MISSION: TO PROMOTE THE PRACTICE OF MEDICINE FOR THE ULTIMATE BENEFIT OF THE PATIENT. (850) 877-9018 Fax: (850) 878-0218 www.capmed.org
BOARD OF GOVERNORS
John L. Meade, M.D., President
Brence Sell, M.D., President-Elect
Amy Reimer Neal, M.D., MBA, Secretary/Treasurer
Russell Cole, M.D., Immediate Past President
Kristin A. Harmon, M.D.
Alex Ho, M.D.
Narayan Iyer, M.D.
Alexander Loeb, M.D.
Michelle Miller, M.D.
Mary Norton, M.D.
Cielo Rose, D.O.
Enrique Urrea-Mendoza, M.D.
Leanne Dickhute, CMS Alliance President
Tom Block, MS, Executive Director, CMS
PUBLICATION
EDITOR
Frank Skilling, M.D.
GRAPHIC DESIGN
Lauren Trudgeon
Please
MANAGING EDITOR
Shannon Boyle
EDITOR EMERITUS
Charles E. Moore, M.D.
UPCOMING CMS MEETINGS/EVENTS
Tuesday, April 14
CMS Membership and CME
“Why Drilling Isn’t Enough: Managing Dental Caries Like Any Other Chronic Disease”
Presenters: Astrid Gonzalez, D.D.S. and Mary P. Norton, M.D. 6:00 pm
The Maguire Center for Lifelong Learning at Westminster Oaks
Tuesday, May 19
CMS Membership Meeting
"Caring for Patients with Opioid Use Disorder: Evidence-Based Practice, Legal Considerations, and Compassionate Care" 5:30 pm
Goodwood Museum & Gardens Carriage House
Saturday, June 6
Physician and Family Wellness Day 10:00 am – 2:00 pm
The Pickle Pad
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• Surgical Critical Care Fellowship
At MagMutual, every decision we make is focused on the physicians and healthcare organizations we serve. We’ve designed our comprehensive medical professional liability coverages, unmatched support and revolutionary advice and analytical tools to protect you from the risks you face as a healthcare provider today. And as one of the top medical professional liability insurance providers in the U.S., MagMutual consistently gives back more rewards than our peers. * At MagMutual, it’s not about us; it’s about you.
HAPPY BIRTHDAY! WE ARE SO GLAD YOU WERE BORN! DID WE MISS YOUR BIRTHDAY? IF SO, PLEASE EMAIL ROSALIE CARLIN AT RCARLIN@CAPMED.ORG!
Amy Reimer Neal, M.D., MBA - 3rd
Amir Aboutalebi, M.D. - 4th
Brandon Cabarcas, M.D. - 4th
Emily Brown Macbeth, M.D. - 4th
Duncan S. Postma, M.D. - 4th
Rebekah Hough, D.O. - 5th
William "Barry" Bradley, M.D. - 6th
Maria Andrews, M.D. - 7th
Laura Harrison, M.D. - 7th
Randy R. Reese, M.D. - 7th
Jesse L. Judelle, M.D. - 9 th
Terry McCoy, M.D. - 10 th
Vikki McKinnie, M.D. - 10 th
Michael Tompkins, M.D. - 11th
Mansukhlal Padalia, M.D. - 12 th
Denver Joe Stutler, M.D. - 12 th
J. Anthony Giralt, M.D. - 13th
David D. Miles, M.D. - 13th
{APRIL BIRTHDAYS}
Hank Hutchinson, M.D. - 16th
Stephanie Lee, M.D. - 18 th
Wendy Somerset, M.D. - 18 th
Sreeja Choppara, D.O. - 19 th
Julia Baek, M.D. - 20 th
Petronella Bell, M.D. - 20 th
Lisa M. Cook, M.D. - 20 th
I. Wayne Freilich, M.D. - 20 th
Harley Ponder, M.D. - 20 th
R. James Mabry, M.D. - 21 st
Jana Bures-Forsthoefel, M.D. - 24th
Genevieve Austen Patrick, M.D. - 24th
James A. Davenport, M.D. - 25th
Clifton J. Bailey, M.D. - 27th
Julian E. Hurt, M.D. - 30 th
Douglas Mancuso, M.D. - 30 th
HAPPY BIRTHDAY! WE ARE SO GLAD YOU WERE BORN! DID WE MISS YOUR BIRTHDAY? IF SO, PLEASE EMAIL ROSALIE CARLIN AT RCARLIN@CAPMED.ORG!
WILLIAM T. "TYLER"
BALDOCK, SR., D.D.S.
1945 – 2026
JAMES C. PENROD, M.D.
1941 – 2026
In Memoriam
REMEMBERING DR. EARL MCKENZIE
Earl McKenzie, III, M.D. died recently in Tallahassee. He was 83
Earl was one of the premier interventional cardiologists in Tallahassee, and he performed the first cardiac angioplasty at Tallahassee Memorial Hospital. He was also president of the Capital Medical Society in 1986.
Earl was born in Montezuma, GA. He attended Emory University for three years before matriculating to Emory University School of Medicine. After graduating, he served as a U.S. Navy medical officer, including one year in Vietnam with the Marine Corps. He completed his cardiology fellowship at the University of Alabama in Birmingham School of Medicine.
In 1974, he moved to Tallahassee where he joined a group of internists that later became the Southern Medical Group. The group provided specialized cardiac and internal medical care for thousands of residents of this area.
Earl was recognized as a compassionate physician who elevated the level of cardiac care for Tallahassee and the surrounding areas.
CAPITAL MEDICAL SOCIETY 2026 LUNCH
AND LEARN SEMINARS
On March 11th, Maria S. Hossain, Magie Ozarowski, and Deborah Minnis with Ausley McMullen, provided an excellent presentation: Post, Like, Terminate? Managing Employee Social Media without Breaking the Law. We thank Emily Cunard with Privia Health for sponsoring this Lunch and Learn.
MARK YOUR CALENDARS FOR OUR 2026 LUNCH AND LEARN SEMINARS:
Cost: $13 per person, per seminar (includes lunch)
September 16
October 21
November 18
For more information or to RSVP, please contact Rosalie Carlin at (850) 877-9018 or rcarlin@capmed.org.
Seminars will be held at the Capital Health Plan on Governors Square Blvd. –and we thank CHP for providing this venue.
The CMS Trivia Night on March 5th at Ology Northside was a huge hit! The winning team was the Hyperopians, consisting of Dr. John L. and Vicki Meade, Dr. Frank and Karen Skilling, and Dr. Nicky Nelson. A big thanks to radio personality Greg Tish for serving as our trivia host for the evening!
We hope to see you at our next Trivia Night in the fall!
SHINGLES VACCINE PROTECTIVE AGAINST DEMENTIA?
HEALTHCARE OR HYPE?
By Russell Cole, M.D., CMS Immediate Past President
In these days of click-bait and “fake news,” I was recently both surprised and skeptical to hear that adult vaccination against herpes zoster (shingles) may help prevent dementia. This sounded too farfetched. Medicine, however, is good at surprising and humbling me. Evidence has been growing over the last ten years that neurotropic viruses, such as shingles, may play a role in the development of seemingly unrelated chronic diseases like dementia1. If this is the case, preventing shingles could help prevent dementia.
Two recent papers, one in “Nature” and the other in “Nature Medicine,” took advantage of what the authors call “natural experiments” to examine this. Both used dramatic market driven changes in zoster vaccine availability to look at the relationship between shingles vaccination and development of dementia. In both cases, the authors argue that these availability “events” resulted in “quasi-randomization” of people on either side of the event in such a way that should randomize their other characteristics. So, while technically retrospective cohort studies, the authors argue their work lends stronger than normal support for a causal relationship between vaccination and lower rates of dementia.
The paper in “Nature” by Eyting, et al. 2 took advantage of the fact that in Wales, U.K., the birth date of September 2, 1933 was used as a sharp demarcation regarding eligibility to receive the live attenuated zoster vaccine (Zostavax). Those born before this date were ineligible to receive the vaccine as adults while those born on or after this date were eligible. The unified health system and electronic medical record allowed the authors to compare over the seven years after the vaccine became available rates of dementia diagnosis in those born the week before 9/2/33 versus those born in the week after. The vaccination rate increased from 0.1% to 47% between these 2 weeks. Over the seven years following vaccine availability, dementia diagnosis was found to be 20% lower in those vaccinated versus those not vaccinated. This equated to a 3.5% absolute risk reduction of dementia diagnosis over the follow-up period. Interestingly, the benefit was higher for women than men.
Taquet et al.3, in “Nature Medicine,” used a different natural experiment to compare the impact of recombinant zoster vaccine (Shingrix) to those vaccinated with live attenuated zoster vaccine (Zostavax). The clear superiority in efficacy and safety of the recombinant vaccine against shingles compared to the live attenuated version resulted in late 2017 in a rapid adoption of the
recombinant vaccine and disuse of the live attenuated vaccine. The study used electronic health record data to compare essentially the last 103,837 people vaccinated before this abrupt change over with the first 103,837 people vaccinated afterward. In the six years that followed, those receiving the recombinant vaccine enjoyed 17% more time dementia free compared to those vaccinated with the live attenuated vaccine. This impact was again significantly greater in women than men (22% more time disease free vs. 13%, respectively). The effect also appeared to apply to broadly across most dementia types, though not to frontotemporal or Lewy body dementia.
The authors of both studies apply various statistical methods to check their work and draw additional interesting conclusions. Both articles are referenced below, and available free of charge via a simple search using your preferred search engine. I encourage anyone interested to look them up.
Brass tacks, the early data pointing toward the shingles vaccine having a protective effect against the most common types of dementia is strong enough that this effect is very likely real. We do not yet have randomized trial data demonstrating this effect, but the two natural experiments described here are highly suggestive that such a protective effect actually exists and is likely stronger for the currently available recombinant Shingrix vaccine than its predecessor. In counseling patients, I have always thought that Shingrix’s demonstrated safety and efficacy against shingles itself was more than enough reason to strongly recommend vaccination. This new data suggesting an additional benefit of reduced dementia risk has strengthened my counseling for vaccination in those over 50.
This is a fascinating story that I certainly didn’t see coming. It will be interesting to see where the data finally lead regarding effect size, gender specific impact, and durability of any protection. Given how little we have to treat dementia, I cannot think of a diagnosis in our time for which this could be better news.
References
1. Wainberg, M. et al. The viral hypothesis: how herpesviruses may contribute to Alzheimer’s disease. Molecular Psychiatry 26, 5476–5480 (2021).
2. Eyting, M. et al. A natural experiment on the effect of herpes zoster vaccination on dementia. Nature 641, 438-446 (2025).
3. Taquet, M. et al. The recombinant shingles vaccine is associated with lower risk of dementia. Nature Medicine 30, 2777-2781 (2024)
CAPITAL MEDICAL SOCIETY CELEBRATION AWARDS DINNER
MARCH
24,
In honor of Doctors’ Day, the Capital Medical Society recognized two physicians with annual awards. Dr. Dan Kaelin was presented the I.B. Harrison, M.D. Humanitarian Award, and Dr. Tom Truman was presented the Thomas L. Hicks, M.D. Outstanding Physician Award.
The I.B. Harrison, M.D. Humanitarian Award is named for the late Dr. I.B. “Bud” Harrison, a pioneer in medicine in Tallahassee, who set the standard for compassionate, community-minded healthcare.
The Thomas L. Hicks, M.D. Outstanding Physician Award is named for the late Dr. Thomas L. Hicks, the first recipient of the award, who demonstrated leadership through organized medicine, political activities, and clinical excellence.
Congratulations, Dr. Kaelin and Dr. Truman!
Title Sponsor
Presenting Sponsors
Supporting Sponsors
Audiology Associates of North Florida
Hancock Whitney
HCA Florida Capital Hospital
Be Strong Therapy Services
Capital Pediatrics
FSU College of Medicine
- Tallahassee Regional Campus
MagMutual
Jitendra and Kokila Padalia
Tallahassee Ear, Nose & Throat, P.A.
Tallahassee Pediatric Foundation
Event Sponsors
KWB Pathology Associates
North Florida Pediatric Associates
NutritionAbbey.com
In-Kind Sponsor
Betsy Barfield Photography
TMH Federal Credit Union
Truist Wealth and Truist Mortgage
Westminster Oaks
Tallahassee Pediatrics
VITAS Healthcare
We thank the following donors who recently made a gift to the CMS Foundation:
Capital Medical Society Foundation – Area of Greatest Need
Robin McDougall, LCSW
Terence Reisman, M.D.
We Care Network
David Beggs
The CMS Foundation Scholarship Fund
David Bellamy, M.D. – In Memory of Alice Adeline Abbitt
David Bellamy, M.D. – In Memory of James D. Geissinger, M.D.
David Bellamy, M.D. – In Memory of Margret Ann Martin
David Bellamy, M.D. – In Memory of Earl McKenzie, M.D.
Capital Medical Society Foundation – FSU College of Medicine Tallahassee Regional Campus Food Pantry
Anonymous
Elaine Geissinger – In Honor of Hardworking Medical Students
David Jones, M.D.
Mr. C. Phillips and Terry Phillips –In Memory of James D. Geissinger, M.D.
The Charles D. “Pedro” Williams, M.D. Scholarship Endowment
Charles D. Williams, M.D. – In Honor of William Yaakob, M.D.
Gifts may be made by credit card or direct debit at https://capmed.org/donate/, or by check. Checks should be made payable to the CMS Foundation. Indicate on the memo line of your check to which designation you would like to give. Bring your check to the CMS Office or mail it: Capital Medical Society Foundation, 1204 Miccosukee Road, Tallahassee, FL 32308.
If you would like to discuss a gift of appreciated securities, an insurance policy, designation of retirement plan assets, estate gift, or multi-year pledge, please contact Tom Block at tblock@capmed.org or (850) 321-1648.
FLORIDA ASSOCIATION OF FREE AND CHARITABLE CLINICS DAY AT THE CAPITOL: FEBRUARY 18, 2026
The Florida Association of Free and Charitable Clinics (FAFCC) coordinated several of its members and constituents from across the state of Florida on February 18 in an effort to both support the $9.5 million recurring funding for healthcare services and to advocate for an additional $3 million appropriation this year. The additional $3 million appropriation was first approved in 2023 to fund dental and mental health services. Diana Bixler, MPH, Program Coordinator for the We Care Network, and Tom Block, MS, Executive Director for the Capital Medical Society Foundation met in
Tallahassee at the Governor’s Club. There, the FAFCC members heard from a local healthcare lobbyist, Gray Robinson, and had an opportunity to network with one another. Members later went to the Capitol building to meet with State Legislators, including their individual district Representatives. FAFCC is a major supporter of the Capital Medical Society Foundation’s We Care Network program, providing funding for personnel, programmatic, and operational costs. The We Care Network is grateful to be an FAFCC member and grantee.
With the largest attendance to-date, over 50 members representing clinics from around the state of Florida showed up to support FAFCC’s 2026 Day at the Capitol and advocate for the $9.5 million State Funds Grant appropriation.
HALF CAFFEINE, FULL SOCIAL WORKER
By Diana K. Bixler, MPH, Jean McCully We Care Network Program Coordinator
March is Social Work Month, and this is a great time to spotlight our social workers in the We Care Network program. Through their passion to serve our community, compassion for all walks of life, empathy toward our patients, advocacy for our volunteer physicians and dentists, and an altruistic approach to healthcare, our program not only functions but thrives. Without social workers, the healthcare system can be overwhelmingly complex to navigate. With them (and a steady flow of caffeine), it feels less heavy because our patients know they are not alone. Below, you will hear from our four Case Managers about what it means to them to work in this field. Even though this is their month, we appreciate our social workers all year long!
KELLY SMITH, BS
Jefferson, Madison, and Taylor County Case Manager
The profession of social work plays a vital role in the community by advocating for vulnerable individuals and populations who are oppressed or living in poverty. Social work is a profession grounded in compassion, empathy, and advocacy. I chose the social work profession because I felt that it was a great fit for me.
“I am only one, but I am one. I cannot do everything, but I can do something. And I will not let what I cannot do interfere with what I can do.”
- Edward Everett Hale
ASHLEIGH JORDAN, BSW
Gadsden County Case Manager
As a Case Manager for the We Care Network, I have the opportunity to help members of our community secure the specialty medical services they require. All individuals should have access to healthcare, and I am committed to contributing to that effort.
“The most important thing is to have a sense of responsibility, commitment, and concern for each of our fellow human beings.”
- Dalai Lama XIV
MYRIAM JOSEPH, MSW
Wakulla County Case Manager
I recently graduated from Florida State University with my Master’s in Social Work. I’m passionate about serving others and helping people access the resources they need. My role at the We Care Network allows me to see firsthand how life-changing access to medical care can be for patients in our community. Receiving gratitude from patients reminds me why I chose this field and motivates me to continue making a difference. Although I am just starting my career, I hope to gain a lot of knowledge and experience along the way. The world is constantly changing, and I believe we have the power to help shape that change by supporting and uplifting our communities. My dream is to one day become the CEO of a nonprofit organization that continues to make that kind of impact by providing support and access to care for those who need it most.
“My mission in life is not merely to survive, but to thrive; and to do so with some passion, some compassion, some humor, and some style.”
- Maya Angelou
SHONDA
DAVIS, MSW
Dental Coordinator and Senior Case Manager
There are so many different kinds of social work. We keep doing it, and most times we dedicate our days and nights to making humanity better, or we make time in our busy schedules to help others. Despite the hard work, the rewards are many.
“There is no greater joy nor greater reward than to make a fundamental difference in someone’s life.”
- Mary Rose McGeady
Monthly Recaps
RECEIVED 358 REFERRALS, WITH 173 PATIENTS NEW TO THE PROGRAM
During the months of December 2025 and January 2026, the We Care Network....
$1,246,849 IN DONATED CARE WAS REPORTED BY WE CARE NETWORK VOLUNTEERS
SCHEDULED 560 APPOINTMENTS WITH VOLUNTEER PHYSICIANS AND DENTISTS
The We Care Network program thanks our referring and donating providers.
To our CMS members and We Care Network partners who provided healthcare to new patients in December 2025 and January 2026, your generosity and support of the We Care Network makes a difference.
Visit capmed.org/we-care-network to view a detailed list of providers for December 2025 and January 2026.
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