Allegheny County Medical Society
BULLETIN
BULLETIN
Opinion
Editorial
• Profit
Deval (Reshma) Paranjpe, MD, MBA, FACS
Editorial
• Blasts From the Past Richard H. Daffner, MD, FACR
Editorial
• Letter to the Editor Anthony Kovatch, MD
Society News
ACMS News
• MJ's Q&A: Keith Kanel, MD MJ Lerma — MPH Candidate Policy & Administrative Intern at ACMS
Foundation News
• Prioritizing Infant Feeding in Southwestern PA Megs Yunn — Beverly's PGH
ACMS News
• Medical License Renewal FAQ
ACMS News
• Specialty Group Updates
ACMS Staff: Nadine
Popovich, Melanie Mayer and Haley Thon
Articles
Article
• Year-End Wrap Up from Your ACMS President Raymond E. Pontzer, MD
Article
• 2025 Medicare Final Rule Highlights Adam Appleberry, Esq. & Michael Cassidy, Esq.
Article
• Physician Unionization Overview James Latronica, DO, DFASAM
Cover Photo by Jerome Finkelstein, MD Jerome Finkelstein, MD is an Ophthalmologist Great Horned Owl
2024
Executive Committee and Board of Directors
President
Raymond E. Pontzer, MD
President-elect
Keith T. Kanel, MD
Secretary
Kirsten D. Lin, MD
Treasurer
William F. Coppula, MD
Board Chair
Matthew B. Straka, MD
Directors
Term Expires 2024
Douglas F. Clough, MD
David J. Deitrick, DO
Jan W. Madison, MD
Raymond J. Pan, MD
G. Alan Yeasted, MD, FACP
Term Expires 2025
Anuradha Anand, MD
Amber Elway, DO
Mark A. Goodman, MD
Elizabeth Ungerman, MD, MS
Alexander Yu, MD
Term Expires 2026
Michael M. Aziz, MD, MPH, FACOG
Michael W. Best, MD
Richard B. Hoffmaster, MD
Micah A. Jacobs, MD, FIDSA
Jody Leonardo, MD
PAMED District Trustee
G. Alan Yeasted, MD, FACP
2024 Board Committees
Bylaws
Kirsten D. Lin, MD
Finance
William Coppula, MD Nominating
Keith T. Kanel, MD
Women’s Committee
Prerna Mewawalla, MD & Meilin Young, MD
Bulletin
Managing Editor
Sara C. Hussey, MBA, CAE ACMS Executive Director shussey@acms.org
Medical Editor
Deval (Reshma) Paranjpe, MD reshma_paranjpe@hotmail.com
Bulletin Designer
Victoria Gricks victoria@thecorcorancollective.com
Term Ending 2024
Richard Daffner, MD; Anthony Kovatch, MD; Andrea Witlin, DO, PhD
Term Ending 2025
Robert Howland, MD; John Williams, MD; Alexandra Johnston, DO; Charles Mount, MD
Administrative Staff
Executive Director
Sara Hussey shussey@acms.org
Vice President - Member and Association Services
Nadine M. Popovich npopovich@acms.org
Manager - Member and Association Services
Haley Thon hthon@acms.org
Operations CoordinatorACMS & ACMS Foundation Melanie Mayer mmayer@acms.org
Part-Time Controller Elizabeth Yurkovich eyurkovich@acms.org
Bulletin Designer Victoria Gricks victoria@thecorcorancollective.com
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Profit
By:
Deval (Reshma) Paranjpe, MD, MBA, FACS
For what shall it profit a man, if he shall gain the whole world, and lose his own soul?
--Mark 8:36, KJV Bible
We’re all just doing the best that we can, but we can try to be better.
The holiday season is a joyous one but also a stressful one for many. Professionally, it can be either insanely busy, For hospitalists and ED doctors, “the Great Granny Dropoff” over the holidays; for medicine and pediatric specialties there’s COVID, Flu, RSV and cold season and all the attendant complications. For surgeons, it’s the mad rush of everyone who has met their deductible wanting surgery before that deductible resets.
Personally, it can be a mixed bag. Some have the whirlwind of buying presents, cleaning, decorating and cooking to host family and friends for the holidays, with all the attendant joys and dramas. For some people, the holidays are a sad and lonely time, especially for those who have lost loved ones. For some people, this season is an especially dark and lonely one— depression and suicide tend to rise during this time.
You never know what people are dealing with on the inside, or what’s really going on in their lives or minds. Sometimes taking a breath in the middle of all of this craziness to offer a bit of genuine compassion, however brief, can make all the difference in the world to someone who may not have much hope in this season of hope. A simple “checking in on you—how are you doing?” or an “anything I can help you with” can go a long way. It helps to
know that you are not alone, that you have someone—a friend, a colleague, an acquaintance, a stranger-- who actually cares about your well-being enough to make a bid for connection. It can sometimes make the difference between survival and an act of desperation.
The nation itself is struggling with emotions. Apart from the recent election and emotional turmoil one way or the other experienced by many in the process, we are jaded and numb.
The case of the assassination of United HealthCare CEO Brian Thompson illustrates this. As I write this, the person of interest Luigi Mangione has been caught and charged with his murder. He appears to be a 26 year old Ivy League educated software engineer and valedictorian of his elite high school class. In other words, he could be any of us, or any of our children. What drove this intelligent young man to this heinous act, and what made him think he had no other recourse than murder? What drove him to throw his promising young life away by doing this?
The motive will no doubt come out in the coming days, but the reaction of the public to the murder is telling of who we are as a nation these days and the collective frustration of the masses with the health care system and forprofit or essentially for-profit insurance companies.
United Health Care had to shut down its social media post regarding Thompson’s death due to 70,000 of 75,000 emoji reactions to the post being laughing emoji reactions. The comment section was also rife with glee and schadenfreude. Reddit is
full of comments from patients and physicians anonymously siding with the masked bandit. Who are we and what have we become as a result of frustration with a for-profit insurance system in this country that tries to deny claims in any way possible in order to profit from not treating the illness of their captive subscribers—in United’s case with an AI system that purportedly automatically denied 90% of claims. In addition, United already had the highest denial rate among insurers at over 30 percent.
When the masses are powerless to escape the system, and patients are "prisoners of their employer's choice of health plans," and when that insurance company squeezes the health and emotional well-being of subscribers via denials in the name of profit, and when the government does nothing to intervene, this is a recipe for disaster. Throughout history, this scenario has played out over and over again, and it has never ended well. The French Revolution, the Russian Revolution, every revolution if you consider it. Innocents are hurt in the crossfire and the result is never better than the original system when bloodthirsty extremists win. The American Revolution is an exception because it was guided by reasonable individuals. There is a threat of copycat killers, and worried insurance executives are beefing up security and taking down their photos from websites in order to avoid being doxxed and targeted themselves. In the immediate wake of the murder, Anthem rescinded their policy to deny anesthesia coverage if a surgery went beyond an arbitrary length
of time set by the finance people. Coincidence? No. Reaction to public backlash.
The CEO of United’s umbrella organization professed to his investors that he was unaware of and offended by the great animosity of the public towards United Healthcare. Sunlight is the best disinfectant. Perhaps something good can come of all this tragedy. What if Marie Antoinette had NOT said “let them eat cake” (That was arguably the biggest PR disaster of all time.) What if the Czar had gone to the public, listened to them, addressed their concerns seriously and had given them bread?
It is reasonable, ethical and morally sound for physicians to make a wage
commensurate with their training, experience and expertise in delivering dedicated and ethical quality care to patients.
Is it reasonable or morally sound for an insurance company be forprofit or essentially for-profit--to actively seek to not just maintain but to increase profits for investors via the mechanism of finding new ways to deny care and coverage to the vulnerable, and by making the appeals process deliberately onerous and psychologically damaging to ill patients and overworked physcians?
Now is a time for insurance companies to publicly pledge to be more humane and compassionate in their policy decisions, practices and
coverage, and for government to ensure the rights of the patient to needed care rest in the hands of doctors and not people who seek to maximize profits for investors.
In the meantime, compassion to our patients and colleagues is paramount. We need to make sure that patients know we are on their side and we are doing all we can to fight for them.
We need to let our burnt out colleagues know that we are on their side. We need to give strangers some kindness to pay forward. Only then can we build a better more compassionate world and cut down on acts of desperation-driven evil. An eye for an eye makes the whole world blind.
Giving Thanks
Year-End Wrap Up from Your ACMS President
By: Raymond E. Pontzer, MD – ACMS President
As I wrap up my year as ACMS President and look back at the past year there is much to be thankful for. First off, I remain thankful for the gifts and opportunities that have allowed me to practice for the past 40 years in our profession of helping and healing those in need. Participating in organized medicine and being a member of ACMS has given me the additional opportunity to further amplify the good of our chosen mission – improving healthcare through education, advocacy, service, and physician well-being.
During my time involved in leadership at ACMS, we have continued to make positive strides in achieving our mission goals. I would like to thank and give credit to both our incredibly talented staff at ACMS as well as the many physician leaders, including board members, delegates, officers and many others, who have contributed readily of their time and talents to help us achieve the goals of our mission stated above.
One especially important goal achieved during this past year was the establishment of our Physician Wellness Program under the leadership of Dr. Vint Blackburn. This program is dedicated to the urgent issue of physician burnout. The ACMS initiative offers an alternative to similar programs established by the health systems in our region. One advantage of the ACMS Wellness Program is that physicians are able to maintain total anonymity away from their workplace. In view of the critical need that this program provides, ACMS has made it easily accessible to both members and nonmembers by accessing the ACMS. org website.
Another step forward this year was the return of the ACMS Distinguished Awards Program. Following a hiatus precipitated by the COVID pandemic, it was great to finally get back together to celebrate those among us who have truly excelled. I would like to personally congratulate the amazing group of honorees. Each one of them was inspirational and represent the best of our profession. Thanks go out to the wisdom and efforts of the Awards Committee, Dr.'s Mark Goodman, Micah Jacobs, and Michael Aziz, for their efforts selecting the winners from among the many well qualified nominees. Also, the talents of our staff organizing this hugely successful event at Acrisure Stadium were much appreciated.
The Women in Healthcare Committee continues to thrive and serve the special needs of our women members. Special thanks to Dr. Prerna Mewawalla and Dr. Meilin Young, who presently co-chair this committee. The Women in Healthcare activities and events have been quite successful and attendance continues to grow.
During the past year, we have maintained focus on the advocacy portion of our mission. At one of our board meetings, we hosted Pennsylvania representative and ACMS member Dr. Arvind Venkat. At another, we had the legislative lobbying team from PAMED, and in September our guest was Marty Raniowski, CEO of PAMED. We have made a strong effort to stay abreast of legislative efforts impacting our membership and thereby keeping you informed. Keep in mind that a call or email from you to your
legislators may well influence decisions made in Harrisburg or Washington that can have a direct impact on how we are able to practice our profession.
I am thankful to our predecessor members going back multiple generations as they created a sound financial foundation for our society. As a result, the ACMS Foundation has been able to distribute approximately a quarter million dollars annually in recent years to needy nonprofit organizations throughout our region. Also this past year we have enlarged and diversified the ACMS Foundation Board of Directors, who deserve our thanks for their dedication to this worthy cause.
Another big shout out goes out to the ACMS staff. Executive Director Sara Hussey has assembled a talented team that works well together to handle the many varied responsibilities overseeing ACMS operations, as well as managing several other local physician organizations. This administrative team is quick to respond adeptly to the multiple and varying inputs from the physician leadership.
I want to give my sincere thanks to the physician leadership, including the ACMS Board, ACMS Foundation Board and the executive officers for their unfailing support during this past year. They were all quick to respond to whatever duties or challenges arose. Departing board chair, Matt Straka, has been a steady leader and wise decision maker during the years we have spent together here at ACMS. Additionally, Dr. Keith Kanel and Dr. Kirsten Lin have been terrific to work with. ACMS leadership will be in good hands as they come into their new roles of President
and President-elect. Dr. Bill Coppula has done a great job as treasurer and is now entering his third year in this capacity. Our incoming Secretary, Dr. Rick Hoffmaster, is coming off a twoyear term as chair of the delegation and we are very glad having him continue on the leadership team this coming year. Additionally, I am excited about the newly elected board members, who should further energize our board this coming year.
Finally, and most importantly, I want to thank you, our members. Without your support, ACMS with its mission to improve healthcare through education, advocacy, service, and physician well-being and its vision to create a healthy region with compassionate medical care could not exist. You are all much appreciated. I wish you and yours a healthy and productive 2025.
Raymond E. Pontzer, MD (Outgoing ACMS President) and Keith T. Kanel, MD (Incoming ACMS President) at the ACMS Distinguished Awards Program
Blasts From the Past
By: Richard H. Daffner, MD, FACR
Throughout our lives we make many acquaintances and friendships. While true friendships last over time1, on occasion, some of our past acquaintances or deeds return later in a surprising manner. I have experienced three such “blasts from the past”. Buffalo 1964, Durham 1979
I began my medical education at SUNY Buffalo School of Medicine (now Jacobs School of Medicine of the University at Buffalo) in the Fall of 1963. I grew up watching college hockey, (Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute [RPI]) in my hometown of Troy, NY. I was delighted to learn that Buffalo had a professional minor league team – the Buffalo Bisons - who played in the American Hockey League (AHL). This was still in the era of the six-team National Hockey League (NHL) and the speed and skill levels of the players in the AHL were significantly greater than those playing at the collegiate level. A perusal of the rosters of those old AHL teams will reveal a large number of familiar names of players who went on to the NHL, and in some cases to enshrinement in the Hockey Hall of Fame in Toronto,
In Buffalo, the games were played in the old Buffalo War Memorial Auditorium, known to the locals as “The Aud”. The Aud was designed with an upper gallery that overhung the ice below and contained the cheap seats. My preferences always were to sit high so I could see the plays develop on the ice below. Teams in all sports, whether high school, college, or professional have rivals (Harvard-Yale, Army-Navy, Duke-UNC, Pitt-WVU). For the Buffalo Bisons their rivals were the Rochester
Americans (Amerks).
My roommate and I liked attending the Bisons – Amerks games because of their intensity and the frequent fights that inspired the 1977 movie Slap Shot. And, on one occasion, when we were sitting in the front row of the upper gallery we were entertained by a bench-clearing brawl between the two teams. The Buffalo fans were always a rowdy bunch who frequently would throw debris from the stands onto the ice. Raw eggs and rotten tomatoes made a nice splatter pattern on the ice, particularly when thrown from the upper gallery. On that night someone in one of the rows above us threw an orange, which hit me. Instead of throwing it back, I lobbed it down to the ice, where I was pleased that it hit a Rochester player (and did no apparent damage). The crowd cheered and one of the men behind me bought me a beer as a reward. Today, I would never think about doing an encore.
Fifteen years later (1979) I was working at Duke, where I was coach of their hockey club. I also played in an adult hockey league we started after a full-size rink was built in nearby Hillsborough. Our league had teams consisting of residents of Durham, Chapel Hill, Raleigh, and a fourth team with players from other areas. The captain of the Durham team, a longtime Montreal Canadiens fan decided we would be the red team (despite the many Duke fans on the team who favored blue) and we wore a mixture of red sweaters from Montreal, Chicago, Washington and Detroit. (Hockey players wear sweaters, not jerseys and change in a dressing room, not a locker
room.) One of my teammates, an older man in his 50’s, wore the red sweater of the Rochester Americans. Sweaters from minor league teams were rare and so I asked him where he got his Amerk sweater.
“I played for them in the ‘60’s,” he said.
“I’m sure I saw you play. I was a medical student in Buffalo then,” I replied.
“Oh, we hated going to Buffalo. Their fans were really nasty, always throwing stuff on the ice. One night some son-ofa-b---h hit me with an orange.”
“Well,” I said after a brief pause, “If you won’t hit me back, I’ll own up to it. It was stupid of me and I’m sorry.” I then recalled the story to him.
“Hey, no damage done. We’re on the same team now.”
That was a classic example of how old sins come back to haunt you.
Dayton 1969, Tucson 2007
I served in the U.S. Air Force from 1968 to 1970 and was assigned to Wright-Patterson Air Force Base just outside Dayton, Ohio. One of the benefits of that assignment was their Aero Club that gave me the opportunity to learn how to fly. In the Fall of 1968, I earned my private pilot’s license. That Spring, I attended the annual meeting of the Aerospace Medical Association in San Francisco. We flew each way on USAF transport propeller-driven aircraft. On our return trip to Dayton, we flew on a C-118 Liftmaster, a four engine Douglas DC 6. At one point I told the flight steward that I had my private pilot’s license and asked if I could go up to the cockpit. He cleared it with the colonel who was flying the plane and took me up front. Just before entering
the cockpit, I noticed “Kilroy was here” graffiti drawn with a magic marker on the headliner above the cockpit door. (“Kilroy was here” is a meme that became popular during World War II, typically seen in military settings [Fig. 1]).
The pilot was a full colonel. He introduced me to his copilot, a captain, and suggested that he take a break from the tedium of watching everything as the autopilot did the work. Then the colonel suggested that I sit in the right seat. We talked about my piloting experience (limited at that time) and then he said, “Would you like to fly this bird?” I was surprised, but then I agreed to try it out.
The colonel explained the controls and the instruments and told me that this large aircraft would handle just as easily as the small single engine Cessnas and Pipers I was familiar with. He took the plane off autopilot and had me make a few gentle turns, all the while maintaining our course and altitude. I was surprised at how easy the aircraft was to handle, noting, however, the more solid feel of the controls. I flew the plane for just over an hour, responding to Air Traffic Control several times by making course corrections. As we neared Wright-Patterson and were cleared to begin descending, the colonel took over and his copilot replaced me in the right seat. The colonel invited me to sit in a jump seat and stay in the cockpit to watch how they descended and landed the aircraft. The whole experience was one I would never forget.
In 1984, I ran a continuing medical education (CME) course in Phoenix. The course was a success, and we began offering it for the next 24 years in either Phoenix or Tucson. In the Spring of 2007, we met in Tucson. The Pima Air and Space Museum was established adjacent to Davis-Monthan Air Force Base in 1976. (Davis-Monthan is the site of the “Mothball Air Force” where thousands of old Air Force planes are stored in the dry heat of the desert). The Pima museum now covers 80 acres and houses 425 aircraft in six large hangars, as well as in the open. The Pima museum is different from the National Museum of the Air Force, housed at Wright Patterson, in that Pima has aircraft from all the military services, whereas the Dayton facility has only USAF models.
My wife and I were touring the museum when we discovered a C-118 that was open for visitors. I said to her, “That’s the type of plane I flew years ago.” We climbed the ramp and entered the aircraft and started walking toward the cockpit. As we approached the cockpit, I suddenly stopped. There, on the headliner above the cockpit door was the same “Kilroy was here” graffiti.
“You’re not going to believe this,” I said to my wife. “This is the plane I flew.”
“No, you flew one like this,” she said.
I pointed to the graffiti and said, “I don’t think they all have the same graffiti as this.”
She turned to the guide who was on the plane and asked him where this plane was from. “Wright-Patterson,” he answered. “We got it about five years ago.”
Troy 1958, 1992
I played flute and piccolo in the Troy High School band. The clarinet section sat adjacent to the flutes, and I became friendly with Steve Colucci, the clarinetist who sat next to me for three years. Steve was one year ahead of me and like so many high school acquaintances we went our separate ways after graduation, probably never to meet again. Or so I thought.
My father was diagnosed with
pancreatic cancer in 1992 and I began making monthly visits home to see him. My December trip happened to occur during the annual RPI Invitational Hockey Tournament, and I attended the final game with my friend Howard. As we took our seats, I said to Howard, “I’m sure there are a few other people here whom I know.”
I have always said that I never forget a face. It’s the names I often can’t remember. During the game, I struck up a conversation with the man sitting next to me. I introduced myself as Dick, and he told me his name was Steve. After the first period he removed his glasses and as I spoke to him, I had a déjà vu moment. He looked familiar to me. I said, “Steve, is your last name Colucci?” (I remembered his name.)
“As a matter of fact, it is,” he replied.
“I’m Richie Daffner (as I was called then), hiding behind the beard, the gray hair, the glasses, and about thirty extra pounds since you last saw me.” He had aged more gracefully, looking like a more mature version of his former self. I introduced Howard and we did some “catching up” over pizza and beer after the game.
“Six degrees of separation” is the concept that all people are six or fewer social connections away from each other. This theory holds that a chain of "friend of a friend" statements can be made to connect any two people in a maximum of six steps.
Marc Antony, on giving his famous “Friends, Romans, countrymen” funeral oration in Act 3, Scene 2 of Shakespeare’s Julius Caesar, said “The evil that men do lives after them.” So, too, do many of the events and encounters we have throughout life. It is a small world, after all.
Reference:
1. Daffner RH. Three amigos. ACMS Bulletin, Dec 2023, pp 12 -13.
Dr. Daffner is a retired radiologist.
Figure 1. Kilroy was here
Dr. Keith Kanel is an internist that has devoted nearly 40 years of his life to patient care, quality improvement, and patient safety. He has worked for a variety of healthcare organizations including UPMC, AHN, the University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh Regional Health Initiative, and the United States Department of Health and Human Services. He currently delivers healthcare full-time to veterans at the Pittsburgh VA Health System, and to the underserved at the Catholic Charities Free Health Center downtown.
Dr. Kanel is honored to serve as the President of ACMS in the incoming year. In this interview, Dr. Kanel discusses his vision for ACMS, valuing members, and the values of members.
Questions and answers have been edited for clarity.
What is your vision for the future of ACMS?
ACMS aspires to be the local voice of the physician. Since our founding in 1865, we have been the place where physicians could come together, to organize, to learn from each other, and to do whatever was necessary to improve the health of Allegheny County residents. Our members were instrumental in the founding of the region’s first medical school, the University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, in 1886. This created the foundation for generations of new physicians for our region.
In the 1900s, our focus shifted to helping building the local healthcare infrastructure – hospitals, clinics, public health disease surveillance, patient safety, and better maternity
MJ's Q&A: Keith Kanel, MD
By: MJ Lerma – MPH Candidate Policy & Administrative Intern at ACMS
and pediatric care. In 1917, ACMS was the first group to create a free clinic in Allegheny County. We were the leaders of the early hospitals, and a lot of what we were trying to do was again create opportunities for doctors. Back at this time, there was a situation where Jewish physicians had no place to practice because of prejudices in the region. In response, physicians worked with community members to form Montefiore Hospital. It was beautiful.
In the 2000s, it's changing, and right now we're trying to calibrate ourselves for the future. Now, we're looking at different things.
The most important thing we're working on is the doctor-patient relationship, which we feel is getting frayed. Corporations are now stepping in, and it’s our job to really speak for the patient. We're very worried about things like artificial intelligence, which I think many corporate interests perceive as a way for healthcare to be delivered without the expensive need for a physician. We're nowhere certain that the data, computer systems, and machine learning is capable of providing healthcare. We need doctors, and we think that every patient that wants to be seen by a doctor should have access to a doctor.
The second thing that we're really focused on going forward is social justice. We feel that physicians are uniquely positioned to champion equity and fairness in healthcare delivery. Dr. Arvind Venkat, an ACMS member currently serving in the Pennsylvania legislature, has an initiative to help patients deal with mounds of medical debt. To this day, in this wealthy
country, we're bankrupting people over their healthcare costs. That's obscene, and we really need to do better.
Another issue is restrictive covenants. Those are laws that are blocking the ability for patients to follow their doctors to different health systems. We're working to overturn those laws so we can again give our patients freedom of choice to follow their doctors.
The third thing we’re really working on is physician wellness. We realize our doctors are beginning to buckle under the strain of practicing nowadays. We want to make sure that they're physically well, have a good work-life balance, and are okay. We self-funded and launched an amazing physician wellness care program in 2024, that we hope makes a difference.
Can you talk a little bit about how you plan on better understanding members?
The way we know if we're doing our job well, the way that we know we're relevant, is if our members continue to join. When our membership doesn't go up, it means that we need to look at our model and revise it. We're in the process of doing that right now. We've got a much more gender diverse workforce than we've had in the past. We need to respond to their needs, so we're taking a timeout right now to look at our members. We're looking at why people leave, as well as the hopes and dreams of the new doctors coming onto the scene.
This year, we’ve got this incredible opportunity with this year with the Duquesne School of Osteopathic Medicine launching their first class.
Society News
This means that we're going to have a new supply of young physicians with [more new perspectives], and maybe even a different philosophical approach to healthcare.
We are so excited by this. Of course, we have to understand what our patients want, which I think we're pretty tuned into because so many of us are actively taking care of patients every day. However, we have to listen to what some of the new doctors are looking for, too. We're listening harder than ever because we want to make sure we're supplying what people are looking for.
What do you think are the most significant challenges ACMS will face in the coming year, and how are we positioned to address these challenges?
One of the biggest things we're seeing nowadays is how expensive healthcare has become, so we need to be businesspeople as well as caregivers. There was a situation that's just unfolded this past week where one of the insurance companies said that they were, as a cost saving measure, going to limit the length of surgical procedures. That's terrible. I think it's really the physician's job and organized medicine's job to step up and say this is not okay. People need and deserve the best care, and the best people to make that decision is our doctors. One of my favorite things about ACMS is that we’re not a corporation; the only thing we “sell” is good health.
We have to follow the news cycle more than ever to make sure we're responding to these things. We live in a digital age and misinformation is everywhere. It's important for us to listen to and see what our patients are being given as a perception of good health. We need to help them refine this perception and maybe ground it in reality to empower them to achieve their goals.
How do you think the incoming White House administration will affect ACMS?
I was fortunate to serve as Director of Practice Improvement at an agency within the United States Department
of Health and Human Services in Washington, DC, and I worked with the Domestic Policy Council at the White House. The administration is very curious about what is going on in healthcare. I think that as we, a physician group, improve our ability to communicate, we can become an increasing part of this discourse. We can tell them what we want. Regarding the politics of healthcare, we'd like to think that a lot of work we do is above politics. Our job is to help shape the message and respond to the things that we think are unjust, and we're ready for that.
The way organized medicine works is that the physicians have many voices at different levels. The AMA is typically our voice in Washington, and Pennsylvania Medical Society is our voice in Harrisburg. In Allegheny County, we're positioned to speak on behalf our local doctors. We can begin creating a vision of what Allegheny County physicians need and send it up that pipeline. I really feel that we have a direct link to Washington through our organized medicine chain.
What is something you are hopeful for next year?
What I would love to see is a new generation of doctors that are fired up to be part of organized medicine. I'm looking for all these new graduates of Allegheny County medical schools to join us. There is no question that the more doctors we have speaking up and participating, the stronger we are.
We realize that at ACMS only some of the county's doctors are members. We want to change that. The only way we're going to see change is by creating value. We have to make people want to be part of the organization. They have to see that we're serious, we're committed, and we can accomplish great things. It's our job to build this trust with our members.
Value is not a single person's vision. We have to get together as a professional community and try to figure out what “value” is. I think that we're seeing so much political activism
on the part of our new members, especially our young members. They want to be part of this. We're also realizing there's a lot of legislation that could be written better. If it is not favorable for physicians, it is often not favorable for our patients.
We regard it as our mission of justice to make sure that our patients are never harmed by corporations that are competing in the healthcare market.
What would you say to an ACMS member reading this article?
Get involved! Get your colleagues to join. Read the bulletin, attend our community meetings, participate in our continuing medical education. If you have questions about how your practice could be made better, make us your first call. Join a task force to help improve medicine. Step up and join. We hope to help bring more joy to your life as a medical professional, and we are certain that we can.
2025 Bulletin Cover Photo Contest Winners
Dancing Penguins Ronald Thomas, MD
Shadow Lake - Banff National Adam Tobias, MD
Jiuzhai Valley Sichuan 2017 Norman Wolmark, MD Butterfly Louis DiToppa, MD
Family Matters
Michal Lamb, MD
Me and My Friends
Terrance Starz, MD
Chatham Moonlight Andrew Eller, MD
Moraine Lake Keith Wharton, MD
Arnold Palmer Statue at Tralee Golf Club in Ireland
Marc Yester, MD
Great American Solar Eclipse - April 8, 2024
Alexandra Kreps, MD
Monument Valley Nina Verghis, MD
Moraine Lake Banff Canada Robert Cicco, MD
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CMS issued its Final Rule for the 2025 Medicare Physician Fee Schedule in November. The document is extensive and the full document can be found at www.cms.gov. For the purposes of this article, we are going to highlight the following:
1. Changes to the Physician Fee Schedule;
2. Pre-pandemic limitations to Medicare telehealth services;
3. Changes to Behavioral Health Services;
4. Expansion of Advanced Primary Care Management Services;
5. Flexibilities for Opioid Treatment Programs; and
6. New coding for Caregiver Training Services.
Physician Pay Cut
The most impactful change under the Final Rule is the change to the Physician Fee Schedule (PFS), which will reduce payments by an average of 2.93% in 2025 compared to the average amounts paid for these services in 2024. This amounts to an estimated PFS conversion factor of $32.35 in 2025, a decrease of $0.94 of the conversion factor of $33.29 in 2024. By way of background, the PFS was implemented in 1992. Each service was assigned 3 work relative value components (WRVUs), malpractice cost, and overhead cost. The units are added and multiplied by the conversion factor, which will provide for the average PFS reduction in 2025.
Telehealth Services under PFS
Another change under the Final Rule relates to the statutory limitations that were in place for Medicare telehealth services prior to
2025 Medicare Final Rule Highlights
By: Adam Appleberry, Esq. & Michael Cassidy, Esq.
the COVID-19 pandemic. Beginning January 1, 2025, many limitations will retake effect for telehealth services provided under Medicare, which includes geographic and location restrictions on where the services are provided as well as limitations on the scope of which practitioners can provide such Medicare telehealth services. The Final Rule does, however, maintain the expansion of the scope for some services, allowing for certain flexibilities within CMS’s authority. For example, CMS will continue to allow practitioners to provide telehealth services to Medicare beneficiaries from their homes using their practice address on the claim. CMS will also permit the use of two-way audioonly communication technology for telehealth services in certain situations where the patient is unable to use video technology. While most telehealth services will revert back to the preCOVID-19 pandemic restrictions, some flexibilities are extended, unless further Congressional action is taken.
Changes to Behavioral Health Services
For 2025, CMS is creating separate codes for safety planning interventions for patients in crisis, including those patients with suicidal ideations or at risk of suicide or overdose. Specifically, CMS finalized a G-code that may be billed in 20-minute increments when safety planning interventions are personally performed by the billing practitioner in a variety of settings. The Final Rule provides for a monthly billing code for specific protocols required that relate to post-discharge followup contacts performed in conjunction
with a discharge from the emergency department for a crisis encounter. Under this code, these contacts can be billed as a bundled service describing four calls in one month.
Advanced Primary Care Management (APCM) Services
CMS established three new codes to incorporate elements of several existing care management services, to include Principal Care Management, Transitional Care Management, and Chronic Care Management. Unlike existing care management codes, however, there will be no time-based thresholds for these service elements in attempt to reduce the administrative burden associated with current coding and billing.
Opioid Treatment Programs (OTPs)
CMS is making permanent certain flexibilities for allowing periodic assessments via audio-only telecommunications so long as all other applicable requirements are met. CMS is also allowing for the OTP intake add-on code for two-way audio-video communications when billed for the initiation of treatment with methadone if the OTP determines that an adequate evaluation of the patient can be accomplished via an audio-visual telehealth platform.
Caregiver Training Services (CTS)
New coding and payment for caregiver training for direct care services and supports has been finalized. These training topics may include, without limitation, techniques to prevent decubitus ulcer formation, wound care, and infection control. The Final Rule also provides that these CTS may be furnished via telehealth.
ACMS Board MeetingDecember 10, 2024
At the December 10th ACMS Board of Directors meeting, the Board had the privilege of welcoming Donald Yealy, MD, FACEP, Chief Medical Officer and Senior Vice President, Medical Director of the Health Services Division at UPMC, as the guest speaker. Dr. Yealy, a dedicated and active member of ACMS, engaged the Board in a meaningful discussion about the opportunities for partnership and collaboration between UPMC and the Allegheny County Medical Society.
During his presentation, Dr. Yealy outlined key areas where both organizations can work together to address the evolving needs of
physicians and enhance healthcare delivery across the region. He highlighted the shared mission of supporting county physicians and improving the overall health of the community. Furthermore, Dr. Yealy affirmed UPMC’s strong commitment to fostering a dynamic and collaborative relationship with ACMS, emphasizing the importance of aligning efforts to achieve common goals.
The Board expressed its gratitude for Dr. Yealy’s insights and pledged to continue exploring innovative ways to strengthen this partnership for the benefit of healthcare professionals and patients throughout Allegheny County.
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Matthew B. Straka, MD (ACMS Board Chair); Raymond E. Pontzer, MD (ACMS Board President), Donald Yealy, MD (UPMC CMO)
Physician Unionization Overview
By: James Latronica, DO, DFASAM
The Pennsylvania Medical Society (PAMED) recently created a task force charged with investigating the nature and implementation of collective bargaining units (i.e. unions) for physicians. ACMS wants to keep you updated on the progress of this task force as many misconceptions exist about the role of organized labor in medicine, especially when it comes to physician unions.
Q: Isn’t it illegal for physicians to unionize?
A: It is legal for physicians to unionize. Without delving too far into details, if you are a physician who is not in a position of hiring authority, you are permitted to unionize. This includes all resident and fellow physicians, and the vast majority of “employed” physicians (those who work for a hospital system or academic center).
Q: What’s the point of a union? I’m pretty happy with my employer and I’m fine with my contract.
A: Unions should not be viewed as a reaction to unfair or unsafe working conditions, though many do start in this way. Rather, much like physicians come together as a county or a state to leverage our collective wisdom for better policy, coming together in the workplace is a way to leverage your labor to drive sustainable change, and avoid less than ideal patient care or working conditions. We don’t only come together as a medical society to oppose especially disagreeable legislation, our collective work is always ongoing!
Q: Are there already physician unions?
A: There are several, and PAMED has been reaching out to various members of these unions to discuss their structure and function. As of now, the majority of unionized physicians in the US are residents and fellows, and those numbers continue to increase. The University of Pennsylvania residents and fellows became the first resident physician union in Pennsylvania last year.
Q: What is PAMED’s role in this?
A: The charge was broad, but the task force is looking into various options. Recommending a certain union to members, facilitating organizing, or allying with already existing unions are all possibilities. The task force is working with in-house council to make sure it’s asking the right questions and collecting the correct information for the Board.
Q: Can’t I just join a union now on my own? Why does PAMED even need to be involved?
A: A physician could potentially join a union at any time, assuming they are legally eligible. A collective bargaining unit is generally based on where you work, and starting a union from scratch at a hospital system is an enormous effort. Some unions (or guilds) can function without everyone having the same employer and/or physical location, but these specific circumstances vary widely. PAMED is looking at all possibilities so that members can have full knowledge of various options.
Q: Wouldn’t it be unethical for physicians to strike? Wouldn’t we be
abandoning patients?
A: This is one of those “way down the line” questions, but because the concern is so prevalent we’d be remiss to not mention it. When we think of organized labor/unions, work stoppages/strikes often immediately come to mind. What should come to mind first is the ability for our collective labor power to induce positive, sustainable, and reproducible change for our patients and ourselves, well before any work stoppage would be considered. Additionally, health care workers across the spectrum also have specific rules about how and when they can strike.
“Physician unionization has, over the course of the past few years, moved from a rare occurrence to a nationwide movement. PAMED sees unionization as one of many ways PAMED can keep physicians central to patient care. It is critical for physicians and their patients to have a clear understanding of the various implications of unionization so that each physician can make an informed choice and successfully navigate these relatively uncharted waters. PAMED recognizes that it has an important role to play in helping physicians in this process and is currently working to determine just what that role should be.”
- Dr. Wilson F. Jackson III Chair of the PAMED Unionization Task Force
Prioritizing Infant Feeding in Southwestern PA
The Launch of Babies in the Burgh Mobile Unit
By: Megs Yunn – Beverly's PGH
Beverly's PGH is excited to announce the launch of the Babies in the Burgh Mobile Unit, affectionately known as Babs. This innovative vehicle hit the roads in August 2024 and is an extension of the Greater Pittsburgh Infant Formula Bank, established in June 2022. Beverly's PGH mission is to celebrate and strengthen families in Southwestern PA through its three divisions: Birthdays, Babies, and Basics. The Greater Pittsburgh Infant Formula Bank lives under the baby division.
The Greater Pittsburgh Infant Formula Bank has seven brick-and-mortar locations throughout Southwestern PA. The introduction of the mobile unit significantly expands access to infant formula, particularly in rural areas and transportation deserts. Designed for families expecting a child or with a child under the age of one, 'Babs' offers infant formula, baby items, community resource information, and access to a certified lactation counselor available on-site to address any infant feeding concerns.
Since its launch, Babs has made 17 crucial stops within Southwestern PA
and supported 248 families from an impressive 81 zip codes. Notably, 38% of the babies receiving assistance were born preterm, highlighting the unit's commitment to supporting some of our most vulnerable infants.
The mobile unit does more than provide essential supplies; it bridges gaps in education, resources, and support, especially for families in rural areas who may struggle to access resources. Having a certified lactation counselor readily available exemplifies effective public health practices at work. Beverly's PGH is taking vital steps to break down barriers and ensure equitable access to infant feeding support.
Since its inception, the Greater Pittsburgh Infant Formula Bank has Beverly's supervised over 3,000 babies in the region—a service that is truly unique in Pennsylvania and often scarce across the country.
In 2025, Beverly's PGH will launch the Infant Feeding Collaborative (IFC) through The Greater Pittsburgh Infant Formula Bank. This initiative will create a network of dedicated professionals and organizations to ensure equity in infant feeding practices. The mission of the Collaborative is to break down barriers by encouraging collaboration and information sharing among healthcare providers, retail distributors, food assistance programs, educators, and community organizations. The Collaborative will support families in feeding choices and raise awareness about infant hunger, aiming to promote education, choice, and wellness for all. If you are interested in learning more about the Infant Feeding Collaborative and how you can get involved, contact Darla Sherlock, Sr. Director of Programming, dsherlock@beverlyspgh. org.
To discover more about The Greater Pittsburgh Infant Formula Bank, visit www.pghformulabank.org.
Beverly’s Pittsburgh staff at a mobile stop with partner agency Mosaic
Interior of ‘Babs’, filled with essential baby items and infant formula
Lactation consultation station and education station
Letter to the Editor Is Our Empathy Sustainable?
By: Anthony Kovatch, MD
I read with great encouragement and introspection the article entitled “We Speak Now of Doctors…and Poets” by Dr Michael Lamb in the October edition of the ACMS Bulletin. I absolutely agree that we physicians are subconsciously trained in the art of our practice, not only by the poetry, but equally by the prose (especially the kind that is stylistically doing what poetry is supposed to do), we ventured to reflect upon during our formative years of general and medical education. I imagine that author Thornton Wilder was preaching to all who performed in, seriously read, or even sat in the audience, of the play “Our Town” (or its silver screen adaptation) during Emily Webb’s heart-rending soliloquy as she intends to die in childbirth:
I can’t. I can’t go on. It goes so fast. We don’t have time to look at one another. I didn’t realize. All that was going on in life, and we never noticed. Take me back – up the hill – to my grave. But first: Wait! One more look. Good-by, world, Oh, earth, you’re too wonderful for anybody to realize you. Do any human beings ever realize life while they live it? ---every, every minute?
The omniscient narrator finally breaks the silence: No. The saints and POETS, maybe they do some.
I did not join Dr. Lamb in his admiration for William Carlos Williams until I, like the poet, was a practicing pediatrician and read his autobiography. I was not conversant with his oeuvre, outside of his monumental work “Paterson” ---referring to the hardened, industrial city in northeast New Jersey, bordering the classically suburban city of Clifton on the north. Although
the threatening streets of downtown Paterson were to be avoided, we in Clifton had no reservations about crossing the Passaic River and exploring the town of Rutherford where Williams was born in 1883, died in 1963, and practiced for most of his medical career. Years ago, I visited the author’s home—now a landmark--- and reflected on our shared guilt that we had “stolen time” from our wives and our children because of professional aspirations; we also shared requests for alumni donations from Penn.
To this day, I continue to carry around my old worn-out black bag--as I have done for over 40 years--and counting.
Speaking of Penn, my own “mentor” entering the medical field in high school and college was Scottish physician
and researcher, Archibald Joseph (AJ) Cronin. His bellwether novel “The Citadel”—a semi-autobiography— details a young doctor’s empathetic involvement with coal miners in Wales whose contamination through chronic inhalation of coal dust leads to silicosis (researched at the same time when he was experiencing newlyfounded marital bliss). As his career progresses, we follow his descent into moral obfuscation when he joins a prosperous practice in a big city which caters to wealthy patients with largely psychosomatic issues who are treated with placebos (with consequent deterioration of his marriage), and, ultimately, the reconciliation of his moral principles with the purer ideals of his early career with the miners and his forgiving wife (who later dies in an accident). The story highlights the challenges faced by Dr. Andrew Manson--a newcomer to medicine--whose high ideals conflicted with the ethics and entrenched nature of the medical establishment (symbolized by "the citadel”), whose standards he strives to improve and whose greed and corruption he succeeds in overcoming. I often recollect the novel’s haunting closing lines, especially when I run on the Northside of Pittsburgh and puzzle over the illogical refuge of the homeless camping out in tent colonies during the bitter winter cold:
But there was no doubt in his mind as to what he wished to do… he entered the cemetery, stood a long time at Christine’s grave, thinking of many things. When at last he turned away, hastening for fear he should be late, there in the sky before him a bank of
clouds lay brightly, bearing the shape of battlements.
Which physician poets and novelists are mentoring the current generation of those devoted to entering our sacred, but challenged, field? My youngest son Joe, a resident in anesthesiology, was so inspired by “When Breath Becomes Air” by Paul Kalanithi (2016) that he bought me a copy and forced me to
read it; the autobiography is a memoir about Paul’s life, focusing on his years as a neurosurgery resident at Stanford battling stage IV metastatic lung cancer and on the birth of his daughter before his inevitable death.
Ethiopian-born novelist Abraham Verghese—author of “Cutting for Stone” (2010) and “The Covenant of Water” (2023)---and Paul Farmer, the protagonist of his biography written by Tracy Kidder in 2003 entitled “Mountains Beyond Mountains,” continue to inspire our upcoming generation, especially those hoping to make an impact on patients who suffer because the social determinants of health put them at greater risk for neglect at home and abroad. In the 21st century, the role of social media
has expanded, as evidenced by the popularity of non-fiction writers like Sanjay Gupta (also a neurosurgeon), author of “Keep Sharp.” Contributors to this genre of medical writing include op-ed pundits like Jerome Groopman, staff writer for the New Yorker since 1998 and author of 2007 bestseller “How Doctors Think.”
Finally, who of us will lead the charge against burnout in the present day and age---so that we can keep practicing our art with lofty intentions, like the young Dr Andrew Manson? I believe that the pre-medical and medical students and writers of this generation will assume this critical role and answer the question that challenges all of us: Is our empathy sustainable?
Medical License Renewal FAQ
What You Need to Know Before the
Year Ends
As we near the end of the year, it’s essential for Pennsylvania physicians to understand the implications of missing renewal deadlines, special considerations for retired physicians, and how to address CME deficiencies. Here's what you need to know: What Happens If I Don’t Renew My License on Time?
Failing to renew your license by the deadline means your license will expire, and you cannot legally practice medicine until it is reactivated.
Here’s what you need to do:
1. Log into PALS and submit a reactivation application.
• Click on the pencil icon next to your license number to begin.
2. Pay applicable fees, including late penalties.
3. Reactivation requires review and may take additional processing time.
Important: Practicing medicine without a valid license can result in severe penalties, including fines and administrative, civil, or criminal consequences.
Key Deadlines for Late Renewals
• DOs: The Renewal deadline has passed. It was November 30th, 2024. Applications submitted after this date are considered late.
• MDs: Renewal deadline is December 31st, 2024.
Are There Renewal Options for Retired Physicians?
If you are retired but wish to maintain your license, you have two options:
• Active License: Renew your license if you plan to consult or return to practice, even part-time.
• Retired License Status: This status does not allow active practice but maintains your license in retirement.
To apply for retired status, complete the request through PALS. Note that a retired license is not subject to renewal fees or CME requirements.
What If I Don’t
Have Enough CME Credits?
The state requires a specific number of continuing medical education (CME) credits for renewal:
• General requirements include 100 total credits, with 20 in patient safety or risk management.
• There are additional specific requirements for topics like child abuse and opioid management. If you do not meet the requirements:
1. Delay and Reactivate: If the deadline passes, you will need to apply for reactivation once you complete your CME obligations.
2. Seek Extensions: Contact the Pennsylvania Board of Medicine or Board of Osteopathic Medicine for guidance. Extensions are rare but may be granted under special circumstances.
3. Prioritize Completion: Look for expedited CME programs, many of which are available online to meet immediate needs.
Quick Tips for a Smooth Late Renewal
• Double-check documentation: Ensure your CME certificates and other materials are ready for submission.
• Follow up regularly: Track the status of your reactivation through your PALS dashboard.
• Avoid last-minute errors: Carefully review all application details and payment information before submission.
For assistance, contact PALS support via:
• Ticket System: Expect a 72-hour turnaround.
• Phone:
• Board of Medicine: (717) 783-1400
• Board of Osteopathic Medicine: (717) 783-4858
• Email: ra-stpalscallcenter@ pa.gov
Let’s close out 2024 with all our physicians ready to continue their essential work without interruption. Don’t delay—act now to complete your renewal or reactivation.
Additional Resources: The state medical society offers a more robust FAQ section. Login to your member account access the resources.
PAMED Website: www.pamedsoc.org
Knowledge Center Phone: (800) 228-7823
Knowledge Center Email: knowledgecenter@pamedsoc.org
Society News
Specialty Group Updates
December 2024
By: Nadine Popovich, Melanie Mayer and Haley Thon
Allegheny County Immunization Coalition (ACIC) — 2024 Chair - Patrick Hussey, PharmD, MBA: The Allegheny County Immunization Coalition (ACIC) has been actively working on several initiatives to enhance immunization efforts in the community. Recently, Sarah Hoover, a pharmacist and clinical director at Acorx, gave a presentation on the latest advancements in immunization practices and the role of pharmacists in improving vaccination rates. She shared innovative strategies for increasing community engagement and highlighted successful case studies from Acorx's recent initiatives. Additionally, the Outreach Committee reported on a successful community vaccination drive held in November, which saw over 500 individuals receiving vaccinations. The committee is planning more outreach events for the upcoming year to further increase immunization coverage in the county. The ACIC is also focusing on grant prospecting and sustainability planning to explore new opportunities for growth and impact.
Allegheny County Immunization Coalition membership is free and funded by our grants. All healthcare professionals with an interest in vaccination are welcome. See our website for full details www. immunizeallegheny.org
American College of Surgeons
Southwestern Pennsylvania Chapter (ACS-SWPA) — 2024 President –Richard Fortunato, DO, FACS: The council has been actively working on several important initiatives. It is collaborating with the National Chapter on the ACS Chapter Dues Billing Project
and planning events for 2025, including 3 Residents programs: "Debates and Dilemmas" in March, "Most Interesting Cases" in May, and "Surgical Jeopardy" in October. New opportunities for networking and professional development for active surgeons are also being explored. The council is focused on filling leadership positions and strengthening its efforts to recruit new Fellows to become active in the chapter.
Pennsylvania Geriatric Society Western Division (PAGS-WD) — 2024 President - Heather Sakely, PharmD, BCPS, BCGP: The PAGS-WD Welcomes their new Chapter Administrator, and new ACMS staff member, Haley Thon to the organization. Haley can be reached at hthon@acms.org.
Fall Program Recap
On November 6, The PA Geriatric Society - Western Division gathered at the PNC Champions Club for their Annual Fall Program, celebrating an incredible evening of recognition and insightful discussions.
With four prestigious awards presented and a fantastic turnout, it was a night full of inspiration and connection. A huge thank you to our speakers and everyone who joined us!
Save the date for the 33rd Annual Virtual Clinical Update in Geriatric Medicine to be held on April 24-25, 2025, Visit the website for more information and to stay up to date on the conference - https://pagswd.org/ Clinical-Update-in-Geriatric-Medicine
The Pittsburgh Ophthalmology Society (POS) — 2024 PresidentPamela P. Rath, MD: The Pittsburgh Ophthalmology Society welcomed
Lauren Blieden, MD in December.
Over 60 POS members gathered on December 12 in the PNC Champions Club to welcome guest faculty Lauren Blieden, MD, Associate Professor, Ophthalmology Department Glaucoma; Assistant Clinical Professor, Alkek Eye Center, Cullen Eye Institute Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX. Thank you to Ian Conner, MD, PhD, board member, for extending the invitation to Dr. Blieden to present and to the following companies for their support of the meeting: Alcon, Nova Eye Medical and Viatris.
Dr. Blieden, who specializes in Glaucoma, presented two interesting lectures “Lessons We’ve Learned From Kids” and “the Narrow Angle” both stimulating a vibrant question and answer session with the audience.
Crystal Lee, MD Resident at the University of Pittsburgh, Department of Ophthalmology, presented an
Dr. Kraus
Crystal Lee, MD (2nd Year Resident) Pamela
and
interesting case for commentary by Dr. Blieden.
The Society will kick off its 2025 monthly meetings on January 9, 2025, with a presentation by Courtney Kraus, MD, Assistant Professor of Ophthalmology at the Wilmer Eye Institute in Philadelphia, PA.
Dr. Kraus is a renowned specialist in pediatric ophthalmology and adult strabismus, including amblyopia (lazy eye), with a focused interest in pediatric cataract and corneal diseases. Beyond her clinical expertise, she is deeply committed to global outreach and has actively participated in surgical mission trips to underserved communities in the developing world.
60th Annual Meeting and 45th Ophthalmic Personnel Meeting – slated for March 21, 2025
The Pittsburgh Ophthalmology Society (POS), led by President Pamela P. Rath, MD, is proud to announce the 60th Annual Meeting and 45th Annual Meeting for Ophthalmic Personnel, scheduled for Friday, March 21, 2025, at the Omni William Penn Hotel in Pittsburgh, PA. These events provide a premier platform for education and networking, fostering professional growth in a collegial setting. The Society is honored to announce the
44th Annual Harvey E. Thorpe Lecturer, Ralph C. Eagle, Jr., MD, a globally recognized expert in ophthalmic pathology from Wills Eye Hospital. Dr. Eagle's contributions to the field include his renowned textbook on eye pathology and numerous prestigious accolades. Esteemed guest faculty members, including Kendall E. Donaldson, MD, MS; Peter A. Netland, MD, PhD; and Mark A. Rolain, MD, will share cutting-edge insights on various ophthalmic topics.
The 45th Annual Meeting for Ophthalmic Personnel will run concurrently, offering participants the opportunity to earn up to 7 IJCAHPO credit hours, pending approval. Course directors Avni Vyas, MD; Cari Lyle, MD; Jeffrey Wincko, MD; and Gideon Nkrumah, MD, have prepared a dynamic program with highlights such as a skills workshop led by Jane Shuman, MSM, COT, COE, OSC, and a risk management course by Dr. Rolain on behalf of the Ophthalmic Mutual Insurance Company (OMIC). Sessions will cover critical topics like diabetic retinopathy, ocular emergencies, and pediatric ophthalmology, featuring respected local faculty.
ACMS Alliance: The Allegheny Medical Society Alliance held its annual holiday luncheon on Saturday, December 7, at South Hills Country Club. The event, chaired by Patty Barnett and sponsored by Dr. and Mrs. L. C. Wible, was a very merry occasion with poinsettias and snowmen adorning the tables.
A holiday raffle added to the excitement, with proceeds benefiting Operation Safety Net, an organization led by Dr. Jim Withers of Mercy Hospital that, among other efforts, helps clothe the homeless in the greater Pittsburgh area. In addition, the Alliance is making both a monetary donation and a donation of winter hats and socks to Operation Safety Net. Entertainment was provided by Sean Moran, a wellknown vocal performer who also sings with The Vogues.
Rath, MD, (President) Lauren Blieden, MD (Guest Faculty)
Ian P. Conner, MD, PhD
Sharon Wible, Barbara Wible, Liz Blum, Tina Purpera, Kathleen Lee, Patty Barnett
Rachel Wible (Granddaughter of Dr. and Mrs. L.C.Wible)
Tina Purpera
