|
|
The monthly electronic newsletter of the Hillsborough County Medical Association. |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Hillsborough County Medical Association
3001 W. Azeele St. Tampa, FL 33609 813.253.0471 HCMA.net
Debbie Zorian Executive Director |
|
|
|
Celebrating the HCMA's 130th Anniversary
Tuesday, September 16, 2025
6:30pm, The Centre Club
- HCMA Past Presidents will be honored.
- 2025 HCMA Foundation Grant Recipients will be recognized.
- The Dr. Frederick A. Reddy Memorial Award and the HCMA Outstanding Physician Award will be presented.
RSVP HERE
Thank you, sponsors Tampa General Hospital and Valley Bank! Sponsor and exhibit opportunities are available - click here.
Membership Dinner & Event Policy Reminder
If an HCMA member RSVPs for themselves along with guest/s, that member must pay the dinner fee for their guest/s, if they are considered a no-show (if the reservation was not cancelled 3 business days prior to the event). The HCMA Board of Trustees was forced to enact this policy many years ago due to numerous no-shows at our events, which continue to cost the HCMA a significant amount of money. While we have never invoiced a member for not attending, we do send invoices for the member’s guest/s, currently $55 per person, if reservations were not canceled in advance. Thank you for your understanding.
US CDC cuts experts out of panels that develop vaccine policy
The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention told physician groups, public health professionals and infectious disease experts that they will no longer be invited to help review vaccine data and develop recommendations. Read more.
|
|
|
Sorting out COVID vaccine confusion amid questions with new federal policies
Agencies within HHS responsible for spelling out who should get vaccinated aren’t necessarily in sync, issuing seemingly contradictory recommendations based on age or risk factors for serious disease. Read more.
Physicians will see Medicare payments rise in 2026
Provisions in MACRA and the reconciliation package mean a rise after five years of cuts, but bigger fixes are needed to protect access to Medicare
FIU researchers use AI to detect heart disease early with '95% accuracy'
The team is using digital stethoscopes and machine learning to analyze heartbeats, similar to how a musician picks up an off-key note. Models have high accuracy in predicting issues doctors may miss. Read more.
HCMA Contingency will visit legislators in Tallahassee
The HCMA Government Affairs Committee, led by Chairman and HCMA President Elect, Dr. Neil Manimala, is planning a visit to Tallahassee before the Legislative Session begins. The group will visit Hillsborough Legislators as they prepare for the Session on October 9th during a "Committee Week." If you are interested in joining our leaders, contact Elke Lubin for details. If you decide to travel to Tallahassee the day before, a list of hotels will be provided. Travel and lodging expenses are the participants' responsibility.
HCMA Physician Referral Service
As a participating member, you will be given priority when members of the public contact the HCMA office seeking referrals to physicians in your specialty. To be included on the referral service roster, a $40 fee is required. The annual fee aligns with the calendar year and will be due for renewal each January 1. This fee will be included on your HCMA annual dues notice, which is sent out starting in September with a due date of January 1st. Sign up here or contact Elke Lubin at the HCMA for more information.
LAST CHANCE to advertise in the HCMA's 2025 Membership Directory
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!
Beat the Heat: Signs of Heat Stroke vs. Heat Exhaustion You Can’t Ignore
Summer’s soaring temperatures bring more than just beach days and barbecues—they also increase the risk of serious heat-related illnesses. Each year, thousands suffer from heat exhaustion and heat stroke, conditions that can escalate rapidly if not recognized and treated properly. Knowing the difference between these two heat illnesses isn’t just helpful—it can be lifesaving. Read more.
Gas vs Charcoal: Which Barbecue Causes Less Harm?
Grilling is a summer favorite that brings people together for flavorful meals. However, it also comes with preventable health and safety risks, from toxic smoke and foodborne illnesses to serious burns. Read more.
Superman's Humanity: Reflections on Treating Christopher Reeve
Even after his accident, Reeve had true "star power" and left behind a hero's legacy. The documentary "Super/Man: The Christopher Reeve Storyopens in a new tab or window" recounts Reeve's life before and after this devastating spinal cord injury. It touches on Reeve's pursuit to breathe without the assistance of mechanical ventilation. Read more.
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.
Member Announcement Service
Moving, new partner, new website, retirement announcement? The HCMA will create a professional dedicated announcement 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.
|
|
|
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 |
|
|
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. |
|
|
From the Boards of Medicine
|
SCAM ALERT
The Florida Department of Health has seen a recent surge in fraudulent emails and phone calls targeting Florida health care practitioners by impersonating the Department of Health or the Division of Medical Quality Assurance (MQA). These scams leverage information about the licensure and enforcement processes to attempt to steal your personal or financial information.
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.
|
|
|
|
|
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.
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.
|
|
|
|
|
Dike “Stroke of Luck” Drummond, MD |
|
|
* If you read about my cruise and the little voice in your head said "must be nice" or something snarky like that. I bet it's because you don't have a vacation on your calendar. That's another thing we might talk about on our call. Don't be jealous - get even!
|
|
If you’re a physician who’s thinking about retirement—or maybe trying your best not to think about it—this is for you. I want to have a conversation. Just the two of us. Why? Because when you’ve dedicated your life to medicine, the idea of stepping away can feel like stepping off a cliff. I know what that feels like.
Two years ago, I had a stroke. I was 65. And in those first moments, I thought it was the end—not just of my career, but of everything. It could have been. But thanks to a fast ambulance and the fact that the neurointervention team was still in house at 3 AM from an earlier emergency, I’m still here. And since then, I’ve been learning how to live in a new way.
What surprised me most? There’s a deeper sense of purpose waiting on the other side of “being a doctor.” One that I didn’t expect. One that might be even more meaningful than what came before. That’s what I want to share with you. If you’re wrestling with what retirement really means, if the idea of life after medicine feels foreign or even threatening, let’s talk.
Just an informal half-hour chat. No sales pitch. Just me sharing what I’ve discovered and learning from your perspective too .... because ... I'm also writing a new book: “Physicians Unchained: Retirement Mastery for Doctors,” and I’d love your help shaping it.
What are the biggest challenges you see in this transition? If you’re already retired and it’s not the life you hoped for… or you’re thinking about retirement and can’t picture what comes next… or even if you're resisting the idea altogether, we should talk. |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Visit our Facebook page for all of the photos. Photos by Dr. David Lubin and Debbie Zorian.
|
|
|
|
2025 HCMA Residents' Reception was held July 29th!
The USF, HCA Brandon, BayCare Health, and the AdventHealth GME programs include HCMA membership for their resident physicians. A highlight of the year is the annual reception the HCMA holds for them. Brio Italian Grille was the scene for socializing, networking, and meeting HCMA leadership: Drs. Nam Tran (President), Michael Albrink (Vice President), Michael Cromer (Past President), Eva Crooke (Past President), and Neil Manimala (President Elect), Spencer Gauta, representative for Benefit Provider Clarity Wealth, and HCMA administrative staff: Debbie Zorian (Executive Director) and Elke Lubin (Executive Assistant) and to celebrate new and established resident members. |
|
|
|
|
2025 HCMA Delegation to the FMA
Front row: Drs. Eva Crooke, Christopher Kieliszak, Megan Melody, Rosemarie Garcia-Getting, and Michael Murphy. Back row: Drs. Chadha Juskaran, Madelyn Butler, Jared Weinfurtner, Jim Warren, Radhakrishna Rao, Bruce Shephard, Damian Caraballo (Delegation Chair), Kimberly Biss, Michael Zimmer, Lili Buzsaki, Stacie Wenk, Paul Anderson, Brandon Faza, and Scott Anderson. Not pictured: Dr. Neil Manimala and Debbie Zorian (HCMA Executive Director).
Over the last weekend of July, physicians from across Florida convened in Orlando for the 2025 FMA Annual Meeting. Twenty members strong, your HCMA Delegation proudly represented the HCMA, your profession, and patients throughout Florida. The reference Committees, which review submitted resolutions and hear testimony for and against them, are an integral part of the Annual Meeting process. Five HCMA members were selected to serve on reference committees: Dr. Bruce Shephard (Health Education, Public Policy); Drs. Michael Cromer, Neil Manimala, and Stacie Wenk (Legislation); and Dr. Michael Murphy (Medical Economics). HCMA’s resolution, “Establish an official FMA Florida Doctors’ Day in Tallahassee,” was referred to the Board of Governors for decision. The resolution HCMA co-sponsored with the Collier County Medical Society, “Protecting Patients from Misuse of AI in Healthcare,” was approved with amendments. Dr. Eva Crooke, HCMA Past President, was elected to serve as the FMA District C representative, and Drs. Stacie Wenk and Michael Zimmer were elected to serve as FL AMA Delegates, joining Drs. Michael Cromer and Rebecca Johnson, who already serve in that capacity at the AMA.
Many thanks to our delegation members who take time from their practices and families to serve our medical community at the state and national levels.
See all of the photos on the HCMA Facebook page. Photos by Debbie Zorian. |
|
|
Recognizing group practices with 100% HCMA membership
HCMA recognizes the following practices for their dedication to strengthening the voice of medicine in the Tampa Bay area. Thank you for your continued support!
10-25 Physicians
26-50 Physicians
Over 50 Physicians
|
|
|
Affiliate Member
Julie Braddy-Roberts, MD
Family Medicine
BayCare
www.BayCare.org
2985 Drew Street
Clearwater, 33759
727-820-8200 |
|
|
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!
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
DAS Health is a trusted leader in healthcare technology solutions, empowering medical practices and healthcare organizations to optimize operations, enhance patient care, and drive financial success for thousands of providers nationwide. With deep industry expertise and a commitment to excellence, DAS Health provides a full suite of IT and business services tailored to the unique needs of healthcare providers. From cybersecurity to revenue cycle management, they deliver solutions that streamline workflows, improve data security, and ensure regulatory compliance.
Please consider contacting John Sweeney, your DAS Health representative for a complimentary consultation to show how DAS Health can improve the business of your medical practice. |
|
|
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. |
|
|
|
|
Financial Survival Guide for the Mid-Late Career Physician
Tuesday, August 26, 2025, 6:30-7:30pm
Complimentary Webinar
Register by clicking here. |
|
|
Serving excellence
since before sliced bread. |
|
|
|
Celebrating the HCMA's 130th Anniversary
Tuesday, September 16, 2025, 6:30pm, The Centre Club - HCMA Past Presidents will be honored.
- 2025 HCMA Foundation Grant Recipients will be recognized.
- The Dr. Frederick A. Reddy Memorial Award and the HCMA Outstanding Physician Award will be presented.
RSVP HERE
Thank you, sponsors Tampa General Hospital and Valley Bank! Sponsor and exhibit opportunities are available - click here. |
|
|
Women in Medicine Social
Thursday, September 25, 2025, 6:00-8:00pm
Palma Ceia Country Club
Click here for more details and to RSVP. Sponsor opportunities are available - click here.
HCMA Holiday Social Tuesday, December 2, 2025, 6:30pm The Centre Club Mark your calendar - details coming soon!
HCMA Foundation's 28th Charity Golf Classic Thursday, April 23, 2026 TPC - Tampa Bay Details, registration, current sponsors, and sponsor info can be found here. |
|
|
|
|
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. |
|
|
PHYSICIAN WELLNESS PROGRAM |
|
|
|
|
|
|
Advocating for physicians and the health of the communities we serve.
|
|
|
|
|
|
