Pertinent Information

PLEASE NOTE - THE HCMA OFFICE WILL BE CLOSED DECEMBER 25, 2023 - JANUARY 1, 2024.

IT'S NOT TOO LATE TO RSVP!

Holiday Social for HCMA members  

December 5, 2023, 6:30pm

At the home of Dr. & Mrs. Michael Cromer 

Dr. Michael and Carol Cromer will open their home to HCMA members and their guests for an evening of cocktails, hors d'oeuvres, socializing, live music, and celebrating the holiday season!  Whiskey enthusiasts are welcome to participate in a tasting hosted by Steward Cromer! Thank you to our sponsors Physicians Wealth Planning and SGP Advisors. Mark your calendar and RSVP today! 

Number of COVID-19 cases caused by BA.2.86 variant has tripled in past two weeks

On November 28th, HealthDay reported “The prevalence of a highly mutated COVID variant has tripled in the past two weeks, new government data” show. Now, nearly 10% of “new COVID cases are fueled by the BA.2.86 variant, the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention reported Monday.” Officials “first warned of the highly mutated variant back in August, but it has since spread in several regions of the United States.” However, thus far, “preliminary data on the variant suggests it does not trigger more severe illness than previous variants, the WHO said in a recent risk evaluation, but the international agency still noted a recent and ‘substantial rise’ in BA.2.86 cases.” Read more.

U.S. life expectancy starts to recover after sharp pandemic decline

A CDC analysis of 2022 data finds that U.S. life expectancy is improving after being knocked backward during the COVID emergency. But it's still lower than it was pre-pandemic. Read more.

HC3 warns health care industry about threat of Emotet malware

HealthIT Security reported “The HHS Health Sector Cybersecurity Coordination Center (HC3) issued a brief about Emotet, a notorious malware strain that has impacted the health care sector” since “at least 2014.” The malware “has been described as the ‘world’s most dangerous malware’ by Europol.” For now, “HC3 stressed that the information in the brief is accurate as of the date of publication, but Emotet will likely evolve and update its capabilities in the future.” HC3 added, “The cybercriminal ecosystem is resilient, fluid, and dynamic – gangs form and disband, but the talent and intellectual capital continues to grow over time. This is not expected to change.” Read the report.

Tampa Bay Street Medicine - Wish List

Tampa Bay Street Medicine, a USF Health student-led organization dedicated to bringing healthcare to Tampa’s unsheltered population, is holding a donation drive via an Amazon Wishlist. Please view their list via THIS LINK and consider making a donation. If you have any questions, please contact Emily Heideman, MD Candidate ‘24, Morsani College of Medicine, eheideman@usf.edu.

Congress must prevent imminent Medicare pay cut

In a letter on behalf of the FMA, President Jason Goldman, MD, FACP, urged members of Florida’s congressional delegation to prevent an imminent 3.4% Medicare physician payment cut from taking effect next year. Action is especially critical given that Medicare physician pay rates have declined continuously since 2001, and medical practice inflation is projected to be 4.6% in 2024. Find your FL representatives.

Doctors and Clinicians: Don’t Forget to Preview Your Performance Information

The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) opened the Doctors and Clinicians Preview Period on November 13, 2023, and it will close on December 12, 2023, at 8pm (EST). The Preview Period provides an opportunity for doctors and clinicians to review their 2022 Quality Payment Program (QPP) performance information before it’s publicly reported on clinician and group profile pages on the Medicare.gov compare tool and in the Provider Data Catalog (PDC). You can access the secured Preview through the QPP website.

Please refer to the resources below on how to preview your information:

• Presentation: Preview Period: Performance Information for Doctors and Clinicians (Recording) (Slides, PDF, 5.8 MB) (Transcript, PDF, 140 KB)
• Doctors and Clinicians Preview Period User Guide (PDF, 3.9 MB)

Please note the 2022 QPP performance information planned for public reporting in 2024 will be added to Medicare.gov compare tool profile pages and/or the PDC after all targeted reviews are completed. If you have an open targeted review request, you’ll still be able to preview your 2022 QPP performance information during the Doctors and Clinicians Preview Period.

Alert: DOH Scammers target Florida-licensed practitioners

Scammers posing as the state Department of Health (DOH) have been sending fraudulent emails to Florida-licensed physicians and other healthcare practitioners as part of a phishing scheme. This email, which did not originate from the DOH, offers to provide licensees with “important information” about a temporary change to their license status. You will never receive unsolicited calls or emails from the DOH that request personal information, demand payments, or make threats against your license. If you receive an email that looks suspicious, do not click any links or attachments, and do not provide any personal information. You can report the scam email by visiting the FBI’s Internet Crime Complaint Center.

PHYSICIANS NEEDED to conduct guardianship evaluations for the Court in Hillsborough County

Applications are currently being sought from licensed Florida physicians to serve as members of the 13th Judicial Circuit’s Guardianship Examining Committee. The work product of the Examining Committee is an essential consideration of the Guardianship Court, before declaring a person to be legally incapacitated, in whole or in part, and before removing any of that person’s rights and, potentially, delegating some of those rights to a legal guardian. Physicians are required to complete the evaluation and file a written report to the Court, for which they are paid a $350 or $500 flat fee, depending on the circumstances of the case.

A completed application must be submitted for consideration, along with a résumé reflecting relevant experience. Applicants must also be cleared through a court-conducted criminal records check. A one-time initial training is required to be completed within four months of appointment and is available in this Circuit via online video training. After that, members of the Committee must simply demonstrate 2 hours of relevant continuing education training that will enhance their ability to conduct the evaluations.

For more information about this Examining Committee work and/or to request an application, please contact the Court’s Elder Justice Center by email at elder@fljud13.org or by calling (813) 276-2726. Thank you for your consideration regarding this important community service.

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

• Florida Cancer Specialists & Research Institute - Brandon
• Women's Care - West Tampa

26-50 Physicians

• Florida E.N.T. & Allergy
• Ruffolo, Hooper & Associates, MD, PA
• The Woman's Group

Over 50 Physicians

• Excelis Medical Associates
• Florida Orthopaedic Institute

HCMA Government Affairs Committee

The HCMA's Government Affairs Committee (GAC) is gearing up for another busy legislative season. 

• The GAC, in conjunction with the FMA, has compiled a list of 2024 Legislative Priorities, that will be presented to our legislators locally, through our Key Contact program, and in Tallahassee.
• The GAC is coordinating a contingency of members to visit Tallahassee on February 20th,  during the 2024 Legislative Session. This one-day event includes a meeting with FMA legislative experts followed by scheduled appointments with legislators and/or their administrative staff.  Members often arrive in Tallahassee the evening prior to the scheduled day at the Capitol.  If you are interested in joining the GAC contingency in their visit to Tallahassee, contact Elke Lubin or call the HCMA office: 813.253.0471.
• If you are interested in serving as "Doctor of the Day" any time during the 2024 Legislative Session (January 9 - March 8), download this information packet which includes the DOD application.  If you have any questions, please contact the Office of Legislative Services directly: Kelly Welborn, (850) 717-0301, welborn.kelly@leg.state.fl.us.

Work/Life Balance

‘Physician’ as identity vs. a position in the workforce: What generational differences may teach us all. A sense of well-being, connected relationships and time to pursue physical fitness, connection to nature and social justice projects are all primary values for this upcoming generation of future physicians. Read the article.

The do’s and don'ts of calling out a patient's bad behavior

It’s a clinical curveball, though in this case, a physician in training can’t turn to science for help. What does a doctor do when a patient’s biased, disrespectful, or hateful language threatens to get in the way of necessary treatment? Read the article from the AMA.

The future of medicine can begin with you.

Both pre-med and medical students have asked to shadow members in their offices to gain early clinical exposure. If you would like to serve as a mentor and allow a student to shadow you please register here. The HCMA is compiling a list of volunteers. When a student contacts us, we will share the volunteer's information so the student and physician volunteer can make final mentoring arrangements. Thank you for your participation!

From the Board of Medicine

Check your medical license - if you are in GROUP 1, your medical license will expire in TWO MONTHS.  Renew by clicking HERE.

Medical Doctors

Group 1 – current license will expire at midnight, ET, January 31 of each even year.

Group 2 – current license will expire at midnight, ET, January 31 of each odd year.

Doctors of Osteopathic Medicine

Current licenses expire at midnight, Eastern Time, on March 31, 2024.

The Florida Board of Medicine and the Florida Board of Osteopathic Medicine are responsible for setting the CME required for licensure and re-licensure in Florida. Each Board specifies a certain number of hours, including some mandatory topics, that must be completed within each two-year licensure term.

2024 Allopathic Medical License Renewal Guide

Updated for 2024 and exclusively for members, the FMA’s new Allopathic Medical License Renewal Guide is now available. If your Florida medical license is due for renewal by Jan. 31, 2024, download this printable resource designed to help you meet your deadline, identify possible exemptions and CME benefits, and choose the best option for reporting your CME credits to CE Broker.

CE Broker

The HCMA has formed a partnership with CE Broker, the official continuing education tracking system. HCMA members receive a discount when subscribing to a CE Broker account. Subscriptions renew annually and offer a user-friendly system that helps you sort through complex CE requirements. Contact Elke Lubin at 813-253-0471 or click here to receive the promotion code. Go to CEBroker.com and subscribe or set up a 7-Day Free Trial Account. Use the HCMA promotion code to apply your discount.

Physician Wellness

The HCMA Foundation Physician Wellness Program provides a safe harbor for members to address life difficulties, challenges, and increased stress through counseling and coaching services. This complimentary and completely confidential benefit is available for all members, regardless of membership category. 

Physician Wellness Program (PWP) usage report:

·        The PWP has six providers for counseling and one provider for coaching.

·        Since January 2023, twenty-nine therapy sessions and seven coaching sessions have been utilized among four providers.

·        Benefits of the PWP are complimentary and available to ALL HCMA members, regardless of membership level.

·        The PWP is completely confidential: no identifying reports are submitted, no insurance is filed, and no electronic medical records are kept.

·        You are safe here.

Top 3 Shortcuts to More Work-Life Balance

Free online video training - Each one has proven effective by hundreds of our physician-coaching clients. They work for anyone on the patient care team.

1.     Build a solid boundary between work and home after each shift - even if you are on call or have charts left to do.

2.     Build true life balance into each week in just 15 minutes on Sunday.

3.     Build a better day off - a true Freedom Day - not just another day of chores around the house.

Short Video Lessons - only one is longer than 5 minutes that are simple to learn and implement. Each tool works every time you use it. 5 CEU/CME Credits Available for doctors, nurses, NP's, PA's, Dentists and Pharmacists

Personal News

Joel Silverfield, MD

After receiving the HCMA’s Outstanding Physician Award, the BayCare newsroom wrote a feature article about Dr. Silverfield, his career in Tampa, and the HCMA award.

When asked about why he became a physician, he stated “It was more of a calling than a job, as it was expected of a physician to sacrifice much of their own needs and desires for those of their patients. I’m still amazed that people would ask me for advice and value what I would tell them. Your patients trust you with their deepest personal secrets, rely on you and look to you to do what is right for them, no matter what.”

The article can be found by clicking here.

Best Wishes, Anni!

December 5th marks the last day at the HCMA for Anni Balckwell. Anni served as Event Coordinator since January 2021. She is on to bigger and better things including being a full-time student at the University of Tampa. Anni may pop up at HCMA events as a volunteer, so be sure to wish her luck with her new adventures! We will miss you, Anni!

New Members

Active Members

Asma Al-Zougbi, MD

Endocrinology

The Tampa Endocrinology Institute, LLC

3211 W. Azeele St.

Tampa, 33606

813.360.1214

Debra Barnett, MD

Psychiatry

Associates for Behavioral Medicine

14437 University Cove Place

Tampa, 33613

813.972.7946

Harrison Bartels, MD

Facial Plastic Surgery

Farrior Facial Plastic Surgery

2908 W. Azeele St.

Tampa, 33609

813.875.3223

Danielle Hardman, MD

Jessica Padilla, MD

Obstetrics & Gynecology

Womens Care Florida

2818 W. Virginia Ave.

Tampa, 33607

813.872.8551

Courtney Allen, DO

Alan Chu, MD

Hunter Clonts, MD

Dainius Drukteinis, MD

Edward Landry, MD

Chelsea Lenz, MD

Genevieve Mckinley, MD

Shaina Parks, DO

Matthew St. Marie, MD

Richard Steenland, DO

Megan Tyler, MD

Emergency Medicine

Excelis Medical Associates

2502 W. St. Isabel St., Ste. B

Tampa, 33607

813.874.5707

Wanda Fussell, MD

Trevor Wallace Getz, MD

Otolaryngology

Florida ENT & Allergy

Multiple locations

813.879.8045

Devin Collins, DO

Alex Mierke, MD

Cassandra Ricketts, MD

Orthopaedic Surgery

Florida Orthopaedic Institute

Multiple locations

813.978.9700

Daniel Dresser, MD

Lamees Saeed, MD

Pathology

Ruffolo Hooper & Associates

5751 Hoover Blvd.

Tampa, 33634

813.886.8334

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!

Spotlight on Savings

Tampa Bay's #1 Healthcare Management Consultants since 1995!

AER Consulting, Inc. – complimentary phone consultation for up to one hour and a 17% discounted service rate. AER assists new providers entering the industry, adding providers to existing practices, assisting start-ups, as well as helping troubled, ineffective, high-overhead, low-profit practices and turning them into a practical, efficient, low-overhead, profitable, service-oriented approach. With AER you can be assured you are working with a team dedicated to providing the best solutions for your practice. Give AER a call today for a free initial consultation: David Ramirez at 813.375.2486 or Phaedra Lund Shudra at 813.785.4861, www.aerconsultinginc.com.

Classified Ads

For information on how to place a classified ad in Enews, contact Elke Lubin at the HCMA or complete and return this form. 

The Bulletin

Click here to review the most recent issue of The Bulletin along with previous issues.

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.  

UPCOMING EVENTS

HCMA Physician Family Alliance Winter Holiday Party

Sunday, December 17, 2023, 10am-noon

Culture Club, 4210 W. El Prado Blvd.

Highlights will include:

• Mimosa and Hot Cocoa Bar
• Light Brunch Snacks
• Live Holiday Tunes by Maria Chan
• Photos with Santa
• Holiday Crafts & Activities

If you are an active Alliance member, feel free to pass this invitation along to anyone interested in joining the Alliance and celebrating with us! RSVPs are required, click this link to register by December 3rd. Not an Alliance member? JOIN HERE. 

USF Medical Student Mixer

Wednesday, January 3, 2024

GreenWise Pours, Channelside Drive

USF medical students are invited to attend an annual mixer co-sponsored by the HCMA and the AMA. for more information, contact Alexandra Mazur, USF Morsani College of Medicine MD Class of 2025.

HCMA Membership Dinner

Tuesday, February 13, 2024, 6:15pm

Westshore Grand Hotel

Dr. Joseph Dituri, our guest speaker, broke the world record for the longest time spent living in a fixed underwater habitat. Also known as “Dr. Deep Sea,” the USF professor lived underwater to study how the human body responds to long-term exposure to pressure from the underwater habitat. Watch your email for registration information.  Sponsor and exhibit opportunities are available, 813.253.0471. 

26th HCMA Foundation's Charity Golf Classic

Thursday, April 4, 2024, Call to carts: 1:15pm

Tournament Players Club - Tampa

Sponsorship opportunities are available and golfer registration is now open.  Click here for all of the info! 

TITLE SPONSORS

Excelis Medical Associates

WINNER SPONSORS

USF Health

USF Morsani College of Medicine

PAR SPONSORS

Healthcare Realty Group, LLC

HOLE SPONSORS

Advent Health Medical Group

Rivero, Gordimer & Company, CPAs

IN-KIND CONTRIBUTORS

Dr. David & Elke Lubin

Debbie Zorian

HCMA Presidential Installation

Tuesday, May 7, 2024, 6:15pm

Westshore Grand Hotel

Dr. Damian Caraballo will be installed as the HCMA's 121st President and the inaugural Dr. Robert Yelverton, Sr. Memorial scholarship will be awarded to a USF medical student.  Mark your calendar! Sponsorship and exhibit opportunities are available - contact the HCMA office for information, 813.253.0471 or AOrthman@hcma.net. 

Pertinent Information

REMINDER - to "FALL BACK" before you go to bed on Saturday, November 4th as daylight savings comes to an end.

PLEASE NOTE - THE HCMA OFFICE WILL BE CLOSED THURSDAY & FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 23 & 24, TO CELEBRATE THANKSGIVING.

Holiday Social for HCMA members  

December 5, 2023, 6:30pm

At the home of Dr. & Mrs. Michael Cromer 

Dr. Michael and Carol Cromer will open their home to HCMA members and their guests for an evening of cocktails, hors d'oeuvres, socializing, live music, and celebrating the holiday season!  Whiskey enthusiasts are welcome to participate in a tasting hosted by Steward Cromer! Feel free to bring your favorite bottle of whiskey to share with your colleagues. HCMA Past Presidents will also be honored during the event. Thank you to our sponsors Physicians Wealth Planning and SGP Advisors. Mark your calendar and RSVP today! 

What patients want from the doctor's visit

As reported in a recent edition of Fierce Practice Management, in their 2023 Patient Confidence Index, PatientPoint a patient engagement platform, surveyed 2,000 Americans to determine how they feel going to the doctor and what factors contribute to these feelings. They outlined their findings in their report to help you better understand your patients and how to put them at ease in your office.  Based on their responses, Patient Point identified some key insights and opportunities to improve the experience at your practice, you’ll learn how patients feel about the doctor’s office, how to empower patients during their appointments, and why patients delay doctor’s visits. Download the white paper here.

Impact on patients unclear as retail pharmacists begin 3-day 'Pharmageddon'

The nationwide walkout is slated to continue through Wednesday. It's the last attempt to pressure chains to address concerns about staffing shortages that are leading to mistakes that could endanger patients. Read more.

Study: Hurricane Ian unleashed flesh-eating bacteria into Florida waters

According to Rita Colwell, the study's senior author, who has studied Vibrio for 50 years, within the last 50 years the number of Vibrio species has skyrocketed from a half-dozen to 110. Both Colwell and Huq (a research professor of cell biology and molecular genetics at the University of Maryland and one of Colwell’s co-authors), said the bacteria can cause illness or death for people who eat raw or undercooked seafood or go into the ocean with an open wound. “Anyone with liver disease, cirrhosis, alcoholism, hepatitis C or hepatitis B infection should not consume raw oysters,” Colwell said. Read more. 

A 'tropical disease' carried by sand flies is confirmed in a new country: the U.S.

Most of the infections reported are in Texas — the only state where health workers are required to report leishmaniasis to health authorities — but Mary Kamb (medical epidemiologist at the CDC) says, "The sand flies which have the capacity to transmit leishmaniasis exist in several U.S. states, primarily southern states." Dermatologist, Dr. Bridget McIlwee adds, "We have data supporting that the disease vectors and reservoirs have been located as far north as Ohio." Read more.

'Body Electric' examines the connection between social media and depression rates

Researchers study the psychological effects of time spent online, and what impact that can have on our physical health. Follow the series at npr.org/bodyelectric or on the TED Radio Hour podcast feed. Listen to this 4-minute report by clicking here.

HCMA Government Affairs Committee

The HCMA's Government Affairs Committee (GAC) is gearing up for another busy legislative season. 

• The GAC, in conjunction with the FMA, has compiled a list of 2024 Legislative Priorities, that will be presented to our legislators locally, through our Key Contact program, and in Tallahassee.
• The GAC is coordinating a contingency of members to visit Tallahassee on February 20th,  during the 2024 Legislative Session. This one-day event includes a meeting with FMA legislative experts to brief attendees on the important issues of the day and appointments will be secured for our contingency to meet with legislators and/or their administrative staff.  Members often arrive in Tallahassee the evening prior to the scheduled day at the Capitol.  If you are interested in joining the GAC contingency in their visit to Tallahassee, contact Elke Lubin or call the HCMA office: 813.253.0471.
• If you are interested in serving as "Doctor of the Day" any time during the 2024 Legislative Session (January 9 - March 8), download this information packet which includes the DOD application.  If you have any questions, please contact the Office of Legislative Services directly: Kelly Welborn, (850) 717-0301, welborn.kelly@leg.state.fl.us.
• The 2024 Know Your Legislators pocket guide is now available. For over 60 years, this resource has been the most respected and trusted legislative guide in Florida. Included in the guide you will find Senate and House members’ photos, biographical data, staff information, capitol and district office information, including e-mail addresses; committee assignments and committee staff; Florida’s Congressional Delegation photos, staff, district and D.C. office information; Senate and House term limits; and more! Order online!

Medical education loan reimbursement update

In October, FMA leaders joined Florida Lt. Gov. Jeanette Nuñez at a press conference touting the Florida Reimbursement Assistance for Medical Education (FRAME) Program. The FRAME Program assists eligible healthcare practitioners, including physicians, with the repayment of medical education loans. The FMA secured an annual appropriation of nearly $6.6 million for this program during the 2022 Legislative Session, and physicians and residents received the majority of funds allocated this year. The 2024 awards cycle will open on Feb. 1st. Read more.

HCMA Membership Committee is being revitalized...

One of the goals of HCMA President, Dr. Michael Cromer, is to revitalize the Membership Committee. The Committee will be charged with developing campaigns to recruit and retain members and will be asked to commit to following through on assignments. If you enjoy meeting new colleagues and passing on your enthusiasm for the Association, please CLICK HERE for more information or to volunteer.  

The future of medicine can begin with you.

Both pre-med and medical students have asked to shadow members in their offices to gain early clinical exposure. If you would like to serve as a mentor and allow a student to shadow you please register here. The HCMA is compiling a list of volunteers. When a student contacts us, we will share the volunteer's information so the student and physician volunteer can make final mentoring arrangements. Thank you for your participation!

The Academy of Senior Professionals Is recruiting

For the intellectually curious — and what physician isn’t? — the ideal retirement hangout is the Academy of Senior Professionals at Eckerd College, in South Pinellas. Now in its 40th year on the waterfront campus, ASPEC has openings and is recruiting physicians, professors, business executives, and other accomplished retiring professionals. The academy emphasizes lifelong intergenerational learning, service to the college, service to the community, and social engagement. ASPEC physician members who are interested in doing presentations take turns on medical topics, but can also attend and participate in a wide variety of other interest groups. Some physician members help faculty and interact with students in the classroom. And ASPEC has a lot of social events. Sample it for a month for $50; visit www.eckerd.edu/aspec/ or call Mary Robison at 727.864.8834. You can also contact Dr. Roland LaJoie, an ASPEC member who practiced endocrinology in Pinellas for many years by emailing him at rlajoie713@gmail.com.

Now you can own your own annually required complete package of OSHA training programs and compliance materials

Materials from OSHA Medical Courses (established 1991) were created by a team consisting of a physician, a lawyer, and a licensed Healthcare Risk Manager. They have been reviewed (unofficially) and complemented by an OSHA compliance officer. Secured on a Flash Drive, they contain required customizable (word document) plans and training materials (PowerPoint) to assure compliance with:

• OSHA regulation Title 29, Part 1910.1030 (Bloodborne Pathogen Exposure Control) and,
• OSHA regulation Title 29, Part 1910.1200 (Hazard Communications.

Both of the above require documented employee training BEFORE beginning work and ANNUALLY (1910.1030) thereafter. These training materials, for both Part 1910.1030 and Part 1910.1200 are available for $75 plus tax, S&H. Download the order form and send it with payment to the HCMA.

ICD Code lists

The ICD-9 and ICD-10 valid and excluded diagnosis codes for the latest fiscal year are made available to non-group health plan (NGHP) responsible reporting entities (RREs) and agents for Section 111 liability insurance (including self-insurance), no-fault, and workers’ compensation mandatory reporting. Updated ICD-10 and ICD-9 valid and excluded liability and no-fault code lists for 2024 are now available on the ICD Code Lists page on CMS.gov.

FL HIV EHE: provider technical assistance opportunity

The Florida Department of Health’s Division of Disease Control and Health Protection and the University of Central Florida College of Medicine’s HealthARCH have partnered to engage health system organizations with one-on-one technical assistance to improve HIV screening and re-screening rates. This Ending the HIV Epidemic (EHE) program focuses on seven Florida counties, with an aim to increase the performance of health systems in managing Opt-out testing using electronic health record systems. We are currently working with Tampa Family Health Centers and previously worked with Bayside Clinic. HealthARCH is looking for one more partner, preferably in the Hillsborough/Pinellas area, to round out their cohort. They are especially interested in working with traditionally underserved populations. This is at no cost to the practice, with the only initial requirement being that the health system is using an EMR. For more information click here or contact Kelly Lowenberg, 407.266.4006, or Kelly.Lowenberg@ucf.edu.

HCMA's new website feature - YOUR website!

Visitors to the HCMA website can not only find the office address and phone number for members - we have included the opportunity to list your website too!  To add your website to your online HCMA profile, simply log into your HCMA profile (www.HCMA.net) or call the HCMA office, 813.253.0471.

Member Spotlight … we want to hear from you!

If you have received an award, have written an article pertinent to medicine, or if you are serving our communities by volunteering for your favorite charity, we would love to showcase your endeavors! Submit a photo along with a brief description of your activities and watch for it in a future edition of Enews, The Bulletin, or on the HCMA website’s upcoming Member Spotlight feature.

Attention Practice Administrators

The HCMA is in the planning stages of another reception to honor HCMA members' practice administrators.  Please call Asta at the HCMA (813.253.0471) or email her your name and contact information by CLICKING HERE. We look forward to another fun event!

Jamais vu, the opposite of déjà vu

Why does the familiar feel strangely new sometimes? Many people have heard of and probably experienced déjà vu — the strange feeling you have already seen or experienced something as you are seeing or experiencing it. But very few people know about the opposite of déjà vu, known as jamais vu, when a familiar experience feels new. Why does it happen, and what takes place in the brain? Read more.

From the Board of Medicine

Medical Doctors

Group 1 – current license will expire at midnight, ET, January 31 of each even year.

Group 2 – current license will expire at midnight, ET, January 31 of each odd year.

Doctors of Osteopathic Medicine

Current licenses expire at midnight, Eastern Time, on March 31, 2024.

The Florida Board of Medicine and the Florida Board of Osteopathic Medicine are responsible for setting the CME required for licensure and re-licensure in Florida. Each Board specifies a certain number of hours, including some mandatory topics, that must be completed within each two-year licensure term.

2024 Allopathic Medical License Renewal Guide

Updated for 2024 and exclusively for members, the FMA’s new Allopathic Medical License Renewal Guide is now available. If your Florida medical license is due for renewal by Jan. 31, 2024, download this printable resource designed to help you meet your deadline, identify possible exemptions and CME benefits, and choose the best option for reporting your CME credits to CE Broker.

CE Broker

The HCMA has formed a partnership with CE Broker, the official continuing education tracking system. HCMA members receive a discount when subscribing to a CE Broker account. Subscriptions renew annually and offer a user-friendly system that helps you sort through complex CE requirements. Contact Elke Lubin at 813-253-0471 or click here to receive the promotion code. Go to CEBroker.com and subscribe or set up a 7-Day Free Trial Account. Use the HCMA promotion code to apply your discount.

Physician Wellness

The HCMA Foundation Physician Wellness Program provides a safe harbor for members to address life difficulties, challenges, and increased stress through counseling and coaching services. This complimentary and completely confidential benefit is available for all members, regardless of membership category. 

Physician Well-being Six-part Webinar Series

TWO SESSIONS REMAINING!

By participating in this 6-part webinar series, you'll gain valuable insights, practical strategies, and compassionate support to thrive in all areas of your life. Connect with a community of like-minded physicians, share experiences, and create a supportive network that promotes personal growth and professional success. This complimentary webinar series is open to all HCMA members regardless of specialty, career stage, level of well-being, financial situation, and/or spiritual beliefs.

All sessions are 90 minutes in length: 6:00PM-7:30PM

Click the session title for additional details.

Course technology requirements:

• High-speed internet connection for Zoom video conferencing.
• Computer or tablet with a working camera.
• In order to get the most out of each session - we ask that participants leave their cameras on throughout.

PRE-REGISTRATION IS REQUIRED

(space is limited)

CLICK HERE TO REGISTER FOR ANY OF THE SESSIONS

Session 5:

Thursday, November 2, 2023

Flourishing Finances: Financial Well-being for Physicians

Speaker: Tonia Gaudiuso, Author of Permission to be Rich: 5 Steps to Become More Powerful Than Money.

Session 6:

Thursday, November 16, 2023

Program Wrap-Up Celebration

Facilitator: Dian Ginsberg, EdD, CPCC, CHWC

Personal News

Star-studded party!

HCMA staff's annual Halloween party was well attended by a Dia de Muertos lady, Frida Kahlo, Good Witch, a mime (not much of a conversationalist),  Wicked Witch, Miss Demeanor, 20's Flapper Girl with her pup, the Outlaw Josey Wales (hiding out), Bee Keeper, Payne Stewart, Bacon, Mary Poppins & Bert, and Weather Tite Mike!  Cheers!

Happy Anniversary

This month HCMA's Executive Assistant, Elke Lubin, celebrates her 36th anniversary with the HCMA. Elke (Mrs. Día de Muertos) posed with an old friend during the HCMA staff Halloween party! Congratulations!

Family first!

The HCMA Physician Family Alliance has been busy! In August, Physician Family Day was celebrated at the Florida Aquarium and in October a fall festival complete with face painting and pumpkin decorating was held!

A holiday event is in the works – details will be posted on the HCMA PFA page as they become available.

New Members

Keith Dombrowski, MD

Neurology

USF Health

2 Tampa General Circle

Tampa, 33606

813.821.8034

 

Laura Hummel, MD

Emergency Medicine

US Acute Care Solutions

Tampa, 33609

419.410.0411

 

Allison Jackson, MD

Psychiatry

MindfulMD Psychiatry

13911 Carrollwood Village Run

Tampa, 33618

813.618.3055

 

Aruna Kode, MD

Anesthesiology

Bay Area Envision

Lutz, 33559

856.577.1207

 

Anna-Lisa Stonehill, MD

Child & Adolescent Psychiatry

Tampa, 33609

949.751.9494

Greta Watts, MD

Hospice/Palliative Medicine

LifePath Hospice

12470 Telecom Dr.

Temple Terrace, 33637

813.877.2200

Associate Member

Kavita Kalidas, MD

Neurology Headache Medicine

USF Health

4001 E. Fletcher Ave,

Tampa, 33613

813.396.9478

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!

Spotlight on Savings

MCMS, Inc., Insurance Trust Fund - Providing Group Major Medical Insurance for HCMA employer-members, their families, and staff. The program is fully insured by Florida Blue and has operated since 1981. Many coverage options are available, including Qualified/Compatible Health Savings Account Plans. Although the program is fully insured with no assessments, offices benefit from a Profit-Sharing agreement where excess underwriting profits are accumulated in reserves for future rate increases. All plans meet the 2014 ACA standards and mandatory provisions.  Gallagher also offers a complete employee benefits program that utilizes a statewide pool providing clients with the best available rates: www.trustmcmstrust.com.  

Classified Ads

For information on how to place a classified ad in Enews, contact Elke Lubin at the HCMA or complete and return this form. 

The Bulletin

Click here to review the most recent issue of The Bulletin along with previous issues.

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.  

UPCOMING EVENTS

Disability Income Insurance - A Discussion

Tuesday, November 14, 2023, 6:00-7:00pm

Via Zoom

When was the last time you independently audited your plan? Eric Roukey, along with HCMA Benefit Providers Mike Jensen and Jeff Anderson, will lead an informal conversation about what you should look for in your disability insurance and how to determine if your plan is the best fit for you. 2023 has seen some big changes in the disability income insurance marketplace. Increasing and decreasing rates, decreasing and increasing benefits, along with misleading sales language. Pre-registration is required - register here.

Holiday Social for HCMA members  

December 5, 2023, 6:30pm

At the home of Dr. & Mrs. Michael Cromer 

Dr. Michael and Carol Cromer will open their home to HCMA members and their guests for an evening of cocktails, hors d'oeuvres, socializing, live music, and celebrating the holiday season!  Whiskey enthusiasts are welcome to participate in a tasting hosted by Steward Cromer! Feel free to bring your favorite bottle of whiskey to share with your colleagues. HCMA Past Presidents will also be honored during the event. Thank you to our sponsors Physicians Wealth Planning and SGP Advisors. Mark your calendar and RSVP today! 

HCMA Membership Dinner

Tuesday, February 13, 2024, 6:15pm

Westshore Grand Hotel

Dr. Joseph Dituri, our guest speaker, broke the world record for the longest time spent living in a fixed underwater habitat. Also known as “Dr. Deep Sea,” the USF professor decided to live underwater to study how the human body responds to long-term exposure to pressure from the underwater habitat. Watch your email for registration information.  Sponsor and exhibit opportunities are available, 813.253.0471. 

26th HCMA Foundation's Charity Golf Classic

April 4, 2024

Call to carts: 1:15pm

Sponsorship opportunities are available and golfer registration is now open.  Click here for all of the info! 

Sponsors as of today... we'd love to add you to the list of supporters!

 

TITLE SPONSORS

Excelis Medical Associates

 

WINNER SPONSORS

USF Health

USF Morsani College of Medicine

 

PAR SPONSORS

Healthcare Realty Group, LLC

 

HOLE SPONSORS

Advent Health Medical Group

Rivero, Gordimer & Company, CPAs

 

IN-KIND CONTRIBUTORS

Dr. David & Elke Lubin

Debbie Zorian

Pertinent Information

FDH West Nile Virus Warning

Hillsborough County is under a Mosquito-borne Illness Advisory after an asymptomatic West Nile Virus (WNV) positive blood donor was detected. WNV is endemic in Florida and typically, human cases are seen between June and September. Please contact the Florida Department of Health-Hillsborough Epidemiology Program by the next business day if you suspect West Nile virus infection to ensure prompt mosquito control efforts. If you have any questions or would like to obtain a list of warning signs, please contact the Florida Department of Health-Hillsborough Epidemiology Program at 813.307.8010, Kristine Aviles, DVM, MPH, Epidemiology Program Manager, Kristine.Aviles@flhealth.gov. Prevention strategies for mosquito-borne illnesses that patients can be educated on:

• Drain standing water to stop mosquitoes from multiplying.
• Cover your skin with clothing and use mosquito repellent that is EPA-recommended which includes those containing 10-30% of the active ingredient DEET or the active ingredient picaridin.
• Cover doors and windows with screens to keep mosquitoes out.

Nobel Prize goes to scientists who made mRNA COVID vaccines possible

Hungarian-born biochemist Katalin Karikó and American immunologist Drew Weissman found that a chemical change to genetic code called mRNA eliminated a problematic side effect when used in vaccines. Read more.

Does the risk of getting long Covid increase each time you get reinfected?

There is a lot of research underway exploring the many still-unanswered questions about long Covid. Ziyad Al-Aly, chief of research at the VA St. Louis Healthcare System and clinical epidemiologist at Washington University in St. Louis, talked with STAT about what we understand about long Covid so far, and what scientists are still trying to figure out. (One of his studies, for example, showed that vaccination appears to lower, but not eliminate, the risk of long Covid.) Read the interview.

3 respiratory viruses in FL and a vaccine for each. Should you get all 3?

The short answer is yes, but a Central Florida expert weighs in on how you should receive the vaccines this season ahead of another possible "tripledemic." Read more.

Online harassment of physicians is out of control

Survey data shows 2 out of 3 physicians now face harassment and threats online—especially when correcting misinformation. Social media platforms won't help, so what can be done? You may also be interested in: 5 tips to battle anti-science aggression.

Medscape Young Physician Compensation Report 2023: Do rising salaries boost job satisfaction?

In 2022, physicians younger than 40 years, on average, enjoyed a compensation bump that exceeded what older counterparts received. The gender pay gap between younger male and female doctors narrowed as well, meaning raises for women were on a healthy trajectory. Despite these positive developments, younger physicians less often felt fairly compensated than they did one year earlier. Read more. 

HCMA Membership Committee to be revitalized...

One of the goals of HCMA President, Dr. Michael Cromer, is to revitalize the Membership Committee. The Committee will be charged with developing campaigns to recruit and retain members and will be asked to commit to following through on assignments. If you enjoy meeting new colleagues and passing on your enthusiasm for the Association, please CLICK HERE for more information or to volunteer.  

Encourage a colleague to join the HCMA and they will receive membership through 2024!

Throughout all the changes in healthcare, your HCMA has remained a strong leader and physician advocate. Please encourage your colleagues in Hillsborough AND surrounding counties to join the HCMA. 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 to provide great benefits and services to members and our communities.

Retired physicians needed

The Osher Lifelong Learning Institute, OLLI-USF, serves the local community as a continuing ed hub that brings learning opportunities via workshops, trainings, lectures, non-credited courses, and networking events to adults 50+ in Tampa Bay. As they begin faculty recruitment for upcoming semesters, they are seeking out retired professionals and experts in their field who may desire to teach/volunteer a topic of their choice via a medium they are most comfortable with. Click here to view OLLI's homepage. For more information, contact Precious Goodson, Florida Gulf Coast University, M.A. Ed Leadership Graduate Student/Class of 2024, at pgoodson5582@eagle.fgcu.edu

HCMA Membership Directories have arrived

The 2023 Summer edition has been mailed to active members.  The printed edition is also available on the HCMA website.  Please check your listing.  If there is an update to be made, you can make it by logging into your profile on the HCMA website or by calling the HCMA office at 813.253.0471.  Please click here for updates we have received from your colleagues, as of today.

HCMA's new website feature - YOUR website!

Visitors to the HCMA website can not only find the office address and phone number for members - we have included the opportunity to list your website too!  To add your website to your online HCMA profile, simply log into your HCMA profile (www.HCMA.net) or call the HCMA office, 813.253.0471.

See us on your social media feed!

Click these links and "follow" us so we will show up in your feeds.  Keep updated on events, legislative alerts, and see what we have been up to. 

Facebook

Instagram

LinkedIn

Member Spotlight … we want to hear from you!

If you have received an award, have written an article pertinent to medicine, or if you are serving our communities by volunteering for your favorite charity, we would love to showcase your endeavors! Submit a photo along with a brief description of your activities and watch for it in a future edition of Enews, The Bulletin, or on the HCMA website’s upcoming Member Spotlight feature.

Attention Practice Administrators

The HCMA is in the planning stages of another reception to honor HCMA members' practice administrators.  Please call Asta at the HCMA (813.253.0471) or email her your name and contact information by CLICKING HERE. We look forward to another fun event!

AMA is seeking ambassadors

Are you an AMA member? Consider joining the AMA Ambassador Program. It’s an easy, fun, and effective way to increase your involvement with the AMA. Click here to learn more.

HAVE YOU CREATED YOUR HCMA PROFILE YET?

In order to make use of our innovative new database and all of its features, all HCMA members need to create a password for their profile.

By setting up your profile, it will ensure that you have full access to our website in which you can register for all events, update your office information, your home mailing address, pay your dues, and receive all future correspondence from the HCMA.

Please follow these few simple steps to set up your profile:

• Log in to your HCMA account at www.hcma.net 
• Click the orange sign-in icon located in the upper right-hand corner 
• Enter your email address - IF YOU HAVE NOT CREATED A PASSWORD YET, click the "forgot password" link and follow the instructions. 

If you have any questions please contact Anni Blackwell.

From the Board of Medicine

Medical Doctors

Group 1 – current license will expire at midnight, ET, January 31 of each even year.

Group 2 – current license will expire at midnight, ET, January 31 of each odd year.

Doctors of Osteopathic Medicine

Current licenses expire at midnight, Eastern Time, on March 31, 2024.

The Florida Board of Medicine and the Florida Board of Osteopathic Medicine are responsible for setting the CME required for licensure and re-licensure in Florida. Each Board specifies a certain number of hours, including some mandatory topics, that must be completed within each two-year licensure term.

2024 Allopathic Medical License Renewal Guide

Updated for 2024 and exclusively for members, the FMA’s new Allopathic Medical License Renewal Guide is now available. If your Florida medical license is due for renewal by Jan. 31, 2024, download this printable resource designed to help you meet your deadline, identify possible exemptions and CME benefits, and choose the best option for reporting your CME credits to CE Broker.

CE Broker

The HCMA has formed a partnership with CE Broker, the official continuing education tracking system. HCMA members receive a discount when subscribing to a CE Broker account. Subscriptions renew annually and offer a user-friendly system that helps you sort through complex CE requirements. Contact Elke Lubin at 813-253-0471 or click here to receive the promotion code. Go to CEBroker.com and subscribe or set up a 7-Day Free Trial Account. Use the HCMA promotion code to apply your discount.

Physician Wellness

The HCMA Foundation Physician Wellness Program provides a safe harbor for members to address life difficulties, challenges, and increased stress through counseling and coaching services. This complimentary and completely confidential benefit is available for all members, regardless of membership category. 

Physician Well-being Six-part Webinar Series

FOUR SESSIONS REMAINING!

By participating in this 6-part webinar series, you'll gain valuable insights, practical strategies, and compassionate support to thrive in all areas of your life. Connect with a community of like-minded physicians, share experiences, and create a supportive network that promotes personal growth and professional success. This complimentary webinar series is open to all HCMA members regardless of specialty, career stage, level of well-being, financial situation, and/or spiritual beliefs.

All sessions are 90 minutes in length: 6:00PM-7:30PM

Click the session title for additional details.

Course technology requirements:

• High-speed internet connection for Zoom video conferencing.
• Computer or tablet with a working camera.
• In order to get the most out of each session - we ask that participants leave their cameras on throughout.

PRE-REGISTRATION IS REQUIRED

(space is limited)

CLICK HERE TO REGISTER FOR ANY OR ALL OF THE SESSIONS

Program materials will be emailed to registrants before each session.

Session 3: Thursday, October 5, 2023 Nurturing Connections: Cultivating Relationship Well-being for Physicians Facilitator: Dian Ginsberg, EdD, CPCC, CHWC Session 4: Thursday, October 19, 2023 Thriving in Medicine: Cultivating Career and Intellectual Well-being for Physicians Speaker: Dian Ginsberg, EdD, CPCC, CHWC

Session 5: Thursday, November 2, 2023 Flourishing Finances: Financial Well-being for Physicians Speaker: Tonia Gaudiuso, Author of Permission to be Rich: 5 Steps to Become More Powerful Than Money Session 6: Thursday, November 16, 2023 Program Wrap-Up Celebration Facilitator: Dian Ginsberg, EdD, CPCC, CHWC

Personal News

HCMA’s 2023 Outstanding Physician

During the September 19th HCMA Membership Dinner, Dr. Joel Silverfield received the 2023 HCMA Outstanding Physician Award. A member for over 40 years, Dr. Silverfield represents that rare physician leader who established two separate but parallel paths to serve medicine. As a young physician and later as a seasoned physician, he has put forth significant time and effort in serving and representing the HCMA and its members. He became HCMA’s 118th President in 2021 and continues to help lead the Association with enthusiasm while putting the best interests of physicians and their patients first. Dr. Silverfield's cool southern demeanor and charm are among the many leadership qualities he possesses. 

Dr. Brown receives the Dr. Frederick Reddy Award

Also during the September Membership Dinner, Dr. Haywood Brown was awarded the Dr. Frederick A. Reddy Memorial Award.  This award is given to an individual in our community who demonstrates the qualities that were so prevalent in Dr. Reddy’s work within the community. A significant portion of Dr. Haywood's career’s work has been to address health inequities by focusing on infant mortality and perinatal maternal safety and mortality, particularly among traditionally underserved populations.

Grant recipients are honored!

Due to the success of the 2023 Charity Golf Classic, the HCMA Foundation awarded grants that will fund programs through Champions for Children, Children’s Home Network, Clothes to Kids, Frameworks of Tampa Bay, Judeo Christian Health Clinic, Lighthouse for the Blind & Low Vision, MORE HEALTH, New Life Village, Outreach Free Clinic & Resource Center, and Voices for Children of Tampa Bay. A USF Medical Student scholarship was also awarded.

Active Member Victoria Hammond, MD Emergency Medicine Landmark 5130 Sunforest Drive, #200 Tampa, 33634 833.766.1079 Affiliate Member Danielle Madril, MD Pediatric Cardiac Anesthesiology United Healthcare

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!

Spotlight on Savings

Mike Jensen

Jeff Anderson

813.287.8379

Physicians Wealth Planning/Jensen Anderson Wealth Management, LLC is a financial planning firm dedicated to serving physicians for over thirty years. HCMA members receive a Comprehensive Financial Plan at a discounted rate of $500.00 (a $1,500 value). This opportunity will give any HCMA member who may already be working with a planner to have someone take a second look at their plan or if you have not created a plan, this is a great opportunity to do so. For additional information, please visit www.physicianswealthplanning.com or contact Jennifer Joyce, Executive Assistant, at 813-287-8379 or JenniferJoyce@financialguide.com to schedule a meeting. 

Classified Ads

For information on how to place a classified ad in Enews, contact Elke Lubin at the HCMA or complete and return this form.

The Bulletin

Click here to review the most recent issue of The Bulletin along with previous issues.

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.  

Thank you, Dr. Foley!

Longtime HCMA member and member of The Bulletin Editorial Board, Dr. Michael Foley, has made a contribution for the fourth year. 

Thanks to Dr. Foley's generosity, by helping offset publishing expenses, The Bulletin will continue to maintain the high quality our readers enjoy.

UPCOMING EVENTS

Laugh Out Loud Comedy Show

October 7, 2023, 6-10pm

Brandon Elks Lodge

Tickets are now available for this year's Laugh Out Loud Comedy Show! The event will benefit 2023 HCMA Foundation grant recipient, Outreach Free Clinic and Resource Center. We hope you will consider supporting this event as a guest or a community sponsor for “Laugh Out Loud Comedy Show” and share an evening of laughter…because laughter is the best medicine! More information can be found HERE.

Women in Medicine Reception

October 25, 2023, 6:00pm

Palma Ceia Country Club

HCMA's female members are invited to celebrate women in medicine and socialize among colleagues.  Sponsored by The Bank of Tampa Women Connected, Farrior Facial Plastic Surgery, SGP Advisors, and TGH Imaging Powered by Tower.  Additional sponsors are welcome, contact Debbie Zorian, Executive Director, for details. Click here to register.

Pumpkins, Pizza, & Painting

October 22, 2023, 2:30-4:30pm

Foster Park, 4700 S. Clark Ave, Tampa, 33611

An invitation from the HCMA Physician Family Alliance. Enjoy pizza, snacks, drinks, mini-pumpkin decorating, and face painting.  RSVPs required.

Holiday Social for HCMA members  

December 5, 2023, 6:30pm

At the home of Dr. & Mrs. Michael Cromer 

Dr. Michael and Carol Cromer will open their home to HCMA members and their guests for an evening of cocktails, hors d'oeuvres, socializing, and celebrating the holiday season!  Mark your calendar and watch your email for the invitation.

HCMA Membership Dinner

Tuesday, February 13, 2024, 6:15pm

Westshore Grand Hotel

Dr. Joseph Dituri, our guest speaker, broke the world record for the longest time spent living in a fixed underwater habitat. Also known as “Dr. Deep Sea,” the USF professor decided to live underwater to study how the human body responds to long-term exposure to pressure from the underwater habitat. Watch your email for registration information.  Sponsor and exhibit opportunities are available, 813.253.0471. 

26th HCMA Foundation's Charity Golf Classic

April 4, 2024

Call to carts: 1:15pm

Sponsorship opportunities are available and golfer registration is now open.  Click here for all of the info! 

Sponsors as of today... we'd love to add you to the list of supporters!

TITLE SPONSORS

Excelis Medical Associates

 

WINNER SPONSORS

USF Health

USF Morsani College of Medicine

 

PAR SPONSORS

Healthcare Realty Group, LLC

 

HOLE SPONSORS

Advent Health Medical Group

Rivero, Gordimer & Company, CPAs

 

IN-KIND CONTRIBUTORS

Dr. David & Elke Lubin

Debbie Zorian

Pertinent Information

Membership Dinner

September 19, 2023, 6:15pm

Westshore Grand Hotel

Kent Myers, Managing Principal of Vision Companies, will present "Seeing Impact through the Eyes of the Patient." Foundation grant recipients will be recognized. Sponsor and exhibit opportunities are available.  Call 813.253.0471 or click here for more information and to RSVP. Sponsors include Tampa General Hospital.

Happy Birthday, HCMA!

September 3rd marks the HCMA's 128th birthday.  Click here to view the September 4, 1895 edition of The Tampa Morning Tribune in which the birth of our organization was announced (click "zoomable" and see the center of the first page, under M.D's).  For more about the HCMA, visit the HCMA website's history page or reread HCMA Executive Director, Debbie Zorian's, two-part history of the HCMA and our community, A Step Back in Time, published in the Fall and Winter 2021 editions of The Bulletin.  Lookin' good, HCMA!

Encourage a colleague to join the HCMA and receive membership through 2024!

Throughout all the changes in healthcare, your HCMA has remained a strong leader and physician advocate. Please encourage your colleagues in Hillsborough AND surrounding counties to join the HCMA. 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 to provide great benefits and services to members and our communities.

HCMA's new website feature - YOUR website!

Visitors to the HCMA website can not only find the office address and phone number for members - we have included the opportunity to list your website too!  To add your website to your online HCMA profile, simply log into your HCMA profile (www.HCMA.net) or call the HCMA office, 813.253.0471.

See us on your social media feed!

Click these links and "follow" us so we will show up in your feeds.  Keep updated on events, legislative alerts, and see what we have been up to. 

Facebook

Instagram

LinkedIn

Member Spotlight … we want to hear from you!

If you have received an award, have written an article pertinent to medicine, or if you are serving our communities by volunteering for your favorite charity, we would love to showcase your endeavors! Submit a photo along with a brief description of your activities and watch for it in a future edition of Enews, The Bulletin, or on the HCMA website’s upcoming Member Spotlight feature.

Attention Practice Administrators

The HCMA is in the planning stages of another reception to honor HCMA members' practice administrators.  Please call Asta at the HCMA (813.253.0471) with your name, title, direct phone, and email address, or email her the information by CLICKING HERE. We look forward to another fun event!

Report: Hidden fees are costing physicians millions annually

According to a recent ProPublica investigation, physicians are being forced to pay millions of dollars in fees each year — likely adding up to billions collectively — to receive electronic payments. Meanwhile, the middlemen processing these fees share millions in revenue each year with insurance companies. Read the FMA’s policy update for an overview of this developing story.

Medical Briefs

• Five people in the Tampa region have died from 'flesh-eating' Vibrio in 2023.
• Pfizer's RSV vaccine to protect newborns is approved by the FDA.
• Florida continues to add COVID cases in latest health department report.
• US CDC tracks new lineage of virus that causes COVID.
• Higher mortality risk after COVID lasts about 6 months, VA study finds.
• Local governments are spending billions of pandemic relief funds, some with few specifics.
• Poll states a majority of US adults say addiction has affected their family in some way.
• Early onset breast cancer is trending up among women, study says.

The first 10 drugs that Medicare will target for price cuts

The government will negotiate new prices for the commonly prescribed drugs, but the cuts won't take effect until 2026. In the meantime, drug-makers are fighting the negotiations with lawsuits. Read more.

Need to know about lifesaving CPR? A new study says it’s probably wise not to ask Alexa or Siri!

Ask Alexa or Siri about the weather. But if you want to save someone’s life? Call 911 for that. Voice assistants often fall flat when asked how to perform CPR, according to a study published on August 28th. Researchers asked voice assistants eight questions that a bystander might pose in a cardiac arrest emergency. In response, the voice assistants said: “Hmm, I don’t know that one.” “Sorry, I don’t understand.” “Words fail me.” and “Here’s an answer … that I translated: The Indian Penal Code.” Only nine of 32 responses suggested calling emergency services for help, an important step recommended by the American Heart Association. Some voice assistants sent users to web pages that explained CPR, but only 12% of the 32 responses included verbal instructions. Read more.

FMA House of Delegates update

• The FMA Annual Meeting was held the last weekend of July.  To see a list of resolutions presented in the 2023 FMA House of Delegates (HOD) and summaries of the actions taken, read the FMA HOD update.
• The HCMA delegation submitted four resolutions this year, three of which were supported by the House of Delegates.  Making a difference at the state begins at the local level.  Watch this brief Annual Meeting recap video to be inspired! 
• Click here if you are interested in serving as an HCMA delegate at the 2024 FMA Annual Meeting (August 2-4, in Orlando).

New physician fellowship program: Apply by Sept. 18

The Physicians Foundation is accepting applications for a new fellowship program aimed at new or early-career doctors with a passion for addressing drivers of health (DOH) and improving health equity. Selected fellows will develop and implement projects focused on helping physicians better understand DOH and integrate that knowledge into medical practice. Applications are due by Monday, Sept. 18.

HAVE YOU CREATED YOUR HCMA PROFILE YET?

In order to make use of our innovative new database and all of its features, all HCMA members need to create a password for their profile.

By setting up your profile, it will ensure that you have full access to our website in which you can register for all events, update your office information, your home mailing address, pay your dues, and receive all future correspondence from the HCMA.

Please follow these few simple steps to set up your profile:

• Log in to your HCMA account at www.hcma.net 
• Click the orange sign-in icon located in the upper right-hand corner 
• Enter your email address - IF YOU HAVE NOT CREATED A PASSWORD YET, click the "forgot password" link and follow the instructions. 

If you have any questions please contact Anni Blackwell.

From the Board of Medicine

Medical Doctors

Group 1 – current license will expire at midnight, ET, January 31 of each even year.

Group 2 – current license will expire at midnight, ET, January 31 of each odd year.

Doctors of Osteopathic Medicine

Current licenses expire at midnight, Eastern Time, on March 31, 2024.

The Florida Board of Medicine and the Florida Board of Osteopathic Medicine are responsible for setting the CME required for licensure and re-licensure in Florida. Each Board specifies a certain number of hours, including some mandatory topics, that must be completed within each two-year licensure term.

CE Broker

The HCMA has formed a partnership with CE Broker, the official continuing education tracking system. HCMA members receive a discount when subscribing to a CE Broker account. Subscriptions renew annually and offer a user-friendly system that helps you sort through complex CE requirements. Contact Elke Lubin at 813-253-0471 or click here to receive the promotion code. Go to CEBroker.com and subscribe or set up a 7-Day Free Trial Account. Use the HCMA promotion code to apply your discount.

Physician Wellness

The HCMA Foundation Physician Wellness Program provides a safe harbor for members to address life difficulties, challenges, and increased stress through counseling and coaching services. This complimentary and completely confidential benefit is available for all members, regardless of membership category. 

September 17th is National Physician Suicide Awareness (NPSA) Day.

The HCMA is joining #NPSADay Supporting Organizations in an effort to assist physicians who are in distress before their mental health struggles become emergencies. As part of this campaign, we encourage all physicians to explore and share this list of resources for immediate and ongoing support.

Physician Well-being Six-part Webinar Series

By participating in this 6-part webinar series, you'll gain valuable insights, practical strategies, and compassionate support to thrive in all areas of your life. Connect with a community of like-minded physicians, share experiences, and create a supportive network that promotes personal growth and professional success. This complimentary webinar series is open to all HCMA members regardless of specialty, career stage, level of well-being, financial situation, and/or spiritual beliefs.

All sessions are 90 minutes in length: 6:00PM-7:30PM

Click the session title for additional details.

Course technology requirements:

• High-speed internet connection for Zoom video conferencing.
• Computer or tablet with a working camera.
• In order to get the most out of each session - we ask that participants leave their cameras on throughout.

PRE-REGISTRATION IS REQUIRED

(space is limited) 

CLICK HERE TO REGISTER FOR ANY OR ALL OF THE SESSIONS

Program materials will be emailed to registrants before each session.

Session 1:

Thursday, September 7, 2023

Program Kick-Off: Let’s Get Excited About Physician Well-being

Facilitator: Dian Ginsberg, EdD, CPCC, CHWC

Session 2:

Thursday, September 21, 2023

Nurturing the Healer Within: Cultivating Spiritual and Emotional Well-being for Physicians

Speaker: Jay Rao, MD

Session 3:

Thursday, October 5, 2023

Nurturing Connections: Cultivating Relationship Well-being for Physicians

Facilitator: Dian Ginsberg, EdD, CPCC, CHWC

Session 4:

Thursday, October 19, 2023

Thriving in Medicine: Cultivating Career and Intellectual Well-being for Physicians

Speaker: Dian Ginsberg, EdD, CPCC, CHWC

Session 5:

Thursday, November 2, 2023

Flourishing Finances: Financial Well-being for Physicians

Speaker: Tonia Gaudiuso, Author of Permission to be Rich: 5 Steps to Become More Powerful Than Money

Session 6:

Thursday, November 16, 2023

Program Wrap-Up Celebration

Facilitator: Dian Ginsberg, EdD, CPCC, CHWC

Personal News

Robert Yelverton, Sr., MD

Memorial Scholarship Created The HCMA Foundation, in conjunction with the USF Morsani College of Medicine, has established a scholarship to honor the memory of HCMA past president, Dr. Robert Yelverton, Sr.  The scholarship will be presented to a senior USF medical student who will continue their graduate medical education in obstetrics/gynecology. Among his many notable accomplishments, Dr. Yelverton served as HCMA President in 1997 and as a Clinical Associate Professor of Ob/Gyn at the USF Morsani College of Medicine.

Michael Cromer, MD

HCMA President's Comment on AI A letter to the editors at the Tampa Bay Times, submitted by Dr. Michael Cromer, HCMA President (pictured), was printed on August 9, 2023.  Dr. Cromer addresses his concerns over "message-only" medical care. Read the letter here.

New Members

Active Members

Jennifer Landy, MD

Ophthalmology

Brandon Eye Associates

540 Medical Oaks Dr., #103

Brandon, 33511

813-654-2211

Nupur Patel, MD

Dermatology

Luma Dermatology

718 S. Lakeview Rd., #B

Clearwater, 33756

727-447-1229

Associate Member

William Hudson, MD

Psychiatry

USF Health Rothman Center for Neuropsychiatry

601 7th Street, S, #425

St. Petersburg, 33701

727-767-8230

Retired Members

Alejandro Carvallo, MD

Oscar Perez, MD

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!

Spotlight on Savings

Michele Krohn, President 813.887.FCPR (3277) or CLICK HERE.

Looking for an increased patient base and bottom line? Full Circle PR is a local, strategic growth firm specializing in the medical practice industry. They offer HCMA members a complimentary consultation and create a customized public relations and marketing plan that will increase their patient base and ultimately their bottom line. HCMA members save 10% on all services.

Classified Ads

For information on how to place a classified ad in Enews, contact Elke Lubin at the HCMA or complete and return this form.

The Bulletin

Click here to review the most recent issue of The Bulletin along with previous issues.

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.  

UPCOMING EVENTS

Membership Dinner

September 19, 2023, 6:15pm

Westshore Grand Hotel

"Seeing Impact through the Eyes of the Patient." Sponsor and exhibit opportunities are available.  Call 813.253.0471 or click here for more information and to RSVP. Sponsors include Tampa General Hospital.

Laugh Out Loud Comedy Show

October 7, 2023, 6-10pm

Brandon Elks Lodge

Tickets are now available for this year's Laugh Out Loud Comedy Show! The event will benefit 2023 HCMA Foundation grant recipient, Outreach Free Clinic and Resource Center. We hope you will consider supporting this event as a guest or a community sponsor for “Laugh Out Loud Comedy Show” and share an evening of laughter…because laughter is the best medicine! More information can be found HERE.

Women in Medicine Reception

October 25, 2023, 6:00pm

Palma Ceia Country Club

HCMA's female members are invited to celebrate women in medicine and socialize among colleagues.  Sponsored by The Bank of Tampa Women Connected, SGP Advisors, and TGH Imaging Powered by Tower.  Additional sponsors are welcome, contact Debbie Zorian, Executive Director, for details. Watch your email for the official invitation. Click here for more information.

Holiday Social for HCMA members  

December 5, 2023, 6:30pm

At the home of Dr. & Mrs. Michael Cromer 

Dr. Michael and Carol Cromer will open their home to HCMA members and their guests for an evening of cocktails, hors d'oeuvres, socializing, and celebrating the holiday season!  Watch your email for the invitation.

26th HCMA Foundation's Charity Golf Classic

April 4, 2024

Call to carts: 1:15pm

Sponsorship opportunities are available and golfer registration is now open.  Click here for all of the info!

COVID-19 News

The CDC sees signs of a late summer COVID wave.

The amount of virus being detected in wastewater, the percentage of people testing positive for the virus, and the number of people seeking care for COVID at emergency rooms all started increasing in early July. Read more.

Florida's spike in alcohol-fueled liver-disease deaths during COVID paralleled national data.

From 2020 to 2022, the state observed a 1.4% increase in liver-related deaths compared with the years before the pandemic. During that period, alcohol sales also increased. Read more.

You know those folks who had COVID but no symptoms?

A new study offers an explanation. Scientists estimate that over 20% of people who get infected with COVID never have any symptoms – and a portion of them never even know they were infected. Now a new study published in Nature on July 19 says their genetics might be why the virus didn't make them sick. Read more.

Treatment studies bring hope to those with brain fog and other long COVID symptoms

The National Institutes of Health is beginning a handful of studies to test possible treatments for long COVID, an anxiously awaited step in U.S. efforts against the mysterious condition that afflicts millions. Read more.

Pertinent Information

Membership Dinner

September 19, 2023, 6:15pm

Westshore Grand Hotel

Kent Myers, Managing Principal of Vision Companies, will present "Seeing Impact through the Eyes of the Patient." Foundation grant recipients will be recognized. Sponsor and exhibit opportunities are available.  Call 813.253.0471 or click here for more information and to RSVP. Sponsors include Tampa General Hospital.

CDC warns about red meat allergy caused by some tick bites.

Red meat fans beware. The CDC warns that alpha-gal syndrome (AGS) — a tick-borne illness that causes a red meat allergy — is an emerging public health concern. Read more.

A recent increase in leprosy cases in Central Florida concerns the CDC

Cases of leprosy lacking traditional risk factors have escalated in Florida in recent years and health officials have expressed concern that the infectious disease may be endemic to the state. Read more.

What ‘right of medical conscience’ means under state law

With the passage of SB 1580, the 2023 Florida Legislature gave health care providers and payors the right to “opt out of participation in or payment for any health care service on the basis of a conscience-based objection.” The bill, which was signed by Gov. Ron DeSantis, coupled this “right of medical conscience” with a provision protecting health care practitioners’ “use of free speech.” Read FMA General Counsel Jeff Scott, Esq.’s analysis of SB 1580 to learn how these provisions affect your practice of medicine.

BIM video tutorial now available

The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) is releasing a video tutorial to assist providers with guidance application and interview strategies for the cognitive assessment known as the Brief Interview for Mental Status (BIMS). This video tutorial is approximately 20 minutes in length and is designed to provide targeted guidance for accurate coding using live-action patient/resident scenarios. To access the video, click on the following link: BIMS Video Tutorial.

Tampa General Hospital is having a banner month.

Hospital leaders celebrated the ribbon-cutting for the completion of Phase 2 of the TGH Cancer Institute in south Hillsborough County, on July 19th. TGH President and CEO John Couris said the ribbon-cutting marks Tampa General Hospital's efforts to expand access to its world-class cancer center in the rapidly growing communities of south Hillsborough County. The completion of the TGH Cancer Institute Brandon location is planned for the fall with the opening of its Radiation Oncology Center. The ribbon-cutting comes on the heels of TGH opening the doors of its new TGH Kennedy Emergency Center at 1301 W Kennedy Blvd., last month. Read more.

HCMA Benefit Provider celebrates 40 years!

Rivero Gordimer & Co., CPAs and Advisors won the Tampa Bay Chamber's Small Business of the Year award in 2018 in the category of 21-50 employees. Now, at 70 employees strong, RG&C is celebrating 40 years! Congratulations and we look forward to a long partnership. Read more.

HCMA's new website feature - YOUR website!

Visitors to the HCMA website can not only find the office address and phone number for members - we have included the opportunity to list your website too!  To add your website to your online HCMA profile, simply log into your HCMA profile (www.HCMA.net) or call the HCMA office, 813.253.0471.

Member Spotlight … we want to hear from you!

If you are serving as a keynote speaker, conducting research, have written an article pertinent to medicine, or if you are serving our communities by volunteering for your favorite charity, we would love to showcase your endeavors! Submit a photo along with a brief description of your activities and watch for it in a future edition of Enews, The Bulletin, or on the HCMA website’s upcoming Member Spotlight feature.

HAVE YOU CREATED YOUR HCMA PROFILE YET?

In order to make use of our innovative new database and all of its features, all HCMA members need to create a password for their profile.

By setting up your profile, it will ensure that you have full access to our website in which you can register for all events, update your office information, your home mailing address, pay your dues, and receive all future correspondence from the HCMA.

Please follow these few simple steps to set up your profile:

• Log in to your HCMA account at www.hcma.net 
• Click the orange sign-in icon located in the upper right-hand corner 
• Enter your email address - IF YOU HAVE NOT CREATED A PASSWORD YET, click the "forgot password" link and follow the instructions. 

If you have any questions please contact Anni Blackwell.

From the Board of Medicine

Medical Doctors

Group 1 – current license will expire at midnight, ET, January 31 of each even year.

Group 2 – current license will expire at midnight, ET, January 31 of each odd year.

Doctors of Osteopathic Medicine

Current licenses expire at midnight, Eastern Time, on March 31, 2024.

The Florida Board of Medicine and the Florida Board of Osteopathic Medicine are responsible for setting the CME required for licensure and re-licensure in Florida. Each Board specifies a certain number of hours, including some mandatory topics, that must be completed within each two-year licensure term.

CE Broker

The HCMA has formed a partnership with CE Broker, the official continuing education tracking system. HCMA members receive a discount when subscribing to a CE Broker account. Subscriptions renew annually and offer a user-friendly system that helps you sort through complex CE requirements. Contact Elke Lubin at 813-253-0471 or click here to receive the promotion code. Go to CEBroker.com and subscribe or set up a 7-Day Free Trial Account. Use the HCMA promotion code to apply your discount.

Physician Wellness

The HCMA Foundation Physician Wellness Program provides a safe harbor for members to address life difficulties, challenges, and increased stress through counseling and coaching services. This complimentary and completely confidential benefit is available for all members, regardless of membership category. 

Could AI Cause Burnout in Medicine?

Some concern that new technology could be more of a problem than a solution. Artificial intelligence (AI) has rapidly ingratiated itself in the healthcare landscape, emerging as a powerful tool with the potential to revolutionize various aspects of clinical practice. From enhancing diagnostic precision to streamlining administrative workflows, AI is touted as a solution to many of healthcare's long-standing inefficiencies. Yet, the transformative power of AI is a double-edged sword, and its integration may have unintended repercussions for not only patients but also physicians. Read more.

Subscribe to the AMA's Burnout Management Tip of the Week

Personal News

John Sinnott, MD

John Sinnott, MD, stepped down July 1st from his role as chair of the Department of Internal Medicine in the USF Health Morsani College of Medicine. Dr. Sinnott will continue service as the James Cullison Professor of Medicine. Dr. Sinnott leaves behind a legacy as a renowned physician and dynamic teacher and mentor. During his 10-year run as chair of USF Health’s largest department, he has ushered in a culture that has helped the department achieve unprecedented growth and achievement. Read more.

Drs. Bruce Shephard, Michael Cromer, and Stacie Wenk.

HCMA  was well-represented! The FMA Annual Meeting was held last weekend in Orlando.  Not only was the HCMA represented by twenty-four members (including delegates and FMA board members) but three HCMA members sat on Reference Committee III.  Dr. Michael Cromer served as chairman alongside Drs. Bruce Shephard and Stacie Wenk. Many thanks to our delegates who spent the weekend in Orlando, supporting organized medicine, debating important issues, and creating policy.

2023 HCMA representatives: Drs. Stacie Wenk, Michael Cromer, Nam Tran, Scott Anderson Rosemarie Garcia-Getting, Eva Crooke (Delegation Chair),  Victor Feldbaum (future member), Lili Buzsaki, Michael Murphy, Michael Zimmer, Joel Silverfield, Ajoy Kumar, Brandon Faza, Diane Gowski, Neil Manimala, Rebecca Johnson, Radhakrishna Rao, Bruce Shephard, and Madelyn Butler. Not pictured: Drs. Kimberly Biss, Damian Caraballo, Carlos Lamoutte, Chris Pittman, and Ms. Debbie Zorian (HCMA Executive Director).

New Members

AFFILIATE MEMBER:

Jordan Halsey, MD

Pediatric Craniofacial Surgery

Johns Hopkins All Children's Hospital

601 5th St., S, #306

St. Petersburg, 33704

727-767-4920

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!

Spotlight on Savings

Contact Alex Hills, Favorite Healthcare Staffing representative, directly at 913.800.5270, 866.877.5505, or CLICK HERE.

Serving Tampa and the entire Florida healthcare community since 1981, Favorite continues to set the standard for quality, service, and integrity in healthcare staffing and placement services. With discounted pricing and preferred rates for HCMA members, Favorite’s comprehensive range of staffing and personnel services can help HCMA members improve cost control, increase efficiency, and protect their revenue cycle. Click here to visit the Favorite Staffing/HCMA webpage: Favorite Staffing/HCMA Webpage. Click here to complete a job order request: Job Order Request Form.

Classified Ads

FOR RENT

Rent office space at Bruce B. Downs location for a single physician, M-F. Space is also available at the Platt St. location, Tuesday PM and Wednesday all day. Call Dona (813/971-9743 x 109) or email her at dlshearer1@aol.com, allergytampa.com.

For information on how to place a classified ad in Enews, contact Elke Lubin at the HCMA or complete and return this form.

The Bulletin

Click here to review the most recent issue of The Bulletin along with previous issues.

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.  

UPCOMING EVENTS

National Physician Family Day

August 26, 2023

The Florida Aquarium

Hosted by the HCMA Physician Family Alliance. Free admission to the aquarium (tickets are limited - RSVP today). Arrive between 9:30am-noon - stay until closing (5pm). To secure your tickets for this event, please contact HCMA PFA Membership & Outreach Chair, Lauren Swoboda, or 863.398.1783. Event sponsors: hendrickson interiors, Nightcap Social, Lauren Swoboda/Compass Florida Real State, Jennifer Facini, CFP/Brighton Jones, and Kourtney Doyle/Amerant Mortgage.

Membership Dinner

September 19, 2023, 6:15pm

Westshore Grand Hotel

"Seeing Impact through the Eyes of the Patient." Sponsor and exhibit opportunities are available.  Call 813.253.0471 or click here for more information and to RSVP. Sponsors include Tampa General Hospital.

Women in Medicine Reception

October 25, 2023, 6:00pm

Palma Ceia Country Club

HCMA's female members are invited to celebrate women in medicine and socialize among colleagues.  Sponsored by The Bank of Tampa Women Connected.  Additional sponsors are welcome, contact Debbie Zorian, Executive Director, for details. Watch your email for the official invitation. Click here for more information.

Holiday Social for HCMA members  

December 5, 2023, 6:30pm

At the home of Dr. & Mrs. Michael Cromer 

Dr. Michael and Carol Cromer will open their home to HCMA members and their guests for an evening of cocktails, hors d'oeuvres, socializing, and celebrating the holiday season!  Watch your email for the invitation.

26th HCMA Foundation's Charity Golf Classic

April 4, 2024

Call to carts: 1:15pm

Sponsorship opportunities are available and golfer registration is now open.  Click here for all of the info!