Cap Scan - May 2023

CAPITAL MEDICAL SOCIETY’S 21ST ANNUAL CELEBRATION AWARDS DINNER

By Shannon Boyle, CMS Communications and Events Coordinator

The 21st annual Celebration Awards Dinner honored Dr. Faisal Munasifi and Dr. Andrea Friall. The event was held on March 30, in honor of Doctors’ Day, at the Dunlap Champions Club at FSU. There was a room full of proud supporters of the award recipients. Dr. Faisal Munasifi received the I.B. Harrison, M.D. Humanitarian Award, and Dr. Andrea Friall received the Thomas L. Hicks, M.D. Outstanding Physician Award. Our 2023 CMS President, Dr. Sarah Ko, did a great job emceeing the event.

rose to the occasion during COVID, they also stepped up during the cyberattack at TMH. TMH leadership worked with HCA Florida Capital Hospital leadership to prioritize patient care in our community. It was a team effort among healthcare partners.

Dr. Ko thanked the Celebration Awards Dinner Steering Committee and the Capital Medical Society staff for their hard work in organizing and coordinating this event.

Steering Committee

Alfredo Paredes, M.D., Chair

Tami Frankland, CMS Alliance Chair

Shannon Boyle, CMS Communications and Events Coordinator

Codie Bryant, CMS Alliance

Valerie Draper, CMS Alliance

Pam Irwin, CMS Executive Director

Cynara Miller, CMS Alliance

Heather Redfield, CMS Alliance

Jane Snyder, CMS Alliance

Gillian Stewart, CMS Alliance

Dr. Ko applauded the collaboration and resilience of the medical community during a crisis. She explained the COVID pandemic brought a wide array challenges, but the recent cyberattack at Tallahassee Memorial HealthCare (TMH) was another test on the healthcare community. Just as the medical profession

Dr. Ko recognized four CMS members, in attendance, who retired this past year: Dr. John Fogarty, Dr. Suzanne Harrison, Dr. Charles Long, and Dr. Louis St. Petery. We wish them well in their retirement.

A moment of silence was held to honor the physicians who passed away since March 2022: Dr. Charles Bianco, Dr. James Cavanagh, Dr. Sean Fitzgerald,

CAPITAL MEDICAL SOCIETY 2023 MEETINGS CALENDAR

(L-r) Dr. Andrea Friall, 2023 Thomas L. Hicks, M.D. Outstanding Physician Award recipient; Pam Irwin, CMS Executive Director; Dr. Faisal Munasifi, 2023 I.B. Harrison, M.D. Humanitarian Award recipient; and Dr. Sarah Ko, CMS President.

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

Sarah Ko, M.D., PhD, President

Helen Paulson, M.D., President-Elect

Russell Cole, M.D., Secretary/Treasurer

Paresh Patel, M.D., Immediate Past President

Danny Estupiñán, M.D.

Amulya Konda, M.D.

John Meade, M.D.

Jonathan Nava, M.D.

Niraj Pandit, M.D.

Kaushal Patel, M.D.

Heather Redfield, CMS Alliance President

Cielo Rose, D.O.

Brence Sell, M.D.

Kiana Taba, M.D.

Pam Irwin, 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.

Cap Scan is published during the first week of each month and is the official publication of the Capital Medical Society. Advertising in Cap Scan does not imply approval or endorsement by the Capital Medical Society. The opinions expressed are those of the individual authors and do not necessarily reflect the official policies of the Capital Medical Society.

HAPPY BIRTHDAY!

B. David Robinson, M.D. - 1st

Yan Semenovskyi, M.D. - 1st

Nancy Chorba, M.D. - 2nd

Shawn Ramsey, D.O. - 3rd

Jay E. Allard, M.D. - 4th

William Comer Cherry, Jr., M.D. - 4th

John Dahl, D.O. - 4th

Joel H. Kramer, M.D. - 4th

Charles G. Long, M.D. - 4th

David W. Smith, M.D. - 4th

Javier Escobar, M.D. - 5th

Anthony Wright, M.D. - 5th

Spencer E. Gilleon, M.D. - 6th

H. Timothy Paulk, M.D. - 6th

Jacob Hentges, M.D. - 7th

Brett M. Howard, M.D. - 7th

Nola A. Munasifi, M.D. - 7th

Anthony Russell, M.D. - 7th

Erin Carlquist, M.D. - 8th

James Brown, M.D. - 9th

Donald A. Zorn, M.D. - 9th

Eric Jay Berenson, M.D. - 11th

Shamil Corps Castro, M.D. - 12th

Kimberly I. Smith, M.D. - 12th

John T. Bailey, D.O. - 13th

Ryan R. Ramsook, M.D. - 13th

Sam Ashoo, M.D. - 14th

Hari K. Kolli, M.D. - 14th

Floyd Jaggears, M.D. - 15th

Chukwuma Okoroji, M.D. - 15th

Amanda Stephens, D.O. - 15th

Hugh E. VanLandingham, M.D. - 15th

Lindsey Wells, M.D. - 15th

Mitchell Ford Peabody, D.O. - 16th

Mark T. Saunders, M.D. - 16th

Patricia A. Hogan, M.D. - 18th

Cybelle T. Pfeifer, M.D. - 18th

J. Alan Cox, JD - 19th

Jayati C. Singh, M.D. - 19th

John P. Mahoney, M.D. - 20th

Christopher Price, M.D. - 20th

Kurt Luhmann, M.D. - 21st

Geami Amanda Britt, M.D. - 22nd

Al C. McCully, M.D. - 22nd

David E. Hood, M.D. - 23rd

Lori Krevetski, M.D. - 23rd

Steven Medvid, M.D. - 23rd

Sudha Ravilla, M.D. - 23rd

Stephen Sandroni, M.D. - 23rd

Aaron P. Appiah, M.D. - 25th

Lisa Mook Sang Engel, M.D. - 26th

Jerry L. Harris, M.D. - 26th

Jeffrey W. Crooms, M.D. - 27th

Steven A. Currieo, M.D. - 27th

Hong Gao, M.D. - 27th

Gordon J. Low, M.D. - 27th

Jeffrey Rawlings, M.D. - 27th

Matthew Standridge, M.D. - 27th

John Agens, M.D. - 28th

Julianna Kacheris, M.D. - 28th

Stephen C. LaRosa, M.D. - 29th

David Oberste, M.D. - 29th

Daniel B. Yang, M.D. - 29th

Suzanne L. Harrison, M.D. - 30th

Jayan Nair, M.D. - 31st

Mehul Patel, M.D. - 31st

HAPPY BIRTHDAY! WE ARE SO GLAD YOU WERE BORN!

CAPITAL MEDICAL SOCIETY 2023 MEETINGS CALENDAR

CONTINUED FROM COVER

October 17, 2023

CMS Membership & CME Meeting Prevention of Medical Errors (2-Hour CME)

Tori Penny, Esq. and Julia Weeks, M.D.

6:00 pm

Maguire Center for Lifelong Learning at Westminster Oaks

December 8, 2023 *NEW DATE*

CMS Foundation Holiday Auction

6:00 pm

Dunlap Champions Club at FSU

ADVERTISER INDEX

Eye Associates of Tallahassee — PG 24

James Moore & Co. — PG 5

MagMutual — PG 19

North Florida Women’s Care — PG 15

RXNT — PG 3

The Doctors Company — PG 4

Thomas Howell Ferguson, P.A., CPAs back cover

NEW DOCS ON THE BLOCK PROFESSIONAL NOTES

Ryan R. Ramsook, M.D.

Medical School: RutgersNew Jersey Medical School

Internship/Residency: Icahn School of Medicine at Englewood Hospital

Fellowships: The Pain & Spine Institute of New York, Icahn School at Mount Sinai Medical Center

Practice: United Spine & Pain

Specialty: Physical Medicine & Rehabilitation, Interventional Pain Management

Colby Redfield, M.D.

Medical School: Florida State University

Internship/Residency: Harvard Affiliated Emergency Medicine Residency at Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center

Fellowship: Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center

Practice: TMH Physician PartnersEmergency Services

Specialty: Emergency Medicine

Dr. Hector Mejia was listed in Becker’s Spine Review as one of 10 sports medicine leaders who have made a positive impact on their organizations and have their sights set on future growth. Dr. Mejia is a sports medicine specialist at Tallahassee Orthopedic Clinic. He specializes in anterior cruciate ligament reconstructive knee surgery, total shoulder replacement surgeries and ulnar collateral ligament reconstructive elbow surgery. Dr. Mejia is also a team doctor with Florida State University Athletics in Tallahassee.

CMS Members: If you receive accolades, please let us know, so we can include you in this section! Email the details to Shannon Boyle at sboyle@capmed.org.

Announcing the 2023 Dividend for Florida Members

The Doctors Company has awarded over $455 million in dividends to its members—including 5 percent to qualified Florida members. Unlike some insurers who are guided by their investors, we’ve always been guided by the belief that the practice of good medicine should be advanced, protected, and rewarded.

Join

NEW FEDERAL REQUIREMENT FOR DEA-AUTHORIZED PRESCRIBERS

The U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) recently sent an email to notify physicians about a new federal requirement: DEAauthorized prescribers will be required to demonstrate that they have completed at least eight (8) hours of educational training on the treatment and management of patients with opioid or other substance use disorders. The deadline for completing this one-time requirement is

the date of the DEA-authorized prescriber’s next scheduled DEA registration submission (either new or a renewal) on or after June 27, 2023. There are multiple ways to comply, and certain physicians, based on their specialty, medical school graduation date and CME curriculum history, are deemed to have met the training requirement. Some recommendations for training-appropriate curricular elements are available at https://www.deadiversion.usdoj. gov/pubs/docs/MATE_Training_Letter_Final. pdf.

Experience Matters

After nearly 60 years of serving healthcare clients, we have the knowledge needed to address your unique concerns—from accounting and tax planning to human resources, IT and wealth management services. Let us put our expertise to work for you!

Dr. Anjali Joshi, Dr. Richard MacArthur, Dr. Kirk Mauro, Dr. Robert Miles, Dr. E. “Skeeter” Charlton Prather, and Dr. Ira Price.

leadership in the profession of medicine. The late Dr. Thomas L. Hicks was the first recipient of the Outstanding Physician Award in 2006, and the award was later named in his honor. Dr. Ko asked all past recipients of this award to stand and be recognized. Dr. Andrea Friall joined the esteemed physicians that previously received this award, as the 2023 recipient of this prestigious award.

Eric and Camille Friall, Drs. Andrea Friall’s husband and daughter, respectively, presented her with the Thomas L. Hicks, M.D. Outstanding Physician Award. (You can read Eric and Camille Friall’s remarks on page 15, and Dr. Friall’s remarks upon receiving the award on page 16.)

Dr. Ko shared a brief history of the I.B. Harrison, M.D. Humanitarian Award. The criteria for the award are predicated on the values that came to be associated with the late Dr. I.B. Harrison: compassion, service, respect, wisdom and integrity. She asked all past recipients of this award to stand and be recognized. Dr. Faisal Munasifi joined the esteemed physicians that previously received this award, as the 2023 recipient of this prestigious award.

Dr. Frank Skilling, longtime friend and colleague of Dr. Munasifi, presented him with the I.B. Harrison, M.D. Humanitarian Award. (You can read Dr. Frank Skilling’s remarks on page 12, and Dr. Munasifi’s remarks upon receiving the award on page 14.)

The Capital Medical Society would like to extend their appreciation to the CMS Alliance for providing the beautiful floral arrangements. The arrangements were full of red carnations, the symbol for Doctors’ Day.

We thank our 2023 Celebration Awards Dinner supporters. Without their generous support, this event would not have been possible.

Dr. Ko then gave a brief overview of the Thomas L. Hicks, M.D. Outstanding Physician Award. The award honors a physician who has demonstrated outstanding

Two of our supporters did a drawing at the event. Presenting Sponsor, Tallahassee TMS, did a drawing for a stress relief basket. Mitchell Ramsey, Tallahassee TMS Program Coordinator, assisted Dr. Ko with the drawing of the winner’s name. The lucky winner was Dr. Sam Ashoo. Supporting Sponsor, Big Bend Hospice, did a drawing for a bottle of 2021 FerrariCarano Chardonnay and a bottle of 2019 Buck Shack Cabernet Sauvignon. Paulina Pendarvis, Big Bend Hospice’s Professional Relations Liaison, assisted Dr. Ko with the drawing of the winners’ names. The lucky winner of the 2021 Ferrari-Carano Chardonnay

(L-r) Dr. Sarah Ko, CMS President, with newly retired CMS members: Dr. John Fogarty, Dr. Charles Long, Dr. Suzanne Harrison, and Dr. Louis St. Petery.

Dr. Sarah Ko (left), Camille Friall (second from left), and Eric Friall (right) presented the 2023 Thomas L. Hicks, M.D. Outstanding Physician Award to Dr. Andrea Friall (second from right).

Dr. Frank Skilling (left) and Dr. Sarah Ko (right) presented the 2023 I.B. Harrison, M.D. Humanitarian Award to Dr. Faisal Munasifi (middle).

was Kevin Friall, and the lucky winner of the 2019 Buck Shack Cabernet Sauvignon was Dr. Margaret Neal.

Presenting Sponsors

Title Sponsor

Caduceus Sponsor

Supporting Sponsors

Audiology Associates of North Florida

Big Bend Hospice

Capital City Trust Company

Florida Medical Association

Florida State University College of Medicine

HCA Florida Capital Hospital

MagMutual

Student Housing Solutions, LLC

Tallahassee Ear, Nose & Throat, P.A.

TMH Federal Credit Union

Truist Wealth and Truist Mortgage

Event Sponsors

Florida Psychiatric Society

Florida State University College of Medicine - Tallahassee Regional Campus

Hancock Whitney

John & Barb Mahoney

SYNOVUS

In-Kind Sponsor

Betsy Barfield Photography

(L-r) Dr. Sam Ashoo, winner of the stress relief basket from Tallahassee TMS; Mitchell Ramsey, Tallahassee TMS Program Coordinator; and Dr. Sarah Ko, CMS President.

(L-r) Paulina Pendarvis, Big Bend Hospice Professional Relations Liaison; Dr. Margaret Neal, winner of the 2019 Buck Shack Cabernet Sauvignon; Kevin Friall, winner of the 2021 Ferrari-Carano Chardonnay; and Dr. Sarah Ko, CMS President.

Title Sponsor, Capital Health Plan: (seated, l-r) Dr. Lynn Jones, Dr. Amy Neal, Dr. Ryan Curran, (standing, l-r) Dr. Stanley Gwock, Dr. David Jones, Dr. Adekunle Omotayo, Dr. Christine Chiu-Geers, Dr. Mary Jane Tucker, and Dr. Cielo Rose.

Presenting Sponsor, North Florida Women’s Care: (seated, l-r) Becky McAlpine, Dr. Vikki McKinnie, Patricia Clements, PhD, Beth Sundstrom, (standing, l-r) Dr. Kenneth McAlpine, Dr. Andrea Friall, Natalee Singleton, Dr. Arthur Clements, Dr. Christopher Sundstrom, and Dr. David Dixon.

(Seated, l-r) Dr. Jeffrey Ferraro; Dr. John Bailey and Bonnie Bailey, Event Sponsor, Florida Psychiatric Society;

(standing, l-r) Donna Diaz; Sally Sirmans; Mitchell Ramsey, Presenting Sponsor, Tallahassee TMS; Kelly Sunshine; Katie Mann; and Dr. Eileen Venable.

(Seated, l-r) Joe Farenden; Dr. Sarah Ko, CMS President; Pam Irwin, CMS Executive Director; (standing, l-r) Dr. Mark Wheeler; Dr. Alfredo Paredes, Chair, Celebration Awards Dinner Steering Committee; Dr. Helen Paulson, CMS PresidentElect; Dr. Russell Cole, CMS Secretary/Treasurer; and Sandy Cole.

Diana O’Bryant, Event Sponsor, Hancock Whitney (front row, standing, middle); and Caduceus Sponsor, Tallahassee Memorial HealthCare: (seated, l-r) Nicole Watson, Rindi Haynes, (standing, l-r) Dr. Dean Watson, Mark O’Bryant, and Steven Haynes.

Presenting Sponsor, Psychiatry Associates of Tallahassee: (seated, l-r) Dr. Connie Speer, Brenda Corry, Anna Salama, (standing, l-r) Dr. Lina Reyes, Linda McKay, Pauline Sabitsch, Sterling Corry, and George Salama.

Presenting Sponsor, TC Federal Bank: (seated, l-r) Patricia Griffin, Meka McCaskill, Taylor Dove, (standing, l-r) Dustin Baker, Ryan Poole, and Jon Chitty.

(Seated, l-r) Ashley Crowley and Christopher Clark, Supporting Sponsor, Florida Medical Association; Chris Mosley, CEO, Supporting Sponsor, HCA Florida Capital Hospital; (standing, l-r) Matt Crowley, Supporting Sponsor, Florida Medical Association; Jeff Corson and Melissa Corson, Supporting Sponsors, Audiology Associates of North Florida and Tallahassee Ear, Nose & Throat, P.A.; and Dr. Trey Blake, Supporting Sponsor, HCA Florida Capital Hospital.

(Seated, l-r) Paulina Pendarvis, Tanya Hollady, and Catherine Heath, Supporting Sponsor, Big Bend Hospice; (standing, l-r) Dr. Amulya Konda; Greg Nichols and Jeff Askins, Event Sponsor, SYNOVUS; and Kelly Chastain, Supporting Sponsor, Big Bend Hospice.

Supporting Sponsor, Florida State University College of Medicine: (seated, l-r) Dr. John Fogarty, Dr. Daniel Van Durme, Pat Van Durme, (standing, l-r) Dr. Alma Littles, Gentle Littles, Lindsey Miller, Dr. Cyneetha Strong, and Rod Duckworth.

Supporting Sponsor, Truist Wealth and Truist Mortgage: (seated, l-r) Tom Dietrich, Leigh Graham, (standing, l-r) Brandon Hogue, Karen Watts, and Charles Hopkins.

Dr. Andrea Friall’s family was present to honor her with the Thomas L. Hicks, M.D. Outstanding Physician Award.

(Seated, l-r) Spencer Brass, Dylan Leoni, and Christine Leoni, Supporting Sponsor, Student Housing Solutions, LLC; (standing, l-r)

Dr. Heemanshi Shah

Lakshmin and Melissa Wright, Supporting Sponsor, Capital City Trust Company; Steven Leoni, Supporting Sponsor, Student Housing Solutions, LLC; and Dr. Raymond Cottrell and Mike Dasher, Supporting Sponsor, Capital City Trust Company.

(Seated, l-r) Paula Burn and Harry Burn, Supporting Sponsor, TMH Federal Credit Union; Dr. Seymour Rosen; (standing, l-r) Dr. Sandeep Rahangdale, Anamika Rahangdale, Elaine Geissinger, and Dr. James Geissinger, Event Sponsor, Florida State University College of MedicineTallahassee Regional Campus.

Dr. Faisal Munasifi’s family was present to honor him with the I.B. Harrison, M.D. Humanitarian Award.

DR. FRANK SKILLING’S INTRODUCTION OF DR. FAISAL MUNASIFI, RECIPIENT OF THE 2023 I.B. HARRISON, M.D. HUMANITARIAN AWARD

Managing Editor’s Note: These are Dr. Skilling’s notes and not a formal write-up. Please excuse spelling, grammar, and punctuation errors.

Over fifty years ago, I was introduced to the medical wisdom of Dr. Harrison. No, not I.B. Harrison, but Dr. Tinsley Harrison, who was Professor of Medicine at the University of Alabama at Birmingham School of Medicine and the editor of Harrison’s Principles of Internal Medicine, a text that is still in use today. The book cover and frontispiece from the original 1950 edition is projected above. Dr. Harrison was one of the most revered physicians of his era, and his lineage dated back to Dr. William Osler, one of the founders of modern internal medicine. The quote you see was widely used at my medical school, and it’s enshrined at the entrance to the Harrison Research Building at UAB. [“No greater opportunity, responsibility, or obligation can fall to the lot of a human being than to become a physician. In the case of suffering he needs technical skill, scientific knowledge, and human understanding. He who uses these with courage, humility, and wisdom will provide a unique service for his fellowman, and will build an enduring edifice of character within himself. The physician should ask of his destiny no more than this, he should be content with no less!”]

When I came to Tallahassee in 1978, I was told that I had to have a personal interview with another Dr. Harrison: Dr. I.B. Harrison. During my interview for acceptance on the medical staff at Tallahassee Memorial Hospital, Dr. Harrison made it clear that I was expected to uphold the bylaws of the medical staff, be available for emergency calls and practice impeccable ophthalmology. I didn’t feel intimidated, but I knew that he set a high bar for practicing medicine in Tallahassee.

Dr. Ira Barnett Harrison, universally known as “Bud,” was one of the first cardiologists in Tallahassee, but in the mid1970s he transitioned into a role that was new to medical practice here: Medical Director at TMH. While this was a position that bridged the hospital administration and the medical community, he was also involved in supervising the residents of the new Family Medicine Practice Program. Some members of the audience tonight probably had him as an attending physician. Dr. Harrison was always interested in the medical problems of the hospitalized patients, but he was even more interested in HOW they were treated by the physicians and residents under his supervision.

Dr. Harrison was a Medical Humanist in the tradition of William Osler and Tinsley Harrison, and he was ultimately concerned with the humanity of each patient, and not the disease process by itself.

After he retired, Capital Health Plan initiated an honor that was dedicated to his compassionate goals and named for him: The I.B. Harrison Humanitarian Award. This was to be given annually to the physician who most clearly represented that ideal in our medical community. Dr. Harrison was the first recipient of this prestigious recognition. The Capital Medical Society is now in charge of awarding this honor.

Tonight, we are gathered to recognize a member of our medical community who has exhibited those concepts of humanism that make the practice of medicine such a noble calling: Dr. Faisal Munasifi. The Capital Medical Society is proud to recognize him for his service and dedication, and, above all, his compassion in trying to alleviate the mental and emotional sufferings that plague our species. In his chosen field of psychiatry, he has been a leader in treating conditions that were once thought to be intractable. He is certified in classical psychoanalysis and is recognized as a leader in the field of psychopharmacology. For the last several years he has been using the latest treatment, Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation, TMS, of the brain.

He has served as a mentor to residents, medical students, nurses and social workers in the field of mental health. He is recognized as a mentor who always places the interests of the patients above his own.

Tonight, he will be honored for his lifelong commitment to helping patients in the field of mental health, but I’m here to give you a glimpse of Dr. Munasifi that will not be in his biographical summary.

It’s truly my privilege to introduce him to you. His wife Nola and his three daughters, Dina, Nadia, and Sana are with him tonight.

I first met Dr. Munasifi in 1982 in the old doctors’ lounge at Tallahassee Memorial Hospital. This was right before Easter, and, on impulse, I invited him and his family to our annual spring luncheon and Easter Egg Hunt. He brought Nola and his two older daughters. I’m sure they had never been to a garden party like the one that my wife Karen puts on. We had an outdoor lunch followed by the egg hunt, and then a piñata

for the children. After fifteen kids took a swing at the piñata, there was candy everywhere. I’m sure the Munasifis were shocked.

The Munasifis lived near us, and their children were the same age as ours. They all went to Faith Presbyterian Preschool together. Over the years our daughters joined the Pas de Vie Ballet School and became students and performers of dance. The girls were in each other’s weddings, and they remain friends even today.

Along with Jonette and Paul Sawyer’s family we often shared meals for Thanksgiving and Christmas holidays. Although we knew that he was raised in Iraq, he never discussed how he came to the USA. It was only after the capture of Saddam Hussein in December 2003 that he and Nola felt free to reveal how they escaped. Their stories are terrifying and could be the subject of a mini-series on TV, but they are too long to relate tonight. However, the Cap Scan will publish them in upcoming issues online.

I consider myself a good judge of character, and I thought that I knew Dr. Munasifi well. When our families got together, he was always polite, but a bit reserved. He was quiet and even taciturn at times. He had an outlook on medicine and world events that showed a unique perspective. He helped me understand the politics of the Middle East. But it wasn’t until many years later when we started traveling in a group that I found out what it took to get him to open up: SCOTCH WHISKEY!

When he was away from the worries of his psychiatric practice, and had time to relax, he would engage with conversations that were light and insightful, but when he had a bit a scotch, he became downright friendly, funny and even a bit flirtatious. While we were on a cruise on the Aegean Sea, we were entertained by a belly dancer who invited the guests up to dance with her. Dr. Munasifi, perhaps because of his middle Eastern heritage, was the only man who could keep up with her, and indeed, he taught the young woman a few new moves. Scotch was the lubricant that he needed to unleash his inner Patrick Swayze.

Another facet of his personality is his absorption, some might say obsession, with fashion. Faisal Munasifi is always well dressed. He knows quality in styles and fabrics, and he’s often able to give salespeople lessons in haute couture. When I once asked Nola how he got to be so knowledgeable, she said it was because of his mother, Diba Ansari, who was a young, fashion-conscious matron living in Baghdad when it was still open to Western culture and clothing trends. She literally went shopping downtown every afternoon, and because Faisal was the eldest, she took him along as her escort. He became addicted to high fashion. Once, when we were traveling as a group in Buenos Aires, Argentina, Faisal skipped out on visiting an art museum to go shopping with some of the women, including my wife, Karen. They visited the fashionable Recoleta district’s shops. When I caught up with them at the end of the afternoon, I found that each of the women had

purchased an exclusive designer purse. Faisal had purchased five! He explained that he had to get one for each of his female family members as a souvenir. Even now he has a closet full of suits and designer shirts, including some he has yet to wear.

Besides being a fashion maven, he is also a connoisseur of Middle Eastern cuisine. Although he doesn’t cook himself, he’s selective in what he eats, and he’s always ready to share culinary insights. Over the years we’ve talked about going to Beirut, where he was born, to try the food, but for obvious reasons we’ve not made the trip yet. When we were in Paris last year, he found a Lebanese Restaurant and took our group there for lunch. Walking inside for him was like going back to Beirut in the 1960s. He spoke to the owner and the waiters in Arabic and French. After consulting them, he told us not to order off the menu because he would take care of selecting the meal himself. We had at least five courses of ten or twelve different types of food. By the time we finished lunch, it was three and a half hours later, and we could barely fit into the cab to get back to our hotel. He was ecstatic that we’d finally had a true Lebanese meal. If there’s such a thing as reincarnation, I’m positive he would make a great maître d in another life.

One of the questions that I asked myself as Dr. Munasifi and I became friends was what in our backgrounds allowed us to connect so well. I grew up in a stable home environment in Miami, but his family lived under an unstable, brutal, totalitarian regime in Baghdad. Over the years I found out that we’d both had similar educational backgrounds in that we were instructed by the Society of Jesus, better known as the Jesuits. The foundation for Jesuit education is the concept of developing the whole person: mind, body, and spirit. With the goal of producing men and women in service to others, academics for the Jesuits stress values, ethics and the development of moral character.

As I’ve shown you in the examples of the two Dr. Harrisons, the practice of medicine is not merely an exercise in diagnosis or analysis. It is not simply a way of having a financially comfortable life. It is a vocation that demands a lifetime commitment to keeping up with the scientific changes while never losing sight that the patients are the ultimate beneficiaries of our knowledge and efforts. I know that Dr. Faisal Munasifi continues to fulfill this calling every day in his practice of medicine. I’m proud to call him my friend and brother.

ACCEPTANCE SPEECH FROM DR. FAISAL MUNASIFI, 2023 I.B. HARRISON, M.D. HUMANITARIAN AWARD RECIPIENT

Managing Editor’s Note: These are Dr. Munasifi’s notes and not a formal write-up. Please excuse spelling, grammar, and punctuation errors.

Thank you Frank, for that gracious introduction.

Your family's friendship has meant so much to me and my family over the years.

Friends and colleagues, I am humbled to accept the I.B. Harrison, M.D. Humanitarian Award from the Capital Medical Society tonight.

Frank is right. The practice of medicine is about much more than diagnosis or financial gain. For me, psychiatry is not just my profession; it is my passion and my purpose.

I have been interested in psychiatry since I was in high school in Baghdad in the 1960s. I used to buy “Psychology Today” from the McKenzie local bookstore, and read the writings of Sigmund Freud in my free time.

I still remember my medical school classmates telling me, “Faisal, you are going into psychiatry”. They knew even then that I was drawn to psychiatry. They also knew that I failed anatomy because I found it boring. And psychiatry fascinating.

During my residency at the University of Miami, I rotated on both internal medicine and psychiatry services. While focusing on psychiatry, I decided to engage in classical Freudian psychoanalysis. I laid on the couch in the psychoanalyst office four times a week for 3-1/2 years, and unearthed emotions I did not know I had buried. The experience was beyond belief. I came to understand myself, and accept my assets and vulnerabilities. [Some of my friends here today think I could have benefited from a few more years!!!]

Psychoanalysis gave me the tools to know myself. Psychiatry gave me the tools to help others. When it came time to choose between internal medicine and psychiatry, I did not hesitate. Psychiatry was my path.

After completing my residency at the University of Miami, I stayed on the faculty for several years teaching medical students and residents. In 1982, when my wife Nola and I were considering relocation, Dr. Bob Bragg, the director of psychiatric education at the department, [Bragg Stadium at FAMU is named after his father] suggested I visit his

hometown. He thought we may like it. So we did. And not long after that, Nola and I moved here. I became staff psychiatrist at Apalachee mental Health Center.

I met Dr. Bud Harrison when I applied for hospital privileges at Tallahassee Memorial Hospital. As prior speakers have noted, Dr. Harrison was the medical director, and he set the tone for the practice of medicine in this community. After sharing his expectations for members of the medical staff, he looked at me and said, “why don't you go to private practice, we need some good psychiatrists in the community.” But I had my doubts. I told Dr. Harrison, “I am new here, I do not know anyone, how would I survive in private practice?” He smiled and responded “you will do alright”. Without his encouragement, I do not know if I would have started my own practice in Tallahassee.

40 years and thousands of patients later, I still love what I do. I still look forward to going to the office, learning about new developments and treatments, and sharing this knowledge with others.

Most of all, I enjoy helping people by making a difference in their lives. When demoralized, depressed patients are in my office, I tell them that there is so much we can do for them. Being able to reduce their pain gives me a lot of satisfaction.

I would like to thank my colleagues who have been essential to my practice all these years, many, including Dr. Harrison, lent me their wisdom and guidance throughout my career. Especially I would like to thank Dr. Connie Speer, who has been my associate for over 40 years, and my professional and office staff, who have made coming to the office every day, efficient and fulfilling.

I extend my deep thanks to Nola, for her unwavering support. We have known each other since first grade. And to my daughter's, who let me turn our dinner conversations into decades of instructions on psychiatric diagnosis and treatment.

Even now, Dr. Harrison's influence on my career continues. I am proud to receive this award that honors his Legacy.

Thank you.

Managing Editor’s Note: These are Eric and Camille’s notes and not a formal write-up. Please excuse spelling, grammar, and punctuation errors.

Eric

What a special award and an amazing group of past recipients.

Leadership and Advocacy is never easy, especially today’s time when so many of us have forgotten how to disagree or how to embrace opportunities for improvement.

We all have ideas, priorities, values that shape who we are. But occasionally you find that person – that Andrea Friall - who is able to:

To lead and not upset

She can Advocate for and not necessarily against

She has the ability to shape and guide an outcome without taking over situation

She has that balance of confidence and compassion

She leads through action and not lecture.

Those words aren’t from a colleague, those words are from a husband. But I’m sure that colleagues, friends, family, and peers would have similar reflections.

Having met Andrea right here at FSU in 1989, there are many, many stories that I could tell you. In fact, she is probably terrified right now wondering which one I tell…

But she will get a pass tonight because I want to share this moment with our daughter Camille.

Camille

Played a piano solo to honor her mother: La danza de la moza donosa by Alberto Ginastera.

ACCEPTANCE SPEECH FROM DR. ANDREA FRIALL, 2023 THOMAS L. HICKS, M.D. OUTSTANDING PHYSICIAN AWARD RECIPIENT

Managing Editor’s Note: These are Dr. Friall’s notes and not a formal write-up. Please excuse spelling, grammar, and punctuation errors.

Good evening.

Without the love and support of Eric and Camille, who you have just heard, I am certain I would not be standing here today. I will try to not be too emotional and get through this speech.

It is no surprise to any of us that Dr. Munasifi is being honored as the Humanitarian of the year. I first heard his name when I moved back to Tallahassee in 2001 and to this day it is synonymous with all the attributes associated with a true physician and humanitarian. Compassionate, respectful, skilled, trustworthy and dedicated to humanity as a whole. Congratulations on this tremendous honor.

Tonight I would like to begin with gratitude and end with an idea…

I am grateful for my family, friends, and colleagues who are here with me in this room and those unable to be here.

A very special thank you to Shannon Boyle for all her work and preparation for this evening. The PowerPoint presentation was moving and as usual, every possible detail of the evening was attended to perfectly. You are amazing!

Thank you to Dr. Ko, the selection committee, Pam Irwin, Rosalie Carlin, and all the other staff at the Capital Medical Society. As I scan the room, I see so many amazing colleagues.

So much love and appreciation for my family… supported me like many of you through the hundreds of hours dedicated to becoming a physician. When I told my father, I was receiving this recognition he said, “don’t make this about me” and I laughed and said I wouldn’t

but honestly without his love and encouragement I would not be standing here today. So sorry dad, it is a bit about you tonight. My sisters and brother could not be here tonight but reading their comments fill me with joy. My Aunt Amy and Uncle Will who let me live with them when I first got back to town and love me as if I am their own daughter. Thank you.

So much love and gratitude for my friends… true friendship stands the test of time and “loving” a medical professional take a special kind of skill. It is constantly tested though med school, residency, and work life. So to my friends, I hope I am half the friend to you that you have been to me because your love certainly allows me to stand here today to receive this recognition.

Gratitude for my colleagues…I was a third year resident when I took the call from Dr. Arthur Clements who spoke of a place where “big” things were happening! He was right. The medical school was starting at FSU and he encouraged me to come to Tallahassee. The practice had also never had a women physician! I took a chance. I never looked back. Growing North Florida Women’s Care with Dr. Clements has been one of my most cherished journeys. He is visionary and I am proud to call him a colleague, friend, and mentor. Everyone who knows Dr. Clements has a story that will simply make you laugh out loud. He is charismatic and can convince you of almost anything…including that coming to Tallahassee is a far better choice than going home to practice in central Florida.

My NFWC family as a whole…Dr. Dixon…knew I was coming to Tallahassee and since we practiced so well together in residency in New Orleans, it was a no brainer. He helped me bring Camille into the world!

Cherish Bill Hambsh and Gina Josey and so many other dedicated employees. Gina picked me up from the airport when I was going to meet the partners for the first time. Bill made the deal seem sweet and puts up with my ideas for how to ideally care for women to this day! We are lifelong friends and I love them infinity.

In the audience, Dr. McKinnie, a genuine friend through and through and Dr. McAlpine is one of the kindest souls you will ever meet. Dr. David O’Bryan, Dr. Sundstrom is so kind and his sense of humor is what all of medicine needs.

I could spend all night telling stories and sharing gratitude about my partners, truly material for a hit reality show, so I will stop here. I am truly thankful for my ob/gyn practice and what it has shown me.

Much love and Gratitude for My TMH family…Dr. Dean Watson, legendary leader in starting the hospitalist program, transition center…When he was transitioning out of the role of CMO and I was thinking who is going to be the new “Dean Watson” I quickly learned…there is no such thing. One of a kind amazing human.

Mark O’Bryant for his example, leadership, and friendship. We entered this place around the same time and I feel I am the lucky one to have been able to be part of his leadership and vision for our medical community.

Lastly, to the selection committee at the Capital Medical Society, I am grateful and humbled to be the Capital Medical Society recipient of the 2023 Thomas L. Hicks, M.D. Outstanding Physician Award. As we have been told, 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.

As I read about Dr. Hicks, it took me on a journey of reflection. Like most of you who are physicians in the room, I chose the field of medicine to make a difference. I have been very blessed with a career enriched by so many of you in this room.

There are surely vast differences in what we define as “making a difference” amongst us but at its core, we believe in respect for human life, we understand all too well that it has a cycle. We believe through science, technology, our professional medical training, and core values that we can enrich the lives of our patients. But there is more to it.

I was first introduced to the concept of organized medicine as a medical student at Howard University through the student national medical association. On top of our clinical regular work, I realized that there was a gap between the care provided in the clinics and the connection to the needs of the patients we cared for in

clinic. Participating in outreach education on HIV/AIDS, contraception, sexual health, diabetes, and hypertension added additional purpose and centered me. It help me fill the gap.

I also realized, as a medical student, that patients connected to me. We locked eyes and they relied on me to communicate with them in a way that was useful. I felt like a translator even when everyone in the room was speaking English. I am not sure how many of you in the room are empaths but as my career grew I finally learned what that feeling was about. The look was “you are the doc and you need to tell me what I should do”. A trust like no other. Never to be taken for granted.

My commitment to organized medicine continued through residency when I was tapped on the shoulder by Dr. Eduardo Herrera while doing my residency at Tulane and he said “you are going to be our ACOG junior fellow representative”…through ACOG I learned more deeply about my passion for caring for women. The organized structure provided me with access to tools and skills of professional growth with likeminded individuals all committed to caring for patients beyond the exam room. Later came countless trips to Washington DC to speak with legislators or their aides about appropriate reimbursement for physicians, reducing maternal mortality, reproductive rights, mental health, access to care and the list goes on and on. I even got my husband (already a veteran in the process) and daughter to join in on the fun! They made hill visits with us and my daughter got to see the process first hand and learn how to use her voice. Not to mention numerous summer trips to the FMA in Orlando as a Delegate where seeing my fellow CMS members lead has always been so inspirational to me. I have been in the house of delegates at the FMA with so many of you. Dr. Littles, Mahoney, Forsthoefel, Sell…

What it takes to be a physician is unmatched by any other profession in my opinion. But like all professions, there is a bunch of small print we never read. I did not see the memo that when you transition to CMO you will face devastating storms and a pandemic just to get you started. You are a leader whether you want to be or not. And when COVID hit, physicians and all aspects of the medical profession were now in the spotlight.

So I want to share with you the idea of servant leadership style.

Servant Leadership has been described as (and I am paraphrasing) …

“A leader that may aim to share power with others and encourage the development and growth of others. This trait can extend to listening to followers carefully to better understand their needs, but it also involves leaders holding themselves and others accountable for their words and actions.”

While reading I came across an article about servant leadership and as I accept this honor it resonated with me. It said…“The results of servant leadership are exponential: by leading as a servant, you multiply success and satisfaction — personal and professional, for you and your colleagues — above and beyond the limits of traditional leadership outcomes.”

I may be standing before you this evening for what we were able to accomplish during COVID and beyond, but in my opinion, I am only here through our mutual teamwork and collaboration. To me many of the principles of servant leadership demonstrate what organized medicine is about and how it should work.

7 Key Principles of Servant Leadership

1. Honor Others (Before Yourself) Albert Einstein once said, “I speak to everyone the same way, whether he is a garbage man or the president of the university.” This simple statement perfectly encapsulates the concept of purposefully honoring others before yourself. By speaking to everyone as if they are genuinely important, no matter their position in life, Einstein is demonstrating genuine respect for all people. Respect defines the underlying attitude of a servant leader.

2. Inspire Vision (Before Setting The Course) Model your vision THEN inspire others to be part of it; The biggest obstacle to inspiring a vision is recognizing how your organization can improve. Spend time considering a vision for growth and improvement, boldly communicate your vision, and help your team understand why it matters to them.

3. Choose Ethics (Before Profit) Great leaders prioritize the value of character over profit, and so they refuse to take advantage of opportunities for dishonest gain.

4. Empower Others (Before Personal Gain) “It’s amazing what you can achieve if you don’t care who gets the credit.” This quote by former President Harry S. Truman exemplifies how leaders achieve their greatest success — through the empowerment of the staff surrounding them.

5. Privilege People (Before Tasks) Simon Sinek, a visionary in the field of living out purpose, said, “When people are financially invested, they want a

return. When people are emotionally invested, they want to contribute.”

6. Balance Focus With Flexibility (Before Making Decisions) If you are reacting, you may already be too late. ***here is where I would say vulnerability is key and accepting the need to change without shame*** COVID taught us many things including learning to be flexible.

7. Serve With Humility (Before All Else) “Humility is not thinking less of yourself, it’s thinking of yourself less.” Pastor and author Rick Warren articulates a valuable lesson for influential leadership… Humility is not mere self-deprecation or a focus on shortcomings, but rather purposeful care and concern for the world around you.

So that is the idea. We all have what it takes to make meaningful change…talent, treasure, and time.

Talent…I will repeat it again, what it takes to become a physician is unmatched by any other profession in my opinion. Happy Doctors’ Day as we celebrate and appreciate your talent today.

Treasure… There is much gained from the practice of generosity.

Time…the most precious of them all. And I will leave you with this.

MAKE TIME

Advocating for your family, your career, your patients is always worth the time.

Just yesterday, I was in city hall participating in a panel on Black Maternal Health. When do I have time for that you ask? I “make time”. I left at 9:36 and was back on campus by 11:15 to enjoy all American lunch for medical staff wellness week. And as I ate lunch, I listened to a physician who recently went to the hill to testify in committee. He made time. My heart was full.

Lastly, in the article about servant leadership, it said…

“What do leaders like George Washington, Abraham Lincoln, and Martin Luther King Jr. have in common?” (And I would say describes many of the leaders in here tonight.) It’s not one thing, but rather a commitment to the key values that constitute being not just an effective leader — but a servant leader committed to helping others and transforming the world for the better.

Thank you for this honor.

FLORIDA SHOTS REMINDER FOR PHYSICIANS

The Florida Department of Health in Leon County would like to remind you about the use of Florida SHOTS to print and provide your patients with their immunization records. External access to this system was made available to local physician offices to provide these documents onsite. The links provided below include step-by-step instructions to help staff.

Quick Tips Guide for Full-Access Accounts (https://flshotsusers.com/sites/default/ files/inline-files/Quick%20Tips%20Full%20 Access-11.22.22.pdf) – this covers the basics of logging in, entering vaccines, and certifying the DH Form 680 for full access users.

Other training guides are located at Training Guides | Florida SHOTS (https://flshotsusers. com/training/training-guides).

Please note that starting May 8, 2023, a processing fee will be assessed for individuals requesting a printed copy of their immunization or medical record at the health department without a clinical service.

You may direct questions or concerns to LeonCHD.Feed-back@flhealth.gov

Gain insight that improves

your

outcomes

We work hard to help our PolicyOwners avoid the unexpected outcomes that can lead to medical professional liability claims. When one happens, though, we’ll guide you through it – efficiently, attentively and expertly. We use predictive claims analysis to evaluate decades of data we’ve gathered as a leading healthcare liability insurer and develop fact-based recommendations to resolve claims. You’ll be better informed and better prepared. Most important, you’ll see better results.

MIPS EXTREME AND UNCONTROLLABLE CIRCUMSTANCES APPLICATIONS WILL BE AVAILABLE FOR PERFORMANCE YEAR 2023

On April 13, 2023, the Florida Medical Association (FMA) provided its members with the following FMA Staff Report:

With the COVID-19 pandemic continuing to affect physicians and the Public Health Emergency not set to expire until May, the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) recognizes that many medical practices will not be able to participate in MIPS. Therefore, in spring 2023, CMS will open an application that physicians can submit to apply for a MIPS Extreme and Uncontrollable Circumstances waiver. If approved, this waiver will allow physicians to reweight one or more MIPS performance categories due to the COVID-19 PHE.

While approval is not automatic or guaranteed, such an exemption could potentially save affected practices from a 9% Medicare cut due to the penalties imposed by MIPS.

For more information, visit https://qpp.cms.gov/ resources/covid19.

Physicians can subscribe to the QPP listserv (https:// qpp.cms.gov/resources/covid19#email-subscribe) to receive updates and announcements from CMS. In addition, physicians who have questions can contact CMS at (866) 288-8292, Monday through Friday, from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. (EDT) or by email at QPP@cms.hhs.gov. The FMA will also keep their members updated as additional information becomes available.

THE BUSINESS SIDE OF MEDICINE: HEALTHCARE MANAGEMENT SURVIVAL GUIDE – 2023 ONLINE SEMINAR SERIES

Information provided by Ben Mirza and Mirza Healthcare Law Partners

The following virtual seminars are held on the third Tuesday of every month at 6:30 pm.

May 16

How to Approach and Do Business With Large Healthcare Systems

To register: https://us02web.zoom.us/meeting/register/ tZAod-6gqzgpHtARf8sTn0nXfmlRUSmn0Eawo

June 20

What Every Healthcare Employer & Employee Needs to Know about Employment Law

To register: https://us02web.zoom.us/meeting/register/ tZwtcO6qqTMsE9edLjz1wnlwy4AesdXXYoOq

July No seminar

August 15

“So, I Signed a Non-Compete, Now What?”

To register: https://us02web.zoom.us/meeting/register/ tZUtdOipqzwqHtSpvDmBM_XmSZlFS5C20qIz

September 19

How to Minimize the Risk of Malpractice Lawsuits

To register: https://us02web.zoom.us/meeting/register/ tZcqd-6srDkiH9Iu9zHAxsfTWnRZ8hlNZwWU

October 17

How Experienced Physicians Protect their Assets

To register: https://us02web.zoom.us/meeting/register/ tZEtd-itrD0qGdKiTjTIuY-xesann4voCGSA

November 21

How to Handle Collection Challenges of Working With Health Plans

To register: https://us02web.zoom.us/meeting/register/ tZEvcemvqj0iGNS_EYr23URIRp1knKY6ATzO

December 12

Medical Marijuana Law for Physician Practices

To register: https://us02web.zoom.us/meeting/register/ tZwsd-GorT4oH9QthmrfIbCkRt9Kx5vnZhst

INQUIRING MINDS WANT TO KNOW

HOW TO RETIRE A DEA LICENSE?

Step 1:

Send an email to: Dea.registration.help@usdoj.gov

Subject line: DEA REGISTRATION RETIREMENT

BODY:

Please retire the following DEA Registration # ______________ as I am no longer in need of a registration effective immediately.

(Include your name, address, contact phone number and the reason for the immediate retirement - ie: no longer practicing, no longer prescribing controlled substances, etc.)

The DEA will contact you following receipt of your email. They are unspecific regarding how long the process takes after the request.

Step 2:

After your DEA Registration Retirement has been confirmed, let the Florida Board of Medicine know you have retired your DEA license so they remove the re-licensure requirement for you to take the Controlled Substance Course. If they see you still have a DEA license, they will require you take that course. Therefore, you MUST contact the Florida Board of Medicine at:

Customer Contact Center

Monday – Friday 8:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. ET (850) 488-0595

WHAT STATUS AND DOCUMENTATION ARE REQUIRED FOR EXEMPTION FROM PAYING THE NICA ASSESSMENT?

Florida licensed physicians currently exempt from paying the assessment include:

1. Resident physicians, assistant resident physicians, and interns in postgraduate training programs approved by the Board of Medicine (documentation of the dates of your program signed by the chair of your department must be provided to NICA);

2. Retired physicians who maintain an active license but who have withdrawn from employment in any medically related field, as evidenced by an affidavit (https://www. nica.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/04/Retired_ affidavit.pdf) filed with NICA (a copy of this affidavit must be provided to the Florida Department of Health);

3. Physicians who hold a limited license, as defined by Chapter 458, Florida Statutes, but do not receive any compensation for medical services (an affidavit must be provided to NICA stating that no compensation is received for medical services);

4. Physicians employed full-time by the Veterans Administration whose practices are confined to Veterans Administration hospitals (a letter from your employer

stating that you are a full-time employee, as well as an affidavit from you stating you are not engaged in the private practice of medicine, must be provided to NICA);

5. Any licensed physician on active duty with the Armed Forces of the United States (a letter from your commanding officer stating that you are on active duty in the Armed Forces, as well as an affidavit from you stating that you are not engaged in the private practice of medicine, must be provided to NICA);

6. Physicians who are full-time State of Florida employees and whose practice is confined to state-owned correctional facilities, mental health or developmental services facilities, or the Florida Department of Health or County Health Department (a letter from the state government documenting your employment status, as well as an affidavit from you stating that you are not engaged in outside employment, must be provided to NICA).

Proof of qualification for a claimed exemption must be furnished to NICA at P.O. Box 14567, Tallahassee, Florida 32317-4567. It is each physician’s obligation to notify NICA of a subsequent change in status with regard to a claimed exemption.

For more information, visit https://www.nica.com/medicalproviders/exemptions/#documents-required

CAPITAL MEDICAL SOCIETY LUNCH AND LEARN SEMINARS

MARK YOUR CALENDARS FOR THE 2023 LUNCH AND LEARN SEMINARS!

May 17, 2023 - Virtual Strengthening the Relationships Between Physicians, Administration, and Clinical Staff

During the session, attendees will walk through specific tools and techniques to improve the working relationships between physicians, administration, and clinical staff. Healthcare is a team sport, which means everyone has an impact on each other. You will learn ways to measure engagement quickly and tactical ways to build long lasting trusting relationships.

Presenter: Quint Studer, Healthcare Plus Solutions Group

June 21, 2023

Clinical Best Practices in Patient Documentation and their Role in Avoiding Medical Liability

The role documentation plays in mitigating medical liability claims is immense. This presentation highlights examples of claims where documentation played a key role and offers strategies that will minimize your liability and improve your defense against malpractice allegations. Practice administrators and clinical staff will find this program informative and engaging.

Presenter: Eric E. Cleckler, MSN, RN, Patient Safety Risk Manager II, The Doctors Company

Sponsor: Secure Records Solutions

September 20, 2023

HIPAA Regulatory and Enforcement Update

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

October 18, 2023

HR Workshop: Creating a Culture of Engagement and Respect

Presenter: Kelly Green, SHRM-SCP, HR Consultant, James Moore & Co., CPAs

Sponsor: CAMPUS USA Credit Union

Time: 12 Noon to 1:30 PM

(Seminar starts at 12:30 PM)

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

Cost: $11 per person, per seminar

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.

On April 19th, Sheila Erwin, CPC, CPPM, Senior Consultant with Medical A/R Revenue Solutions, LLC, gave an excellent program on Physician Practice Provider Enrollment in the Big Bend Area.

We thank FMI Printing & Distribution for sponsoring the April 19th Lunch and Learn. Pictured l-r: Walt Haley, President, FMI Printing & Distribution, and Brian Haley, Vice President of Sales, FMI Printing & Distribution.

A MESSAGE FROM THE PRESIDENT

Our March 1 general membership meeting and Narcissus fashion show was a wonderful success. Paula S. Fortunas and Yvonne Brown of the CMS Foundation spoke to members about the FSU College of Medicine (FSUCOM) Food Pantry Initiative. We had asked attendees to bring donations for food items, which were presented along with a check for the food pantry. We discussed upcoming events including, Doctors’ Day and Celebration Awards Dinner, and attendees then enjoyed a fashion show presented by Narcissus.

The CMSA has been working toward growing connection within our organization and in the community. We have

initiated a Healthcare Project Committee, which plans to coordinate an education event for our local educators, administrators, and parents to discuss the topic of adolescent mental health in the post-COVID area.

We look forward to the CMS-sponsored family events during the summer months and are happy to stay connected with CMS.

Kind regards,

Heather Redfield CMS Alliance President

Sarah Villella with Narcissus (left) talks to attendees about Spring Fashions, including how to mix casual and formal wear on Louisa Sellinger (right).

Heather

L-r: Juli Downs, Narcissus; Sarah Villella, Narcissus; Michelle Reyes, CMSA President-Elect; Louisa Sellinger, CMSA Secretary; Cassi Parra Ferro, CMSA VP Membership; Leanne Dickhute, CMSA Treasurer; and Heather Redfield, CMSA President.

Michelle Reyes strikes a model pose for members.

Redfield presented a check to the CMS Foundation for their FSUCOM Food Pantry Initiative (Pictured l-r: Heather Redfield, CMSA President; Pam Irwin, CMS Executive Director; Paula S. Fortunas, CMS Foundation Board Member; Elaine Geissinger, FSUCOM Tallahassee Campus; and Yvonne Brown, CMS Foundation Board Member).

THE ROTARY CLUB OF TALLAHASSEE HELPS IMPROVE ACCESS TO HEALTHCARE

The Rotary Club of Tallahassee presented a $2,500 check to the Capital Medical Society Foundation’s Executive Director Pam Irwin and We Care Network Program Coordinator Diana Bixler, MPH for its We Care Network program on March 29, 2023. The grant fulfills Rotary’s area of focus of disease prevention and treatment. These dollars help improve access to healthcare for vulnerable lowincome, uninsured adults by funding case management services to coordinate donated specialty medical and dental care, and to provide patient assistance for referral-related prescriptions, transportation, and durable medical supplies. Eligible adults’ incomes are at or below 150% of the Federal Poverty Level, and those eligible do not qualify for any programs or insurance that could pay for the needed health care. Since the program’s inception, over $124 million in donated healthcare has been coordinated through the program.

The We Care Network’s mission is to provide a healthcare access safety net for adults who fall through the cracks. Most often, these adults are in low-wage jobs or are out of work altogether and can’t afford health insurance or the high deductibles. By improving access to healthcare, the program can improve health outcomes and the quality of life. Since 1992, the We Care Network has been coordinating specialty medical care for low-income, uninsured adults. The program serves four counties: Leon, Gadsden, Jefferson, and Wakulla. The We Care Network expanded its program to provide specialty dental services in 2003.

All specialty healthcare coordinated by the We Care Network is donated. Many of the program’s donating providers are members of the Rotary Club of Tallahassee or other local Rotary clubs. Volunteers include 300 specialist physicians and 40 dentists, several of whom are members of this Rotary club. The We Care Network case managers coordinate the donated healthcare. The We Care Network continues to work with its partners to improve specialty healthcare access and to improve health outcomes. The Rotary Club of Tallahassee invests in the community through a variety of initiatives that improve educational outcomes, food insecurities, and healthcare access.

FLORIDA ASSOCIATION OF FREE AND CHARITABLE CLINICS DAY AT THE CAPITOL: MARCH 30, 2023

The Florida Association of Free and Charitable Clinics (FAFCC) coordinated several of its members and constituents from across the state of Florida on March 30 in an effort to both support the $9.5 million recurring funding and to advocate for an additional $3 million appropriation this year. Diana Bixler, MPH, Program Coordinator for the We Care Network, met in Tallahassee at the Governor’s Club where the group heard from a local healthcare lobbyist 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 and Senators; to take a tour of the Senate floor and speak with Senate President Passidomo; as well as sit in on a House of Representatives debate with FAFCC recognition. 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.

THE CAPITAL MEDICAL SOCIETY FOUNDATION

CONTINUES TO SUPPORT THE FSU COLLEGE OF MEDICINE TALLAHASSEE REGIONAL CAMPUS STUDENTS

The Capital Medical Society Foundation (CMSF) Board Member Yvonne Brown and CMSF Executive Director Pam Irwin joined FSU College of Medicine’s Interim Dean Dr. Alma Littles, Campus Dean Dr. Sandeep Rahangdale, Campus Administrator Elaine Geissinger, and third-year medical students and physician assistant students at the FSU College of Medicine Tallahassee Regional Campus to celebrate first-quarter students’ birthdays. The campus provided a catered lunch, and cupcakes were provided by Yvonne Brown. The lunch was an opportunity for CMSF representatives to share more about the CMSF Food Pantry with students. Students shared their appreciation for the efforts made to address their food insecurities.

Financial donations may be made by check payable to the Capital Medical Society Foundation with “FSUCOM Food Pantry” on the memo line and mailed to the CMS office, 1204 Miccosukee Road, Tallahassee, FL 32308. You may make online gifts at https://capmed.org/donate/ with “FSUCOM Food Pantry” selected in the dropdown.

Thank you for helping our next generation of physicians.

(L-r) FSUCOM Interim Dean, Dr. Alma Littles; CMSF Board Member, Yvonne Brown; FSUCOM Tallahassee Regional Campus Administrator, Elaine Geissinger; CMSF Executive Director, Pam Irwin; and FSUCOM Tallahassee Regional Campus Dean, Dr. Sandeep Rahangdale.

(L-r) CMSF Executive Director, Pam Irwin; CMSF Board Member, Yvonne Brown; and FSUCOM Tallahassee Regional Campus Administrator, Elaine Geissinger.

HONOR A DOCTORS’ DAY TRIBUTES ENCOURAGED PHYSICIANS AND PROVIDED FUNDING FOR CAPITAL MEDICAL SOCIETY FOUNDATION INITIATIVES

The response was brisk during March, as grateful colleagues, patients, and parents reached out to be sure “their doctors” received encouragement in recognition of National Doctors’ Day on March 30. Gifts supported the Capital Medical Society Foundation’s Area of Greatest Need, CMSF Scholarship Fund, FSUCOM Food Pantry, CMSF Physician Wellness Program, CMSF Scholarship Fund, and the We Care Network program.

Some of the authors allowed us to share their physician tributes. The messages were personal, poignant, encouraging, and shared such gratitude for the impact these physicians have in their practice of medicine and dentistry.

Donna, Carolee, Dianne, Julie, Jennifer, Lyn, Mary, and Sherrill shared, “After 40+ years of practice, Dr. Michael Forsthoefel still loves what he does and his patients are grateful beneficiaries of this.”

Dr. Dolly shared, “In honor of Dr. David Huang for his contribution to sleep medicine in Tallahassee.”

Gavin shared, “God blessed our community when he carefully and lovingly crafted Dr. Celeste Hart. Her kind and gentle spirit and radiant smile are good medicine for the soul.”

Karen shared, “When I think of Tracey [Hellgren], I think of a compassionate concern for her patients. She is truly a remarkable physician.”

Sue shared, “Dr. Jeff Crooms: For always being there with incredible skill and compassion. You are a treasure.”

Thank you for the gifts and encouraging words to celebrate “Honor A Doctors’ Day” – National Doctors' Day. Please continue to celebrate and recognize the hard work of all doctors every day. Make a gift today, to support the CMS Foundation. Visit: https://capmed. org/donate/ or mail your gift check, payable to the CMS Foundation, 1204 Miccosukee Road, Tallahassee, FL 32308.

In the words of Amy Cho, M.D., “So, shut up and listen! Take a pause to truly hear when your patient says thanks. Believe it. Savor it. Tell them how much their gratitude means to you. Write it down, so you remember. And share it with one another, because a thank you to one of us is really a thank you to all of us.”

We Thank Our Donors

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

Honor a Doctor – We Care Network

Karen Wendland Dix – In Honor of Tracey Hellgren, M.D. F. Ray Dolly, M.D. – In Honor of David Huang, M.D. Howard W. Kessler, M.D. – In Honor of Ron Saff, M.D.

David W. Smith, M.D. – In Honor of Valerie Lazzell, M.D. and Andrew Wong, M.D. Kathleen Smith – In Honor of Joseph L. Camps, M.D., Marlisha Edwards, M.D., Michael Glaze, M.D., Gregory Hartlage, M.D., Abel Romero-Corral, M.D., and David W. Smith, M.D.

Honor a Doctor – The J. Orson Smith, M.D. Scholarship in Internal Medicine Endowment

Donna Bixler, Carolee Bozanovs-Will, Dianne Burgess, Julie Conway, Jennifer Fischera, Lyn Hendrickson, Mary Mitchell, and Sherrill Wilson –In Honor of Michael Forsthoefel, M.D.

Honor a Doctor – The Charles D. “Pedro” Williams, M.D. Scholarship Endowment

Charles D. Williams, M.D. – In Honor of Andres F. Rodriguez, M.D.

Capital Medical Society Foundation – Area of Greatest Need

Walt Haley, FMI Printing & Distribution

Robin McDougall, LCSW

We Care Network

Rotary Club of Tallahassee

The CMS Foundation Scholarship Fund

David Bellamy, M.D. – In Memory of Jimmie Franklin Moore Lindsey

David Bellamy, M.D. – In Memory of Margie Menduni

David Bellamy, M.D. – In Memory of Robert W. Miles, M.D.

Capital Medical Society Foundation – FSU College of Medicine Tallahassee Regional Campus Food Pantry Anonymous

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

Robert T. Benton, II

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

Dr. and Mrs. Charles D. Williams – In Memory of Jimmie Franklin Moore Lindsey

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

The Impact of Private Support:

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 $124 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 2021-22, which ended June 30, 2022, more than $5 million in healthcare was donated. Gifts support the operational expenses of the program including salaries and benefits 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. $50,000 was awarded in 2022. An additional $1,000 was awarded from The Anesthesiology Associates of Tallahassee Scholarship Fund. $1,000 was also awarded from The Charles D. “Pedro” Williams, M.D. Scholarship Fund. In 2022, the first Julia Revell St. Petery, M.D. Scholarship in Pediatrics was awarded.

➢ 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 2022, the CMSF awarded a total of $10,500 in grants to Elder Care Services for their In-Home Services Program, the Big Bend Hospice Foundation for bereavement services, and to Lutheran Social Services of North Florida, Inc.’s 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:

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:

Pam Irwin Executive Director pirwin@capmed.org or (850) 877-9018 or (850) 559-8611

THANK YOU

To our CMS members and We Care Network partners who provided healthcare to new patients in March 2023.

Your generosity and support of the We Care Network makes a difference.

Physicians

Emily Ashmore, M.D.

Clifton Bailey, M.D.

Venkata Bavikati, M.D.

David Bellamy, M.D.

Dhananjay Bendre, M.D.

Eric Berenson, M.D.

Michael Bernhardt, M.D.

Tim Broeseker, M.D.

David Burns, M.D.

Joseph Camps, M.D.

Francisco Carpio, M.D.

Marilyn Cox, M.D.

Joshua Dault, M.D.

Cristian Del Carpio Tenorio, M.D.

David Dixon, D.O.

William Dixon IV, M.D.

Chesley Durgin, M.D.

Adam Engel, M.D.

James Farrell, D.O.

Jerry Ford, M.D.

Hong Gao, M.D.

Gian-Carlo Giove, M.D.

Marc Inglese, M.D.

Amit Jain, M.D.

Lawrence Kaelin, M.D.

Arjun Kaji, M.D.

John Katopodis, M.D.

Farhat Khairallah, M.D.

James Killius, M.D.

Maribel U. Lockwood, M.D.

Hector Mejia, M.D.

David Mellman, M.D.

Manoela Mota, M.D.

Mina Mousa, M.D.

Anthony Otekeiwebia, M.D.

Mitchell Peabody, D.O.

Jorge Perez de Armas, M.D.

Cybelle Pfeifer, M.D.

Hussein Rayatzadeh, M.D.

James Renehan, M.D.

Stephen Richardson, M.D.

Davis Rierson, M.D.

Adrian Roberts, M.D.

Abel Romero-Corral, M.D.

Ronald Saff, M.D.

David Saint, M.D.

Jamey Sarvis, M.D.

Gadi Silberman, M.D.

Jon Soble, M.D.

William Stephens, M.D.

Yusef Syed, M.D.

John Thabes, M.D.

Jean-Paul Tran, M.D.

Ernesto Umana, M.D.

Kaisa van der Kooi, M.D.

Andrea Venturini, M.D.

Beatriz Cepeda Valery, M.D.

David Vermess, M.D.

Tony Weaver, M.D.

Chien-Yi Williams, M.D.

Daniel Yang, M.D.

Charles Yowell, M.D.

Samuel Yu, M.D.

Dentists

Briano Allen, D.D.S.

Jean-Pierre Bastien, D.M.D.

Laban Bontrager, D.M.D.

Susan Byrne, D.M.D.

David Cardman, D.M.D.

Walter Colón, D.M.D.

Aixa Guzman, D.M.D.

William McFatter, D.D.S.

Lawrence Pijut, D.M.D.

Jacob Zellner, D.M.D.

Facilities

Advanced Urology Institute

Airway Works, LLC

Allergy & Asthma Diagnostic Treatment Center

Anesthesiology Associates

Apalachee Primary Care

Bastien Dental Care

Beachton Denture Clinic

Bond Community Health Center

Bristol Dental Clinic

Capital Health Plan

Care Point Health & Wellness Center

Dermatology Associates

Digestive Disease Clinic

Enhanced Endodontics

Eye Associates of Tallahassee

Florida Capital Specialists & Research Institute

Gadsden County Health Department

Gynecology and Obstetrics Associates of Tallahassee

HCA Florida Capital Hospital Cancer Center

Jefferson County Health Department

Jessie Furlow Medical Center

Ketchum, Wood, & Burgert Pathology Associates

Lawrence J. Pijut DMD PA

Madison Medical Center

Neighborhood Medical Center

North Florida Nephrology Associates

North Florida Womens Care

North Monroe Medical Center

PanCare Health

Periodontal Associates of North Florida

Radiology Associates of Tallahassee

Southeast Radiology Partners

Southeastern Plastic Surgery

Southeastern Surgery Center

Southern Medical Group, P.A.

Southern Vitreoretinal Associates

Susan M. Byrne Family Dentistry

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

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 Transition Center

Tallahassee Orthopedic Clinic

TOC Canopy

Wakulla Medical Center

Women’s Imaging Center

Walton and Cardman Dentistry

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 March 2023, 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) 2010085 or mail to 1204 Miccosukee Road, Tallahassee, FL, 32308. Thank you!

We thank our referring providers from March 2023:

Ebonie Allen, APRN

Clifton Bailey, M.D.

Katrina Ball, APRN

Marie Becker, M.D.

Kendra Brady, APRN

Callie Burch, APRN

Carlos Castro, M.D.

Victor Chou, D.M.D.

Melba Colon-Renta, M.D.

Raymond Cottrell, M.D.

Brian Del Carlo, D.D.S.

Alexander Dudley, D.M.D.

Nathalie Esellem, APRN

Christine Fitzsimmons, D.O.

Sharron Foster, M.D.

Dale French, D.O.

Dorcas Goodman, APRN

Lillie Green, APRN

Judy Griffin, APRN

Aixa Guzman, D.M.D.

Hantz Hercule, M.D.

Zinnah Holmes, M.D.

Hank Hutchinson, M.D.

Amit Jain, M.D.

Anneka Johnson, APRN

Keyla Juszczyk, APRN

Amulya Konda, M.D.

Narayanan Krishnamoorthy, M.D.

Elaine Larkins, APRN

Jessica Lea, APRN

Michael Mangan, M.D.

Ashok Manocha, B.D.S.

Joseph Mazziotta, M.D.

Damon McMillan, M.D.

Lisa Menchion, APRN

Marcia Morris, APRN

Manoela Mota, M.D.

Abiodun Ogunremi, APRN

Chukwuma Okoroji, M.D.

Rose Origa, APRN

Paresh Patel, M.D.

Jorge Perez de Armas, M.D.

Shobha Rebala, APRN

Charlie Richardson, M.D.

Carla Robertson, APRN

Tim Ruark, M.D.

Karen Russell, M.D.

Valerie Russell, APRN

Expedito Salvador, P.A.

Lucilita Salvador, P.A.

Stephen Sandroni, M.D.

Philip Sharp, M.D.

Kyla Shillington, APRN

Gadi Silberman, M.D.

Alanna Steaple, APRN

Faye Tinson, APRN

Mary Van Vliet, APRN

Prashanth Vennalaganti, M.D.

Lakeshia Washington, APRN

Jeffrey Wasserman, D.O.

Tony Weaver, M.D.

Shana Wood, APRN