COVID-19 News

9th COVID Virtual Town Hall Recording

In case you missed it, the 9th COVID Town Hall meeting was recorded.  You can access the video by clicking here.  Dr. Bruce Shephard summarized the discussion in a recent edition of 83 Degrees. Click here to read his article.

COVID-19 Resources

HCMA's updated COVID resource page can be found here. 

COVID Headlines & News Briefs

·        USF Health, Tampa General contribute to clinical trials research on new COVID vaccine Novavax.

·        Millions of Americans have long COVID. Many of them are no longer working.

·        Summer boosters for people under 50 shelved in favor of updated boosters in the fall.

Pertinent Information

AMA Summary on proposed Medicare PFS

On July 7, 2022, CMS released the CY 2023 Revisions to Payment Policies under the Physician Fee Schedule and Other Changes to Part B Payment Policies proposed rule. In addition, CMS published a fact sheet on the PFS proposed rule highlighting the key provisions. If finalized, the proposed policies in the rule will take effect on January 1, 2023. CMS is requesting that comments be submitted no later than September 6, 2022. The AMA will share a draft comment letter in response to the proposed rule with the Federation in advance of this submission deadline. The AMA is continuing to review the provisions proposed in the rule and will provide further analysis of these policies in the coming weeks. Read the AMA summary.

FMA POV on proposed Medicare payment cuts

FMA Director of Healthcare Policy and Innovation Jarrod Fowler, MHA, explains in this article, that physicians face an 8.5% Medicare payment cut in 2023 without congressional intervention. This would have devastating consequences for medical practices and Medicare beneficiaries in Florida.

Department of Health Alerts

·        Dengue fever: The Florida Department of Health wanted to remind healthcare providers that we continue to investigate cases of dengue and other arboviral diseases. Click here to view a document regarding Dengue Fever. Florida has seen a recent increase in travel-related dengue fever cases, particularly among travelers from Cuba. Please consider dengue fever as well as other arboviral diseases in your differential diagnoses for patients who may present with recent travel and symptoms that can include rash, arthralgia, myalgia, and fever. If you suspect a case of dengue fever and will be submitting samples for testing, please contact the Florida Department of Health – Hillsborough County at 813-307-8010 during business hours.

·        Monkey Pox: The Florida DOH has shared a CDC update for clinicians on testing and treatment for Monkeypox and an update addressing people with HIV, children & adolescents, and people who are pregnant or breastfeeding with Monkeypox. AMA announces CPT update for monkeypox testing and vaccination.

·        Fentanyl overdoses: In response to an “exponential increase” in fentanyl-related overdoses in Florida, the DOH is distributing print and digital educational resources statewide to raise awareness about the signs of overdose and how to respond. DOH issued a public health and safety alert about fentanyl overdoses on July 8 and is working with the Florida Department of Children and Families and the Florida Department of Law Enforcement to address this urgent issue.

The next blood pressure breakthrough: temporary tattoos

As scientists work on wearable technology that promises to revolutionize health care, researchers from the University of Texas at Austin and Texas A&M University are reporting a big win in the pursuit of one highly popular target: a noninvasive solution for continuous blood pressure monitoring at home. Not only that, but this development comes in the surprising form of a temporary tattoo. That's right: Just like the kind that children like to wear. The thin, sticker-like wearable electronic tattoos can provide continuous, accurate blood pressure monitoring, the researchers report in their new study. Read more.

Members, invite a colleague to join!

The HCMA is your professional organization, serving the needs of physicians and the community since 1895! Throughout all the changes in healthcare, the HCMA has remained a strong leader at the local, state, and national levels. With your support, HCMA can continue to provide great benefits and services to its members including:

·        Advocacy on health policy issues

·        An active Government Affairs Committee

·        Educational programs & webinars

·        Practice management resources

·        Patient referrals

·        Monthly Enews providing relevant information pertaining to your practice, patients, and membership

·        Monthly CME News providing educational and relevant learning opportunities

·        HCMA’s Quarterly journal, The Bulletin

·        An Annual Membership Directory

·        HCMA Health Insurance Co-op for physician members, their families, and staff

·        A fully funded and completely confidential Physician Wellness Program

·        A robust Benefit Provider Program offering personal and professional discounts and services  

·        Quarterly membership dinners and networking opportunities

·        A long-term, knowledgeable and dedicated staff   

The HCMA includes membership opportunities for physicians in surrounding counties, who may not be represented or do not have the benefit options the HCMA provides. Forward to a non-member colleague! Joining is fast and easy - CLICK HERE

If there is anything the HCMA can do for you, please reach out to a staff member today by emailing info@hcma.net or by calling 813.253.0471.

PAC FUNDS ARE NEEDED!

HILLPAC traditionally interviews candidates after the primary election for the purpose of determining which candidates are thought to be "friends of medicine." 2022 is a crucial year as there are many open seats in our legislative delegation. At this time, the HILLPAC funds are depleted. In order to make an impact with our local legislators, our ability to contribute to their campaigns is imperative. Your help is needed! Please consider making a donation to HILLPAC so our HILLPAC Board can comfortably choose to support all candidates that will help us in our legislative efforts to assist physicians and their patients in our communities. Thank you for your consideration. Donate to HILLPAC.

LAST CHANCE to market your practice

Final preparations are being made for the Summer 2022 edition of the HCMA’s Annual Membership Directory. HCMA members can enhance their listing and/or place an ad at a discounted rate. Visit HCMA.net, click on “members” and then “membership directory” to see the current edition. For advertising information in the 2022 issue, visit HCMA Membership Directory - Members' rates.

From the Board of Medicine

Earn CMEs at a regular Florida Board of Medicine meeting

The Board meets bimonthly, generally on the first weekend of the month. The full Board meetings include disciplinary cases, licensure approvals, correspondence items, committee reports, policy discussion items and other necessary Board actions. All board and committee meetings start at 8:00 am. Dates and locations are subject to change.

Licensees interested in attending a regular meeting of the Board for continuing medical education (CME) credit, please click here to visit the Board’s website for meeting information. Licensees must remain in continuous attendance during the disciplinary portion of the meeting. You may report your attendance by completing the CME attendance form and returning the form to the board office using the email address provided in the form.

Physician Wellness

The National Suicide Prevention Lifeline is now: 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline

988 has been designated as the new three-digit dialing code that will route callers to the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline. This dialing code has been made available to everyone across the United States beginning July 16, 2022.

When people call, text, or chat 988, they will be connected to trained counselors that are part of the existing Lifeline network. These trained counselors will listen, understand how their problems are affecting them, provide support, and connect them to resources if necessary.

The previous Lifeline phone number (1-800-273-8255) will always remain available to people in emotional distress or suicidal crisis.

The Lifeline’s network of over 200 crisis centers has been in operation since 2005, and has been proven to be effective. It’s the counselors at these local crisis centers who answer the contacts the Lifeline receives every day. Numerous studies have shown that callers feel less suicidal, less depressed, less overwhelmed and more hopeful after speaking with a Lifeline counselor.

The HCMA Foundation Physician Wellness Program provides a safe harbor for members to address life difficulties, especially during this time of uncertainty, challenges, and increased stress due to the ongoing threat of COVID-19. This complimentary and completely confidential benefit is available for all members, regardless of membership category

Personal News

Tampa General Hospital has earned the distinction of being No. 1 in the country on Forbes' America's Best Employers for Women list. Forbes recognized the academic medical center for its commitment to advancing women at all levels of the hospital. Read more.

HCMA's Retired members' Lunch Bunch series continued with July's "lunch at your place"  with Stephanie Hayes, Tampa Bay Times columnist. Click the image to view the recording.  The next in the series will feature Jim Verhulst, Deputy Editor of Editorials of the Tampa Bay Times on August 11th.  Click here to pre-register.

Following the Supreme Court's Roe v. Wade decision, HCMA member, Dr. Douglas Stein had several appearances on TV as well as being interviewed by other media outlets. See his interview on the CBS Morning Show.

New Members

Retired Member:

Paul Lauber, MD

Retired from radiology - part-time resident from Michigan. We look forward to meeting Dr. Lauber and his wife, Susan, at a future HCMA Membership Dinner.

Know a colleague who is not an HCMA member?  Joining is easy - just a few click away...

JOIN NOW!

Spotlight on Savings

Physicians Wealth Planning - a Jensen Anderson company 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. Watch your emails for an invitation to complimentary financial planning webinars. For additional information, please click here or contact Jennifer Joyce, Executive Assistant, at 813-287-8379 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 may be 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 Executive Council

Tuesday, August 16, 2022

6:30pm - HCMA office or via ZOOM - RSVPs required

The Executive Council is the governing body of the HCMA.  Council meetings are open to HCMA members.  If you would like to submit a topic for consideration at the upcoming meeting, please contact Debbie Zorian, Executive Director, prior to August 8th.

Workplace Violence/Active Shooter Seminar

Tuesday, August 30, 2022

Westshore Grand Hotel

6:00pm registration, 6:30pm - 7:30 program

Expert law enforcement personnel will review how to prepare for and what to do in the event of an active shooter situation. Watch your email for details.  Pre-registration is required.

HCMA Membership Dinner

Tuesday, September 13, 2022

6:30pm - The Westshore Grand Hotel - RSVPs required

Join your colleagues and our guest speaker Carlton Ward, Jr., a conservation photographer and National Geographic Explorer whose passion for nature was born from the Florida landscape.  His mission is to inspire appreciation and protection of Florida's original nature.  RSVPs are required. Please contact Anni Blackwell, Event Coordinator, with any questions and to learn how to exhibit or sponsor the event.

HCMA Foundation's 25th Charity Golf Classic

Thursday, March 30, 2023

Tournament Players Club - Tampa Bay

Lunch at noon, call to carts at 1:15pm

Find information for golfer registration, a discount on Super Tickets with early purchase, and sponsorship opportunities HERE or call the HCMA office: 813.253.0471. 

COVID-19 News

9th COVID Virtual Town Hall

Thursday, July 20, 2022

6:30pm-7:30pm

Midway through 2022 - Latest Updates & Guidance from Expert Panelists. Featuring Dr. Margarita Cabrera-Cancio, Dr. Douglas Holt, Dr. Kami Kim, & Dr. John Sinnott. Moderated by Dr. Eva Crooke, HCMA President. Pre-registration is REQUIRED. To pre-register for this event, CLICK HERE. You will receive a confirmation email and log-in instructions.

COVID Headlines & News Briefs

·        Still testing positive after day 10? How to decide when to end your COVID isolation.

·        FDA advisers recommend updating COVID booster shots for the fall.

·        Publix is not offering COVID vaccines to the youngest kids.

·        Can I use my expired at-home COVID tests?

·        Should young and healthy patients take Paxlovid?

Pertinent Information

Physician debt relief

Eligible physicians soon will be able to apply for up to $20,000 per year in debt relief through the state’s Medical Education Reimbursement and Loan Repayment Program. The FMA secured an annual appropriation of $6 million for the program, which is not limited to recent graduates, and DOH intends to begin disbursing payments next spring.

Office surgery rule

NOW IN EFFECT - both state medical boards amended their office surgery rules to establish a standard of care for gluteal fat transfers, commonly known as Brazilian Butt Lifts.

Telehealth & controlled substances

Effective July 1, authorized prescribers in Florida will be able to prescribe Schedule III, IV, and V controlled substances via telehealth.

These new Florida health care laws are set to hit the books July 1st.

Nearly 150 laws that legislators passed this year are set to hit the books on July 1. The focus may be on the new abortion ban, but there are others affecting Medicaid, medical marijuana, and telemedicine. Read more.

Governor acts on key healthcare bills

More than three months after the end of the 2022 Legislative Session, all the bills that passed both chambers have finally been presented to and acted upon by Gov. Ron DeSantis. FMA General Counsel Jeff Scott, Esq., summarizes important healthcare-related bills that passed, the Governor’s action on each of those bills, and when the legislation takes effect. Read the summary.

Roe v. Wade overturned: What it means for Florida

Gov. Ron DeSantis signed into law in April a 15-week abortion ban, which has no exceptions for rape or incest. It only allows for abortions to be performed past the 15 weeks if there's a medical emergency or a "fatal fetal abnormality." Read more.

Campaign seeks to educate patients on the importance of a physician-led care team

The Florida Academy of Family Physicians (FAFP) and the Florida Medical Association (FMA) have joined forces to launch The Physician Decision, a patient empowerment campaign to help educate on the importance of seeking a physician-led care team. You can help in this campaign by posting The Physician Decision video on your website and sharing information with your patients. Please visit The Physician Decision website.

AMA helps physicians put telehealth into practice and get paid for it

In the face of the COVID-19 pandemic, the demand for telehealth services has skyrocketed. That’s why the AMA is leading the charge to aggressively expand telehealth. Learn more.

No Surprises Act fact sheets

CMS has created fact sheets you can share with your patients to help protect them from surprise billing. As of January 1, 2022, they have new billing protections when they get: Emergency care, non-emergency care from out-of-network providers at in-network facilities, and air ambulance services from out-of-network providers. CLICK HERE to download the fact sheets.

Flu cases are declining in Florida but still higher than normal.

Health officials advise residents not to let their guards down when it comes to infection control as the flu is still more prevalent in the community than it typically is over the summer. Read more.

What you need to know about monkeypox.

For now, monkeypox poses a low risk to the U.S. public, but it could become a problem if the spread is left unchecked. Here’s what everyone should know about it. Read more.

One doctor's experience in a mid-flight emergency opens questions about medical kits

A couple of hours into her Delta Air Lines flight to Portugal earlier this month, Dr. Andrea Merrill heard the call to help a fellow passenger with a medical emergency. She approached the scene and was handed a red bag, the plane's "medical kit." What was in the kit surprised her. The blood pressure cuff was a manual one, which needed to be put together, and she had to listen for a pulse with a less-than-optimal stethoscope. Read her story.

Kids and mental health: tell them it’s okay not to feel okay.

From economic instability to at-home isolation, the COVID-19 pandemic took a heavy toll on America’s collective mental health. But for children and young adults, a steady rise in mental illnesses like anxiety and depression has been in the works for much longer. Read more.

HCMA Foundation grants awarded

Due to member contributions and the success of the 24th Charity Golf Classic, the HCMA Foundation has provided awards to:

The Barbara Higgins Legacy Corp.

Children's Home Network

Frameworks of Tampa Bay, Inc.

I Support the Girls/Tampa Bay

Judeo Christian Health Clinic

Lighthouse for the Blind & Low Vision

MORE HEALTH, Inc.

Outreach Free Clinic & Resource Center

USF MCOM Medical Student Scholarship

Voices for Children 

If you know of a 501c3 charitable organization that promotes health or medically related programs, send them to the HCMA website to submit a grant application.  Grants are awarded after the annual Charity Golf Classic. To donate to the Foundation, CLICK HERE.

HCMA is on Instagram

The HCMA has recently created an Instagram account. We are planning to be more active on our social media platforms, highlighting upcoming events, benefits, and activities. We hope you will visit our page, HCMA on Insta, follow us, and share it with your colleagues. If you have an Instagram page for your practice, please let me know…we’d like to connect! Our other social media platforms are listed below – please visit us there too!

PAC FUNDS ARE NEEDED!

HILLPAC traditionally interviews candidates after the primary election for the purpose of determining which candidates are thought to be "friends of medicine." 2022 is a crucial year as there are many open seats in our legislative delegation. At this time, the HILLPAC funds are depleted. In order to make an impact with our local legislators, our ability to contribute to their campaigns is imperative. Your help is needed! Please consider making a donation to HILLPAC so our HILLPAC Board can comfortably choose to support all candidates that will help us in our legislative efforts to assist physicians and their patients in our communities. Thank you for your consideration. Donate to HILLPAC.

Hurricane season began on June 1^st!

Resources you may find helpful:

·        Tampa.gov office of Emergency Management - includes details on the Disaster Preparedness Sales Tax Holiday (May 28 - June 10). 

·        Hillsborough County  - Hurricane and tropical storm preparedness information.

·        Tampa Bay Regional Planning Council - Disaster planning guide. 

HCMA Database & Website - New and Improved!

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 update your office information, your home mailing address, RSVP to our events, pay 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.

LAST CHANCE to market your practice

Final preparations are being made for the Summer 2022 edition of the HCMA’s Annual Membership Directory. HCMA members can enhance their listing and/or place an ad at a discounted rate. Visit HCMA.net, click on “members” and then “membership directory” to see the current edition. For advertising information in the 2022 issue, visit HCMA Membership Directory - Members' rates.

From the Board of Medicine

Earn CMEs at a regular Florida Board of Medicine meeting

The Board meets bimonthly, generally on the first weekend of the month. The full Board meetings include disciplinary cases, licensure approvals, correspondence items, committee reports, policy discussion items and other necessary Board actions. All board and committee meetings start at 8:00 am. Dates and locations are subject to change.

Licensees interested in attending a regular meeting of the Board for continuing medical education (CME) credit, please click here to visit the Board’s website for meeting information. Licensees must remain in continuous attendance during the disciplinary portion of the meeting. You may report your attendance by completing the CME attendance form and returning the form to the board office using the email address provided in the form.

Physician Wellness

Stop telling physicians to be more resilient.

"I’ve come across several articles recently highlighting the Dr. Lorna Breen Healthcare Provider Protection Act. The primary stated intent of this is 'to improve mental health among health care workers.' It is named in honor of an emergency physician who died by suicide during the height of the COVID pandemic.

"Although my very first thought was, 'oh, thank God … they are finally listening,' that was quickly replaced with a sick feeling in my gut. Why? Because I realized that, like almost every other 'resource' available to promote mental well-being in health care workers, the word resilience would inevitably show up. I looked at the official wording of the law and yep, it’s there. 'Identify strategies to promote resiliency.' Sucker punch to the gut." Read the article by Lauren Roth, MD.

The HCMA Foundation Physician Wellness Program provides a safe harbor for members to address life difficulties, especially during this time of uncertainty, challenges, and increased stress due to the ongoing threat of COVID-19. This complimentary and completely confidential benefit is available for all members, regardless of membership category. 

Personal News

On Thursday, June 9, the HCMA hosted a Residents Reception together with Physicians Wealth Planning at Brio Italian Grille. We celebrated all HCA and USF resident physicians, interns, and fellows and their accomplishments so far. Unfortunately, we had to say goodbye to a few resident physicians who will pursue their careers outside of Florida. We wish them all the best in their future endeavors. To all current residents, we wish you a successful start to your next year of residency!  See all the photos on HCMA's Facebook page!

The HCMA's 3rd Post-Session Legislative Reception, led by Dr. Eva Crooke (HCMA President) and Dr. Michael Cromer (Chm, HCMA Government Affairs Committee) was held on June 22nd. This forum provides an excellent opportunity to converse with our legislators and their staff in an informal setting. 

Attendees recapped medicine's priority issues of the 2022 Florida Legislative Session and discussed potential bill topics for the 2023 Session. 

Dr. Cromer addressed the group reviewing the wins and losses from the 2022 Legislative Session.

Elke Lubin (HCMA Executive Assistant), Dr. Georgetta Bundley, Debbie Zorian (HCMA Executive Director), and Skoervitch Emile (Legislative Assistant for Rep. Fentrice Driskell). 

I'd like more information about the HCMA Government Affairs Committee Congratulations to Drs. & Mrs. Jayant Rao - finally!

Dr. Jayant Rao, HCMA Past President, and the former Sheila Bongcayao, were married last month in Tahoe. The wedding was originally scheduled for September 2021 but had to be delayed due to massive fire evacuations and the COVID Delta Variant spike.

Best wishes for a happy and healthy life together!

Dr. Rao's parents, Dr. Mohan and Diana Rao, are pictured with the newlyweds. 

New Members

Active:

Carlos Lamoutte, MD, Obstetrics/Gynecology, Bay Care Medical Group, 1601 W. Timberlane Dr. #400, Plant City, 33566, 813.321.6677

Affiliate:

Diane Gowski, MD, Internal Medicine, Retired from Bay Pines VAMC

Michael Morgan, MD, Dermatopathology, Korpath, 3110 Cherry Palm Dr., Tampa, 33619, 813.932.0374

John Hamill, MD, Dermatology, Gulf Coast Dermatology, 7547 Jacque Rd., Hudson, 34667, 727.862.8561

Spotlight on Savings

MCMS, Inc., Insurance Trust Fund - Providing Group Major Medical Insurance for HCMA employer-members. 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 new 2014 ACA standards and mandatory provisions. For more information, contact Thomas Buss, Third Party Administrator:  thomas_buss@ajg.com  or local authorized agent Jeremy Enns: 813.818.8805, ext: 232, jeremy.enns@onedigital.com.

COVID NEWS

• Mayor Jane Castor held a virtual discussion with Dr. Charles Lockwood, senior VP with USF Health, on the current status of COVID-19 in Hillsborough County.
• Florida hospital admissions for COVID is up 14% over the past week.
• COVID-19 deaths have outpaced deaths from pneumonia and flu.
• Federal officials say millions of COVID-19 shots ordered for youngest.
• Novavax vaccine may be option for troops with religious concerns.
• Moderna to seek authorization for Omicron-specific COVID-19 vaccine booster candidate.
• CDC lists more Florida counties at high risk for COVID transmission.
• COVID-19 test demand a boon for labs, a bane for costs, study finds.
• What doctors wish patients knew about COVID-19 testing.
• Physician group releases guidance on cardiovascular issues in long COVID.
• How has the pandemic changed our behavior?
• What immune imprinting means for the future of COVID-19 vaccines.

PERTINENT INFORMATION

June is Pride Month

Medicine is for all, and the medical profession is at its best with a physician workforce that reflects this foundational truth. June is Pride Month and we give special thanks to LGBTQ physicians in our community for delivering patient care with excellence, mentoring and educating future MDs and DOs, and shaping the future as leaders!  It takes courage to stand up for who you are.  Warm wishes for Pride Month! 

Emergency office surgery rule: effective imminently

As soon as next week, the Florida Board of Medicine and Board of Osteopathic Medicine are expected to release an office surgery emergency rule that will make critical changes to the standard of care for gluteal fat transfers, more commonly known as Brazilian Butt Lifts (BBLs). There will be no exceptions to these standards and no grace period for implementation. Read a legal update from FMA Assistant General Counsel Mary Thomas, Esq., to learn what these changes mean for Florida physicians. 

Plans remain for a Moffitt Cancer Center campus in Pasco despite DeSantis' veto.

Gov. Ron DeSantis vetoed a line item in the upcoming state budget that would have provided about $600 million in recurring money over the next 30 years for the project. Read more. 

Private Practice Learning Collaborative: E/M Documentation Burden Reduction

The AMA has launched a new learning collaborative opportunity for private practice physicians designed to help implement actionable changes that can quickly increase their practice’s efficiency. Each eight-week session in the Private Practice Simple Solutions series will focus on a single topic. Physicians will be able to access a pre-recorded didactic presentation and a discussion board (NOTE: the discussion board requires individual registration to access this closed community). The discussion board runs throughout the entirety of the eight weeks, offering opportunities to interact with fellow cohort members and ask questions of subject matter experts who oversee the sessions. A second pre-recorded presentation will follow the first, focusing on the common obstacles or questions identified on the discussion board. The first session, which provides insights on using the AMA STEPS Forward® E/M Documentation Burden Reduction Toolkit as a guide, will be released on July 7. The second recording will be released on Aug. 16. 

Accelerating Behavioral Health Integration Through Telehealth

The AMA is hosting an interactive session on accelerating behavioral health integration through telehealth on June 21. Participants will learn about the opportunities and challenges of incorporating technology to advance more coordinated and equitable behavioral health care, as well as practical solutions stakeholders across the health care ecosystem can pursue to advance digitally-enabled BHI. The session will feature experts from Penn Medicine and the Department of Veteran Affairs, who will discuss their BHI models, how digital tools have been incorporated, and the comprehensive value it has generated. 

Parenting as a Physician: It Takes a Lot of Patience

Finding work-life balance during the COVID-19 pandemic has required parents to constantly recalibrate, shifting the demands of parenting to meet the needs of their employers. Burnout rates remain particularly high among physicians, and those who also take on the responsibilities of caring for their children face a unique set of challenges. This panel discussion webinar at noon on June 21 features multiple physician parents and will provide tips on how to set limits, balancing family life as a physician, simply finding the time, and best practices for managing family activities. 

Celebrating our Resident Physicians

On June 9th, the HCMA hosted a Residents Reception together with Physicians Wealth Planning at Brio Italian Grille. We celebrated all HCA and USF resident physicians, interns, and fellows and their accomplishments so far. Unfortunately, we had to say goodbye to a few resident physicians who will pursue their careers outside of Florida. We wish them all the best in their future endeavors. To all current residents, we wish you a successful start to your next year of residency! Check out the event photos on HCMA's Facebook page. 

CONGRATULATIONS TAMPA BAY LIGHTNING!

The Lightning have done it again...  they are off to play in the Stanley Cup finals for the third year in a row. No team has been to three Stanley Cup finals in a row since the Edmonton Oilers in the mid-1980s, and the Islanders were the last team to win three consecutive Cups 40 years ago. It looks like a Stanley Cup hat trick may be in our future!  GO BOLTS!

SPOTLIGHT ON SAVINGS

The HCMA Benefit Provider Program offers goods and services to members, at members' only rates. When utilized, the value to members far exceeds the cost of annual dues. Two of our Providers are featured here:

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.

Shea Barclay Group – professional liability and other commercial insurance products. Shea Barclay Group (SBG) is a boutique, Tampa-based insurance brokerage specializing in insuring physicians. Their team of professionals has 50+ years of experience insuring healthcare providers in the Tampa Bay area. SBG has developed numerous, exclusive insurance programs specifically for HCMA members. These not only address the professional liability insurance needs of the HCMA members, but the additional insurance needs that each practice requires. Their unique experience and capabilities will give you peace of mind, knowing that your risks are their biggest concern. SBG will provide eligible HCMA members with a 10% discount on professional liability insurance premiums through Aspen. For a no-obligation consultation, please contact Patricia Thompson, AAI, CIC, Senior Advisor/Healthcare, PThompson@SheaBarclay.com, 813.418.4492, mobile: 813.404.7905, Shea Barclay Group/HCMA Webpage, www.sheabarclay.com.

COVID-19 News

• Expect new authorization for at least one COVID-19 vaccine for children under 5 this month—just a few weeks after the FDA granted emergency use authorization (EUA) for vaccine boosters for children 5–11 years old.
• Health officials urge caution and mask-wearing as Florida coronavirus cases climb.
• CDC places about half of Florida's population at high risk for COVID transmission.
• What's ailing long COVID patients? A new federal study looks for clues.
• Long COVID? Medical expertise is vital, and seniors should prepare to go slow.
• Omitting long COVID from pandemic messaging is harmful for public health.
• Coronavirus hasn’t developed resistance to Paxlovid. How long can that last?

PERTINENT INFORAMTION

Healthcare leaders urge Congress to make Texas school shooting the country's last: 'We need real change'

Firearm-related violence was declared a public health crisis by the AMA in 2016 shortly after the Pulse Nightclub shooting, a viewpoint shared by many across the healthcare system. In a new statement, AMA President Gerald Harmon, M.D., said firearm incidents before and after that declaration could have been prevented with action from lawmakers and other leaders on “common-sense safety measures like background checks.” He also pointed to 16 separate policy recommendations his organization has developed over the years to address firearm trauma, injury, and death. “While the ideal time to act and find common-sense solutions and common ground might have been years ago, the best we can do now is act today,” he said. “The AMA will continue to support policies and advocate for initiatives aimed at encouraging firearm safety and preventing firearm-related injuries and deaths.” READ THE HCMA POSITION STATEMENT ON GUN VIOLENCE.

CDC Health Advisories

• Monkeypox - On May 20th the CDC distributed a Health Alert Network (HAN) advisory. Any clinician who suspects Monkeypox should immediately report to their local health department. Read the health advisory.
• Hepatitis of unknown etiology - On May 12th, the CDC issued a Health Alert Network Health Update to provide clinicians and public health authorities with updated information about an epidemiologic investigation of pediatric cases of hepatitis of unknown etiology in the United States. Read the advisory.
• Meningitis like symptoms - Physicians who are treating a person who presents with meningitis like symptoms and has a recent history of fresh water exposure are urged to contact the CDC immediately for consultation and treatment. Physicians should also report the suspected case to the county health department immediately. Read the May 11th advisory.
• Michael Wiese, MPH, CPH, Epidemiology Program Manager, Florida Department of Health in Hillsborough County, Epidemiology office: 813.307.8010, fax: 813.276.2981. 

An urgent plea to vaccinate students for all forms of meningitis

Following a recent outbreak of meningitis in Florida, the Department of Health reported that, as of April 7, the number of cases identified in 2022 had surpassed the state’s five-year average of meningococcal disease cases. In a guest essay for the Palm Beach Post, Alicia Stillman, Director of the Emily Stillman Foundation, says the outbreak highlights the urgency of having students vaccinated against all forms of meningococcal disease. The foundation is named for her daughter, Emily, who passed away in 2013 at age 19 after contracting bacterial meningitis. 

Assume every child has PTSD these days until proven otherwise.

For your consideration, an opinion piece written by Kathy Wu, PhD, May 28, 2022: From school shootings to abuse, kids are carrying too much weight on their small shoulders. It is said that each generation has its unique set of challenges to overcome, but this constellation of complex societal problems is unprecedented and much too heavy for any generation to bear. Compounding these macro-level stresses are adverse childhood experiences (ACEs) that a majority of children (61%) experience at least one of in their lifetimes. Read the editorial. 

Medicaid and Children’s Health Insurance Program (CHIP)

As of February 2022, 87,384,715 of people are enrolled in Medicaid and CHIP. This is an increase of 430,006 since the last report (80,386,081 are enrolled in Medicaid and 6,998,634 are enrolled in CHIP). For more information on Medicaid/CHIP enrollment, including enrollment trends, click here. 

It's not too late - Delegates needed!

The Florida Medical Association (FMA) Annual Meeting is being held August 5 - 7, at the Hyatt Regency Grand Cypress in Orlando. The HCMA sends a delegation of members to represent our Association and has submitted a resolution for consideration by the FMA House of Delegates. The HCMA delegation is a component of the Lower West Coast Caucus which will meet virtually, prior to the Orlando meeting, to review all of the resolutions submitted by all county and specialty societies in Florida. 

If you would like to get involved at the grassroots level, please consider serving as an HCMA delegate at the FMA Annual Meeting in Orlando. For more information, please contact Elke Lubin, HCMA Executive Assistant. 

PAC FUNDS ARE NEEDED!

HILLPAC traditionally interviews candidates after the primary election for the purpose of determining which candidates are thought to be "friends of medicine." 2022 is a crucial year as there are many open seats in our legislative delegation. At this time, the HILLPAC funds are depleted. In order to make an impact with our local legislators, our ability to contribute to their campaigns is imperative. Your help is needed! Please consider making a donation to HILLPAC so our HILLPAC Board can comfortably choose to support all candidates that will help us in our legislative efforts to assist physicians and their patients in our communities. Thank you for your consideration. Donate to HILLPAC. 

Hurricane season is here!

June 1st marks the beginning of the 2022 Hurricane Season, lasting through November 30th. Resources you may find helpful:

• Tampa.gov office of Emergency Management - includes details on the Disaster Preparedness Sales Tax Holiday (May 28 - June 10). 
• Hillsborough County  - Hurricane and tropical storm preparedness information.
• Tampa Bay Regional Planning Council - Disaster planning guide.  

Medical roundtable discusses the science of health care delivery.

Some of the most well-respected medical schools are incorporating this philosophy into their curriculums and offering degrees aimed at developing health administrators and medical leaders. Listen to this roundtable discussion (53 minutes).

HCMA Database & Website - New and Improved!

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 update your office information, your home mailing address, RSVP to our events, pay 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.

Market your practice

Preparations are underway for the Summer 2022 edition of the HCMA’s Annual Membership Directory. HCMA members can enhance their listing and/or place an ad at a discounted rate. Visit HCMA.net, click on “members” and then “membership directory” to see the current edition. For advertising information in the 2022 issue, visit HCMA Membership Directory - Members' rates.

FROM THE BOARD OF MEDICINE

New Legislation Impacting Your Profession

• Reducing Fetal and Infant Mortality
• Telehealth
• Acute and Post-acute Hospital Care at Home
• Department of Health/Information Required for Licensure

PHYSICIAN WELLNESS

Surgeon general issues landmark report with new solutions to combat crippling worker burnout issue.

Surgeon General Vivek Murthy, M.D., released a general advisory on May 23rd surrounding worker burnout, an issue that was present before the pandemic but only worsened as COVID-19 has impacted systems. Murthy is pressing for collaboration among regulators, health systems, communities and other key stakeholders to take a “whole-of-society” approach to the problem. Read the article.

The HCMA Foundation Physician Wellness Program provides a safe harbor for members to address life difficulties, especially during this time of uncertainty, challenges, and increased stress due to the ongoing threat of COVID-19. This complimentary and completely confidential benefit is available for all members, regardless of membership category. 

PERSONAL NEWS

Welcome Asta Orthman!

Asta Orthman joined the HCMA staff on May 10th. She will serve as HCMA’s membership coordinator & administrative assistant. Asta moved to the United States from Lithuania 25 years ago and resided in Massachusetts where she worked for several nonprofit organizations as an accomplished administrator providing services to those with mental illnesses and developmental disabilities. Two years ago, Asta and her husband relocated to the Tampa Bay area. 

Asta has become involved with the Tampa area Lithuanian community and is teaching language and traditions to immigrant children in her spare time. She is a graduate of Vilnius University in Lithuania, earning her BA degree in English Language and Literature, and is fluent in three languages. Asta likes to read, cook, walk Florida’s beautiful beaches, and travel.

NEW MEMBERS

Active: Poorvi Desai, MD, Hematology/Oncology, Comprehensive Hematology Oncology,  425 S. Parsons, Ste. 101, Brandon, 33511, 727.377.6569 Brandon Faza, MD, Emergency Medicine, Guidewell Emergency Doctors, 16318 N. Dale Mabry Hwy., Tampa, 33617, 813.576.0077

Affiliate: Ajoy Kumar, MD, Family Medicine, AdventHealth, 12470 Telecom Dr., Temple Terrace, 33637

SPOTLIGHT ON SAVINGS

A cyber breach can be devastating to your practice and your patients.

Cyber attacks have increased and the potential harm to your practice is enormous. Medical practices are among the biggest targets because of patients' personal identifiable information. The practice could be sued by patients if a beach occurs, fined by the state, and incur additional exorbitant expenses as a result. Cyber attacks and claims have grown exponentially since COVID-19 and will only get worse. Protect yourself and your patients. Let HCMA Benefit Provider, Shea Barclay Group, tell you how.

THE BULLETIN

Click here to review the most recent issue of The Bulletin along with previous issues. If you or anyone you know may be 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

Intern/Resident/Fellow Reception

Thursday, June 9, 2022

6:30pm-8:30pm - Brio International Plaza

HCMA cordially invites all intern/resident/fellow physicians from USF and Brandon Regional Hospital to attend a reception in their honor.  Physicians in training will mingle with colleagues, HCMA leaders, and administrative staff.  For more information, please contact Anni Blackwell, Event Coordinator.

 

FMA Annual Meeting

August 5-7, 2022

Hyatt Grand Cypress, Orlando

The FMA Annual Meeting is the event in which the FMA House of Delegates, comprised of physician delegations from across Florida, meet to submit, discuss, debate, and vote on resolutions pertaining to legislative issues and FMA policy. The meeting also provides live, interactive CME, networking events, the presidential installation, poster symposium and more.  If you are interested in serving as an HCMA delegate to the FMA, please contact Elke Lubin, Executive Assistant.

HCMA Executive Council

Tuesday, August 16, 2022

6:30pm - HCMA office or via ZOOM - RSVPs required

The Executive Council is the governing body of the HCMA.  Council meetings are open to HCMA members in good standing.  If you would like to submit a topic for consideration at the upcoming meeting, please contact Debbie Zorian, Executive Director, prior to August 8th.

 

HCMA Membership Dinner

Tuesday, September 13, 2022

6:30pm - The Westshore Grand Hotel - RSVPs required

Join your colleagues and our guest speaker Carlton Ward, Jr., a conservation photographer and National Geographic Explorer whose passion for nature was born from the Florida landscape.  His mission is to inspire appreciation and protection of Florida's original nature.  Reservation and sponsorship information is forthcoming - watch your email!  Please contact Anni Blackwell, Event Coordinator, with any questions.

COVID-19 News

AMA announces CPT update for COVID-19 booster candidates. The military is trying to learn more about long COVID. Troops who have it worry about their careers. Study shows long COVID affects women more than men. Risk of myopericarditis not higher after COVID-19 vaccination. BA.2.12.1 subvariant: concerning, but no need to panic just yet. USF epidemiologist notes Florida's COVID uptick 'low' compared to previous surges. New COVID-19 cases in Florida have been gradually increasing. Biden administration beefs up access to COVID antiviral pills. Over 50% of U.S. population has contracted COVID-19, CDC says. Fifth COVID shot recommended for patients with cancer. The future of COVID testing: speed, ease, and easier access. Former U.S. Surgeon General Jerome Adams calls for masking 'compassion.' AP-NORC survey finds that most respondents want masks for travelers.

Pertinent Information

IT'S NOT TOO LATE TO REGISTER!

HCMA Inauguration Dinner

Tuesday, May 10, 2022

6:15pm - The Westshore Grand

Eva Crooke, MD will be installed at the HCMA's 119th President as we "Celebrate Tampa Bay!"  An extended social hour will begin at 6:15pm with complimentary cocktails and hors d'oeuvres, followed by dinner and the inauguration at 7:30pm. More information and registration can be found HERE. Call the HCMA office with any questions: 813.253.0471. HCMA requests that all attendees be fully vaccinated.

How new legislation will affect you The state’s 2022 regular Legislative Session resulted in significant policy victories for Florida physicians, which you can read about in the FMA’s legislative summary. Interested in becoming more involved with the HCMA's legislative activities? Consider serving on HCMA's political action committee, HILLPAC, the HCMA's Government Affairs Committee, traveling to Tallahassee during the legislative session to meet with legislators and their staff concerning medically-related bills, or serve as a delegate to the FMA to assist in creating resolutions relating to legislative and policy issues that are presented each year to the FMA House of Delegates during the Annual Meeting. For more information about these opportunities, please contact Elke Lubin, HCMA Executive Assistant.  Physicians get relief from potential legal risks in giving minors emergency care Last year’s Parents' Bill of Rights law specifically made it a misdemeanor of the first degree in Florida for physicians and other healthcare providers to provide emergency medical services to minors in most settings without first obtaining written parental consent. Thanks the passage of HB 817 which will be effective July 1, 2022, physicians will be able to provide this care in any setting without parental consent. Read more. Physician-led, team-based care is best for patients The Florida Academy of Family Physicians and the FMA recently joined forces to launch The Physician Decision, a patient-focused campaign emphasizing the importance of physician-led, team-based care. The Physician Decision aims to educate Floridians about the qualifications physicians bring to their role as leader of the healthcare team so that they can advocate for themselves to receive the best care. DEA Warning: scammers are impersonating DEA agents Victims are losing money and personally identifiable information. DEA personnel will never contact members of the public or medical practitioners by telephone to demand money or any other form of payment, will never request personal or sensitive information over the phone, and will only notify people of a legitimate investigation or legal action in person or by official letter. Read the press release. AMA No Surprises Act tool kit Linked here is a second AMA toolkit to assist physicians with the payment process for certain out-of-network care under the No Surprises Act (NSA).  The NSA prohibits surprise billing for emergency care and some nonemergency care at in-network facilities.  The law and implementing regulations have established a process to determine payment for physicians and other providers that includes an Independent Dispute Resolution (IDR) process.  As we are still awaiting additional federal guidance on the IDR process, this toolkit will be updated when new information is available. Additionally, updated information can be found  here on the AMA-AHA lawsuit over a narrow, but critical, component of the interim final rule implementing the IDR process under the NSA.  AMA STEPS Forward™: Taming the EHR playbook The electronic health record (EHR) has profoundly changed the practice of medicine in both positive and negative ways. While most EHRs have customizable tools that can save time if used optimally, approximately 50% of a physician’s day is currently being spent on EHR and desk work. This EHR burden is a major contributor to physician burnout, and it is imperative for organizations to learn how to “tame” the EHR by implementing effective team-based care principles and system-level improvement. The AMA STEPS Forward™ Taming the EHR Playbook walks physicians and care team members through a series of practical, actionable steps to help improve efficiency, alleviate stress, and maximize the benefits of the EHR. A year in review: Physician perspectives on Information Blocking regulations The AMA is reaching out to better understand physicians’ experiences with Information Blocking compliance, issues physicians have encountered when requesting information from other Actors (e.g., their EHR vendors, state health information exchanges, or other providers or hospitals), and specific examples of EHR vendors preventing access to patient health information. The AMA welcomes any examples or anecdotes you wish to share. The AMA will compile, deidentify, and share your example stories with HHS officials and advocate for increased focus on information blocking practices that prevent or inhibit physician access to patient information. Please submit your example stories to Ela Cameron ela.cameron@ama-assn.org by May 16th. Please answer the following questions: What are your top three concerns or challenges complying with HHS’ Information Blocking regulations? What are the top three issues you have experienced when requesting patients’ electronic health information from another Actor, e.g., your EHR vendor, local hospital, laboratory/pharmacy, or another medical practice? What are the top three features/functions you wish your EHR had to help you comply with HHS’ Information Blocking regulations? What other information blocking issues or experiences would you like us to share with HHS? HCMA database & website - new and improved! 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 update your office information, your home mailing address, RSVP to our events, pay 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. Market your practice Preparations are being made for the Summer 2022 edition of the HCMA’s Annual Membership Directory. HCMA members can enhance their listing and/or place an ad at a discounted rate. Visit HCMA.net, click on “members” and then “membership directory” to see the current edition. For advertising information in the 2022 issue, visit HCMA Membership Directory - Members' rates

From the Board of Medicine

Florida Department of Health advises on meningococcal disease and vaccines in Florida The Florida Department of Health (FDOH) is responding to an outbreak of meningococcal disease in some areas of Florida. However, it can be prevented and treated. Getting vaccinated is the best way to protect against meningococcal disease. Thus far, the number of cases identified in 2022 surpasses the 5-year average of meningococcal disease cases in Florida. FDOH epidemiologists are investigating each case as well as contacting people with potential or direct exposure to known cases to provide them with information and treatment options. Read the full notice.

Physician Wellness

The pandemic was not the culprit in Dr. Lorna Breen's suicide March 18, 2022 was a memorable day for over 42,000 graduating medical students. It was Match Day, the day they learned which residency training program they will attend as they begin their careers as physicians. March 18, 2022 was even more memorable for the approximately 1 million physicians licensed to practice medicine in the U.S. It was the day President Biden signed into law the Dr. Lorna Breen Health Care Provider Protection Act, legislation designed to promote the mental health of medical professionals. April 26, 2022 marks the second anniversary of Breen's death. The Dr. Lorna Breen Health Care Provider Protection Act honors the legacy of her memory -- "an extension of her caring for her colleagues in the deepest possible way." "Treatment without consequences" could have saved her life.  Read the view point of Arthur Lazarus, MD, MBA. The HCMA Foundation Physician Wellness Program provides a safe harbor for members to address life difficulties and challenges. This complimentary and completely confidential benefit is available for all members, regardless of membership category.

PERSONAL NEWS

Dr. Lubin appointed to HCAB

In April, Dr. David Lubin, Editor of HCMA's publication, The Bulletin, was nominated and subsequently appointed to the Health Care Advisory Board (HCAB).  This Board improves accessibility and efficiency of care for medically poor residents of Hillsborough County through recommendations to the Board of County Commissioners for fund allocation, coordination, planning, and monitoring of health care delivery systems.  Other HCMA members who serve on the HCAB are Drs. John Curran and Jason Wilson.

New Members

Active: Frances Acosta, MD Ophthalmology Prado Vision & Lasik Center 7522 N. Himes Ave. Tampa, 33614 813.931.0500 Affiliate: Ryan Fitzgerald, MD Orthopaedic Surgery Children's Orthopaedic & Scoliosis Surgery 625 6th Ave., S, #450 St. Petersburg, 33701 727.898.2663

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.  FOR LEASE OR RENT Must see. Medical office space to share in USF area. Walk to Advent Hospital Tampa. Professional office building with furnished 1,500 square feet. Have your own private office, share 3 exam rooms, reception area, and break room. Currently used 2-3 days. For details, please call 813-933-9666.

COVID-19 News

The number of COVID patients in US hospitals reaches a record low. Tampa Bay hospitals prepared to meet federal COVID vaccine requirements. How we will know when COVID-19 has become endemic. FDA opens second COVID boosters to ages 50 and older and others at risk. Mix and match mRNA boosters? It may be a good idea, experts say. New research hints at why COVID brain fog may persist. Different SARS-CoV-2 variants may cause different long COVID symptoms. In survey, over one-third of high school students reported poor mental health during pandemic. Largest ivermectin trial fails to show benefit in COVID outpatients. PCR vs. rapid test: What to know. Webinar with US Surgeon General Murthy The Office of the Surgeon General recently issued a Request for Information about the impact of misinformation during the COVID-19 pandemic. Comments are due and the Surgeon General’s Office wants to hear from physicians. The U.S. Surgeon General Dr. Vivek Murthy is calling for stories about personal experiences related to health misinformation to deepen our collective understanding of its sources and impact. Please join this webinar, where staff in the Office of the Surgeon General will share information about the request for information and how to share your story! Thursday April 7, 4:30 p.m. (ET) Register here: www.bit.ly/RFIBriefing Learn more about the Request for Information

Pertinent Information

Global medical and public health organizations call for immediate end to war in Ukraine and critical need to prevent nuclear escalation Representing doctors, public health professionals and medical students worldwide, multiple organizations called for an immediate cease fire and the withdrawal of all invading and occupying military forces and an urgent negotiated end to the current war in Ukraine. Read the statement.

2022 FL Legislative Session Summary The Florida Medical Association compiled a comprehensive summary of the bills presented that were of particular interest to medicine during the 2022 legislative session. Read the summary. FMA Annual Meeting - Delegates & Resolutions Needed The Florida Medical Association (FMA) Annual Meeting is being held August 5 - 7, at the Hyatt Regency Grand Cypress in Orlando.  The HCMA will send a delegation of members to represent our Association.  Our delegation will author and submit resolutions for consideration by the FMA House of Delegates. If you have a policy or legislative topic for a resolution, please consider serving as an HCMA delegate and attending the HCMA Delegates meeting held in Tampa prior to the FMA Annual Meeting in Orlando.  For more information or to submit a resolution topic, please contact Elke Lubin, HCMA Executive Assistant. FMA Board selects new CEO The FMA Board of Governors has selected Christopher Clark, formerly Senior Vice President of Public Affairs, to serve as the association’s Chief Executive Officer effective today, April 1. Since 2014, Mr. Clark has directed the FMA’s legislative lobbying efforts and worked with the FMA PAC to oversee political activity and strategy focused on supporting pro-medicine candidates in their campaigns for elective office. He brought a wealth of experience to his role at the FMA, including his previous service as Chief of Staff for former Florida Senate President Don Gaetz, working on both of former Gov. Jeb Bush’s successful gubernatorial campaigns, and serving as Governmental Affairs Director for the state Department of Corrections.  Amid doctor shortage, NPs and PAs seemed like a fix. Data’s in: Nope.  One health system turned to these non-physician providers in a pinch, only to find they needed to rethink the strategy after reviewing their data. Find out what they learned.  4 healthcare items to watch in Biden's budget proposal. The White House has released its proposed budget for fiscal year 2023, and it highlights multiple healthcare priorities for the administration. Read more. CVS reaches $484M settlement with Florida over opioid case CVS Health will pay the state of Florida $484 million to settle claims related to opioid prescriptions at its pharmacies. The settlement will resolve claims dating back more than a decade, according to the announcement from CVS. The settlement amount will be paid over the course of 18 years. Read more. HCMA Database & Website - New and Improved! 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 update your office information, your home mailing address, RSVP to our events, pay 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. Market your practice Preparations are being made for the Summer 2022 edition of the HCMA’s Annual Membership Directory. HCMA members can enhance their listing and/or place an ad at a discounted rate. Visit HCMA.net, click on “members” and then “membership directory” to see the current edition. For advertising information in the 2022 issue, visit HCMA Membership Directory - Members' rates

From the Board of Medicine

Fraudulent Email ALERT! The Department of Health, Division of Medical Quality Assurance, is warning Florida health care practitioners about a fraudulent email and phishing attempt sent to Florida healthcare practitioners, specifically physicians. Scammers are posing as the Department of Health and offering to provide licensees with “important information” if they sign in through a designated link in the email. The originating fraudulent email address is floridahealth@consultant.com. This is not a valid Department of Health email address. We want to protect our health care practitioners from fraud schemes. If you receive an email from this fraudulent email address, do not click on any links or attachments or provide any personal information. If you have any questions, please contact our customer contact center at (850) 488-0595.

Physician Wellness

How can the Pareto Principle protect you from physician burnout? You may know the Pareto Principle better as the 80-20 rule. How can you use the 80-20 rule to your advantage? What is the 80 and what is the 20 in this case? Is there research to show this approach is effective? In Dr. Dike Drummond's blog post, he answers all of those questions using a widely referenced study on physician burnout in academics as our guide. In the end you will understand the research better than your C-suite does and have several simple ways to put Pareto to use for you and your family. The HCMA Foundation Physician Wellness Program provides a safe harbor for members to address life difficulties, especially during this time of uncertainty, challenges, and increased stress due to the ongoing threat of COVID-19. This complimentary and completely confidential benefit is available for all members, regardless of membership category.

PERSONAL NEWS

HAPPY ANNIVERSARY! HCMA's Executive Director, Debbie Zorian, celebrated her 36 year anniversary with the HCMA while at the HCMA Foundation Charity Golf Classic.  Debbie served as the master of ceremonies conveying her poise and, as always, her style at the event. 

HAPPY FIRST MEMBERSHIP DINNER! HCMA's first in-person membership dinner since February 2020 was held March 15th. Rodney Kite-Powell (pictured), from the Tampa Bay History Center, was our guest speaker.  Many thanks to our sponsors, Shea Barclay Group and Physicians Wealth Planning and to our social hour exhibitors.  Find all of the photos on HCMA's Facebook page.

HCMA FOUNDATION CHARITY GOLF CLASSIC A HIT! On March 31st 126 golfers (a record for us) played in the Foundation's 24th Charity Golf Classic at TPC - Tampa Bay.  The wind, rain, and the threat of a big storm did not stop our golfers from having a super time on the course.  Many thanks to our sponsors, golfers, and volunteers for another very successful fundraiser!  Find all of the photos on HCMA's Facebook page.

APRIL IS CHILD ABUSE PREVENTION MONTH Each year, the Children's Board of Hillsborough County organizes the distribution of "pinwheel gardens" to local partners throughout our county.  Once again the HCMA has planted our garden to bring awareness to this very important issue. If you would like more information about  the Children's Board and this campaign, please call 813.229.2884 or visit www.childrensboard.org

NEW MEMBERS

Christopher Bucciarelli, MD, Emergency Medicine, BayCare, 6901 Simmons Loop, Riverview, 33578, 813.302.8007 

Christina Canody, MD, Pediatrics, BayCare, 4712 N. Armenia Ave., #102, Tampa, 33603, 813.879.5716 

Chanchal Malhotra, MD & Dion Manhoff, MD, Pathology, 5002 W. Lemon St., #202, Tampa, 33609

Mariana Oliva, MD, Ob/Gyn, The Woman's Group, 5380 Primrose Lake Cir., Tampa, 33647, 813.915.5291 

Wahid Tazudeen, MD, Neurology, Neurological Specialties, 2816 W. Virginia Ave., Tampa, 33607, 813.876.6321 

Milad Webb, MD, Forensic Pathology, Hillsborough County Medical Examiner Dept., 11025 N. 46th St., Tampa, 33617, 813.914.4500

Spotlight on Savings

Trenam Law – complimentary phone consultation for up to one hour. Trenam’s health care practice is multi-disciplinary, focusing on the many needs of physicians and medical practices including compliance and licensure advice, assistance in transactions such as employment and contractor agreements, business formations, practice sales and litigation. Trenam also helps physicians outside of its health care practice in areas such as tax, estate planning, real estate, and trademarks. Please contact Erin Smith Aebel or call  813.227.7455, or Jessica Smith West or call 813. 227.7467 for more information.

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.  FOR LEASE OR RENT Must see. Medical office space to share in USF area. Walk to Advent Hospital Tampa. Professional office building with furnished 1,500 square feet. Have your own private office, share 3 exam rooms, reception area, and break room. Currently used 2-3 days. For details, please call 813-933-9666.

The Bulletin

Click here to review the most recent issue of The Bulletin along with back issues. if you or anyone you know may be 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 Inauguration Dinner, Tuesday, May 10, 2022, 6:15pm - The Westshore Grand Eva Crooke, MD will be installed at the HCMA's 119th President as we "Celebrate Tampa Bay!"  An extended social hour will begin at 6:15pm with complimentary cocktails and hors d'oeuvres, followed by dinner and the inauguration at 7:30pm. More information and registration can be found HERE. Sponsorship and exhibiting opportunities are available. Call the HCMA office for specifics: 813.253.0471. HCMA requests that all attendees be fully vaccinated.

COVID- 19 NEWS

• Florida adds the lowest weekly number of new COVID cases since December.
• Biden's nursing home staffing plan comes as Florida nears cuts in CNA requirements.
• President Biden urged capping the cost of insulin at $35 a month “so everyone can afford it.” It was among the health issues touched on during the speech.
• Pfizer vaccine's protection against COVID wanes quickly in kids ages 5-11, study says.
• Nearly half of Biden's 500 million free COVID tests remain unclaimed.
• Omicron subvariants BA.1 vs. BA.2: What the latest data says.
• Endemic COVID-19 could be one to ten years away.
• Can brain stimulation treat long COVID 'brain fog'?
• COVID still threatens millions of Americans. Why are we so eager to move on?

PERTINENT INFORMATION

IT IS NOT TOO LATE TO RSVP

Membership Dinner

Tuesday, March 15, 2022

6:30pm at the Westshore Grand

HCMA's first in-person Membership Dinner since February 2020! Social hour will begin at 6:30pm, the program and dinner will follow at 7:30pm. Special Guest: Rodney Kite-Powell, Director, Touchton Map Library, at the Tampa Bay History Center, will share snapshots and stories of the history of Tampa from the 1800s to modern times.

Two USF medical students will be presented with scholarships from the HCMA and the HCMA Foundation.

Sponsors: Physicians Wealth Planning and Shea Barclay Group.

Dinner is complimentary for HCMA members; $50 per guest. You can register

here. HCMA requests that all attendees be fully vaccinated.

__________

Judge strikes down part of administration’s surprise billing rules

The Hill reports federal Judge Jeremy Kernodle in Texas “on Wednesday struck down part of the Biden administration’s regulations protecting patients from getting stuck with ‘surprise’ medical bills when they see the doctor, in a win for doctors who sued to block part of the rules.” The decision struck “down part of the regulations that govern how much insurers will pay doctors once the patient is taken out of the middle.” 

AMA Editor’s Note: Protect patients from surprise medical bills without eliminating incentives for insurers to negotiate contracts in good faith. Click here to learn more.

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ADA Legal Issues in Healthcare

Do you have any patients who are deaf/hard of hearing? Visually impaired? If so, you must provide equal access to communications, including “auxiliary aids and services” to ensure effective communication between the health care provider and the patient or patient’s representative.

What about English as a Second Language (ESL)? Do you have patients whose preferred language is a language other than English? Do you receive federal funding, including Medicare, Medicaid or SCHIP? If so, your practice must provide language access services for your patients.  HCMA Benefit Provider, the Florida Healthcare Law Firm, has compose a short article regarding ADA requirements.

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Ukrainian physicians 'Ready to Die for Their Freedom'

Nasogastric tubes. Foley catheter kits. Hydrogel anti-burn bandages and transfusion bags. Heparin, atropine, tramadol. These items are just a few of some two dozen critical medical supplies that physicians in Ukraine desperately need, according to Leo Wolansky, MD, a Ukrainian-American radiologist and president of the Ukrainian Medical Association of North America (UMANA). Read the interview.

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Another way to support the HCMA Foundation's Golf Tournament

Visit our Amazon Smile Wish List for raffle prize donations! Raffle items are a big part of the day's fun - and another way we raise money on golf day! Please take a look at our "wish list" for an easy way to donate some raffle items. Two easy steps:

1. Sign into Amazon

2. Review our Wish List!

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HCMA Database & Website - New and Improved!

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 update your office information, your home mailing address, RSVP to our events, pay 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

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Master the art of physician leadership

Clinical excellence is central to your daily practice of medicine. But to excel as healthcare leaders, physicians need specific non-clinical skills that often aren’t formally taught in medical school or residency.

The FMA is now accepting online applications for the 2022-23 Karl M. Altenburger, MD Physician Leadership Academy, an intensive professional development program exclusively for members and generously funded by the Physicians Foundation, Professionals Resource Network, and the FMA Foundation for Healthy Floridians. Selected applicants will be invited to participate in five in-person, facilitated workshops focusing on key leadership skills, such as emotional intelligence, conflict management, effective communication, and building a healthy workplace culture. Online activities will include a virtual journal club, The Science of Leadership. The Foundation for Healthy Floridians will cover expenses for materials, lodging, sponsored meals, and speaker fees.

Submit your application for the Physician Leadership Academy no later than March 15, 2022. Visit flmedical.org/leadershipacademy for more information.

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Market your practice

Preparations are being made for the Summer 2022 edition of the HCMA’s Annual Membership Directory. HCMA members can enhance their listing and/or place an ad at a discounted rate. Visit HCMA.net, click on “members” and then “membership directory” to see the current edition. For advertising information in the 2022 issue, visit HCMA Membership Directory - Members' rates

FROM THE BOARD OF MEDICINE

Scam Alert!

The Department of Health (Department), Division of Medical Quality Assurance is warning Florida health care practitioners about fraudulent calls that are continuing to be received by licensees.

Scammers are posing as the Department and threatening action against your health care license by demanding money and asking for personal identifying information.

The Department has posted extensive information and guidance on http://flhealthsource.gov/ and its board websites regarding licensure and fees. Licensees will never receive unsolicited calls from the Department where personal information is requested, payments are demanded, or threats against your license are made.

The Department of Health wants to help protect licensees from fraud schemes. If you receive a phone call from a someone claiming to represent the Department, do not provide any personal information and hang up immediately.

 If you have any questions, please call the customer contact center at (850) 488-0595.

PHYSICIAN WELLNESS

Congress passes bill to promote physician mental health  
President Biden is expected to sign the Dr. Lorna Breen Health Care Provider Protection Act to support physician mental health. Learn how the legislation prioritizes physician well-being. 

The HCMA Foundation Physician Wellness Program provides a safe harbor for members to address life difficulties, especially during this time of uncertainty, challenges, and increased stress due to the ongoing threat of COVID-19. This complimentary and completely confidential benefit is available for all members, regardless of membership category. 

SPOTLIGHT ON SAVINGS

Winstar Forms Strategic Alliance with ClearGage HCMA Benefit Provider for credit card processing, payroll & human resources, and funding & equipment leasing, Winstar Payments, has partnered with ClearGage. Under this agreement, Winstar Payments will offer their clients ClearGage's flexible payment solutions including recurring payments,subscription plans, and payment notifications via text and email. Additionally, clients of Winstar Payments will be offered patient-friendly financing options that help practices to reduce bad debt and get paid faster. For more information, contact Vinny Breault, Winstar Payments, vbreault@winstarpayments.com, 813.362.9051, or click here for details.

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. 

FOR LEASE OR SALE

Medical office next to Brandon Regional Hospital; 2,035 sq ft; 3-4 exam rooms; Lab; 1-2 physician offices; storage & break area; large waiting room; large business office; 2 exam tables (electric), 1 large & 1 small refrigerator; All ready to start your practice; $2,500/month; Call Dr. Karp 813-787-6978.

UPCOMING EVENTS

Membership Dinner

Tuesday, March 15, 2022

6:30pm at the Westshore Grand

HCMA's first in-person Membership Dinner since February 2020! HCMA’s in-person membership dinners at the Westshore Grand Hotel will resume. Social hour will begin at 6:30pm, the program and dinner will follow at 7:30pm. Special Guest: Rodney Kite-Powell, Director, Touchton Map Library, at the Tampa Bay History Center, will share snapshots and stories of the history of Tampa from the 1800s to modern times. 

Two USF medical students will be presented with scholarships from the HCMA and the HCMA Foundation.

Sponsors: Physicians Wealth Planning and Shea Barclay Group.

Please mark your calendars. Dinner is complimentary for HCMA members; $50 per guest. You can register here. Call the HCMA office with any questions. 813.253.0471. HCMA requests that all attendees be fully vaccinated.

Outlook 2022

Tuesday, March 29, 2022

6:30-7:30pm

This 60-minute Physicians Wealth Planning Webinar, featuring Mike Quinn, Sr. VP/American Funds will cover:

• Taxes
• Elections and the markets
• Investing in volatile markets
• Diversification strategies
• Impact on the market with rising interest rates
• Global political issuers and the market

REGISTER HERE. After registering, you will receive a confirmation email with log-in credentials. This event is a benefit of membership in the Hillsborough County Medical Association. For more information, visit HCMA.net or call 813.253.0471

HCMA Foundation's 24th Charity Golf Classic

Thursday, March 31, 2022

11:30am registration, TPC-Tampa Bay

PRE-REGISTRATION IS REQUIRED

2022 marks the 24th HCMA Foundation golf tournament! We are so excited to announce that we are returning to the Tournament Players Club - Tampa Bay which is the Proud host of the PGA Champions event for over 20 years. Registration and sponsor information can be found online or by downloading this Charity Golf Classic packet.  For more information call Anni or Elke at the HCMA: 813.253.0471.

HCMA Inauguration Dinner

Tuesday, May 10, 2022

6:30pm - The Westshore Grand

Eva Crooke, MD will be installed as the HCMA's 2021-2022 President as we "Celebrate Tampa Bay!" Social hour will begin at 6:30pm, the program and dinner will follow at 7:30pm. Please mark your calendars – registration information is forthcoming. Sponsorship and exhibiting opportunities are also available. Call the HCMA office for specifics: 813.253.0471.

NEWS

DeSantis says he's against a plan to shift money from school districts over mask mandates

Gov. Ron DeSantis indicated Friday he does not support a House proposal that would shift $200 million away from 12 school districts that required students to wear masks last year during the COVID-19 pandemic. DeSantis said Friday that he would rather allow lawsuits against the districts instead of shifting away the money. Read more. Health News Florida, February 14, 2022

Republicans call on Biden to end COVID's public health emergency designation

Their request for the president to undo the designation comes as calls grow — including from former Biden advisers — for the federal government to chart a course for the next stage of the pandemic. Coronavirus cases and hospitalizations have plunged after the dramatic omicron-driven surge, and deaths have begun falling as well, though the seven-day average was still 2,300 deaths per day, as of Thursday. Read more. Health News Florida, February 14, 2022

FDA OKs new monoclonal antibody to treat Omicron

Bebtelovimab is authorized for the treatment of mild to moderate COVID-19 in individuals ages 12 and up who are at risk of progressing to severe disease. Importantly, "laboratory testing showed that bebtelovimab retains activity against both the Omicron variant and the BA.2 Omicron subvariant," the agency added, without providing any more specifics. Read more. MedPage Today, February 11, 2022

Florida House passes COVID legal protections for health care providers

The bill, which would extend protection for hospitals, nursing homes and other providers through June 1, 2023, now heads to Gov. Ron DeSantis for signing. Read more. Health News Florida, February 11, 2022

CDC cuts booster interval for the immunocompromised

It is now recommended that people who are moderately or severely immunocompromised receive a booster 3 months, down from 5 months previously, after the third dose of an mRNA vaccine, for a total of four doses. Guidance also updated for people vaccinated outside the U.S., and following COVID treatment. Read more. MedPage Today, February 11, 2022

CDC announces voluntary COVID rules for cruises

The CDC released new guidelines on Wednesday for a voluntary COVID-19 Program for Cruise Ships, which includes different levels based on the vaccination status of passengers and crew. The levels change how long passengers are recommended to quarantine after coronavirus exposure and masking requirements. Read more. MedScape, February 11, 2022

To encourage physicians’ healing, make it OK to ask for help

Corey Feist lost his beloved sister-in-law Lorna Breen, M.D., to death by suicide. Now he fights, alongside the AMA, to protect health care heroes. Learn about this important work.

The HCMA Foundation Physician Wellness Program provides a safe harbor for members to address life difficulties, especially during this time of uncertainty, challenges, and increased stress due to the ongoing threat of COVID-19. This complimentary and completely confidential benefit is available for all members, regardless of membership category

REPORTS 

Florida's COVID positivity rate and death toll are trending downward

The number of people testing positive for COVID-19 continues to drop, while deaths related to the disease declined for the first time since mid-December. Read more. Health News Florida, February 14, 2022 

Many faith leaders are wary of religious exemptions for COVID vaccine

By the thousands, Americans have been seeking religious exemptions to COVID-19 vaccine mandates, but generally they are doing so without the encouragement of major denominations and prominent religious leaders. Read more. Health News Florida, February 14, 2022 

Why millions on Medicaid are at risk of losing coverage in the months ahead

The Biden administration and state officials are bracing for a great unwinding: millions of people losing their Medicaid benefits when the pandemic health emergency ends. Some might sign up for different insurance. Many others are bound to get lost in the transition. Read more. Health News Florida, February 14, 2022  

U.S. COVID vaccine for children under 5 delayed by at least 2 months

On February 11, the agency said it had reviewed new trial information that arrived after Pfizer and BioNTech's request for emergency authorization and decided it needed more data before weighing in on the authorization. Read more. Reuters, February 11, 2022

REFLECTIONS 

COVID-19 live updates: How are COVID-19 deaths counted, and what does this mean?

In slightly more than 2 years, authorities have recorded 5.75 million COVID-19 deaths worldwide. Some people believe that this is an overestimate of the actual mortality from the disease. Others think COVID-19 has caused many more deaths than the official figures show. Medical News Today has looked at the evidence and spoken with experts to uncover the truth behind the numbers. Read more. Medical News Today, February 14, 2022 

Should we incentivize community providers to encourage COVID vaccination?

What has held true throughout this last year of the pandemic is the COVID-19 vaccine's ability to protect us from hospitalization and death. Paired with signs that a portion of the unvaccinated can be convinced to change their minds, with some polls showing a slight drop in individuals who say they will not get vaccinated, we must incentivize and invest in the most trusted COVID-19 vaccine messengers to reach those individuals. All public health is local. Read more. MedPage Today, February 11, 2022 

Threats, intimidation against doctors and health workers must end

The AMA has advocated against the culture of violence in America, including domestic violence, gun violence, racism, police brutality, and xenophobia; and violence against physicians and health professionals is no exception. While not a new occurrence, the reported uptick in intimidation, threats and attacks toward people in the medical field has been on the rise for at least the last decade and has become even more of an alarming phenomenon since the beginning of the COVID-19 pandemic. Read more. Gerald E. Harmon, MD, AMA President, February 3, 2022 

What doctors wish patients knew about COVID-19 oral antivirals

Vaccination is the best protection against COVID-19. An infectious disease specialist explains what to know about Paxlovid and molnupiravir. Learn more with the AMA.