbors, customers and business colleagues. If you talk issues and positions instead of personalities, parties and politics, few people will feel uncomfortable or take offense. If they do, the worst you may have to do is to apologize, tell them that you respect their position, and drop the subject.

Do your duty: LAST BUT NOT least, vote. If you do nothing else, vote. Even if you don't actively participate in the campaign-even if none of your first-choice candidates is running-still vote.

We have one great tool to affect the upcoming election and the political future of our society and industry. That tool is our ballot. It is our right and our obligation to vote for the people and the party we feel will best represent our interests in Washington.

And get your family, your friends, your neighbors and even your customers to vote. We in the home health care industry have a great opportunity to help turn out the vote of two constituent groups with common interests: senior citizens and people with disabilities. These groups, with whom we are in contact on a daily basis, have interests and concerns common to ours and are significantly affected by many of the same issues that face our industry.

So during the next months, as you work with and visit your customers, take the opportunity to educate them on the issues and the candidates. Then, come next fall, help them vote by providing them with information about absentee voting or transportation to the polls.

It's Do or Die THE ELECTION OF 2000 is too important for any of us-regardless of party or political persuasion-not to participate. If we don't attempt to influence the political process for 2000 starting today, it will be all the more difficult for us, as individuals or as an industry, to influence our government, its policies and actions in upcoming years.

We have the opportunity to shape the political landscape only once every four years. Let's not waste this golden opportunity. Our future is now!