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!

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. 

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

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.

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

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

Personal News

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

Spotlight on Savings

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

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

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

Pertinent Information

Membership Dinner

September 19, 2023, 6:15pm

Westshore Grand Hotel

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. 

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

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?

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

Personal News

AFFILIATE MEMBER:

Jordan Halsey, MD

Pediatric Craniofacial Surgery

Johns Hopkins All Children's Hospital

601 5th St., S, #306

St. Petersburg, 33704

Spotlight on Savings

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

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

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

Pertinent Information

The HCMA office will be closed on Tuesday, July 4th.  Happy Independence Day!

The Florida Department of Health issues mosquito-borne illnesses advisory

On June 26th, the Florida Department of Health (Department) is issuing a statewide mosquito-borne illness advisory following four confirmed and recovered local cases of malaria in Sarasota County. All individuals have been treated and have recovered. Malaria is transmitted through infected mosquitoes. Residents throughout the state should take precautions by applying bug spray, avoiding areas with high mosquito populations, and wearing long pants and shirts when possible - especially during sunrise and sunset when mosquitos are most active. Read more.

Public health advisory issued for Bahia and Davis Island beaches due to high bacteria levels

Due to high bacteria levels, the Florida Department of Health in Hillsborough County has issued a public health advisory for Bahia and Davis Island Beaches. This should be considered a potential risk to the bathing public, and swimming is not recommended. Read more.

Health officials issue blue-green algae bloom alerts for two private access lakes

Important announcement re: HRIG

A notification from The Florida Department of Health in Hillsborough County (FDOH-Hillsborough) states they will no longer administer Human Rabies Immunoglobulin (HRIG) for patients bitten by animals where rabies postexposure was probable. They will continue to administer rabies postexposure (PEP) vaccines. If it is determined by FDOH-Hillsborough that a patient needs HRIG, a referral form will be given to the patient to present to the local emergency department for rabies postexposure treatment initiation. Click here to read the letter regarding this change that will be in effect as of July 1, 2023. Recommendations related to rabies postexposure remain the same. If you have any questions related to this change or need additional technical assistance, please contact Mr. Douglas King, Environmental Supervisor, at 813-559-4331.

Learn more about three "M" infectious diseases: measles, mpox and malaria.

These illnesses are among the recent healthcare headlines. A panel of physicians takes a closer look at them and other topics in the news. Listen here.

Take action now! Contact your members of Congress.

Tell Congress to support legislation that would reform the flawed Medicare physician payment system and provide annual inflationary updates. More Information. Click here to contact your legislator.

Warning: Scammers are still impersonating DEA agents

Victims are losing money and personally identifiable information. Anyone receiving a call from a person claiming to be with DEA should report the incident to the FBI at www.ic3.gov. The Federal Trade Commission provides recovery steps, shares information with more than 3,000 law enforcement agencies and takes reports at reportfraud.ftc.gov. For any victims who have given personally identifiable information like a social security number to the caller, can learn how to protect against identity theft at www.identitytheft.gov. Read more.

Will the doctor see you now? The health system’s changing landscape.

The “front door” to the health system is changing, under pressure from increased demand, consolidation, and changing patient expectations. An estimated one-third of all physicians in the U.S. are primary care doctors according to the Robert Graham Center, a research and analysis organization that studies primary care. Other researchers say the numbers are lower, with the Peterson-KFF Health System Tracker reporting only 12% of U.S. doctors are generalists, compared with 23% in Germany and as many as 45% in the Netherlands. That means it’s often hard to find a doctor and make an appointment that’s not weeks or months away. Read more.

Is gun violence an epidemic in the US?

Deaths and injuries from guns in the U.S. have increased for years, mirroring the 1990s - the last time gun violence was considered an epidemic. Six months into the year, more than 21,000 people have died because of gun-related injuries in the United States. Doctors and public health officials have a word to describe the rising number of people killed or hurt by guns in recent years: epidemic. Read more.

Delegates are needed!

The HCMA has 35 seats in the FMA House of Delegates

HCMA Delegates to the Florida Medical Association (FMA) have prepared four resolutions submitted to the House of Delegates for consideration at the FMA Annual Meeting. During the FMA Annual Meeting, the new president is installed, CME opportunities are available, and the FMA House of Delegates meets to discuss and debate proposed policy and legislative topics that are presented by delegations from all over the state.

The FMA Annual Meeting is being held July 28-30 at the Hyatt Regency Orlando. Delegates are responsible for their travel and lodging. If you are interested in serving as an HCMA delegate to the FMA, please contact Elke Lubin for more information.

HCMA Annual Membership Directory - LAST CHANCE TO ADVERTISE

Promote your practice to your colleagues and to the public.  The HCMA Annual Membership Directory, published each summer, lists all members alphabetically and practicing physicians are listed by primary specialty. The Directory is printed and mailed to all Active HCMA members and is also posted on the HCMA website. Physicians can enhance their listing and/or secure additional advertising space.  Members receive a discounted rate to advertise.  Details can be found HERE.

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.

Cancer care news for primary care providers

HCMA partner, Moffitt Cancer Center, has created a Cancer Care Update electronic newsletter targeted at primary care physicians.  Read the latest edition here. You can register for emails, with topics that apply to your practice, by clicking here.

Health Department Community Newsletter

Enjoy the July/August newsletter of the Florida Department of Health in Hillsborough County.

Health Department Community Newsletter

Enjoy the July/August newsletter of the Florida Department of Health in Hillsborough County.

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. 

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

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. 

What Keeps You Up at Night?

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

Personal News

New Member

AFFILIATE MEMBER:

Stacie Wenk, DO

Internal Medicine

Continuum Care/Affinity Care Hospice

5589 Marquesas Circle

Suite 202

Sarasota, 34233

941-477-9991

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

Rivero, Gordimer & Company, P.A.(RGCO) – Certified Public Accountants who provide exclusive offers for HCMA members. 

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

UPCOMING EVENTS

National Physician Family Day

August 26, 2023

Hosted by the HCMA Physician Family Alliance. Details are forthcoming.  If you would like more information or would like to serve on the planning committee for this event, please contact HCMA PFA Membership & Outreach Chair, Lauren Swoboda.

September 19, 2023, 6:15pm

Westshore Grand Hotel

Guest speaker to be announced - watch your email for the official invitation. Sponsor and exhibit opportunities are available.  Call 813.253.0471 or click here for more information.

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 

Pertinent Information

Hurricane Season is here!

As easy as it seems to track the path of a hurricane, we saw the unpredictability and devastation Hurricane Ian brought to nearby communities.  It could have been us.  Be prepared for Hurricane Season, June 1 - November 30. If you have not done so already, develop a plan for your home and your office, prepare a hurricane kit, and heed the directions of officials.

• State of FL Hurricane Guide
• Tampa Bay Times Hurricane Information page

The COVID-19 public health emergency is over. Now what?

The COVID-19 public health emergency declared by the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) expired in May. But that doesn't mean the deadly respiratory illness has disappeared, warned Deb Houry, MD, MPH, chief medical officer and deputy director for program and science at the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). Read more.

Paxlovid gets full FDA approval after more than a year of emergency use.

The drug has been fully vetted by the U.S. government and can remain on the market indefinitely. Millions of Americans have received Paxlovid since it was granted emergency authorization in 2021. Read more.

Neuralink says it has US approval to begin trials in people.

Neuralink is one of many groups working on linking the nervous system to computers, efforts aimed at helping treat brain disorders, overcoming brain injuries and other applications. Read more.

Medical Briefs

• CDC: Some Florida counties at risk for summer mpox
• US study finds 1 in 10 get long COVID after an omicron infection
• Denials of health insurance claims are rising 
• About 250,000 Floridians were kicked off Medicaid.
• CDC says four deaths are now linked to recalled, bacteria-tainted eyedrops

Delegates are needed!

The HCMA has 35 seats in the FMA House of Delegates

HCMA Delegates to the Florida Medical Association (FMA) have prepared four resolutions that have been submitted to the House of Delegates for their consideration at the FMA Annual Meeting. During the FMA Annual Meeting, the new president is installed, CME opportunities are available, and the FMA House of Delegates meets to discuss and debate proposed policy and legislative topics that are presented by delegations from all over the state.

The FMA Annual Meeting is being held July 28-30 at the Hyatt Regency Orlando. Delegates are responsible for their travel and lodging. If you are interested in serving as an HCMA delegate to the FMA, please contact Elke Lubin for more information.

Apply for the FMA Leadership Academy by June 9

Friday, June 9, is the deadline to apply for the 2023-2024 Karl M. Altenburger, MD Physician Leadership Academy. This immersive professional development program helps emerging physician leaders sharpen non-clinical skills for success in modern healthcare: emotional intelligence, conflict management, persuasive communication, building a healthy workplace culture, and more. Only FMA members who practice in the state of Florida will be considered. Selected participants will be invited to attend five facilitated, in-person sessions beginning Oct. 7, plus virtual learning activities throughout the year. The FMA Foundation for Healthy Floridians will cover expenses for materials, lodging, sponsored meals, and speaker fees.

HCMA 2023 Legislative Session Summary

Dr. Damian Caraballo, Chair of the HCMA Government Affairs Committee summarized the top issues that were addressed during the Florida Legislative Session that pertained to the practice of medicine.  Read the summary here.  If you would like more information or would like to be added to the Government Affairs Committee, please email Elke Lubin, HCMA Executive Assistant.

State’s ACA marketplace issuers deny 13% of claims on average

According to data published by the Kaiser Family Foundation earlier this year, HealthCare.gov issuers in Florida denied an average of 13.1% of in-network claims in 2021 — below the national average of 17%, but still substantial. Denial rates and the reasons for claim denials also varied significantly by issuer. As FMA Director of Healthcare Policy and Innovation Jarrod Fowler concludes in a new article, “The findings of this report appear to indicate that greater oversight of claim denials is warranted.”

Nominees Needed - Dr. Frederick A. Reddy Memorial Award

The HCMA Executive Council is seeking nominees for the Dr. Frederick A. Reddy Memorial Award. The award is meant to recognize a member of the Tampa Bay Community (physician or layperson) who exemplifies the qualities that were so prevalent in Dr. Reddy’s work within the community. Examples include community service, social justice, mentoring kids, teens, young adults, etc.  Our community is so large and many people are doing great things that may go unnoticed. Send nominations to Elke Lubin by July 1st. Include the nominee's contact information and a brief narrative of why you believe they qualify along with one specific example of their altruism. 

Medical students want to shadow you!

The HCMA has a very dynamic partnership with the USF medical students. Students have asked to shadow members in their offices to gain early clinical exposure. If you would like to be a mentor and allow a student to shadow you during 5 office days, CLICK HERE to provide the information requested. You will be contacted by medical student representatives to coordinate your mentor/mentee schedule.

We want to hear from you...

Volunteering at your favorite charity, with your family, or in other countries is a very personal pursuit.  We would like to showcase how our members give back.  Send us a photo of you along with a description of how and where you volunteer and watch for it in a future edition of Enews or The Bulletin.

HCMA Annual Membership Directory - LAST CHANCE TO ADVERTISE

Promote your practice to your colleagues and to the public.  The HCMA Annual Membership Directory, published each summer, lists all members alphabetically and practicing physicians are listed by primary specialty. The Directory is printed and mailed to all Active HCMA members and is also posted on the HCMA website. Physicians can enhance their listing and/or secure additional advertising space.  Members receive a discounted rate to advertise.  Details can be found HERE.

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 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. 

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

Physician Wellness

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

Rejuvenating Physician Wellness: The Power of Coaching in Preventing Burnout and Cultivating Success by Dian A. Ginsberg, EdD, MA, CPCC, CHWC, HCMA Foundation Physician Wellness Program provider for Personal & Executive Coaching.

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

Personal News

New Members

Spotlight on Savings

Florida Healthcare Law Firm (FHLF) – Serving HCMA members with the right pricing, responsiveness, and ethics. It is a full-service health law firm capable of providing services from business corporate and HR issues to highly specialized regulatory guidance to providers and businesses in the healthcare industry and offers a phone consultation for providers and healthcare businesses of all kinds at no cost. HCMA members can obtain up to fifteen minutes of free legal counsel by contacting via phone at 561.455.7700. The FHLF website has a downloads section offering free legal documents, available for instant download. Audio/visual presentations are also available for purchase and the Firm maintains a busy YouTube channel with tons of valuable webinars. Visit the innovative resource center at www.FloridaHealthcareLawFirm.com or email COO Autumn Piccolo to be connected with a member of the team at apiccolo@floridahealthcarelawfirm.com.

Classified Ads

FOR RENT

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

UPCOMING EVENTS

Resident Reception

June 29, 2023, 6:30pm

Brio Italian Grille

HCMA's in-training physician members from the USF, HCA-Brandon, and AdventHealth GME programs are invited to network and socialize.  HCMA leaders will mingle among our young physician members.  Watch your email for the invitation. Click here for more information and to register.

HCMA Executive Council Meetings

6:30pm

August 15, 2023 & November 28, 2023

The Executive Council is the governing body of the HCMA.  RSVPs are required to receive the Zoom log-in credentials.  To place a topic on the agenda, a request must be sent to Debbie Zorian, HCMA Executive Director, at least two weeks prior to the meeting.  Email Ms. Zorian by clicking here.

National Physician Family Day

August 27, 2023

Hosted by the HCMA Physician Family Alliance. Details are forthcoming.  If you would like to serve on the planning committee for this event, please contact HCMA PFA Secretary/Treasurer, Michael Kelly.

Membership Dinner

September 19, 2023, 6:15pm

Westshore Grand Hotel

Guest speaker to be confirmed - watch your email for the official invitation. Sponsor and exhibit opportunities are available.  Call 813.253.0471 or click here for more information.

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.

HCMA Installation Dinner

Tuesday, May 9, 2023 

6:15pm - The Westshore Grand

Dr. Michael Cromer will be installed as HCMA's 120th President.  Don't miss an enjoyable evening of complimentary drinks, hors d'oeuvres, music, dining & dancing.  Entertainment provided by Don Juceam, Florida's Frank Sinatra! Sponsors include The Bank of Tampa, Florida Blue, & MCMS Inc. Insurance Trust. For more information, sponsorship opportunities, or to register, contact the HCMA office (813.253.0471),  or click here.  Please note the new start time.

As the federal emergency declaration expires, the pandemic picture grows fuzzier

The pandemic gave federal officials expanded power to access crucial data about the spread of COVID-19, but that authority will change when the public health emergency sunsets in May. Read more.

Nonpartisan investigation: What lessons were learned from the COVID pandemic?

The nonpartisan COVID Crisis Group released its investigative report, titled "Lessons from the COVID War: An Investigative Report." NPR's Mary Louise Kelly spoke to the head of the group, Philip Zelikow, about the report's findings. He is also the former executive director of the 9/11 Commission. Read the interview here.

Florida lawmakers back Medicaid-managed care pilot for people with developmental disabilities

Marburg Virus Disease Outbreak, Equatorial Guinea and Tanzania – Information for Clinicians

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) is issuing this Health Alert Network (HAN) Health Advisory to inform clinicians and public health departments in the United States about two confirmed outbreaks of Marburg virus disease (MVD)—one in Equatorial Guinea and one in Tanzania. Currently, there is no evidence to suggest that these two outbreaks are related; most experts agree that these represent two independent animal-to-human spillover events. To date, no confirmed cases of MVD related to these outbreaks have been reported in the United States or other countries outside Equatorial Guinea and Tanzania. This Health Advisory provides information about these outbreaks to increase awareness of the risk of imported cases in the United States. It also summarizes CDC’s recommendations for case identification, testing, and clinical laboratory biosafety considerations in the United States. (CDC, April 18, 2023)

USF Health, Tampa General bring health care to communities that need it most

Delegates are needed!

The HCMA has 35 seats in the FMA House of Delegates

HCMA Delegates to the Florida Medical Association (FMA) prepare resolutions to be submitted to the House of Delegates at the FMA Annual Meeting each year. Resolutions often result in proposed legislation or FMA policy.

During the FMA Annual Meeting, the new president is installed, CME opportunities are available, and the FMA House of Delegates meets to discuss and debate proposed policy and legislative topics that are presented by delegations from all over the state.

The HCMA reimburses delegates for their Installation Dinner tickets and will provide breakfast during the Sunday morning caucus. Delegates are responsible for their travel and lodging. The FMA has secured a discounted room rate of $195/night.

The FMA Annual Meeting is being held July 28-30 at the Hyatt Regency Orlando. If you are interested in serving as an HCMA delegate to the FMA, please contact Elke Lubin for more information.

Medical students want to shadow you!

The HCMA has a very dynamic partnership with the USF medical students. Students have asked to shadow members in their offices to gain early clinical exposure. If you would like to be a mentor and allow a student to shadow you during 5 office days, CLICK HERE to provide the information requested. You will be contacted by medical student representatives to coordinate your mentor/mentee schedule.

We want to hear from you...

• Please take a moment to complete a 2 question survey about HCMA events.  We value your input and suggestions. Click here to take the survey.  
• Volunteering at your favorite charity, with your family, or in other countries is a very personal pursuit.  We would like to showcase how our members give back.  Send us a photo of you along with a description of how and where you volunteer and watch for it in a future edition of Enews or The Bulletin.
• The HCMA Foundation is gearing up for its 2023 grant season.  If you are familiar with a local medically-related charitable organization, forward the contact information to Elke Lubin.  A grant application and criteria will be sent to them.  The deadline to receive grant applications is May 15th.

HCMA Annual Membership Directory - now accepting ads

Promote your practice to your colleagues and to the public.  The HCMA Annual Membership Directory, published each summer, lists all members alphabetically and practicing physicians are listed by primary specialty. The Directory is printed and mailed to all Active HCMA members and is also posted on the HCMA website. Physicians can enhance their listing and/or secure additional advertising space.  Members receive a discounted rate to advertise.  Details can be found HERE.

Survey: How are payment trends affecting you?

As reported recently in FMA News, the Medicare Physician Fee Schedule has not kept pace with inflation and is unsustainable in its current form. This is a major concern for Florida, where residents, ages 60 and older, are expected to drive 53.5% of the state’s population growth through 2030. The FMA wants to know how this trend is affecting your practice of medicine. Please take FMA's brief survey so they can share your valuable feedback with members of Congress who are working to reform the Medicare program.

FMA opposes UHC’s proposed prior authorization program

The FMA is joining its medical society partners in opposing United Healthcare’s (UHC) proposed gastrointestinal endoscopy prior authorization program, which is flawed and misguided. As this joint letter to UHC explains, the program would limit access to care for vulnerable patients, delay diagnoses of colorectal cancer in younger populations, and needlessly increase burdens on physicians and medical practices. Nearly 1,500 patients and their physicians have also sent letters to UHC addressing the harm the program would cause. Read the letter.

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 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.

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

Physician Wellness

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

Physician Support Line is a free and confidential support line service made up of 800+ volunteer psychiatrists, joined together in the determined hope to provide peer support for physician colleagues. Physicians are encouraged to call for any issue, not just a crisis.

1.888.409.0141

Monday – Friday

8:00AM – 12:00AM ET

The antidotes to toxic burnout: Grit and resilience

By Charles J. Lockwood, MD, MHCM

"We’ve all heard reports of the alarming numbers of physicians, especially our younger colleagues, suffering symptoms of burnout. Some 45 to 60 percent of medical students and residents report symptoms such as depression, debilitating stress, and emotional exhaustion, according to the National Academy of Medicine’s Action Collaborative on Clinician Wellbeing and Resilience.

"I’m sure many of us have talked with and tried to help, young physicians experiencing these issues, especially given the stresses of caring for patients during COVID.

"But what if we’ve been offering them the wrong kind of help?" <Read more.>

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