To the Editor: Dr. Kassirer (March 4 issue)1 suggests that the need for primary care internists could be satisfied if the edentulous Federated Council for Internal Medicine (FCIM) would take a strong, enforceable stand. Historically, the FCIM was convened to discuss issues of mutual interest. Although its discussions have traditionally been candid and comprehensive, its record is more akin to whispering with one voice, because the issues have not always been clear and have not always had a direct, simultaneous effect on each of the organizations that make up the council. What seems to have changed dramatically in the past… © 1993, Massachusetts Medical Society. All rights reserved.