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The monthly electronic newsletter of the Hillsborough County Medical Association. |
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Hillsborough County Medical Association
3001 W. Azeele St. Tampa, FL 33609 813.253.0471 HCMA.net
Debbie Zorian Executive Director |
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HCMA Presidential Installation
Tuesday, May 6, 2025, 6:30pm
Centre Club
Dr. Nam Tran will be installed as HCMA's 122nd President, HCMA officers and representatives will be announced, and the Robert W. Yelverton, Sr., MD Memorial Scholarship will be awarded. Sponsors: The Bank of Tampa and MCMS Insurance Trust. Exhibit and sponsor opportunities are available - call 813-253-0471 for more information. Click here to RSVP.
Florida House passes proposal that could open doors for more medical malpractice lawsuits
House members voted 104-6 to approve the bill, which involves wrongful-death lawsuits and what are known as “non-economic” damages for such things as pain and suffering. Proposals to change the 1990 law have surfaced periodically over the years and have spurred lobbying fights. Opponents of the bills this year have included the Florida Hospital Association, Florida Medical Association, Florida Osteopathic Medical Association, Florida Insurance Council, Florida Chamber of Commerce and Associated Industries of Florida. Read more.
Five states have active measles outbreaks as Texas reaches 400 cases
The AP has reported that at least five states “have active measles outbreaks as of Friday (3/28/2025), and Texas’ is the largest with 400 cases.” Already, the U.S. has “more measles cases this year than in all of 2024, the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention has said. Other states with outbreaks – defined as three or more cases – include New Mexico, Kansas, Ohio and Oklahoma.” The new outbreaks “confirm health experts’ fears that the virus will take hold in other U.S. communities with low vaccination rates and that the spread could stretch on for a year.” The World Health Organization also “said...cases in Mexico are linked to the Texas outbreak.” Read more. |
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The other vaccine-preventable diseases worrying doctors now
Health officials are worried that measles cases in at least 12 states may be a harbinger of outbreaks of other preventable diseases, including polio, rubella, and mumps. “It really is a harbinger,” said Adam Ratner, MD, MPH, director of pediatric infectious diseases at NYU Langone and Hassenfeld Children’s Hospital, New York. “When we start to see a decrease in vaccination rates, measles outbreaks are the first thing you see, and often what follows are the other vaccine-preventable diseases.” Read more.
I have a tip that will take five strokes off anyone’s golf game. It’s called an eraser. – Arnold Palmer
The HCMA Foundation 27th Charity Golf Classic is just over three weeks away. Register to golf by clicking here. For information about sponsorship opportunities, click here. We hope to see you on April 24th! A CALL FOR DELEGATES! - An invitation to represent
The 2025 Florida Medical Association (FMA) Annual Meeting is being held July 24-27, in Orlando. The HCMA delegation is allowed 36 seats to represent our members and patients by authoring resolutions and discussing topics that can become legislative priorities in Tallahassee. If you are interested in learning more about the HCMA Delegation to the FMA, contact Elke Lubin. Delegate terms are 3 years (FMA dues must also be paid), and all prospective HCMA Delegates must review, sign, and return the Delegates Policy & Procedures manual for consideration.
Rental properties needed for incoming residents/fellows...
With Match Day now completed, the HCMA Physician Family Alliance is gearing up to assist new trainees relocating to the Tampa area. As part of this effort, they are compiling a list of rental options to share with residency and fellowship program directors in Tampa. If you have a rental property available for lease starting in May, June, or July, we invite you to complete THIS FORM. Your property details will be included in the list, and potential tenants will reach out to you directly based on the contact information you provide. This is a courtesy service, and there are no fees involved. Please note that we do not pre-screen potential tenants; this is simply a connection opportunity. The HCMA Physician Family Alliance is committed to supporting physician families in the Tampa Bay Area and looks forward to continuing to do so. If you have any questions or are interested in joining the HCMA PFA, please visit their website or call Lauren Swoboda, Co-President, at 863-398-1783.
Help us help you!
Your feedback is appreciated - please CLICK HERE to answer 6 questions that will help the HCMA better serve you.
Member testimonials
We are currently gathering testimonials from members to share the stories of why they have chosen to join the Association. Please take the time to share a few thoughts on your personal experience:
- What inspired you to join the HCMA?
- What has your experience been like so far?
- How do you feel about the community or mission of the organization?
- What do you like best about the HCMA?
Feel free to answer any or all of these questions. We’d be grateful for your perspective and appreciate your time! Thank you for your consideration.
2025 Foundation Grant Season is open
After each Charity Golf Classic, the HCMA Foundation Board members review grant applications and choose the recipients of the year's awards. The Board is now accepting grant applications, the deadline to submit is May 15th. If you are familiar with a local nonprofit organization that supports the health and well-being of the members of our communities, please encourage them to apply. Grant applications can be found on the HCMA website, by emailing Elke Lubin, or by calling the HCMA office at 813-253-0471.
Member Announcement Service
Moving, new partner, new website, retirement announcement? Member announcement/Dedicated email: The HCMA will create a professional announcement to email to members of the Association. Send us your text, logo, and photos, and we will do the rest. This service is for members only and is $125 per emailed announcement. Contact Elke Lubin for details.
There is power in unity, and there is power in numbers.
Throughout all the changes in healthcare, your HCMA has remained a strong leader and physician advocate. Encourage your colleagues not only in Hillsborough but surrounding counties to join the HCMA. Physicians outside of Hillsborough County can join as AFFILIATE members. Affiliate members pay a reduced annual membership fee but can take advantage of ALL HCMA benefits, including our Physician Wellness and Benefit Provider programs. Share this edition of Enews or direct them to our website to learn more about the HCMA and all the benefits we offer! They can also call the HCMA office at 813-253-0471 or email Debbie Zorian, Executive Director for more information. Your assistance is appreciated as we continue providing great benefits and services to members and our communities throughout 2025.
Work on 2025 Directory has begun
For the eleventh year, the HCMA is partnering with E&M Consulting, Inc. to produce our Annual Membership Directory. The publication will be available in the Summer of 2025 in both print and digital formats. E&M will be managing the advertising sales and layout/graphic design. The highly professional company produces a high-quality publication. E&M will be contacting all members about the advertising opportunities available and we ask that you review their offerings. The publication will be mailed to every member – a great opportunity to promote and give your practice additional exposure. To view the ad rates/options and sign-up online, please CLICK HERE. If you have any questions or want to advertise, please contact an E&M sales associate at 800-572-0011 ext. 0104 or email the ad team at: advertising@eandmsales.com. As always, your support is greatly appreciated!
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Connect with us! Follow and connect with the HCMA on social media. Tap the icons on the left and also connect with HCMA administrative staff on LinkedIn:
Debbie Zorian, Executive Director and Elke Lubin, Executive Assistant |
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Interested in sponsoring an HCMA event? Sponsorship opportunities to consider:
- Women in Medicine Social
- Membership Dinners
- Holiday Social
- Resident Reception
- Foundation Charity Golf Classic
To learn more about these upcoming events and sponsorship opportunities, contact Debbie Zorian, Executive Director, at dzorian@hcma.net or call 813- 253-0471. |
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From the Boards of Medicine
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The Florida Board of Medicine was established to ensure that every physician practicing in this state meets minimum requirements for safe practice. The practice of medicine is a privilege granted by the state. The Florida Board of Medicine, through efficient and dedicated organization, will license, monitor, discipline, educate, and when appropriate, rehabilitate physicians and other practitioners to ensure their fitness and competence in the service of the people of Florida.
The Florida Board of Osteopathic Medicine was legislatively established to ensure that every osteopathic physician practicing in this state meets the minimum requirements for safe practice. The Florida Board of Osteopathic Medicine is responsible for licensing, monitoring, disciplining, and educating osteopathic physicians to assure competency and safety to practice in Florida.
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Stress Awareness Month serves as a platform to discuss stress, promote mental health, and encourage people to seek support and resources. It has been observed annually in April since 1992. You can help yourself and others by sharing your story, engaging with local groups, or simply prioritizing your mental health.
The HCMA Foundation Physician Wellness Program (PWP) provides a safe harbor for members to address difficulties, challenges, and work/family/life balance through counseling and coaching services, up to six sessions in twelve months. This complimentary and completely confidential benefit is available for all members, regardless of membership category. |
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The PWP relies on donations and the generosity of members in order to provide counseling and coaching services, at no cost. We want to be able to continue providing this valuable benefit to all HCMA members! Please consider donating to the HCMA Foundation PWP. |
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Meet HCMA's newest team member!
Adrianne Jenkins began her HCMA career in March as the Membership & Event Coordinator. Originally from Brooklyn, NY, she has lived in Florida for 27 years.
With an extensive background as an Operations Manager and Administrative Assistant, she has worn many hats. Adrianne also has experience working with nonprofit organizations, giving her a deep appreciation for membership engagement and event coordination.
Beyond work, Adrianne is a passionate creator who loves designing unique home decor and holiday pieces, making things that spark joy. She is also an animal advocate and supports two incredible wolf sanctuaries—Colorado Wolf & Wildlife Center and the Seacrest Wolf Preserve. When Adrianne is not crafting or supporting four-legged friends, she enjoys exploring new creative projects and embracing life’s little inspirations. |
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And cheers to HCMA's longest-standing team member... On March 31st, Debbie Zorian, HCMA Executive Director, celebrated 39 years at the HCMA!
Debbie's talents, efforts, and dedication to our mission have helped make the HCMA one of the most successful and admired Associations in our state.
Congratulations, and thank you! |
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Insurance denials brought into the spotlight ABC Action News reporter Katie LaGrone, has produced a multi-part series, entitled Patient No More, which exposes the issue of medical insurance denials and the impact on patients and physicians. In a recent release, HCMA's own Dr. David Halpern was interviewed. A recent HealthNews Florida article also addressed this very important issue. HCMA's Government Affairs Committee members have also met with legislators who have agreed to support a bill to reform the prior authorization/retroactive denials problems. |
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Retired Members
Jaime Casellas, MD Cardiology
Jack Maniscalco, MD Neurosurgery |
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Joining the HCMA is easy! Do you have a nonmember colleague? Share this edition of Enews, direct them to our website, or scan the QR code to learn more about the HCMA and all of the benefits we offer!
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Winstar Payments- as a valued member of the Hillsborough County Medical Association, Winstar Payments will provide you a free analysis of your current merchant processing system to compare with proposed discounted fees up to 50% percent lower or 100% FREE credit card processing with our Cash Discount program. Winstar will pay $1,000 to any practice where they cannot meet or beat their current processing rates. Be sure to ask about our fully-compliant Cash Discount Program which includes a free Point-Of-Sale. To learn more, contact Vinny Breault. |
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FOR RENT Up to 1,800 square feet of office space on Platt Street with parking available to rent on Tuesdays PM and all day Wednesdays and Fridays. Contact Robin at 813-977-1361. |
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If you or anyone you know is interested in advertising in The Bulletin, or marketing their services to HCMA members, more information can be found in the HCMA Marketing packet.
New Bulletin feature... Featuring YOU!
"Is there a doctor in the house?" is a new feature in which HCMA members will relive an incident when they were in the right place at the right time, and assisted in the emergent care of a stranger. If you are willing to share your story, please contact Elke Lubin to receive the article guidelines to submit your experience. |
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2025 Florida Legislative Session
March 4 - May 2
Tallahassee
- Consider visiting Florida's Capitol and your legislators during the Session. The Hillsborough Delegation members can be found here. Contact their legislative aides to secure an appointment.
- Learn about The Doctor of the Day program, which is administered by the Legislative Clinic, and delivers a vital professional service to the members of the Florida Legislature and all legislative employees during the Session. The physicians of Florida have provided this important voluntary public service each year since the program’s inception in the 1960s. To serve as a Doctor of the Day, you must be sponsored by a Senator and apply. Details can be found here.
HCMA Foundation's 27th Charity Golf Classic
Thursday, April 24, 2025
Tournament Players Club - Tampa Bay
See sponsors below...
Registration is OPEN!
For golfer registration and sponsor information, CLICK HERE.
Help us with our raffle! Visit our raffle WISH LIST!
2025 South Florida Women Physicians Retreat
Saturday, May 3, 2025
Hyatt House, Naples
Nurturing Wellness for Women Physicians: Career, Family, and Fertility. The conference will offer CME lectures, panel discussions, and roundtable opportunities to learn from each other (click here to view the schedule). Consider staying the weekend, discounted room rates are available! Register NOW by clicking here!
HCMA Presidential Installation
Tuesday, May 6, 2025, 6:30pm
Centre Club
Dr. Nam Tran will be installed as HCMA's 122nd President, HCMA officers and representatives will be announced, and the Robert W. Yelverton, Sr., MD Memorial Scholarship will be awarded. Sponsors: The Bank of Tampa and MCMS Insurance Trust. Exhibit and sponsor opportunities are available - call 813.253.0471 for more information. Click here to RSVP.
FMA Annual Meeting
July 24-27, 2025
Hyatt Regency, Orlando
The HCMA delegation is allowed 36 seats to represent our members and patients, by authoring resolutions and discussing topics that can become legislative priorities in Tallahassee. If you are interested in learning more about the HCMA Delegation to the FMA, contact Elke Lubin. Delegate terms are 3 years (FMA dues must also be paid) and all prospective HCMA Delegates must review, sign, and return the Delegates Policy & Procedures manual for consideration.
HCMA Residents Reception
Tuesday, July 29, 2025, 6:30-8:30pm
Brio Italian Grille
RSVPs required - watch your email details forthcoming!
Membership Dinner
Tuesday, September 16, 2025, 6:30pm
Centre Club
RSVPs required - watch your email details forthcoming!
Women in Medicine Social Thursday, September 25, 2025, 6:00-8:00pm Palma Ceia Country Club RSVPs required - watch your email details forthcoming! |
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2025 HCMA Foundation Charity Golf Sponsors as of today |
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The HCMA’s Benefit Provider Program provides value to physicians with members-only products, programs, and services that far exceed the cost of annual dues. Click the logos below for more information about each of our valued partners. If you have any questions, please contact Debbie Zorian, HCMA Executive Director, at 813.253.0471 or DZorian@hcma.net. |
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PHYSICIAN WELLNESS PROGRAM |
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Advocating for physicians and the health of the communities we serve.
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