Cap Scan - March 2024

DAVID HUANG, M.D. –RECIPIENT OF THE 2024 I.B. HARRISON, M.D.

HUMANITARIAN AWARD

By Shannon Boyle, CMS Communications and Events Coordinator

The Capital Medical Society is pleased to announce Dr. David Huang as the recipient of the 2024 I.B. Harrison, M.D. Humanitarian Award. Each year, this award is presented to a physician who demonstrates dedication to the humanitarian values we associate with the late Dr. I.B. Harrison. These values include compassion, service, respect, wisdom, and integrity.

Dr. Huang is board-certified in internal medicine, pulmonary medicine, critical care medicine, and sleep medicine. He was born in Taipei, Taiwan, but at the age of four, his family came to the United States. They moved every few years before finding their long-term home in Plant City, Florida. Upon high school graduation, Dr. Huang traveled 140 miles north to Gainesville, Florida to attend the University of Florida. There, he earned his undergraduate degree in 1982 and his medical degree in 1985. He was inducted into the Alpha Omega Alpha Honor Medical Society and to this day strives to live by their motto, “Be worthy to serve the suffering.”

JOSEPH MAZZIOTTA, M.D. –RECIPIENT OF THE 2024 THOMAS L. HICKS, M.D. OUTSTANDING PHYSICIAN AWARD

By Shannon Boyle, CMS Communications and Events Coordinator

The Capital Medical Society is pleased to announce Dr. Joseph Mazziotta as the recipient of the 2024 Thomas L. Hicks, M.D. Outstanding Physician Award. This award honors a physician who has been a leader within the field of medicine and organized medicine while demonstrating clinical excellence and actively contributing to the education of future medical professionals.

Dr. Mazziotta is board-certified in family medicine with added certifications in HIV medicine and wound care. Born in Montclair, New Jersey and raised in Nutley, New Jersey, Dr. Mazziotta is the youngest of five children. During his junior year in high school, his family moved to Cape Coral, Florida. In fact, Dr. Mazziotta was in the first graduating class of Cape Coral High School. He then attended Edison Community College (now Florida SouthWestern State College) in Fort Myers, Florida, and the University of South Florida (USF) in Tampa, Florida, where he earned his bachelor’s degree in biology.

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

Helen Paulson, M.D., President

Russell Cole, M.D., President-Elect

Kiana Taba, M.D., Secretary/Treasurer

Sarah Ko, M.D., PhD, Immediate Past President

Nicholas Farber, M.D.

Candace Gonzalez, M.D.

Farhat Khairallah, M.D.

John Meade, M.D.

Michelle Miller, M.D.

Amy Neal, M.D.

Niraj Pandit, M.D.

Michelle Reyes, CMS Alliance President

Cielo Rose, D.O.

Brence Sell, M.D.

Del Carter, M.D., Family Medicine Resident

Tom Block, MS, Executive Director, CMS

PUBLICATION

EDITOR

Frank Skilling, M.D.

GRAPHIC DESIGN

Lauren Trudgeon

MANAGING EDITOR

Shannon Boyle

EDITOR EMERITUS

Charles E. Moore, M.D.

ARE YOU INTERESTED IN WRITING AN ARTICLE FOR CAP SCAN?

Please contact Shannon Boyle at sboyle@capmed.org. All articles submitted will be reviewed by your peers prior to publishing.

CMS Non-Endorsement Statement

The editors welcome contributions from members. Opinions expressed in the Cap Scan are those of the individual authors and do not necessarily reflect policies or

Cap

Margaret Havens Neal, M.D. - 1st

John Elzie, M.D. - 3rd

Terreze M. Gamble, M.D. - 4th

Helen Paulson, M.D. - 4th

David Bellamy, M.D. - 5th

Andrew Wong, M.D. - 5th

Kennessa W. Hugger, M.D. - 6th

Michael Sweeney, M.D. - 6th

Thomas L. Truman, M.D. - 6th

Matt Vermeer, M.D. - 6th

Tommy E. Enoch, M.D. - 7th

Robert L. Lott, M.D. - 8th

Lance M. Garber, M.D. - 9th

Nancy M. Wright, M.D. - 9th

Jacob Patrick Henderson, M.D. - 12th

Aaron Guyer, M.D. - 13th

Jeremy Maxwell, M.D. - 13th

Brittany Clark, M.D. - 14th

James Renehan, M.D. - 14th

Alma B. Littles, M.D. - 15th

Albert Lee, M.D. - 16th

Karolina Pudilova, M.D. - 16th

Stephen L. Sgan, M.D. - 16th

Mary Elizabeth Seay, M.D. - 17th

Gregory D. Perry, M.D. - 19th

Caulley F. Soto, M.D. - 19th

John S. Thabes, M.D. - 19th

Forrest Ray Dolly, M.D. - 20th

Karen Krueger, M.D. - 20th

Andras Schaffer, M.D. - 21st

Venkata Bavikati, M.D. - 22nd

Camron Browning, M.D. - 23rd

Andrea D. Friall, M.D. - 23rd

Paul F. Hartsfield, M.D. - 23rd

Brian G. Wilson, M.D. - 23rd

John C. Turner, M.D. - 24th

Charles D. Williams, M.D. - 24th

Flora Danisi, M.D. - 25th

Eric H. Loevinger, M.D. - 25th

R. Spencer Stoetzel, M.D. - 25th

Angela M. Bradford, M.D. - 26th

Charles E. Moore, M.D. - 27th

Pablo Rengifo-Moreno, M.D. - 27th

Roland Jones, M.D. - 28th

Jamey Alan Sarvis, M.D. - 28th

Leslie D. Wilson, M.D. - 29th

Sachin Joseph, M.D. - 30th

Periodontal Associates of North Florida — PG 5

TMH Physician Partners –Cardiothoracic Surgery — PG 3

TMH Physician Partners, Services by Southern Medical Group – Heart Rhythm Clinic — PG 4

Cardiothoracic Surgery

Medical School: University of Iowa | Iowa City, IA

Residency:

National Naval Medical Center | Bethesda, MD

Fellowship:

Northwestern University - CT Surgery | Evanston, IL

Rush University Medical Center | Chicago, IL

Board Certified:

American Board of Surgery

American Board of Thoracic Surgery

NEW DOCS ON THE BLOCK

Rebekah A. Steverson, M.D.

Medical School: University of South Alabama

Internship/Residency: Tufts Medical Center

Practice: TPCA/Tallahassee Pediatrics

Specialty: Pediatrics

Sean Meagher, M.D.

Medical School: University of Illinois

Internship/Residency: University of Illinois

Fellowships: University of Illinois; University of California

Practice: Radiology Associates of Tallahassee

Specialty: Diagnostic Radiology

CAPITAL MEDICAL SOCIETY 2024 MEETINGS CALENDAR CONTINUED FROM COVER

May 14, 2024

CMS Membership & CME Meeting

“New Interventions for Acute Strokes”

Presenter: Matt Lawson, M.D. 6:00 pm

Maguire Center for Lifelong Learning at Westminster Oaks

August 27, 2024

CMS Membership & CME Meeting

Panel Discussion: “Recognizing the Cardiovascular-Kidney-Metabolic Syndrome for Better Intervention” 6:00 pm

Maguire Center for Lifelong Learning at Westminster Oaks

Fall 2024

CMS Doctor/Family Event

Venue and Theme TBD

September 17, 2024

CMS Membership & CME Meeting

“Updates in Psychiatric Treatment”

Presenters: Jeffrey Ferraro, M.D. and Faisal Munasifi, M.D. 6:00 pm

Maguire Center for Lifelong Learning at Westminster Oaks

October 15, 2024

CMS Membership & CME Meeting

“Domestic Violence” (2-Hour CME)

Presenter: Mary Norton, M.D. 6:00 pm

Maguire Center for Lifelong Learning at Westminster Oaks

December 5, 2024

CMS Foundation Holiday Auction 6:00 pm

Dunlap Champions Club at FSU

WELCOME

Anurag Singh, MD

Cardiac Electrophysiology

Medical School: Maulana Azad Medical College at Delhi University | Delhi, India

Residency:

Lincoln Medical & Mental Health Center, Cornell University | Bronx, NY

Fellowship: University of Alabama at Birmingham | Birmingham, AL Echocardiology, Cardiology, Heart Failure/Transplant

Mount Sinai Medical Center | New York, NY Electrophysiology

THURSDAY, MARCH 28, 2024 6:30 PM

THE DUNLAP CHAMPIONS CLUB AT FSU

Presenting the 2024 I.B. Harrison, M.D. Humanitarian Award to David Huang, M.D.

Presenting the 2024 Thomas L. Hicks, M.D. Outstanding Physician Award to Joseph Mazziotta, M.D.

CMS Members and We Care Dentists – No Charge • Spouse/Guest – $60.00 Invitations were e-mailed. • Advance reservations are required by March 20. Please RSVP to Rosalie Carlin at 850-877-9018 or rcarlin@capmed.org.

PERIODONTAL ASSOCIATES OF NORTH FLORIDA

CAPITAL MEDICAL SOCIETY LUNCH AND LEARN SEMINARS

MARK YOUR CALENDARS FOR THE 2024 LUNCH AND LEARN SEMINARS!

Wednesday, March 20, 2024

Patient A/R Tips & Tricks on Collecting the Right Amount the First Time and Avoiding Refunds

The biggest confusion is what to collect when a patient “does” have insurance. A new set of insurance plans are effective 01/01/2024 for Market Place Commercial Plans and Medicare Advantage Plans. Let’s figure out how to collect the right amount the first time.

Presenter: Sheila Erwin, CPC, CPPM, Medical A/R Revenue Solutions

Sponsor: Medical A/R Revenue Solutions

Wednesday, April 24, 2024

Self-Care Practices in Caregiving Professions

When you are part of a busy medical practice, it is easy to put the needs of others ahead of your own as you strive to offer compassionate service. That is why it is just as important to make your own self-care and renewal a priority. In this session, we will learn about four different types of self-care, how to identify your self-care needs, and how to incorporate new habits of self-care into your life.

Presenter: Heather Fuselier

Wednesday, May 15, 2024

Get Talent to Swipe Right and Stay!

• Identify tools to strengthen your recruiting strategy.

• Evaluate the traditional recruiting concept and how it is evolving.

• Create a strategic process to enhance your recruitment, engagement, and retention.

Presenters: Leia White, SHRM-CP, PHR, VP of HR and Payroll Services, Plexcity; and Katrina Lee, SHRM-CP, VP of HR, Synchros

Wednesday, June 19, 2024

Top Medical Talent Healthy Retention: Keeping Your Medical Staff Engaged & Satisfied

Presenter: Kelly Green, James Moore & Co.

Wednesday, August 21, 2024

Making it a WOW Experience for Patients From Check-In to Check-Out

Presenter: Bert Mitchell

Wednesday, September 18, 2024

2024 HIPAA Regulatory, Enforcement Update

Presenters: Shannon Hartsfield, Mia McKown, and Eddie Williams, Holland and Knight

Wednesday, October 16, 2024

Medical Staff Morale: Boosting Retention in Today's Dynamic Healthcare Landscape

Presenter: Katie Howard, James Moore & Co.

Sponsor: Hancock Whitney

Time: 12 Noon to 1:30 PM

(Seminar starts at 12:30 PM)

Place: CHP Auditorium, 2nd Floor, 1491 Governors Square Blvd.

Cost: $12 per person, per seminar (includes lunch)

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.

I.B. “BUD” HARRISON, M.D.

WHO WAS I.B. “BUD” HARRISON, M.D.?

By J. Orson Smith, M.D.

Again this year, we will honor a recipient of the I.B. Harrison, M.D. Humanitarian Award. I was asked to tell the many new doctors in this community who Dr. I.B. “Bud” Harrison was. He remains the icon in this community for an intelligent, competent, and compassionate physician. He was also a leader and role model to many family practice physicians.

Bud was 8 years older than I, but we were both Cardiology Fellows under Dr. Bruce Logue at Emory. Dr. Logue was our role model. In 1961, while serving in the Army at Fort McPherson and attending a Cardiology conference at Grady Hospital, Bud approached Bruce to ask if he knew anyone that might join him and Fred Butler in medical practice. Bruce pointed to me and said, “Orson will.” I always did what Dr. Logue told me to do.

The other mechanic said, “Well if it is, he ain’t no good.” Time certainly proved this to be wrong!

In the early 1970’s, Bud had a catfish fin gouge him in the knee and he developed a pseudomonas infection, which led to the need for a Charnley fusion. This made night call very difficult and he took a position as Chief of Medical Affairs at Tallahassee Memorial Hospital. This led to the most important contribution of his life, namely, becoming a teacher in the Residency Program.

Dr. I.B. “Bud” Harrison

In 1962, we became Butler, Harrison and Smith, P.A., which after a number of additions and mergers became Southern Medical Group. Bud taught me about dealing with people, just as he later taught his residents. He always said that if you do a good job practicing medicine, the financial portion would fall into place. However, he hated to charge patients. It seemed that everyone had “professional courtesy” or were “no charge.” This was before Medicare and many of his patients were poor. He treated everyone the same.

Bud drove an old car that was always dirty and full of old papers. In 1964, I had saved enough money to put a down payment on a Comet Convertible and was in the Mercury dealership to have a check-up. Bud’s old beat up Mercury was there for repairs. I heard two mechanics discussing the car. One said, “I hear this is a doctor’s car.”

The following is an excerpt from Dr. Whit Oliver’s acceptance speech as he was awarded the 2010 I.B. Harrison, M.D. Humanitarian Award. He shared wonderful insight into Bud’s “make-up.”

“Dr. Harrison was loved by most and respected by all who knew him. When dealing with patients he was compassionate, caring, and totally focused on the patient regardless of their life circumstances. He had a marvelous bedside manner. He always tried to sit on the patient's bed, touch the patients and listen to them, letting them describe their plight, being supportive of their problems. He was an excellent clinician who could synthesize the data and zero in on the diagnosis and management, directing us toward the most efficient way to achieve the best outcome for a particular patient, including the most appropriate consultation or referral for specialty input. He approached problems with common sense and was pragmatic and practical.”

Tallahassee is blessed with an excellent Family Practice community, and I think that will always remain Bud Harrison’s legacy.

Reprinted from the March 2011 Cap Scan.

CONTINUED FROM COVER

It was in medical school where Dr. Huang met his first set of role models in medicine who guided his path to the pulmonary and critical care specialties. His exemplars at UF were Dr. Jay Block, former chief of UF College of Medicine’s division of pulmonary and critical care medicine; Dr. Eloise Harman, a pulmonologist and critical care medicine specialist; Dr. Ocie Harris, UF College of Medicine professor, and later, dean of the FSU College of Medicine; and Dr. Gene Ryerson, a professor of pulmonary medicine at UF. With the positive influence from these leaders, Dr. Huang completed an internal medicine internship and residency at the University of Texas Southwestern Medical School and Parkland Memorial Hospital in Dallas, Texas. He subsequently completed a fellowship in pulmonary and critical care medicine at UF in 1992.

After fellowship, he moved to Tallahassee to join Tallahassee Pulmonary Clinic (TPC). Dr. Huang was the fifth physician to join the group. His early TPC partners, and next set of role models in medicine, were Dr. Clifton “Bud” Bailey, Dr. J. Daniel “Dan” Davis, Dr. F. Ray Dolly, and Dr. Ken Wasson. TPC was Dr. Huang’s first job. He credits his early partners for his professional growth and development. Although the name of the practice has changed over the years and is now Tallahassee Memorial HealthCare (TMH) Physician Partners - Pulmonary, Critical Care, and Sleep Specialists, Dr. Huang and his colleagues commitment to delivering quality pulmonary, critical care, and sleep medicine care to their patients has never wavered. He truly values the camaraderie with his current practice partners: Dr. Bud Bailey, Dr. John Thabes, Dr. Carlos Campo, Dr. Muhanad Hasan, Dr. Alberto Fernandez, Dr. Ruby Williams, Dr. Cybelle Pfeifer, Dr. Anthony Otekeiwebia, Dr. Andrea Venturini, and Dr. Zachary Stachura.

As medicine has evolved, Dr. Huang continues to elevate his craft by learning about new equipment and procedures. This open-minded and hardworking mindset allows our communities’ patients the ability to get the latest procedures

without having to travel to specialized medical centers. When he joined TPC, he used the latest video bronchoscope equipment. Later, he used the cardiopulmonary exercise testing, a metabolic exercise test that evaluates the heart and lungs and can diagnose unexplained shortness of breath. To improve the treatment of pulmonary embolism in our community, he has served on the Anticoagulation Subcommittee at TMH and the Pulmonary Embolism Response Team (PERT) to help develop protocols for massive and submassive pulmonary emboli. This has helped streamline and clarify treatment plans for patients regarding the need for advanced interventional cardiac procedures, such as Ekosonic Endovascular System (EKOS) or thrombectomies.

Since the start of his career, Dr. Huang has had a particular interest in obstructive sleep apnea and sleep disorders, as well as a passion for improving the practice of sleep medicine in our community. With the encouragement from his practice partner, Dr. John Thabes, and from Dr. George Slade, Dr. Huang earned his board certification in sleep medicine in 1999. Soon after, Dr. Bud Bailey created HealthSouth Sleep Disorders Center of Tallahassee, where Dr. Huang served as medical director until its closure in 2007. There was still a strong need for a large sleep medicine facility in Tallahassee. Dr. Huang, along with others, helped develop the Tallahassee Memorial Sleep Center in 2009, when it opened with just a few beds. It now has 12 beds and conducts 2,500 sleep studies each year. Dr. Huang served as its medical director from 2009 to 2018. He was pivotal in creating protocols needed for the facility and assisted in the facilities accreditation and re-accreditation processes. He pioneered and advanced the sleep medicine subspecialty by hosting annual sleep symposiums, allowing many providers from all backgrounds to learn about sleep medicine. He extends his knowledge and passion outside of the healthcare community to give numerous lectures at Premier Health & Fitness Center, the Senior Center, Westminster Oaks, and other organizations.

Dr. Huang strongly believes that all patients should receive the primary palliative care they need, and that starts with educating and training healthcare professionals on end-of-life care. To further his knowledge and understanding on end-of-life care, he immersed himself in the Education for Physicians on End-of-Life Care (EPEC) project, developed by the American Medical Association and the Robert Wood Johnson Foundation. EPEC provides a core curriculum of basic knowledge and skills needed to appropriately care for dying patients. Once Dr. Huang completed the curriculum, he was able to skillfully educate and train his colleagues. In his own words, “learning about end-oflife care is just as important as any other part of medicine.”

Due to this education, he has the ability to determine when end-of-life care is necessary. He is able to present information to families and loved ones that is easily understandable, while also listening to their concerns and offering them comfort.

Dr. Huang’s friend and former practice partner, Dr. F. Ray Dolly said it best: “He has the compassion, skill, intellect, and determination to administer the right medical care even when it is difficult.”

can be summed up by Ralph Waldo Emerson’s poem: “What is success? To laugh often and much; to win the respect of intelligent people and the affection of children; to earn the appreciation of honest critics and endure the betrayal of false friends; to appreciate beauty; to find the best in others; to leave the world a bit better, whether by a healthy child, a garden patch, or a redeemed social condition; to know even one life has breathed easier because you have lived. This is to have succeeded.”

He is a loving husband to his wife of 30 years, Brenda. They are proud parents to four adult children, Andrew (Misty), Eric, Brian, and Helen. They also have two family dogs, Roy, a French Brittany Spaniel, and Gracie, a Black Mouth Cur. Many of his fondest memories revolve around his family - at home, on vacation, or at family reunions with his wife, their children, his parents, and his siblings. Dr. Huang wholeheartedly lives by the words of Michael J. Fox, “Family is not an important thing. It’s everything.”

In addition to his clinical responsibilities, Dr. Huang regularly supervises residents in their rotations through the ICU at TMH and serves on the Clinical Ethics Committee at TMH. He is also on the Clerkship Faculty at the Florida State University College of Medicine (FSU COM) Internal Medicine Residency Program at TMH, and on Clerkship Faculty at the FSU COM Tallahassee Regional Campus. Furthermore, he has published several articles in specialty journals, including the Journal of Clinical Sleep Medicine.

Dr. Huang has dedicated his life to the practice of medicine. To him, the meaning of a successful life

In his spare time, Dr. Huang enjoys spending time with his family, and playing tennis and pickleball. In fact, Dr. Huang plays in Dr. Faisal Munasifi’s (2023 I.B. Harrison, M.D. Humanitarian Award recipient) Saturday morning pickleball group. As stated by Dr. Huang, “it’s my therapy!”

Dr. Huang tries to live every day with the values personified by Dr. I.B. Harrison: he is known for his compassionate care and respect for his patients, his service to the practice of medicine, and his wisdom and integrity that inspire his fellow physicians.

The Capital Medical Society congratulates Dr. David Huang. He is a true humanitarian in every sense of the word.

2024 THOMAS L. HICKS, M.D. OUTSTANDING PHYSICIAN AWARD

CONTINUED FROM COVER

His postgraduate education continued in Tampa. In 1992, Dr. Mazziotta earned his medical degree from USF. His initial interest was emergency medicine, but after clinical rotations, he realized that a priority for him was to have the ability to track the patient’s long-term care and know “the rest of the story”. It was in his final year of medical school that he decided to pursue family medicine. He completed his residency at the Tallahassee Memorial Family Medicine Residency Program. There, he served as Chief Resident from 1994 to 1995 and was awarded the Society of Teachers of Family Medicine Resident Teacher Award for demonstrating skills and interest in family medicine education. This is when his love for teaching began.

After residency graduation, he served as an attending physician in the United States Air Force for four years. He was assigned to MacDill Air Force Base in Tampa. In addition to his clinical responsibilities, he also served as medical director of the smoking cessation program and was active in the physician assistant training program, earning the Outstanding Teacher of the Year Award in 1997 and 1999. He was twice deployed to the Middle East. In 1996, he was sent to Al-Aqaba, Jordan with the Humanitarian Civic Action Program. In 1997, he was sent to Cairo, Egypt with the Operation Bright Star Joint Task Force. There, he served as the Assistant Chief of Emergency Services for the Air Transportable Hospital (ATH). The ATH is a series of selfsufficient, interconnecting, expandable hardened shelters, sized to fit inside standard United States Air Force transport aircrafts and developed to provide primary emergency care and stabilization of patients prior to their evacuation to the definitive medical care facility. Following each of his deployments, he was awarded the Air Force Achievement Medal for his notable achievements and exemplary service on behalf of the Air Force.

In 1999, following his four-year military service, his passion for teaching future physicians led him to return to the Tallahassee Memorial Family Medicine Residency Program as a faculty member. He remained on faculty until 2015,

when Dr. Donald Zorn announced his retirement and recruited Dr. Mazziotta to assume leadership of the program. Since the residency program’s inception over 50 years ago, there have been more than 500 residency graduates. Dr. Mazziotta has been instrumental in teaching and training over half of them. When he reflects on the success of the program, he shares, “I’m grateful to have been a part of it and for the opportunity to create policy to improve the next generation of physicians that our community wants and needs.”

In addition to his residency program director role, Dr. Mazziotta serves on the Clinical Assistant Faculty at the Florida State University College of Medicine, the Clinical Faculty at the Alabama College of Osteopathic Medicine, and as an Adjunct Clinical Professor at the William Carey University College of Osteopathic Medicine.

Dr. Mazziotta has always had a heart for the underserved. He has been caring for HIV patients his entire medical career. He has personally managed HIV patients in the office and in the hospital. He teaches HIV care to residents across the state through the Florida Academy of Family Physicians. In 2012, he gained certification from the American Academy of HIV Medicine. He is an Advisory Board Member for Big Bend Cares, a non-profit agency assisting people living with HIV. He also serves as an attending physician at the HIV Clinic at Big Bend Cares’ healthcare facility, Care Point Health and Wellness Center. He personifies the words of Sir William Osler, “the good physician treats the disease; the great physician treats the patient who has the disease.”

With an interest in skin surgery and wound care, Dr. Mazziotta attained certification in wound care management. In 2005, he teamed up with Dr. Dan Kaelin and Dr. Thomas Lawhorn to open the Tallahassee Memorial Wound Healing Center. At the time, it was the busiest wound care center in the state of Florida. He has cared for many patients with chronic wounds and does so with patience, persistence, and skill. Along with his dedication to the clinical, administrative, and educational aspects of

medicine, he is a leader in disaster planning and emergency management. His curiosity in this field began during his training in biological warfare with the Air Force. Throughout his career, he has prioritized researching and educating the medical community when disasters infiltrate the United States, including the September 11 attacks, the anthrax attacks, and the COVID-19 pandemic. He is also on the front lines in the aftermath of natural disasters. He has organized groups to assist other communities stricken by hurricanes, particularly in the gulf coast region, bringing basic supplies and medical resources. “Joe has always wanted to have as many tools in his toolbox as possible to help patients,” said Dr. Don Zorn, Dr. Mazziotta’s friend, colleague, and predecessor. “A go-getter with a huge heart, he has excelled far beyond the typical family physician.”

He has been active on numerous committees with TMH, including the Graduate Medical Education Committee, Clinical Affairs Committee, Disaster Planning Committee, Patient Safety Committee, Chair of the Credentials Committee, Chair of the Medical Executive Committee, and Board Director. Furthermore, he has published several articles in medical journals and given numerous presentations to healthcare organizations.

However, he also observes, “it’s an opportunity to have a reset in life’s values and realize how fortunate we are.” He strongly believes that everyone should have the chance to do mission work. “The highlight of my mission trips have been to see first-timers experience the work and witness the compassion and selflessness for those less fortunate.”

Dr. Mazziotta and his wife, Danielle, have been married for almost 29 years. They met while working at the zoo education center at Busch Gardens during undergraduate school at USF. They reconnected when Dr. Mazziotta was in medical school and Danielle was in nursing school at USF, and the rest is history. They are proud parents to three children, Jake, McKenzie, and Ellie. Impressively, Danielle and each of their children have accompanied Dr. Mazziotta on at least one of his medical mission trips.

Dr. Mazziotta has been involved in international and local missions. Locally, he volunteered with Ability First to build ramps to help handicapped persons access their homes. He enlisted medical students and residents to assist him to learn the value and reward of serving. Internationally, he has traveled to Belize, Dominican Republic, Jamaica, and Nicaragua for medical mission work, and he often takes medical students and residents with him. Dr. Mazziotta recognizes the importance of administering medical treatment.

In those rare moments when Dr. Mazziotta is not caring for patients, teaching medical students or residents, attending committee meetings, or assisting in international medicine, he enjoys spending time with his family and “building things”. His most recent accomplishment was building a cabin from the ground up. The cabin is located on “Island 23” on Lake Iamonia in northern Leon County. On Saturdays, he would load his boat with supplies and launch from the Bull Headley boat ramp and head to the island for a full day’s work. This weekend-only project took seven years to complete, but it quickly became his favorite place to relax, unwind, and recharge.

The Capital Medical Society congratulates Dr. Joseph Mazziotta. He exemplifies the qualities of an outstanding leader and physician.

NATIONAL DOCTORS’ DAY – MARCH 30

IF YOU COULD SAY ONE THING TO YOUR DOCTOR, WHAT WOULD IT BE?

National Doctors’ Day was first observed in Winder, Georgia, by the wife of a doctor to give others the opportunity to recognize and honor doctors who have impacted their lives. In 1958, the U.S. House of Representatives and Senate approved a resolution to commemorate National Doctors’ Day, which President George Bush then signed into law in 1990. The annual date of March 30th was selected as it is the anniversary of the first use of general anesthesia in surgery.

This is your opportunity to honor your doctor. Let’s acknowledge how much we appreciate them, their excellent healthcare, tireless work ethic, passion, enthusiasm, medical expertise, and their fantastic teamwork.

Join us in making a gift today to the Capital Medical Society Foundation to honor your doctor, medical physician or dentist, and include a note of appreciation to them at https://capmed.org/donate/ or mail your gift check, payable to: Capital Medical Society Foundation, 1204 Miccosukee Road, Tallahassee, FL, 32308.

Include the name of your honoree and a sentence about why you are honoring them. Each honoree will receive a letter notifying them of your thoughtful gift in their honor and the tribute you share.

Gifts received by March 20, 2024 will ensure honorees receive their recognition letter before National Doctors’ Day.

WHAT IS DOCTORS’ DAY? WHY WAS IT FOUNDED?

The first Doctors' Day observance was held on March 30, 1933, by the Barrow County Alliance, in Winder, Georgia. The idea of setting aside a day to honor physicians was conceived by Eudora Brown Almond, wife of Dr. Charles B. Almond, and the recognition occurred on the anniversary of the first administration of anesthesia by Dr. Crawford W. Long in Barrow County, Georgia, in 1842. The Alliance immediately adopted the following resolution:

"WHEREAS the Alliance to the Barrow County Medical Society wishes to pay lasting tribute to the Doctors, therefore, be it RESOLVED by the Alliance of the Barrow County Medical Society that March 30, the day that famous Georgian Dr. Crawford W. Long first used ether anesthesia in surgery, be adopted as 'Doctors Day,' the object to be the well-being and honor of the profession, its observance demanding some act of kindness, gift or tribute in remembrance of the Doctors."

This first observance included the mailing of cards to physicians and their wives, flowers placed on graves of deceased doctors, including Dr. Long, and a formal dinner. After the Barrow County Alliance adopted its resolution to pay tribute to the doctors, the plan was presented and passed by the Georgia State Medical Alliance in 1934 in Augusta, Georgia. The resolution was introduced to the Women's Alliance of the Southern Medical Association at its 29th annual meeting held in St. Louis, Missouri in 1935. Since then, Doctors' Day has become an integral part of and synonymous with, the Southern Medical Association Alliance. Through the years, the red carnation has been used as the symbol of Doctors' Day.

On March 30, 1958, the United States House of Representatives adopted a Resolution Commemorating Doctors’ Day. In 1990, Congressmen Mike Parker (D-Mississippi) and G. V. Montgomery (D-Mississippi) and Senator Thad Cochran (R-Mississippi) introduced legislation in the House and Senate to establish a national Doctors' Day. Following overwhelming approval

by the US Senate and the House, on October 30, 1990, President George Bush signed S.J. RES. #366 (which became Public Law 101-473) designating March 30 as "National Doctors' Day":

Resolved by the Senate and House of Representatives of the United States of America in Congress assembled, That –

1. March 30, 1991, is designated as "National Doctors' Day"; and

2. The President is authorized and requested to issue a proclamation calling on the people of the United States to observe the day with appropriate programs, ceremonies and activities.

Doctors’ Day is the result of dedicated Alliance members across the country. The enactment of this law enables the citizens of the United States to publicly show appreciation for the role of physicians in caring for the sick, advancing medical knowledge, and promoting good health.

SERVICES, INC.

2024 BOARD OF DIRECTORS

Francis C. Skilling, Jr., M.D. President Ophthalmology

Retired

Married to Karen Skilling

University of Alabama

Karl F. Hempel, M.D. Vice President

Family Medicine

Retired

Married to Mackie Hempel

University of Kentucky

Terence N. Reisman, M.D.

Secretary/Treasurer

Gastroenterology

Retired

Married to Marilyn Reisman

Duke University

Armand B. Cognetta, Jr., M.D.

Dermatology

Dermatology Associates of Tallahassee

Married to Suzanne Cognetta

University of Connecticut

Russell Cole, M.D. CMS President-Elect

Family Medicine

Tallahassee Memorial Family Medicine

Residency Program

Married to Sandy Cole

Emory University

Helen Paulson, M.D.

CMS President

Family Medicine

Capital Health Plan

Married to Dustin Paulson

Florida State University

Brian Wilson, M.D.

Allergy, Asthma, Immunology

Tallahassee Allergy, Asthma & Immunology

Married to Meredith Wilson

University of Florida

Tom Block, MS Executive Director Capital Medical Society

MINUTES CAPITAL MEDICAL SOCIETY PRESIDENTIAL INSTALLATION JANUARY 23, 2024 - FSU ALUMNI CENTER

WE THANK OUR SUPPORTERS FOR THIS EVENT

Title Sponsor

Supporting Sponsors

Florida Medical Association

Tallahassee Memorial HealthCare

TMH Federal Credit Union

Truist Private Wealth Medical and Truist Mortgage

Event Sponsor

Big Bend Hospice

KWB Pathology Associates

MagMutual

I. Welcome

Dr. Sarah Ko called the event to order at 6:50 pm. She welcomed all CMS members, spouses, special guests, and sponsors. She gave a special welcome to our keynote speaker, Florida Medical Association (FMA) President, Dr. Jason Goldman, and to incoming President, Dr. Helen Paulson, and her family, friends, and colleagues in attendance.

II. Introduction of Keynote Speaker

Dr. Ko introduced FMA President, Dr. Jason Goldman.

III. Remarks by Keynote Speaker

Dr. Goldman shared information about the FMA’s legislative efforts and CMS’ importance to the FMA.

Dr. Ko presented Dr. Goldman with a bottle of CMS wine as a token of appreciation.

IV. Introduction of New Officers and Board Members

Dr. Ko introduced the CMS Board of Governors:

Officers –

President-Elect: Dr. Russell Cole

Secretary/Treasurer: Dr. Kiana Taba

Immediate Past President: Dr. Sarah Ko

Board Members –

Dr. Nicholas Farber

Dr. Candace Gonzalez

Dr. Farhat Khairallah

Dr. John Meade

Dr. Michelle Miller

Dr. Amy Neal

Dr. Niraj Pandit

CMS Alliance President Michelle Reyes

Dr. Cielo Rose

Dr. Brence Sell

Family Medicine Resident Dr. Del Carter

Dr. Ko introduced the CMS Foundation Board of Directors:

Officers –

President: Dr. Tracey Hellgren

Vice President: Dr. Walt Colón

Treasurer: Dr. David Stewart

Secretary: Yvonne Brown

Immediate Past President: Dr. John Mahoney

Directors –

Claudia Blackburn

Dr. Russell Cole

Attorney J. Alan Cox

Dr. Avon Doll

Dr. Marlisha Edwards

Geryl Forbes

Paula S. Fortunas

Dr. Terreze Gamble

Patricia Holliday

Brittany Jackson

Dr. David Jones

Dr. Rohan Joseph

Dr. Nancy Loeffler

Dr. Faisal Munasifi

Dr. Helen Paulson

Dr. J. Brian Sheedy

Dr. Jay Walton

Dr. Charles Williams, Emeritus

Dr. Ko introduced the Capital Medical Services

Board of Directors:

Officers –

President: Dr. Frank Skilling

Vice President: Dr. Karl Hempel

Secretary/Treasurer: Dr. Terrence Reisman

Directors –

Dr. Armand Cognetta

Dr. Russell Cole

Dr. Helen Paulson

Dr. Brian Wilson

V. Introduction of Helen Paulson, M.D.

Dr. Adekunle Omotayo, Dr. Paulson’s friend and colleague, gave a warm introduction.

VI. Recognition of Past CMS Presidents’ Legacy

Wilda Sigler, bagpiper, led the processional for the past presidents in attendance.

Tom Block, CMS Executive Director, announced each of the past presidents in attendance during the passing of the CMS President’s medallion.

J. Brian Sheedy, M.D., 1982

Clarence William Applegate, M.D., 1987

John Mahoney, M.D., 1989

R. James Mabry, M.D., 1994

Alma Littles, M.D., 1996

Tony Weaver, M.D., 1999

David T. Stewart, M.D., 2005

Tracey Hellgren, M.D., 2011 & 2017

Nancy Loeffler, M.D., 2013

Alfredo Paredes, M.D., 2014

Joshua Somerset, M.D., 2015

Rohan Joseph, M.D., 2021

Paresh Patel, M.D., 2022

Sarah Ko, M.D., PhD, 2023

VII. Installation of Helen Paulson, M.D., 79th President of Capital Medical Society

Dr. Jason Goldman administered the Oath of Office to Dr. Paulson. Once installed, Dr. Paulson made her remarks.

VIII. Presentation to Outgoing CMS President and Board Members

Dr. Paulson recognized our Outgoing CMS Board Members:

Dr. Danny Estupiñán

Dr. Amulya Konda

Dr. Jonathan Nava

Dr. Kaushal Patel

Dr. Paresh Patel

Dr. Paulson presented Dr. Paresh Patel (in attendance) with a bottle of CMS wine as a token of appreciation for his leadership and support of CMS.

Dr. Paulson recognized our Outgoing CMS Foundation Board Members:

Dr. Maribel Lockwood

Dr. John Mahoney

Dr. Paulson presented Dr. John Mahoney (in attendance) with a bottle of CMS wine as a token of appreciation for his 20 years of leadership, support, and service as CMS Foundation President.

Dr. Paulson recognized the Outgoing CMS Alliance President:

Heather Redfield

Dr. Paulson shared that Mrs. Redfiield wasn’t able to attend, but she thanked her for the leadership and support she has given to the CMS Alliance through her Board service.

Dr. Paulson recognized the Outgoing CMS President:

Dr. Sarah Ko

Dr. Paulson thanked Dr. Ko for her service this past year. She recognized the hard work and the time given to CMS and presented her with a commemorative box with her President’s medallion, a bottle of CMS wine, a bouquet of flowers, and a gift bag.

Dr. Ko made a few remarks about her year as President.

IX. Announcements

Dr. Paulson encouraged members to attend the upcoming CMS events:

February 20, 2024

CMS Membership & CME Meeting

“Lifestyle Medicine and Heart Health”

Presenter: David W. Smith, M.D.

6:00 pm

Westminster Oaks Maguire Center for Lifelong Learning

March 28, 2024

Celebration Awards Dinner

6:30 pm

The Dunlap Champions Club at FSU

X. Adjourn

Dr. Paulson adjourned the event at 7:50 pm.

Title Sponsor, Capital Health Plan: (l-r) Dr. Stanley Gwock, Dr. Krista Rankin, Dr. Christine Chiu-Geers, Dr. Ryan Curran, Dr. Angela Bradford, Dr. Stephen LaRosa, Dr. Shane Rignanese, Karen Frost, Sabin Bass, Dr. Helen Paulson, Dr. David Jones, Dr. Amy Neal, Dr. Elizabeth Dickens, Dr. Lynn Jones, Dr. Cielo Rose, and Dr. Adekunle Omotayo.

(L-r) Supporting Sponsor, Florida Medical Association: Brittany Jackson; Dr. Sarah Ko, 2023 CMS President; and Michelle Reyes, 2024 CMS Alliance President.

(L-r) Dr. Alma Littles, and Supporting Sponsor, Tallahassee Memorial HealthCare: Diana O’Bryant and Mark O’Bryant.

Event Sponsor, KWB Pathology Associates: Brian McMath.

Supporting Sponsor, TMH Federal Credit Union: (l-r) Eric Thiele, Liz Thiele, and Harry Burn.

(L-r) Dr. David Stewart and Gillian Stewart, and Event Sponsor, MagMutual: Brad Harris and Kim Harris.

Supporting Sponsor, Truist Private Wealth Medical and Truist Mortgage: (l-r) Eddie Price, Kim Price, Karen Watts, and George Watts.

Dr. Helen Paulson’s family: (l-r) Susan Crawford, Joe Travis, Dr. Helen Paulson, Dustin Paulson, Ann Redmond, and Ron Myers.

(L-r) Dr. Helen Paulson, 2024 CMS President, and Dr. Frank Skilling, Capital Medical Services, Inc. President.

Dr. Adekunle Omotayo introduced his friend and colleague, 2024 CMS President, Dr. Helen Paulson.

Keynote Speaker and FMA President, Dr. Jason Goldman, administered the Oath of Office for the 2024 CMS President, Dr. Helen Paulson.

(L-r) Dr. Jason Goldman, Florida Medical Association President and Keynote Speaker; Dr. Kiana Taba, CMS Secretary/Treasurer; Dr. Russell Cole, CMS President-Elect; Dr. Helen Paulson, 2024 CMS President; Dr. Sarah Ko, 2023 CMS President; and Tom Block, CMS Executive Director.

(L-r) Dr. Tracey Hellgren, CMS Foundation President; Dr. Helen Paulson, 2024 CMS President; and Tom Block, CMS Executive Director.

Dr. Sarah Ko, 2023 CMS President (left), presented Dr. Jason Goldman, Keynote Speaker and FMA President (right), with a bottle of CMS wine as a token of our appreciation for taking the time to join us for the evening.

Keynote Speaker, FMA President, Dr. Jason Goldman.

Wilda Sigler, bagpiper, led the processional for the Past CMS Presidents’ Legacy recognition.

CONTINUED FROM PREVIOUS PAGE

Tom Block, CMS Executive Director (left) and Dr. Helen Paulson, 2024 CMS President (middle), presented Dr. Paresh Patel (right) with a bottle of CMS wine for his leadership and support serving on the CMS Board of Governors.

Tom Block, CMS Executive Director (left) and Dr. Helen Paulson, 2024 CMS President (middle), presented Dr. Sarah Ko (right) with a bottle of CMS wine, a commemorative box with her President’s medallion, a bouquet of flowers, and a gift bag for her hard work and dedication serving as the 2023 CMS President.

(L-r) Tom Block, CMS Executive Director, presented Dr. John Mahoney, Outgoing CMS Foundation President, with a bottle of CMS wine for his 20 years of leadership, support, and service as CMS Foundation President.

14 Past CMS Presidents were present: (standing, l-r) Dr. Sarah Ko, Dr. Paresh Patel, Dr. Rohan Joseph, Dr. Joshua Somerset, Dr. Alfredo Paredes, Dr. Nancy Loeffler, Dr. Tracey Hellgren, (seated, l-r) Dr. J. Brian Sheedy, Dr. Clarence William Applegate, Dr. John Mahoney, Dr. R. James Mabry, Dr. Alma Littles, Dr. Tony Weaver, and Dr. David Stewart.

BILLING THE NEW MEDICARE ADD-ON CODE G2211

By Del Carter, M.D.

Despite yet another year of lower physician payments with the 2024 Medicare Physician Fee Schedule (representing a 3.37% decrease from last year [1]), there is some good news. With the turn of the year came a new billing code, Medicare Add-On Code G2211, effective January 1, 2024 [2]. The nationally determined amount for this code is $16.05 [3]. While we generally think of billing codes revolving around specific services rendered or the level of their complexity, G2211 goes a different route: prioritizing the nature of an ongoing physician-patient relationship and accounting for the innate complexities that longitudinal care involves.

According to the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS), there are two explanations that demonstrate the relationship required for G2211 to be billed: “if you’re the continuing focal point for all needed services, like a primary care practitioner” or “if you’re giving ongoing care for a single, serious condition or a complex condition, like sickle cell disease or HIV” [2]. The code must be used as an addon when an outpatient E/M visit is performed (codes 99202-99205 or 99211-99215). This excludes Medicare Annual Wellness Visits (G0438-G0439). CMS also states the code cannot be used when a Modifier 25 is used on an office E/M visit.

Thus, if a primary care physician (PCP) is seeing a Medicare patient for whom they are the PCP for an office E/M visit, they can bill add-on code G2211, regardless of the complexity of the specific problem evaluated, so long as the aforementioned exclusions are not present. An example offered by CMS portrays an office visit to a patient’s PCP for sinus congestion, demonstrating that the relationship, not the complexity or chronicity of the problem, is what allows for G2211 billing. Outside of primary care, the complexity of the condition does come into play in other circumstances, as specialty physicians who provide longitudinal care for a “serious or complex condition” [2] of a Medicare patient can bill G2211 as well. The specific example given by CMS for this involves an infectious disease physician caring longitudinally for a patient with HIV.

Regarding documentation, CMS does not require extra documentation for the add-on billing of G2211,

other than the already-required documentation for the patient’s E/M visit.

While the allowance of $16.05 may not seem groundbreaking in and of itself, but on the practice and organizational level, correct and appropriate use of G2211 will yield significant revenue that would otherwise be lost. Furthermore, G2211 compensates physicians for the often difficult-to-capture subtleties that contribute to the complexity of a longitudinal physician-patient relationship.

References:

[1] K. B. O'Reilly, "New year, new hope: Momentum builds in Congress to cancel the cut," American Medical Association, 4 January 2024. [Online]. Available: https://www.ama-assn.org/practicemanagement/medicare-medicaid/new-year-new-hopemomentum-builds-congress-cancel-cut. [Accessed 11 February 2024].

[2] Medicare Learning Network, "Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services," 18 January 2024. [Online]. Available: https://www.cms.gov/files/ document/mm13473-how-use-office-and-outpatientevaluation-and-management-visit-complexity-addcode-g2211.pdf. [Accessed 11 February 2024].

[3] American Academy of Family Physicians, "G2211 Add-on Code: What It Is and When To Use It," American Academy of Family Physicians, [Online]. Available: https://www.aafp.org/family-physician/ practice-and-career/getting-paid/coding/evaluationmanagement/G2211-what-it-is-and-how-to-use-it.html. [Accessed 11 February 2024].

[4] T. J. Weida, MD and J. A. Weida, MD, "G2211: Simply Getting Paid for Complexity," American Academy of Family Physicians, 2 February 2024. [Online]. Available: https://www.aafp.org/pubs/fpm/ content/coding-G2211.html. [Accessed 11 February 2024].

100 BOOKS IN A YEAR

By Michelle Miller, M.D.

Who has time for reading? 100 books…that's like two a week?!

Most physicians are tired of hearing about resilience and burnout because it is usually followed by more things we are supposed to be doing. On top of management and/ or insurance orders, you need to submit your notes earlier; don't forget to click on all the HEDIS measures to have them captured; submit the correct codes for reimbursement; reply to patient portal requests within x time frame; fill out this prior authorization form; and sign this FMLA form, DMV parking permit, or home health order. This list goes on and on, but then includes all the normal lifestyle recommendations everyone is told to follow: sleep 7-8 hours every night; exercise 30 minutes a day; work on mindfulness and emotion regulation; get some bright sunlight exposure daily (but wear SPF and cover up); eat your 5-8 servings of fruits and vegetables a day; and drink more water, etc. However, one thing that can combat burnout and increase resilience isn't spoken about much…reading for pleasure. Per the American Medical Association (AMA), reading for pleasure can combat burnout “by improving empathy and combating depersonalization.”

For 2023, I challenged myself to read 100 books. This was partly to help with resilience and burnout, but mostly just because I love to identify as a reader. It may seem like a lot to those of you that don’t read for pleasure. I read 50 books in 2022, without having a set goal at the time, so I thought it was reasonable to double it. Since I had planned to be only working part-time and from home (I am an independent contractor working for a few telemedicine urgent care companies), I figured I could dedicate more time to reading this past year.

The 2022 amount may have been skewed from normal as half of the year was spent working in New Zealand.

This year, I tried not to be too picky and to choose only books from my TBR (to be read) list, but also ones that were available when I had recently finished a book from my local library in Tallahassee. Most books were checked out either through the Libby app, so that I could read it on my Kindle, or from audiobooks that I listened to on my phone or in my car. I did read some “real” books, especially when visiting the Eastside Branch of Leroy Collins Library near my house with my 5-year-old son. (If you haven’t been to this branch, I highly recommend it. They have programs throughout the month including Preschool Storytime and Play as well as monthly yoga sessions.) I tracked my reading with Goodreads. This app

is compatible with Kindle and automatically logs which books I’ve started and/or completed as well as my rating of the book when finished. There are many book-tracking apps. Goodreads is associated with Amazon. If you aren’t a fan of Amazon, I’ve recently heard of one called StoryGraph that is similar but with more datalytics. Looking back on the books I completed in 2023, I read mostly contemporary books but romance and fantasy were high on the list. My favorite genres are usually fantasy and science fiction. Some of my favorite books include The Paper Magician series and any of R.A. Salvatore’s books. I was surprised I read so many memoirs. My list from this past year included Britney Spears, Matthew Perry, Elliot Page, Michelle Obama, and Prince Harry. I also read memoirs by a therapist and a veterinarian.

I challenge everyone to pick up more reading for pleasure. If you need incentive to read, there are many local book clubs. You can join Silent Book Clubs and read separate books together in a public location or online platforms. If you’re not a fan of reading, audiobooks are great for passing time with long commutes or exercise. I’m very particular about audiobooks and if I dislike the reader’s voice I cannot listen for long. However, some amazing audiobook narrators have an acting background and bring the books to life. I recommend if you enjoy one of the narrators to look into their work to see what other books they’ve narrated even if it’s not a genre you are drawn to usually.

Happy reading!

References:

https://www.ama-assn.org/practice-management/physicianhealth/battle-against-doctor-burnout-reading-fun-fundamental

https://silentbook.club/

https://cms.leoncountyfl.gov/Library

https://www.goodreads.com/

https://www.thestorygraph.com/

SOCIAL WORK: WHERE HOPE MEETS REALITY

By Diana Bixler, MPH, We Care Network Program Coordinator

March is Social Work Month, which we spotlight each year because our We Care Network case management team so closely aligns with social work’s core values. I wanted to take this time to hear from our very own social workers on why they entered this profession and what they enjoy about working at the We Care Network. The We Care Network case management team carries the passion, skills, and motivation to better serve our community. We are actively working to reduce barriers to healthcare and improve the lives of others.

Our team consists of Diana Bixler, MPH (Program Coordinator), Tom Block, MS (Executive Director), Shonda Davis, MSW (Senior Case Manager and Dental Coordinator), Ashleigh Jordan, BSW (Case Manager), Myriam Joseph, BSW (Case Manager), and Dequasha McCall, BS (Case Management Associate). Three of our staff hold social work degrees, and here is what they have to say about this profession.

SHONDA DAVIS, MSW

“The primary mission of the social work profession is to enhance human well-being and help meet basic and complex needs of all people. There is a particular focus on those who are vulnerable, oppressed, and living in poverty. I chose this profession because I am enthusiastic about human rights issues. I am focused on pursuing disparities that keep people in our community from obtaining the basic needs for survival like access to medical care. For me, being a social worker empowers me to act. It also allows me to have an opportunity to work on the ground both with the people who are impacted directly and with the individuals who have the ability to change the strategy. I absolutely love what I do, and I will continue to be an advocate for the people in this community.”

ASHLEIGH JORDAN, BSW

“Being a working single mom while going to school, I utilized social services programs to help provide for my son until I obtained my degree. After completing my Associate of Arts, I decided to pursue my Bachelor of Social Work. I understood the importance and need for programs that provide assistance for those individuals of a lower socioeconomic status. I was a food stamp caseworker for nine years in North Carolina helping those with food insecurity. Just as food is a basic human need, I feel that access to healthcare is, as well. Working for the We Care Network, I am able to provide help by ensuring those individuals eligible for our program receive the specialty medical services they are in need of to better their quality of life.”

MYRIAM JOSEPH, BSW

“I am currently pursuing a master's degree in social work at Florida State University, where I also earned my bachelor's degree in social work. The principles and values of social work resonate with my own values, which is why I am passionate about the profession. I firmly believe that everyone is wonderful, and working in social work enables me to care for others. I applied to work as a case manager at the We Care Network after developing an interest in becoming a medical social worker while I was an undergraduate student at FSU. One of my favorite aspects of working as a case manager at We Care Network is witnessing the gratitude of the patients when they obtain the necessary medical care. I can attest that receiving thank-you calls from patients is incredibly fulfilling. I am inspired to continue with the knowledge that I have the power to positively affect someone's life. I am appreciative of my job at the We Care Network.”

We Thank Our Donors

We thank the following donors who made a gift to the CMS Foundation this past month:

CMS Foundation Year-End Appeal –Area of Greatest Need

Mrs. Linda F. Bianco – In Honor of Dr. Dan and Rita Kaelin

CMS Foundation Year-End Appeal –We Care Network

Dr. and Mrs. John L. Williams

Honor a Doctor – Capital Medical Society Foundation – Area of Greatest Need

Dr. and Mrs. Karl Hempel - In Honor of Walter E. Colón, D.M.D.

Robin McDougall, LCSW – In Honor of John Mahoney, M.D.

Honor a Doctor – We Care Network

Gavin Boone - In Honor of Edward Forster, M.D.

Honor a Doctor – The Anesthesiology Associates of Tallahassee Scholarship Fund (Unendowed)

Nancy Loeffler, M.D. – In Honor of Brence Sell, M.D.

Capital Medical Society Foundation –Area of Greatest Need

Robin McDougall, LCSW

We Care Network

Dr. and Mrs. Louis Sarbeck

Capital Medical Society Foundation –FSU College of Medicine Tallahassee

Regional Campus Food Pantry

Anonymous

Elaine Geissinger

Alice K. Pomidor, M.D.

Your gifts to the Capital Medical Society Foundation transform lives in the Big Bend.

THE IMPACT OF YOUR DONATIONS

The Capital Medical Society Foundation’s community of donors strategically help fulfill its mission “to support the charitable efforts of physicians and others, increase access to healthcare, promote education and serve the community’s health needs through innovative projects that are exemplary, affordable and dignified.”

➢ Access to healthcare is increased through gifts to the We Care Network and the We Care Network Endowment Fund. More than $130 million in donated specialty medical and dental care has been provided to low-income, uninsured patients since the program was created in 1992. In fiscal year 2022-23, which ended June 30, 2023, more than $5 million in healthcare was donated. Gifts support patient assistance such as medication, transportation, and durable medical equipment, as well as operational expenses of the program including salaries of the case management team who coordinate the donated care.

➢ To provide incentives to keep medical students trained at the FSU College of Medicine in the Big Bend after completion of their residencies and help meet the growing demand for physicians in Florida, gifts to the CMS Foundation Scholarship Fund provide scholarships to FSU College of Medicine students who have expressed an interest in returning to the Big Bend to practice after completion of their residencies. $61,000 was awarded

in 2023. An additional $1,000 was awarded from The Anesthesiology Associates of Tallahassee Scholarship Fund. The Julia Revell St. Petery, M.D. Scholarship in Pediatrics and The J. Orson Smith, M.D. Scholarship in Internal Medicine were also awarded in 2023.

➢ Gifts to the Capital Medical Society Foundation help provide operational resources for the Capital Medical Society Foundation. In addition, modest grants are awarded to area non-profits whose programs improve access to healthcare for the underserved. In 2023, the CMSF awarded a total of $14,000 in grants to the Big Bend Hospice Foundation for bereavement services, Elder Care Services for in-home services to seniors, Lighthouse of the Big Bend to provide services to the visually impaired, and to Lutheran Social Services of North Florida, Inc. for the KidSafe program.

Gifts to Honor and In Memoriam:

You can make a gift to the CMS Foundation in memory of someone who has passed away or in honor of someone, such as a fellow physician, you hold in high esteem or has taken care of you or your family. The CMS Foundation will send an acknowledgement letter to those you memorialize and honor.

How to Give:

Through the generosity of donors, funds have been created in order to establish financial stability to meet our mission. You can make a gift at any time to one of the CMS Foundation’s current funds:

1) The Capital Medical Society Foundation – Area of Greatest Need

2) The Capital Medical Society Foundation General Endowment

3) We Care Network

4) We Care Network Endowment

5) The Ronald G. Pickett Endowment

6) The CMS Foundation Physician Wellness Fund

7) The CMS Foundation Scholarship Fund

8) The FSUCOM Food Pantry

9) The Anesthesiology Associates of Tallahassee Scholarship Endowment

10) The Anesthesiology Associates of Tallahassee Scholarship Fund (Unendowed)

11) The William Frederick Lindsey, M.D. and Jimmie Moore Lindsey Scholarship Endowment

12) The J. Orson Smith, M.D. Scholarship in Internal Medicine Endowment

13) The J. Orson Smith, M.D. Scholarship in Internal Medicine Fund (Unendowed)

14) The Julia Revell St. Petery, M.D. Scholarship in Pediatrics Endowment

15) The Julia Revell St. Petery, M.D. Scholarship in Pediatrics Fund (Unendowed)

16) The Charles D. “Pedro” Williams, M.D. Scholarship Endowment

17) The Charles D. “Pedro” Williams, M.D. Scholarship Fund (Unendowed)

Gifts 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.

Gifts may be made by credit card or direct debit from the CMS website.

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 Executive Director

tblock@capmed.org

(850) 877-9018 or (850) 321-1648

Physicians

Emily Ashmore, M.D.

Christopher Babl, M.D.

Venkata Bavikati, M.D.

Michael Bernhardt, M.D.

Robert Bradford, M.D.

Tim Broeseker, M.D.

H. Logan Brooks, Jr., M.D.

Viet Bui, M.D.

Carlos Campo, M.D.

Joseph Camps, M.D.

Francisco Carpio, M.D.

Gilbert Chandler, M.D.

David Dixon, D.O.

William Dixon IV, M.D.

James Farrell, D.O.

Christine Fitzsimmons, D.O.

Jerry Ford, M.D.

Alexander Franz, M.D.

Hong Gao, M.D.

Spencer Gilleon, M.D.

Muhanad Hasan, M.D.

Todd Hewitt, M.D.

Marc Inglese, M.D.

Joey Jarrard, M.D.

Farhat Khairallah, M.D.

Fang Sarah Ko, M.D.

Deanna Louie, M.D.

Michael Mangan, M.D.

Amanda Matthews, M.D.

Joseph Mazziotta, M.D.

Anthony Otekeiwebia, M.D.

Kaushal Patel, M.D.

Jorge Perez de Armas, M.D.

Hussein Rayatzadeh, M.D.

Thank You

To our CMS members and We Care Network partners who provided healthcare to new patients in January 2024. Your generosity and support of the We Care Network makes a difference.

Andres Rodriguez, M.D.

Yone Scaramelli Dos Santos, M.D.

Scott Sellinger, M.D.

Gadi Silberman, M.D.

Joshua Somerset, M.D.

Joseph Soto, M.D.

Amanda Stephens, D.O.

Christopher Sundstrom, M.D.

William Thompson, M.D.

Jean-Paul Tran, M.D.

Prashanth Vennalanganti, M.D.

Andrea Venturini, M.D.

Tony Weaver, M.D.

Kenneth Whithaus, M.D.

Dentists

William Baldock, Jr., D.M.D.

Jean-Pierre Bastien, D.M.D.

Walter Colón, D.M.D.

Alan Dransfield, D.M.D.

Aixa Guzmán, D.M.D.

William McFatter, D.D.S.

Jacob Zellner, D.M.D.

Facilities

Advanced Urology Institute

Airway Works, LLC

Anesthesiology Associates

Apalachee Primary Care

Bastien Dental Care

Beachton Denture Clinic

You're changing lives in our community.

BioTelemetry, Inc.

Bond Community Health Center

Capital Eye Consultants, PA

Capital Periodontal Associates

CardioNet

Care Point Health & Wellness Center

Dermatology Associates

Digestive Disease Clinic

Eye Associates of Tallahassee

Family Dentistry at Southwood

FSU PrimaryHealth

Gadsden County Health Department

Jessie Furlow Medical Center

Ketchum, Wood, & Burgert

Pathology Associates

Neighborhood Medical Center

North Florida Womens Care

Palmer Eye Center

Periodontal Associates of North Florida

Radiology Associates of Tallahassee

Red Hills Dental Associates

Sergeant Ernest I. “Boots” Thomas VA Clinic

Southeast Radiology Partners

Southern Medical Group, P.A.

Southern Vitreoretinal Associates

Tallahassee Diagnostic Imaging

Tallahassee Ear, Nose, and Throat

Tallahassee Memorial HealthCare

TMH Family Medicine Residency Program

TMH Physician Partners

Cancer and Hematology

TMH Physician Partners

Cardiology and Internal Medicine

TMH Physician Partners

Gynecologic Oncology Specialists

TMH Physician Partners

Heart Rhythm Clinic

TMH Physician Partners Hospitalists Group

TMH Physician Partners

Pulmonary, Critical Care, and Sleep Specialists

TMH Physician Partners

Radiation Oncology Specialists

TMH Physician Partners

Surgical Specialists

TMH Physician Partners

Urology Specialists

TMH Physician Partners Wakulla

TMH Rehabilitation Center

TMH Transition Center

Tallahassee Orthopedic Clinic

TOC Canopy

Tallahassee Outpatient Surgery Center

Wakulla County Health Department

Wakulla Medical Center

Women’s Imaging Center

Please contact Diana Bixler at dbixler@capmed.org or (850) 201-0130 if you are a We Care Network volunteer and you provided volunteer specialty care in the month of January 2024, and your name is omitted.

The We Care Network strongly encourages our volunteer physicians and dentists to send their value of donated services to us. The value of donated services is important for us to share with our funders and the community. In addition, up to five hours, per biennium, of CE credit may be fulfilled by performing pro bono medical and dental services to We Care Network patients, if we have received documentation of value of services. You can send your value of donated services via fax to Diana Bixler at (850) 201-0085 or mail to 1204 Miccosukee Road, Tallahassee, FL, 32308. Thank you!

We Thank Our Referring Providers

JANUARY 2024

Christopher Babl, M.D.

Katrina Ball, APRN

Jean-Pierre Bastien, D.M.D.

Kendra Brady, APRN

Sandy Brafford, M.D.

Callie Burch, APRN

Carlos Campo, M.D.

Melba Colon-Renta, M.D.

Brian Del Carlo, D.D.S.

Stephanie DeRouin, APRN

William Dixon IV, M.D.

Nathalie Esellem, APRN

Cynthia Evans, APRN

Christine Fitzsimmons, D.O.

Sharron Foster, M.D.

William Geers, Jr., M.D.

Judy Griffin, APRN

Gregory Hartlage, M.D.

Hantz Hercule, M.D.

Brett Howard, M.D.

Anneka Johnson, APRN

Victoria Jones, D.M.D.

David Kahn, M.D.

Farhat Khairallah, M.D.

Greg Lamendola, P.A.

Elaine Larkins, APRN

Jessica Lea, APRN

Michael Mangan, M.D.

Ashok Manocha, B.D.S.

Ovidiu Marina, M.D.

Damon McMillan, M.D.

Lisa Menchion, APRN

Marie Methellus, APRN

Kelley Miller, APRN

Marcia Morris, APRN

Abiodun Ogunremi, APRN

Chukwuma Okoroji, M.D.

Rose Origa, APRN

Kaushal Patel, M.D.

Jorge Perez de Armas, M.D.

Lisa Perkins, APRN

Hari Ravipati, M.D.

Hussein Rayatzadeh, M.D.

Shobha Rebala, APRN

Charlie Richardson, M.D.

Andres Rodriguez, M.D.

Garrison Rolle, M.D.

Tim Ruark, M.D.

Karen Russell, M.D.

Lucilita Salvador, P.A.

Kyla Shillington, APRN

Amanda Stephens, D.O.

John Thabes, M.D.

Faye Tinson, APRN

Jean-Paul Tran, M.D.

Lakeshia Washington, APRN

Jeffrey Wasserman, D.O.

Eula Weaver, APRN

Graham Whitaker, M.D.

Charles Yowell, M.D.

Monthly Recap

RECEIVED 213 REFERRALS, WITH 110 PATIENTS NEW TO THE PROGRAM

During the month of January 2024, the We Care Network

SCHEDULED 81 APPOINTMENTS WITH VOLUNTEER PHYSICIANS AND DENTISTS

$373,477 IN DONATED CARE WAS REPORTED BY WE CARE NETWORK VOLUNTEERS