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

Pertinent Information

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 Juceum, Tampa Bay'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.

DROP DATE was March 31st.

Letters are being sent this week that will notify members who have let their HCMA membership lapse. If you are not sure if you paid your 2023 membership dues, please contact Asta Orthman, HCMA Membership Coordinator, or call the HCMA office at 813.253.0471. Your dues can also be easily and securely paid online by visiting the HCMA website and logging into your account.

The FDA may soon authorize a spring round of COVID-19 boosters for some people.

The FDA is reconsidering the situation and may authorize a second booster with the bivalent vaccines for at least some people, such as those who are at high risk because they have compromised immune systems or are 65 and older, a federal official who was not authorized to speak publicly told NPR. A decision could be announced within weeks. Read more.

Moderna's Steep COVID Vaccine Price: Corporate Greed or Capitalism?

On May 11, the U.S. public health emergency (PHE) for COVID-19 will end. And with it, many Americans will no longer have access to free, government-sponsored COVID vaccines. Moderna raised eyebrows recently -- including from Congress - when it announced plans to increase the price of its COVID-19 mRNA vaccine by more than 400% from $26 to $130. Although Moderna has promised a patient assistance program to provide its vaccine for free for approximately 30 million uninsured Americans, the details on this program are scant and paperwork for such initiatives can be prohibitive.  Read more.

Nasal COVID treatment shows early promise against multiple variants

Known as TriSb92 (brand name Covidin, from drugmaker Pandemblock Oy in Finland), the viral inhibitor also appears effective against all coronavirus variants of concern, neutralizing even the Omicron variants BA.5, XBB, and BQ.1.1 in laboratory and mice studies. Unlike a COVID vaccine that boosts a person's immune system as protection, the antiviral nasal spray works more directly by blocking the virus, acting as a "biological mask in the nasal cavity," according to the biotechnology company set up to develop the treatment. Read more.

Delegates Needed!

The FMA Annual Meeting is being held July 28-30 at the Hyatt Regency Orlando.  The HCMA is allotted 35 delegates to represent our Association at the meeting.   The HCMA Delegates will meet, via ZOOM, on April 25th to prepare for the FMA Annual Meeting, discuss resolution topics, and review the announced candidates for FMA office.  If you are interested in serving as an HCMA delegate to the FMA and attending the meeting on April 25th, please contact Elke Lubin for more information.

HCMA Government Affairs Committee

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

• The GAC, in conjunction with the FMA, has compiled a list of 2023 Legislative Priorities, that will be presented to our legislators locally, through our Key Contact program, and in Tallahassee.
• The GAC is coordinating a contingency of members to visit Tallahassee on April 18th which is during the 2023 Legislative Session. This one-day event includes a meeting with FMA legislative experts to brief attendees on the important issues of the day and appointments will be secured for our contingency to meet with legislators and/or their administrative staff.  Members often arrive in Tallahassee the evening prior to the scheduled day at the Capitol.
• If you are interested in joining the GAC contingency in their visit to Tallahassee, contact Elke Lubin or call the HCMA office: 813.253.0471.

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.

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

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

Physician Wellness

The HCMA Foundation Physician Wellness Program provides a safe harbor for members to address life difficulties, challenges, and increased stress. 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

Podcast » Reducing burnout and mental health stigma for physicians 
Nigel Girgrah, MD, PhD, chief wellness officer at Ochsner Health in New Orleans, shares how small changes add up in his health system work to reduce burnout and prioritizes physician well-being. Listen now on Apple Podcasts or Simplecast. 

Personal News

25th Charity Golf Classic in the books!

New Members

Spotlight on Savings

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

UPCOMING EVENTS

Florida Legislative Session

March 7 - May 5, 2023

Tallahassee

HCMA's Government Affairs Committee (GAC) will coordinate a contingency of members to visit legislators on April 18th.  Appointments will be secured. If you are interested in more information, please contact Elke Lubin. 

Tampa Bay Surgical Oncology Society Bi-Annual Meeting: The multidisciplinary management of metastatic bone disease. April 13, 2023, 6 – 9 PM, Tampa Club. Special Guest: Tom Delaney, MD- Radiation Oncologist. Course Description: As survival for patients with metastatic cancer and myeloma continues to improve and treatments continue to advance, bone metastases represent an increasingly significant source of morbidity. Manifestations of metastatic bone disease may result in pain, metabolic and electrochemical derangements, pathologic fracture, and compression of the spinal cord. A coordinated, team-based multidisciplinary approach to the care of these patients is necessary to optimize outcomes. The purpose of this meeting is to highlight novel procedural and therapeutic approaches in the treatment of metastatic bone disease and to address the importance of a team based, multidisciplinary approach to these patients.

Learning Objectives

1. Explore innovations in the treatment of metastatic bone disease, particularly surgical and procedural innovations
2. Identify the roles in and discuss the importance of multidisciplinary management of metastatic bone disease patients.
3. Identify and discuss modern principles of medical, radiotherapy and surgical treatment of metastatic bone disease patients
4. Identify and discuss the appropriate management of and referral of patients with bone lesions
5. Register here.

In-Depth Introduction to Racial Equity

Tuesday, April 18, 2023, 2:00 – 5:00 pm EST 

3 hour live training - register here

This free option for Federation staff and AMA members in leadership positions is a condensed version of the 2-day training available to all AMA staff. Continuing Medical Education (CME) credit will be offered at no cost to attendees upon completion.

This live virtual webinar offers the opportunity to learn from and interact with experts from the Racial Equity Institute (REI). REI organizers use stories and data to explain how racism is structural. Exploring historical and modern-day racial inequity, the session introduces an analysis that most find immediately helpful and relevant. The groundwater metaphor helps explain that we live in a racially structured society, which causes racial inequity. In other words, we have a “groundwater” problem, and we need “groundwater” solutions. Starting from there, we begin to unlock transformative change. Please email any questions or concerns to Yuliana.Lopez@ama-assn.org

Inauguration Dinner

May 9, 2023, 6:15pm

Westshore Grand Hotel

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 Juceum, Tampa Bay's Frank Sinatra! Sponsors include The Bank of Tampa, Florida Blue, and MCMS Insurance Trust.  Sponsor and exhibit opportunities are available.  Click here for details and to register.  Please note new start time. 

HCMA Executive Council Meetings

6:30pm - via zoom

May 23, 2023, August 15, 2023

November 28, 2023 & February 20, 2024

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.

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.

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 Cia Country Club

HCMA's female members are invited to celebrate women in medicine and socialize among colleagues.  Sponsors include The Bank of Tampa Women Connected.  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

Is your 2023 HCMA membership renewal past due?

If you are not sure if you paid your 2023 membership dues, please contact Asta Orthman, HCMA Membership Coordinator, or call the HCMA office at 813.253.0471. Your dues can also be easily and securely paid online by visiting the HCMA website and logging into your account. If you haven’t paid your dues yet, please don’t delay! Drop date is March 31st.  

HCMA Installation Dinner

Tuesday, May 9, 2023 

6:30pm - The Westshore Grand

Dr. Michael Cromer will be installed as HCMA's 120th President, officers and representatives will be announced, and FMA President, Dr. Joshua Lenchus, will be our special guest. Sponsors: The Bank of Tampa, Florida Blue, MCMS Inc. Insurance Trust. For more information, contact the HCMA office (813.253.0471),  or email Anni Blackwell.  Registration details are forthcoming.

Physician loan assistance program launched February 1, 2023

The Department of Health launched the Florida Reimbursement Assistance for Medical Education (FRAME) Program to assist eligible healthcare practitioners with the repayment of medical education student loans. An annual appropriation of nearly $6.6 million for the FRAME Program was secured during the 2022 Legislative Session.

Medical COVID-19 Public Health Emergency (PHE) new overview fact sheet

As part of the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services’ (CMS) ongoing efforts to provide up-to-date information to prepare for the end of the Public Health Emergency (PHE) for COVID-19, which is expected on May, 11, 2023, they are providing a new overview fact sheet on CMS Waivers, Flexibilities, and the Transition Forward from the COVID-19 Public Health Emergency.  COVID-19 efforts have been a significant priority for the Biden-Harris Administration, and with the use of whole-of-government approach, the country is in a better place. Over the next several months, CMS will work to ensure a smooth transition back to normal operations.

The CMS Waivers, Flexibilities, and the Transition Forward from the COVID-19 Public Health Emergency provides clarity on several topics including:

• COVID-19 vaccines, testing, and treatments;
• Telehealth services;
• Health Care Access

In the coming weeks, CMS will be hosting stakeholder calls and office hours to provide additional information. Please visit the CMS Emergencies Page for continuous updates regarding PHE sunsetting guidance as information becomes available to the public.

Hospitals bear the brunt of financial fallout from COVID - but there is an opportunity here to try new strategies to cope

This year, March brings with it a joyless anniversary. It's been a long, arduous 3 years since the onset of the pandemic that overwhelmed our nation's hospitals and health systems. And, as of February 1, 2023, it resulted in a staggering 1,106,824 deaths in the U.S. When the federal government's Public Health Emergency for COVID-19 expires in mid-May, the country will enter a post-pandemic transition phase. What will this look like? Are we really out of the woods? Read more.

Not enough data to support multiple annual COVID boosters, CDC advisers say

There is not sufficient evidence to recommend more than one COVID-19 booster shot a year for older people and those with weakened immune systems, an expert advisory group to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) said on Friday. The COVID-19 working group of the CDC's Advisory Committee For Immunization Practices (ACIP) supported an annual booster campaign, likely in the fall, especially for populations considered at high risk. Read more.

FDA authorizes the first at-home test for COVID-19 and the flu

With a shallow nasal swab, the single-use kit can provide results within 30 minutes indicating whether a person is positive or negative for COVID, as well as influenza A and influenza B, which are two common strains of the flu. Read more.

Learn the art of effective physician leadership

The FMA is now accepting applications for the 2023-2024 Karl M. Altenburger, MD Physician Leadership Academy, the FMA's premier professional development program. This intensive, 10-month program helps emerging physician leaders develop the non-clinical skills they need to be effective advocates for their profession and their patients. “It’s been an extraordinary experience,” said Mamta Patel, MD, one of the current class members featured in this highlight video.

Selected participants will be invited to attend five in-person, facilitated sessions beginning Saturday, Oct. 7, along with virtual learning activities throughout the year. The FMA Foundation for Healthy Floridians will cover expenses for materials, lodging, sponsored meals, and speaker fees.* Only FMA member physicians who practice in the state of Florida will be considered. Applications are due by 5 p.m. on Friday, June 9. *The Foundation for Healthy Floridians/FMA will reimburse for one night’s lodging per session at the contracted single-room rate reserved through the hotel website.

A Project in Cultural Representation in Healthcare

Reena Angela Martinez, BSN, RN, OCN, a current nurse practitioner student at the University of Florida who will graduate with her DNP in May, is implementing a project for her program: cultural representation in healthcare. Her project is to create diabetes educational resources for the Filipino American community in the Tampa/St. Pete metro area. One of the aspects she is researching is providing this helpful tool for both Filipino and non-Filipino providers to understand Filipino patients and culture better. Participation would include watching 3 short videos, all under 10 minutes, and filling out a questionnaire after each video. If you are interested in participating or learning more about her project, please contact Ms. Martinez via email: reenamartinez.dnp@gmail.com 

HCMA Government Affairs Committee

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

• The GAC, in conjunction with the FMA, has compiled a list of 2023 Legislative Priorities, that will be presented to our legislators locally, through our Key Contact program, and in Tallahassee.
• The GAC is coordinating a contingency of members to visit Tallahassee on April 18th which is during the 2023 Legislative Session. This one-day event includes a meeting with FMA legislative experts to brief attendees on the important issues of the day and appointments will be secured for our contingency to meet with legislators and/or their administrative staff.  Members often arrive in Tallahassee the evening prior to the scheduled day at the Capitol.
• If you are interested in joining the GAC contingency in their visit to Tallahassee, contact Elke Lubin or call the HCMA office: 813.253.0471.

Become an Editorial Board member

The Editorial Board for HCMA's publication, The Bulletin, will be meeting on Wednesday, March 8, 2023. Dr. David Lubin, Editor, is inviting any member interested in participating and learning more about The Bulletin and the Editorial Board to attend. Attendees can participate in person at the HCMA office or via ZOOM. The meeting discussion will include writing assignments for the 2023-2024 volume of The Bulletin. When submitting articles, please stay clear of overly-scientific/specialty-specific articles as our audience spans all specialties. Previous issues can be found HERE.  RSVP for the meeting by clicking here.

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.

HCMA Physician Family Alliance

The HCMA Physician Family Alliance is a group of physicians, spouses, partners, family members, resident physicians, medical students, and their parents whose aim is to promote good health and health education, engage in charitable community endeavors, and foster friendly relations among physicians’ families and the communities in which we live. They enjoy gathering throughout the year to socialize in a supportive atmosphere and support the HCMA Foundation and initiatives consistent with their mission. Please consider joining the HCMA PFA. For more information, you can contact Bill Butler (PFA President), Michael Kelly (PFA Treasurer/Secretary), or John Hotchkiss (PFA Membership/Outreach).

Florida Department of Health - Hillsborough County

The newest edition of the Community Newsletter is now available.  If you have any questions concerning information in this newsletter, please contact Mandy Chan, MPH, CHES, Senior Health Educator, 813.559.4153.

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.

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

AMA Addressing Physician Burnout

AMA President, Jack Resneck, Jr., MD will host a conversation with physician wellness experts: Vice Admiral Vivek H. Murthy, MD, MBA, US Surgeon General, Dept. of HHS, Anjalee W. Galion, MD, Physician Wellness Officer, Children's Health of Orange County, Nigel Girgrah, MD, Ph.D., Chief Wellness Officer & Medical Director, Liver Transplantation, Ochsner Health, and Christine Sinksy, MD, VP, Professional Satisfaction, AMA.  Virtual event details: Thursday, March 9, 12pm.  Register to receive the livestream link prior to the event.

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

Personal News

HCMA staff dressed to impress for their “alternate careers” - Chef Asta and her Sous Chef, Jean, Private Investigator, Debbie, Nurse Anni, and Marine Biologist, Elke. They may be novices in their dream jobs, but as the HCMA administrative team, they have amassed over 80 years of combined experience serving physicians and our communities. 

HCMA September 2022 membership dinner speaker, Carlton Ward, captivated those in attendance.  His recent project, Path of the Panther, is a documentary featuring Ward, a wildlife photographer, veterinarians, ranchers, conservationists, and indigenous people finding themselves on the front lines of an accelerating battle between forces of renewal and destruction that have pushed the Everglades to the brink of ecological collapse.  Path of the Panther is now in theatres.

Seen on the streets of Tampa... HCMA Executive Assistant, Elke Lubin, supported the Gasparilla Distance Classic for the ninth time, participating in Saturday's 5K. Since the first running of the GDC in February 1978, $6 million has been donated to the Boys & Girls Clubs of Tampa Bay, Big Brothers Big Sisters of Tampa Bay, The Friends of Tampa Recreation, and youth non-profit and running-related programs throughout the Tampa Bay area.

New Members

ACTIVE MEMBER:

Nicole Howe, MD

Mohs Micrographic Surgery

Novem Dermatology

17653 N. Dale Mabry Hwy.

Lutz, 33548

813.927.1915

AFFILIATE MEMBER:

Edward Mackay, MD

Vascular Surgery

Edward G. Mackay & Assoc., LLC

2863 Alt. 19

Palm Harbor, 34683

727.781.5652

RETIRED MEMBER:

Andrew Malbin, MD

Joining the HCMA is easy!

Do you have a nonmember colleague? Share this edition of Enews, direct them to our website,  or scan the QR code to learn more about the HCMA and all of the benefits we offer!

To learn more, contact HCMA's Winstar representative, Vinny Breault, or 813.362.9051.

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

Editorial Board for HCMA's publication, The Bulletin

March 8, 2023

6:30-7:30pm

Dr. David Lubin, Editor, invites any member interested in participating and learning more about The Bulletin and the Editorial Board to attend. Attendees can participate in person at the HCMA office or via ZOOM. The meeting discussion will include writing assignments for the 2023-2024 volume of The Bulletin. Articles can be submitted on most topics, staying clear of overly-scientific/specialty-specific articles as our audience spans all specialties. Previous issues can be found HERE.  RSVP for the meeting by clicking here.

Lunch Bunch - Virtual Event

March 9, 2023

Noon-1:00pm

Have lunch with retired NFL Hall of Famer - Big Nasty! Learn his real name, how he became the Bucs' #1 fan, how he got into the NFL Hall of Fame, and more about his philanthropic accomplishments.  Pre-registration is required - you will be emailed login details after registering.

Wealth Creation for HCMA Members Under 50

March 22 & 29, a 2-part webinar

6:30-8:30pm

Brought to you by the HCMA Benefit Provider Program and Physicians Wealth Planning. Pre-Registration required. You will receive log-in credentials by email after registering and course materials will be mailed prior to the webinar.

HCMA Foundation's 25th Charity Golf Classic

Thursday, March 30, 2023

Tournament Player Club - Tampa Bay

Noon- lunch and registration, 1:15pm - call to carts, after play: social, dinner, awards, prizes, and raffle. Cost: $175.00 per golfer (Includes cart, greens fee, goodie bag, lunch, and dinner). Contest holes – Super Ticket – Raffle Prizes – Silent Auction!  Sponsors as of March 1st are Physicians Wealth Planning/Brighthouse Financial and USF Health (Title sponsors), TGH Imaging Powered by Tower (Champion Sponsors), BT Wealth Advisors and Excelis Medical Associates (Winner sponsors), Florida Pain Medicine and SGP Advisors (Eagle Sponsors) Healthcare Realty Group, LLC, MCMS Inc/OneDigital,  and Woman's Group (Par sponsors), Advent Health Medical Group, Associated Pathologists, HCMA Physician Family Alliance, Drs. Hodges & Homan, Dr. Saira Khan, Dr. Luis Menendez, Moffitt Cancer Center, Rivero Gordimer & Company CPAs, Dr. Bruce & Coleen Shephard, Dr. Nam Tran (Hole sponsors), Dr. David & Elke Lubin, Dr. Michael Zimmer, and Debbie Zorian (In-Kind sponsors), and Walker Ford (Hole-In-One sponsor). Sponsor opportunities at all levels are available. Click here for a sponsor and golfer registration packet.

Florida Legislative Session

March 7 - May 5, 2023

Tallahassee

HCMA's Government Affairs Committee (GAC) will coordinate a contingency of members to visit legislators on April 18th.  Appointments will be secured. If you are interested in more information, please contact Elke Lubin. 

Tampa Bay Surgical Oncology Society Bi-Annual Meeting: The multidisciplinary management of metastatic bone disease. April 13, 2023, 6 – 9 PM, Tampa Club.

Special Guest: Tom Delaney, MD- Radiation Oncologist. Course Description: As survival for patients with metastatic cancer and myeloma continues to improve and treatments continue to advance, bone metastases represent an increasingly significant source of morbidity. Manifestations of metastatic bone disease may result in pain, metabolic and electrochemical derangements, pathologic fracture, and compression of the spinal cord. A coordinated, team-based multidisciplinary approach to the care of these patients is necessary to optimize outcomes. The purpose of this meeting is to highlight novel procedural and therapeutic approaches in the treatment of metastatic bone disease and to address the importance of a team based, multidisciplinary approach to these patients.

Learning Objectives

1. Explore innovations in the treatment of metastatic bone disease, particularly surgical and procedural innovations
2. Identify the roles in and discuss the importance of multidisciplinary management of metastatic bone disease patients.
3. Identify and discuss modern principles of medical, radiotherapy and surgical treatment of metastatic bone disease patients
4. Identify and discuss the appropriate management of and referral of patients with bone lesions
5. Register here.

HCMA Installation Dinner

May 9, 2023

Social Hour: 6:30pm

Dinner & Installation: 7:30pm

Westshore Grand Hotel

Pertinent Information

2023 HCMA membership renewal is past due!

HCMA membership renewal statements for 2023  have been emailed and sent via USPS.  If you have not received your notice, would like to check the status of your membership, or request a duplicate statement, please contact Asta Orthman, HCMA Membership Coordinator, or call the HCMA office: 813.253.0471.  Your dues can also be easily and securely paid online.  Visit the HCMA website and log into your account.  Unpaid accounts will be removed from HCMA membership.

LAST CHANCE TO REGISTER

HCMA Membership Dinner

Tuesday, February 7, 2023 

6:30pm - The Westshore Grand

Guest speaker: Rhea Law, President/CEO University of South Florida. Sponsors: First Horizon, TGH Imaging Powered by Tower, Trenam Law, and USF Health. For more information, contact the HCMA office (813.253.0471),  or email Anni Blackwell.  Click here to register.

Physician loan assistance program launched February 1, 2023

The Department of Health launched the Florida Reimbursement Assistance for Medical Education (FRAME) Program to assist eligible healthcare practitioners with the repayment of medical education student loans. An annual appropriation of nearly $6.6 million for the FRAME Program was secured during the 2022 Legislative Session.

FTC noncompete clauses and the AMA

On January 19th, the Federal Trade Commission published a proposed rule that would ban most noncompete clauses. The AMA has existing policy specifically addressing noncompetes, including a Code of Medical Ethics opinion. This ethics opinion recognizes that physicians often have diverse opinions about noncompetes. AMA policy opposes unreasonable noncompetes. The AMA will be submitting comments by the March 20 deadline, and their comments will be guided by this policy.

The AMA has been responding to media inquiries with the following statement: “The AMA appreciates the Federal Trade Commission's examination of noncompete agreements in the workplace. While the AMA's membership has diverse perspectives on noncompetes—with some members in an employer/practice ownership role and some in an employee role—AMA ethics policy opposes unreasonable noncompetes. Many states have enacted negotiated health care-specific noncompete statutes that take into account their unique health care markets and that balance the competing stakeholder interests. The balanced approach of these states must be considered against a proposed universal federal ban on all noncompete agreements.”

Please send any comments to wes.cleveland@ama-assn.org. 

An invitation to serve...

Members are invited to consider being placed, as a candidate, on the 2023 HCMA ballot. You must be a member in the ACTIVE, AFFILIATE, or LIFE membership categories and your 2023 HCMA membership dues must be paid in full.  Results will be announced at the May 9, 2023 Inauguration Dinner, in which Dr. Michael Cromer will be installed as the HCMA's 120th President.

• Vice President - 1 year term
• Treasurer - 1 year term
• Secretary - 1 year term
• District, At Large, USF, Moffitt, and Young Physician seats on the Executive Council - 2 year terms
• Board of Censors - 3 year term
• Delegate to the FMA - 3 year term (FMA dues must be paid)

Become an Editorial Board member

The Editorial Board for HCMA's publication, The Bulletin, will be meeting on Wednesday, March 8, 2023. Dr. David Lubin, Editor, is inviting any member interested in participating and learning more about The Bulletin and the Editorial Board to attend. Attendees can participate in person at the HCMA office or via ZOOM. The meeting discussion will include writing assignments for the 2023-2024 volume of The Bulletin. Topic ideas include:

• Interesting cases
• Interactions with patients
• Vacation experience
• Movie/book/restaurant review
• Personal opinion relating to the practice of medicine
• Hobby/leisure time
• Photos
• Ideas are welcome!

Articles can be submitted on most topics, staying clear of overly-scientific/specialty-specific articles as our audience spans all specialties. Previous issues can be found HERE.  RSVP for the meeting by clicking here.

Attention students, residents, fellows interested in helping political campaigns...

Dr. Alexander Lake (PGY-5 Gastroenterology) helped Karen Gonzalez Pittman’s race for the Florida House, leading him to realize the importance of young physicians as a valuable resource for politicians in their races, not just once they are in office. Therefore, he is hoping to establish a group consisting of medical students, residents, fellows, and any attendings that would be interested in doing the hard work that will help win future elections in Tampa Bay. Examples of duties would include canvassing, making phone calls from your home, and holding/waving signs at the voting precincts. This is an easy way to start developing long-lasting relationships with our lawmakers which in turn is vital to the future of medicine. If interested, please email Dr. Lake at alexanderdlake@gmail.com or text/call 813-527-4110.

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.

HCMA Government Affairs Committee

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

• The GAC, in conjunction with the FMA, has compiled a list of 2023 Legislative Priorities, that will be presented to our legislators locally, through our Key Contact program, and in Tallahassee.
• The GAC will coordinate a contingency of members to visit Tallahassee during the 2023 Legislative Session (March 7-May 5).  This one-day event includes a meeting with FMA legislative experts to brief attendees on the important issues of the day and appointments will be secured for our contingency to meet with legislators and/or their administrative staff.  Members often arrive in Tallahassee the evening prior to the scheduled day at the Capitol.
• If you are interested in learning more about serving on the GAC, joining the GAC contingency in their visit to Tallahassee, or how you can serve as a Key Contact to our legislators, contact Elke Lubin or call the HCMA office: 813.253.0471.

HCMA Foundation's Charity Golf Classic - another way to participate

Can't play?  Visit the Foundation's 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:

1. Sign into Amazon

2. Review our Wish List!

For more information about the tournament, click here. 

HCMA Physician Family Alliance

The HCMA Physician Family Alliance is a group of physicians, spouses, partners, family members, resident physicians, medical students, and their parents whose aim is to promote good health and health education, engage in charitable community endeavors, and foster friendly relations among physicians’ families and the communities in which we live. They enjoy gathering throughout the year to socialize in a supportive atmosphere and support the HCMA Foundation and initiatives consistent with their mission. Please consider joining the HCMA PFA. For more information, you can contact Bill Butler (PFA President), Michael Kelly (PFA Treasurer/Secretary), or John Hotchkiss (PFA Membership/Outreach).

Another benefit of HCMA membership

On January 4th HCMA staff downloaded a list from the Board of Medicine of the Hillsborough County MDs who had not renewed their medical licenses, which were due to expire on the 31st. There were 1,267 on the list and of those, 204 were HCMA members. Each member received an email from the HCMA reminding them of the renewal deadline. Many emails that were in the BOM database were no longer valid. Please update your BOM profile – you may miss important information and reminders from the BOM if your contact email with them is a former staff member or an old personal email.

PRACTICE MANAGERS (current and aspiring) You may qualify for grant-funded training & certification! Now through March 31st!!

Free Health Information Training and Certification through a US Department of Labor Grant. NOW AVAILABLE: A limited-time, no-cost educational opportunity to receive timely health IT education and industry-recognized credentialing. Why now?

• Protecting your patients’ health information and your practice’s reputation from cyber threats is essential in today’s high-risk environment.
• Helping practice managers update, increase, and validate their health IT knowledge has never been easier and less costly.
• This free education and credentialing offer is only available until March 31, 2023 through a U.S. Department of Labor grant for eligible participants.
• More information.

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.
• Requirements, Process, Fees, CMEs, Statutes & Rules 

Doctors of Osteopathic Medicine

• Licenses expire at midnight on March 31st.
• Requirements, Process, Fees, CMEs, Statutes & Rules

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. 

MD:

Florida Board of Medicine Licensing - Main Page

FL Medical License - MD Unrestricted   

DO:

Florida Board of Osteopathic Medicine Licensing - Main Page

FL Osteopathic Medicine - Full Licensure

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

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

Personal News

Baby Madelyn has arrived!

Congratulations to Dr. Madelyn (HCMA Past President) & Bill Butler on the arrival of their first grandbaby! Daughter and son-in-law, Olivia & Tyler Jacoby, welcomed Madelyn Kate on January 26th, weighing in at 7bs. 12oz!

The HCMA's 29th Legislative Luncheon, honoring the Hillsborough Legislative Delegation and their district staff members, was held on January 31st. Regarded as one of the best HCMA events, it serves as a forum for HCMA leaders to connect with newly elected legislators and seasoned representatives to discuss issues important to physicians and their patients. Topics included prior authorization/retroactive denials, physician payment reform, the loan repayment program, and scope of practice. In attendance were eight legislators, sixteen district staff members, fourteen HCMA representatives and Dr. Joshua Lenchus, FMA President, and Chris Clark, FMA CEO.

New Members

Matthew Berrios, DO

Gregory Black, MD

Lotifa Colibao, MD

Thomas Cristoforo, DO

Andrew Gasca, DO

Jake Gold, MD

Adam Koby, MD

Rodolfo Loureiro, MD

Yakisha Partee, MD

Nicholena Richardson, MD

Meagan Walsh, DO

Emergency Medicine

Excelis Medical Associates

2502 W. St. Isabel St.

Tampa, 33607

813.874.5707

Spotlight on Savings

We are excited to announce Shea Barclay Group is now SGP Advisors - Tampa's Premier Specialty Insurance Firm

This year, Shea Barclay Group found an opportunity to reinvigorate its brand. Shea Guercio Partners, formally known as SGP Advisors, is the culmination of their established culture and service offerings. Through existing ownership, they will continue to maintain the same dedicated service to which our clients are accustomed. While SGP Advisors may be a new name, the commitment to their clients remains steadfast. We are excited for this new chapter and look forward to their continued growth.

Originally founded in 1995 by Vern Barclay, SBG solely provided lawyers professional liability insurance in Florida. Throughout the next decade, the firm expanded to offer additional lines of coverage and clients across the United States. In 2012, Mike Shea and Talyn Guercio acquired a majority interest and assumed management control. In 2021, Jack Compton and Harrison Tropp became shareholders which prompted this latest and final iteration.

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

HAPPY NEW YEAR!

The HCMA Board recognizes and extends appreciation to all members for the incredible care you provide to the patients of our communities and your dedication to medicine.

Your HCMA welcomes your involvement as we begin another year advocating on your behalf.

Pertinent Information

Membership renewal was due January 1, 2023!

HCMA membership renewal statements for 2023  have been emailed and sent via USPS.  If you have not received your notice, would like to check the status of your membership, or request a duplicate statement, please contact Asta Orthman, HCMA Membership Coordinator, or call the HCMA office: 813.253.0471.  Your dues can also be easily and securely paid online.  Visit the HCMA website and log into your account.

Dengue Fever Update

The Florida Department of Health-Hillsborough is still seeing an increased level of mosquito-borne diseases in the region, primarily due to increased travel to endemic areas such as the Caribbean. The steadily increasing number of tourists visiting endemic areas, coupled with the present resurgence of dengue, has raised the risk of exposure. Travelers have the potential to both acquire and spread dengue virus infection. It is strongly recommended to obtain detailed/accurate travel history in patients with febrile illness. Dengue infection should be considered in all febrile patients (including children) returning from endemic areas with or without typical symptoms. It is also encouraged that dengue fever is ruled out for patients with no travel history who have symptoms that resemble dengue, so the Department of Health can quickly identify any possible local transmission.

Physicians are typically the first contact that is made with patients. The history obtained, the prompt action to rule out dengue, and ensuring that the Florida Department of Health is notified upon suspicion of dengue are truly significant and impactful. Click here for information regarding dengue fever.

HCMA Membership Dinner

Tuesday, February 7, 2023 

6:30pm - The Westshore Grand

Guest speaker: Rhea Law, President/CEO University of South Florida. Sponsors: First Horizon, TGH Imaging Powered by Tower, Trenam Law, and USF Health. For more information, contact the HCMA office (813.253.0471),  or email Anni Blackwell.  Click here to register.

Giving you a heads-up on FRAME

Florida Reimbursement Assistance for Medical Education

Physicians were very excited at the end of the last legislative session when we learned that over $6.3 million had been appropriated to fund a previously standing educational loan forgiveness program for primary care medical professionals who work in underserved areas of Florida.

The Florida Board of Medicine has been working with various primary care associations in the state to hammer out the details. Even though every detail has not been made available click here for what we do know.

An invitation to serve...

Members are invited to consider being placed, as a candidate, on the 2023 HCMA ballot. You must be a member in the ACTIVE, AFFILIATE, or LIFE membership categories and your 2023 HCMA membership dues must be paid in full.  Results will be announced at the May 9, 2023 Inauguration Dinner, in which Dr. Michael Cromer will be installed as the HCMA's 120th President.

Open seats include:

• Vice President - 1 year term
• Treasurer - 1 year term
• Secretary - 1 year term
• District, At Large, USF, Moffitt, and Young Physician seats on the Executive Council - 2 year terms
• Board of Censors member - 3 year term
• Delegate to the FMA - 3 year term (FMA dues must be paid)

Nominations to specific seats will be determined by the Nominating Committee members in February. However, if you have a preference to serve in a certain capacity, please indicate such when submitting your request. Click here to submit your name for nomination no later than January 30th.

Fixing prior authorization: a step in the right direction

On Dec. 6, the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) released a proposed rule to regulate prior authorization across Medicare Advantage plans, state Medicaid and CHIP plans, and plans sold on the federally facilitated exchange. Though the proposed rule is far from being a complete solution to the problem of burdensome, time-consuming prior authorizations, it could create momentum for more changes at the state and national levels. A new article by FMA Director of Health Care Policy and Innovation Jarrod Fowler, MHA, explains why CMS’ proposal is a step in the right direction.

USF Health, Tampa General pulmonary program joins prestigious global organizations

A pulmonary program launched by Tampa General Hospital and USF Health has joined two prestigious global organizations. The program's director talks about the collaboration.

For patients with long COVID, look out for psychiatric sequelae

Most patients with long COVID “don’t fit into one neat box,” says psychiatrist and former AMA President Patrice A. Harris, M.D., M.A. Read more.

Share your knowledge...

HCMA medical students and in-training physician members have expressed an interest in shadowing community physicians.  If you are interested in allowing a med student and/or young physician to come to your office to shadow you, please send your name, specialty, and direct contact information to Elke at the HCMA who will forward it appropriately. Your time and expertise is appreciated.

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 it 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.

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 it 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.

HCMA Government Affairs Committee

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

• The GAC, in conjunction with the FMA, is compiling a list of 2023 Legislative Priorities, that will be presented to our legislators locally, through our Key Contact program, and in Tallahassee.
• The GAC will host a Legislative Luncheon for the Hillsborough Legislative Delegation and their district staff.  It is a great opportunity to educate legislators on the important issues facing medicine and your patients.  
• The GAC will coordinate a contingency of members to visit Tallahassee during the 2023 Legislative Session (March 7-May 5).  This one-day event includes a meeting with FMA legislative experts to brief attendees on the important issues of the day and appointments will be secured for our contingency to meet with legislators and/or their administrative staff.  Members often arrive in Tallahassee the evening prior to the scheduled day at the Capitol.
• If you are interested in learning more about serving on the GAC, joining the GAC contingency in their visit to Tallahassee, or how you can serve as a Key Contact to our legislators, contact Elke Lubin or call the HCMA office: 813.253.0471.

2023 Know Your Legislators Pocket Guide - now accepting orders

For over 60 years, this has been the most respected and trusted legislative guide in Florida. Order online or download a printable order form.

HCMA Foundation's Charity Golf Classic - another way to participate

Can't play?  Visit the Foundation's 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:

1. Sign into Amazon

2. Review our Wish List!

For more information about the tournament, click here. 

HCMA Physician Family Alliance

The HCMA Physician Family Alliance is a group of physicians, spouses, partners, family members, resident physicians, medical students, and their parents whose aim is to promote good health and health education, engage in charitable community endeavors, and foster friendly relations among physicians’ families and the communities in which we live. They enjoy gathering throughout the year to socialize in a supportive atmosphere and support the HCMA Foundation and initiatives consistent with their mission. Please consider joining the HCMA PFA. For more information, you can contact Bill Butler (PFA President), Michael Kelly (PFA Treasurer/Secretary), or John Hotchkiss (PFA Membership/Outreach).

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.
• Requirements, Process, Fees, CMEs, Statutes & Rules 

Doctors of Osteopathic Medicine

• Licenses expire at midnight on March 31st.
• Requirements, Process, Fees, CMEs, Statutes & Rules

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. 

MD:

Florida Board of Medicine Licensing - Main Page

FL Medical License - MD Unrestricted   

DO:

Florida Board of Osteopathic Medicine Licensing - Main Page

FL Osteopathic Medicine - Full Licensure

Physician Wellness

Make it your best year yet - FREE DOWNLOAD from TheHappyMD.com

Now is a perfect time to step out of your whirlwind and set yourself, your family, and your practice up for success in 2023. Use the Best Year Yet Worksheet to work on your practice rather than in it. The faster things change and the more chaotic the healthcare industry becomes, the more often you must step out, reflect and tweak your practice from this new viewpoint.

The worksheet's ten simple, powerful questions, guarantee you will complete two important tasks: 1) Gather your learning and gratitude for the year past and 2) Set clear, powerful, positive intentions for the year ahead.

Click this link to download and print the Best Year Yet Worksheet.

• The process takes you out of your whirlwind automatically
• Takes less than an hour
• This is the 7th year TheHappyMD.com is giving out this resource, with over 4,000 downloads to date with universally positive reviews.

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

Personal News

New Members

Spotlight on Savings

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

Retirement Planning for Established Physicians

February 1 & 8, a 2-part webinar

6:30-8:30pm

Brought to you by the HCMA Benefit Provider Program and Physicians Wealth Planning. Pre-Registration required. You will receive log-in credentials by email after registering and course materials will be mailed prior to the webinar.

USF MCOM Alumni Reception

Tuesday, February 7, 2023

Immediately prior to the HCMA Membership Dinner - The Westshore Grand

USF MCOM Alumni are invited to stop by a reception hosted by the USF Alumni Association to mingle with fellow Bulls - horns up! For more information about his event, and to RSVP, please contact Kathleen Curp, M.Ed., USF Health Events Planner.

HCMA Membership Dinner

Tuesday, February 7, 2023 

6:30pm - The Westshore Grand

Guest speaker: Rhea Law, President/CEO University of South Florida. Sponsors: First Horizon, TGH Imaging Powered by Tower, Trenam Law, and USF Health. For more information, contact the HCMA office (813.253.0471),  or email Anni Blackwell.  Click here to register.

Practice Administrators' and Managers' RECEPTION

Thursday, February 9, 2023

5:30pm - Palma Ceia Country Club

Practice Managers and Administrators are invited to attend a social/networking reception. We appreciate what you do and how hard you work to keep a medical practice running! Beverages and hors d'oeuvres compliments of Shea Barclay Group and The Bank of Tampa.  Click here to register or call the HCMA office to RSVP (813.253.0471).

HCMA Physician Family Alliance

Go Red Event - to benefit the HCMA Foundation

February 11, 2023 - 6:00pm-8:00pm

A fun event to socialize, make new friends and enter to win raffle prizes all while supporting the HCMA Foundation will be held at the home of Dr. Rebecca Johnson and Michael Kelly on Davis Islands. For more information about the event, to RSVP, or to learn more about the Physician Family Alliance, contact PFA Secretary/Treasurer, Michael Kelly.

Wealth Creation for HCMA Members Under 50

March 22 & 29, a 2-part webinar

6:30-8:30pm

Brought to you by the HCMA Benefit Provider Program and Physicians Wealth Planning. Pre-Registration required. You will receive log-in credentials by email after registering and course materials will be mailed prior to the webinar.

HCMA Foundation's 25th Charity Golf Classic

Thursday, March 30, 2023

Tournament Player Club - Tampa Bay

Noon- lunch and registration, 1:15pm - call to carts, after play: social, dinner, awards, prizes, and raffle. Cost: $175.00 per golfer (Includes cart, greens fee, goodie bag, lunch, and dinner). Contest holes – Super Ticket – Raffle Prizes – Silent Auction!  Sponsors as of January 2 are Physicians Wealth Planning/Brighthouse Financial and USF Health (Title sponsors), TGH Imaging Powered by Tower (Champion Sponsors), Excelis Medical Associates (Winner sponsor), Healthcare Realty Group, LLC (Par sponsor), Advent Health Medical Group, Associated Pathologists, Drs. Hodges & Homan, Rivero Gordimer & Company CPAs, and Dr. Bruce & Coleen Shephard (Hole sponsors), Dr. David & Elke Lubin, Dr. Michael Zimmer, and Debbie Zorian (In-Kind sponsors), and Walker Ford (Hole-In-One sponsor). Sponsor opportunities at all levels are available. Click here for a sponsor and golfer registration packet.

Florida Legislative Session

March 7 - May 5, 2023

Tallahassee