In 1985, the Michigan Society of Hematology and Oncology (MSHO) was formed in response to unfavorable changes in Medicare reimbursement and consistent coverage issues with Michigan's private payers that jeopardized the specialists' ability to deliver quality care. Today, the need to advocate for the advancement of cancer treatment as a recognized, credible, unified, local "Voice of Oncology" remains. Throughout its history, MSHO has paid careful attention to membership recruitment and retention. Policy makers and regulators have given the Society access because they understand that we represent the state's cancer specialists. The Michigan Society of Hematology and Oncology includes physicians from private practice, hospital and academic medical center settings. Our organization provides educational, reimbursement, legislative advocacy and networking services to physician members as well as their NPs, PAs, oncology nurses, practice managers and billing staff members. Education, networking and communication build strong allegiance to MSHO. All educational meetings are carefully designed to offer a setting conducive to networking and disseminating information relevant to our members. Quarterly newsletters, bi-monthly Billing & Reimbursement E-Bulletins, the MSHO website and direct mailings support education opportunities. The Society also provides the services of a senior reimbursement consultant to support practices. The Michigan Society of Hematology & Oncology continues to flourish due to the commitment of its leadership, participation of its members and support of its sponsors. Maintaining a position as the "great neutral" among various organizations with competing agendas allows MSHO to be recognized as the trusted voice of oncology in Michigan. All decisions for Society participation are measured against our mission to provide advocacy, support clinical research and educate our members.