CAP SCAN
A CAPITAL MEDICAL SOCIETY PUBLICATION
JULY/AUGUST 2024
THE WE CARE NETWORK CHANGES ELIGIBILITY CRITERIA TO HELP MORE PATIENTS IN OUR COMMUNITY
By H. Avon Doll, Jr., M.D., Chair, We Care Network Advisory Committee, and Board Member, Capital Medical Society Foundation Board of Directors
As part of Florida Senate President Kathleen Passidomo’s Live Healthy initiative, the financial eligibility threshold for access to free and charitable clinics was increased to include those earning up to 300% of the federal poverty level. Previously, this threshold was set at 200% of the federal poverty level.
The We Care Network has operated at 150% of the federal poverty level since its inception. However, in response to the passing legislation, the CMS Foundation Board of Directors approved an increase to 200% of the federal poverty level to be able to qualify for participation in the We Care Network. This increase went into effect June 18, 2024. Our referring providers, partnering clinics, patients, donating providers, Advisory Committees, and the We Care Network staff are enthusiastic about this change, as it will better target the “working poor” for which our program serves. These are community members with no other means to access needed healthcare services.
able to provide access to healthcare to more residents of Leon, Gadsden, Wakulla, and Jefferson Counties.
Remember, individual We Care Network volunteer providers can always limit the number and frequency of their We Care Network patient encounters, so this policy change should not adversely affect provider involvement.
Florida Senate President Kathleen Passidomo and Governor Ron DeSantis. (Source: https:// floridapolitics.com/archives/664883-legislature-sends-livehealthy-bills-to-gov-desantis/)
If you have concerns or questions about this change or anything else about the We Care Network, please contact me (Advisory Committee Chair: nephrology3@gmail.com), Diana Bixler, MPH (We Care Network Program Coordinator: dbixler@capmed.org), or Tom Block (CMS Foundation Executive Director: tblock@capmed.org).
Our analysis, supported by data provided by our primary referral centers, predicts a manageable, if not minimal, effect on the current caseload. We will assess the impact of the adjusted caseload and potentially consider a further increase to 250 or 300% in the future, as some of the other We Care programs in the state of Florida have done. We are thrilled to be
August 27, 2024
CMS Membership & CME Meeting
Panel Discussion: “Recognizing the Cardiovascular-KidneyMetabolic Syndrome for Better Intervention” 6:00 pm
Maguire Center for Lifelong Learning at Westminster Oaks
September 7, 2024
CMS Family Day 10:00 am – 2:00 pm
Challenger Learning Center
To view the full calendar, visit https://capmed.org/calendar/
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
John Meade, M.D., Secretary/Treasurer
Sarah Ko, M.D., PhD, Immediate Past President
Nicholas Farber, M.D.
Candace Gonzalez, M.D.
Farhat Khairallah, 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.
Cap
Medical School: University of Pennsylvania | Philadelphia, PA
Residency:
HAPPY BIRTHDAY!
Michael J. Ford, M.D. - 1st
Amer Rassam, M.D. - 1st
Raymond Shashaty, M.D. - 1st
Larry C. Deeb, M.D. - 2nd
Lynn Jones, M.D. - 2nd
William D. Nimmons, M.D. - 3rd
Robert Campbell, M.D. - 12 th
Charles Newell, M.D. - 13th
Seymour Rosen, M.D. - 14th
Tobi Lawson Patrick, M.D. - 15th
Daniel Conrad, M.D. - 17th
J. Daniel Davis, Jr., M.D. - 17th
Brence Sell, M.D. - 17th
James Totten, M.D. - 17th
Julia Barry, D.O. - 18th
Richard L. Henry, M.D. - 18th
Christine Fitzsimmons, D.O. - 19 th
For more than 40 years, MagMutual has protected
Why settle for anything
Amulya Konda, M.D. - 19 th
Thomas C. Peele, Jr., M.D. - 19 th
Andres F. Rodriguez, M.D. - 19 th
Judi Lewis-Voorting, M.D. - 20 th
Heemanshi D. Shah, M.D. - 20 th
Walter G. Bunnell, III, M.D. - 22nd
William Crawford Dixon, M.D. - 22nd
Paresh Patel, M.D. - 24th
George Rust, M.D. - 25th
Niraj Pandit, M.D. - 27th
Kerwyn L. Flowers, D.O. - 28th
Tracey E. Hellgren, M.D. - 30 th
John N. Katopodis, M.D. - 30 th
Kaushal Patel, M.D. - 30 th
Adrian P. Roberts, M.D. - 30 th
Joseph Soto, M.D. - 31st
{JULY BIRTHDAYS} DID WE MISS YOUR BIRTHDAY? IF SO, PLEASE EMAIL ROSALIE CARLIN AT RCARLIN@CAPMED.ORG!
Patrick M. Thomas, M.D. - 31st
David A. Burns, M.D. - 1 st
Oliver A. Reyes, D.O. - 1 st
Cielo Z. Rose, D.O. - 1 st
Monica Constantinescu, M.D. - 2nd
Mina Salah Mousa, M.D. - 3rd
Griffin R. Baum, M.D. - 4th
Marino A. Martinez, M.D. - 4th
Ronald D. Ray, M.D. - 4th
Stacia Groll, M.D. - 5th
Vamsi Ponnaganti, M.D. - 5th
William Paul Sawyer, M.D. - 5th
David Shapiro, M.D. - 5th
Candace Elise Gonzalez, M.D. - 6th
Alfredo Nova, M.D. - 6th
John F. Palmer, M.D. - 6th
Bob Soni, M.D. - 6th
James "Trey" Welden, M.D. - 6th
Emily Ashmore, M.D. - 7th
T. Adam Oliver, M.D. - 7th
Adekunle Omotayo, M.D. - 7th
HAPPY BIRTHDAY! {AUGUST BIRTHDAYS}
John L. Williams, Jr., M.D. - 7th
T. Dean Dalrymple, M.D. - 8 th
Lisa Flannagan, M.D. - 8 th
Stanley Gwock, M.D. - 8 th
David Pascoe, M.D. - 8 th
Simon J. Lopez, M.D. - 9 th
Andrew Golden, M.D. - 10 th
Rebekah A. Steverson, M.D. - 10 th
Marc Inglese, M.D. - 11th
Amy Harrison, M.D. - 12 th
Alice Pomidor, M.D. - 13th
David E. Craig, M.D. - 15th
Gadi Silberman, M.D. - 17th
Eric Bouchard, M.D. - 18 th
Joshua Fuhrmeister, M.D. - 18 th
Terence N. Reisman, M.D. - 18 th
Peyton Lloyd, M.D. - 19 th
Rachel Vanderby, M.D. - 19 th
Marie O. Becker, M.D. - 20 th
William L. Morse, M.D. - 20 th
Frank C. Walker, M.D. - 20 th
Jiali Duan, D.O. - 22nd
Michael W. Forsthoefel, M.D. - 22nd
Shayla Gray, M.D. - 22nd
Russell Eggert, M.D. - 23rd
Krishna Brown, M.D. - 25th
Tracy Graham, M.D. - 25th
P.S. Krishnamurthy, M.D. - 25th
Susan Drake, M.D. - 26th
James R. Thomas, M.D. - 26th
Charles W. Yowell, M.D. - 26th
Jeffrey T. Ferraro, M.D. - 27th
Manoela Mota, M.D. - 27th
Alex Ho, M.D. - 28 th
Stan Whitney, M.D. - 28 th
Camille Blake, D.O. - 29 th
Rick A. Damron, M.D. - 29 th
Alexander Erbella, M.D. - 29 th
Gregory Hartlage, M.D. - 30 th
HAPPY BIRTHDAY! WE ARE SO GLAD YOU WERE BORN!
Shane McEntire, MD
Vascular Surgery
Medical School: University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences College of Medicine | Little Rock, AR
Residency: Tripler Army Medical Center, U.S. Army General Surgery | Honolulu, HI
Fellowship: Carolinas Medical Center Vascular Surgery | Charlotte, NC
CMS MEMBERS, DUES RENEWAL
You asked, we listened!
We’ve made it easier than ever to renew your membership today by adding additional payment options.
If you didn’t receive your dues invoice, please contact the CMS office at (850) 877-9018.
Dues revenue enables the Capital Medical Society to provide mission-driven, physicianfocused services, communication, educational opportunities, and community-building activities for its members. We continue to work on your behalf and value you and your membership.
We Are Here For You!
NEW DOCS ON THE BLOCK
Victor Feldbaum, M.D.
Medical School: Wayne State University
Internship/Residency: Emory University
Fellowship: Emory University
Practice: HCA Florida Capital Women’s Health
Specialty: OB/GYN, Minimally Invasive Gynecologic-Surgery
Kyle Kilinski, M.D.
Medical School: University of South Florida Morsani College of Medicine
Internship/Residency: University of South Florida Morsani College of Medicine
Practice: Tallahassee Ear, Nose & Throat, PA
Specialty: Otolaryngology
Enrique Urrea-Mendoza, M.D.
Christopher A. Griggs, D.O.
Medical School: Kansas City University
Internship/Residency: South Pointe Hospital, Cleveland Clinic Hospitals
Fellowship: Deborah Heart and Lung Center
Practice: Southern Medical Group
Specialty: Vascular Surgery, Wound Care
Srinivas Saripalli, M.D.
Medical School: University of North Carolina
Internship/Residency: University of Mississippi
Fellowship: University of Mississippi Practice: Radiology Associates of Tallahassee Specialty: Radiology
Medical School: Colegio Mayor de Nuestra Señora del Rosario
Internship/Residency: Fundación Universitaria de Ciencias de la Salud Fellowship: University of Cincinnati Practice: TMH Physician Partners – Neurology Specialty: Neurology, Movement Disorders
CMS WELCOMES INCOMING RESIDENTS
Dr. Russell Cole, CMS President-Elect, and Tom Block, CMS Executive Director, hosted an orientation luncheon for new Family Medicine Residents (pictured), as well as Internal Medicine and General Surgery Residents, on June 18, 2024 at the Tallahassee Memorial Family Residency Program. Dr. Cole and Tom shared the importance of becoming involved in organized medicine at the local level. They encouraged the new residents to join Capital Medical Society and to attend CMS events, CMEs, and social activities to grow their understanding of the local medical community, to learn more about the practice of medicine, and to develop friendships and build their personal and professional networks.
As part of the program, Dr. Del Carter, who just completed his first year of Family Medicine Residency and who serves on the CMS Board of Governors,
delivered a peer to peer testimonial to the students about the value of membership. He emphasized engagement, education and advocacy, stressing the role CMS and statewide associations like the Florida Medical Association play in the legislative process.
Welcome Residents and best of luck in the latest phase of your medical journey!
PROFESSIONAL NOTES
In May 2024, Dr. Aaron Guyer, an orthopedic surgeon with Tallahassee Orthopedic Clinic, was elected to serve as the 2024-25 President of the Florida Orthopaedic Society Board of Directors during their Annual Meeting in Orlando. Congratulations, Dr. Guyer!
On July 1, 2024, Dr. Alma Littles was named Dean of the FSU College of Medicine. Dr. Littles has served as interim dean of the college since February 2023 and as a senior associate dean for medical education and academic affairs for nearly 20 years. Congratulations, Dr. Littles!
In May 2024, Dr. Rohan Joseph, a general surgeon with HCA Florida Capital Surgical Specialists, was elected to serve as the 2024-2025 President of the Florida Chapter of the American College of Surgeons. Congratulations, Dr. Joseph!
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.
CMS WELCOMES MEDICAL STUDENTS
Dr. Helen Paulson, CMS President, and Tom Block, CMS Executive Director, joined the incoming 3rd-year medical students at the Florida State University College of MedicineTallahassee Regional Campus on May 28, 2024 for their orientation. Dr. Paulson encouraged the students to engage as medical students in organized medicine and shared the benefit of becoming members of the Capital Medical Society and the Florida Medical Association.
Paulson expressed that though she grew up in Tallahassee, when she completed her residency and returned to town to practice, CMS was invaluable for her in
connecting with local physicians. FSU College of Medicine Tallahassee Regional Campus Dean Dr. Sandeep Rahangdale reiterated the importance of CMS for the local physician community, and campus administrator Elaine Geissinger shared information about the CMSF Food Pantry resource available at their campus during medical school. Capital Medical Society thanks Dean Rahangdale and his staff for their hospitality and wishes the best of luck to the 3rd-year medical students as they continue their journey.
CMS OLYMPIC CONNECTION
It’s not the heat that gets you, it’s the humidity.
In the case of the 1996 Olympics, it was both that attracted the British Olympic team to live and train in Tallahassee.
The British brought their own physicians and orthopedists here with them, and a strong bond was forged with their American counterparts.
“Their big thing was they weren’t used to the heat and humidity,” remembers Dr. Tom Haney, one of the founding physicians of Tallahassee Orthopedic Clinic. “Their whole reason for being here was to get their athletes exposed and acclimated for the summer Olympics in Atlanta.”
Leading up to those Atlanta games, nearly the entire British Olympic contingent trained here in Florida’s capital city, representing 20 sports in all—everything except yachting, whitewater sports, and field hockey. Tallahassee Orthopedic Clinic served as local hosts and medical liaisons for the Olympians.
“Doug [Henderson] and I were the local hosts for the team,” recalls Haney. “As far as injuries, if they had a problem they could call us. If they needed something, an x-ray, we’d get them in.”
“We did go out and spend time with them. Very neat relationship getting to know the British docs,” says Haney. “I even went over and visited them at their Olympic center later on after the Olympics.”
That year the team from Great Britain finished the Atlanta games with 15 total medals including one gold.
And they left a few commemorative medals behind for their new friends in Tallahassee, like the ones Dr. Haney still proudly displays.
2024 Summer Olympics
July 26 – August 11 ~ Paris, France
FMA ANNUAL MEETING
A very special THANK YOU to your delegates who will be representing the Capital Medical Society:
John Bailey, D.O.
Andrew Borom, M.D.
Jana Bures-Forsthoefel, M.D.
Russell Cole, M.D.
David Dixon, D.O.
Michael Forsthoefel, M.D.
John Mahoney, M.D.
John Meade, M.D.
Helen Paulson, M.D.
Seymour Rosen, M.D.
Brence Sell, M.D.
CAPITAL MEDICAL SOCIETY LUNCH AND LEARN SEMINARS
On June 12th, Kelly Green with James Moore & Co., gave an excellent presentation: How to Manage Conflict and Have Difficult Conversations.
We thank TMH Federal Credit Union for sponsoring the June 12th Lunch and Learn. Pictured l-r: Harry Burn and Patreka Daniels.
MARK YOUR CALENDARS FOR THE REMAINING 2024 LUNCH AND LEARN SEMINARS!
Wednesday, August 21, 2024
Making it a WOW Experience for Patients From Check-In to Check-Out
When was the last time someone or something made you think or say, “WOW!”? You were so impressed with the service, the person, or the product that it caught you off guard in a positive and memorable way. Those “WOWs” happened because they exceeded our expectations - we were surprised. Any moment can become a “WOW” moment, and our job is to do our best in creating them for our customers from check-in to check-out. It’s simple but not easy. Let’s discover the tools needed to connect with your external and internal customers on a daily basis. It’s time to release the “WOW.”
Presenter: Bert Mitchell
Sponsor: WellConnector
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)
Wednesday, September 18, 2024
2024 HIPAA Regulatory, Enforcement Update
Presenters: Shannon Hartsfield, Mia McKown, and Eddie Williams, Holland and Knight Sponsor: Truist Medical Specialty Group
Wednesday, October 16, 2024
Medical Staff Morale: Boosting Retention in Today's Dynamic Healthcare Landscape
Lunch & Learn
Presenter: Katie Howard, James Moore & Co. Sponsor: Hancock Whitney
Lunch & Learn
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.
Back to School Tips
By Oliver Reyes, D.O. (Dr. Reyes’ wife, Michelle, serves as the president of the Capital Medical Society Alliance this year)
Back to school checklist:
__ Well visit/sports physical – schools and daycares will need a form to register; also important to help identify any new issues that may have come up over the past year.
Up to date vaccinations – schools and daycares will need a form demonstrating that child has received the required vaccines (or an appropriate exemption form).
__ Communicate with the school regarding special health issues or possible academic needs – accommodations may require additional testing; medications may require the family to submit forms to the school nurse.
__ Reduce anxiety about the first day – school is fun! They may already know other kids at school, but they will be making new friends and learning new things.
__ Plan your travel – getting kids there/picking kids up on the first day of school is always unpredictable. Drive the route ahead of time and give yourself extra time for drop off.
__ Plan for before/after school care – spots for after school activities are limited and can fill up fast; prep breakfast/lunch/after school snacks beforehand.
__ Teach good hand hygiene, what to do when they get sick – washing hands before meals and after using the restroom.
__ Teach children about bullying – what to do if they are a victim of bullying, if they are a bystander to bullying, or if they are involved in bullying.
__ Adjust sleep habits before the first day – get them back into their regular sleep routine starting a week ahead of time.
1 1 1 1 1
__ Build good homework/study habits – keep them in the habit of doing something every evening (even light reading).
__ Keep them active – don’t let them sit on a couch or in front of a screen all summer!
MINUTES
CMS MEMBERSHIP & CME MEETING MAY 14, 2024
THE MAGUIRE CENTER FOR LIFELONG
LEARNING
AT WESTMINSTER OAKS
The mission of the Capital Medical Society is to promote the practice of medicine for the ultimate benefit of the patient.
I. Business Meeting
A. Dr. Helen Paulson, CMS President, called the meeting to order at 6:30 pm. She welcomed everyone and thanked Westminster Oaks for allowing us to use their incredible facility for our meetings.
B. Dr. Paulson welcomed and thanked our supporters for the evening:
Supporting Sponsor
Be Strong Therapy Services
Meeting Sponsors
Dodson Insurance
Tallahassee TMS
Displayer
Novo Nordisk
C. Dr. Paulson asked new members in attendance to introduce themselves:
Dr. Enrique Urrea-Mendoza, TMH Physician Partners – Neurology
D. Dr. Paulson reminded members about a proposed change to the CMS Bylaws regarding dues collection. This change was first messaged in the May Cap Scan. Dr. Paulson shared that since there are not enough active members in attendance to vote, the vote will be conducted electronically in the coming weeks.
II. Upcoming Events – Mark Your Calendars
Friday, May 31, 2024
CMS Pickleball Clinic, 6:30 PM – 8:30 PM Northside Community Center
Saturday, September 7, 2024
CMS Family Day Challenger Learning Center
III. Tonight's Program
Topic: “New Interventions for Acute Strokes”
Presenter: Narlin Beaty, M.D., Tallahassee Neurological Clinic
Dr. Beaty gave an informative and engaging program on the advances in regional stroke care.
IV. Adjourn
Dr. Paulson adjourned the meeting at 7:30 pm.
Presenter, Narlin Beaty, M.D.
Supporting Sponsor, Be Strong Therapy Services: (l-r) Kelly Uanino and Amber Swords.
Meeting Sponsor, Dodson Insurance: Clay Dodson.
Meeting Sponsor, Tallahassee TMS: Mitchell Ramsey.
Displayer, Novo Nordisk: Gavin Boone.
It's Pickleball Time!
The Inaugural Capital Medical Society Pickleball Clinic on May 31st at Northside Community Center was a smashing success! We had over 30 people with varying pickleball experience enjoying the indoor courts. We thank our ace physician coaches for leading the clinic: Dr. Ray Dolly, Dr. Michael Forsthoefel, Dr. J. Anthony Giralt, Dr. David Huang, Dr. Faisal Munasifi, and Dr. Dean Watson.
A special thank you to our partners for this event
Title Sponsor
Event Sponsors
Pickleball Paddle Image from Freepik
Title Sponsor, The Pickle Pad: (l-r) Angelia Boltz and Zyaire Williams.
Event Sponsor, Au Pair in America: Lauren Schuler.
Event Sponsor, Stretch Zone: (l-r) Sam Abel and Ty’won Jones.
HEARTH AND SOUL FUNDRAISER
SUPPORTS THE CAPITAL MEDICAL SOCIETY FOUNDATION AND FSU COLLEGE OF MEDICINE TALLAHASSEE REGIONAL CAMPUS FOOD PANTRY
Hearth and Soul in the market district of Tallahassee recently partnered with the Capital Medical Society Foundation and FSU College of Medicine Tallahassee Regional Campus to raise funds for the campus’ food pantry. One hundred percent of the net profits from the sale of the featured 12 ounce Cut Grass Handwoven Candle in June helped support students at the campus impacted by food insecurity. A reception was held at the boutique store on June 22nd to raise community awareness about the food pantry, Tallahassee Regional Campus, and the Capital Medical Society Foundation, and during the month a total of 32 candles were sold and $682.40 was raised. Thank you to Hearth and Soul for its generosity and to those of you who purchased candles to support this worthwhile effort!
The food pantry was created in 2022 when regional campus staff and Capital Medical Society Foundation Board members recognized the nutritional needs of FSU medical students and P.A. students, many of whom are first-in-family college graduates. The pantry allows students to discreetly receive snacks and necessities at the Student Lounge on the regional campus, which is located 6 miles to the northeast of FSU’s main campus.
To
support the FSUCOM Food Pantry, donate here
(L-r) Yvonne Brown, supporter of the CMS Foundation and the FSU College of Medicine Food Pantry; Tom Block, CMS Foundation Executive Director; Elaine Geissinger, FSU College of Medicine Tallahassee Regional Campus Administrator; and Grace Kurowski, Hearth and Soul Marketing and Events Manager.
(L-r) Yvonne Brown, supporter of the CMS Foundation and the FSU College of Medicine Food Pantry; Tom Block, CMS Foundation Executive Director; and Elaine Geissinger, FSU College of Medicine Tallahassee Regional Campus Administrator.
CAPITAL MEDICAL SOCIETY FOUNDATION AWARDS
PRESENTED AT THE FLORIDA
STATE UNIVERSITY COLLEGE OF MEDICINE AWARDS CEREMONY
RIDA DARJI, M.D. AND JULIAN MELCHOR, M.D.
RECEIVE CMS FOUNDATION’S 2024 ACCESS TO CARE AWARD, IN HONOR OF ROBIN MCDOUGALL
The Capital Medical Society Foundation awarded the 2024 Access to Care Award in Honor of Robin McDougall to Rida Darji, M.D. and Julian Melchor, M.D. on May 17, 2024 at the Florida State College of Medicine’s Annual Awards Ceremony.
The CMS Foundation’s Access to Care Award is named for Robin McDougall, LCSW, who advocated for increased access to healthcare as the Program Coordinator of our We Care Network for 14 years. The We Care Network is the Capital Medical Society Foundation’s program championed by local medical physicians and dentists who donate medical specialty care to local low-income, uninsured patients. It is our Foundation’s mission to increase access to care.
Both of this year’s recipients are passionate about this mission. Dr. Darji led the FSU chapter of Students for a National Health Program for several years, and also started the Indigenous Health Initiative. She will continue channeling her efforts to ensure communities without dedicated health care infrastructure and resources get focused attention and support as she begins her residency in Internal Medicine at the University of South Florida.
Dr. Melchor is also focused on access to care, and spent his limited free time during medical school volunteering at free clinics and coordinating health fairs for underprivileged communities. He also served the underserved by working extensively with UnidosNow and the Multicultural Health Institute of Sarasota. He will continue his medical path with a residency in Family Medicine at Duke University.
Congratulations and good luck to Dr. Darji and Dr. Melchor who epitomize the spirit of the Robin McDougall Access to Care Award!
Rida Darji, M.D. and Tom Block, CMS Foundation Executive Director.
Tom Block, CMS Foundation Executive Director, and Julian Melchor, M.D.
(L-r) Diana Bixler, MPH, We Care Network Program Coordinator; Rida Darji, M.D.; and Julian Melchor, M.D.
RIDA DARJI, M.D. RECEIVES CMS FOUNDATION’S J. ORSON SMITH, M.D. SCHOLARSHIP IN INTERNAL MEDICINE
Dr. J. Orson Smith awarded the J. Orson Smith, M.D. Scholarship in Internal Medicine to Rida Darji, M.D. on May 17, 2024 at the Florida State University College of Medicine Annual Awards Ceremony.
The named scholarship, honoring Dr. J. Orson Smith, was created by an anonymous donor in recognition of and admiration for Dr. Smith’s passion for the practice of medicine and advancing the health of the underprivileged.
FSU College of Medicine’s Internal Medicine Clerkship Directors nominated the recipient. The Capital Medical Society Foundation (CMSF) awards the scholarship based on its criteria.
Dr. Rida Darji, who also was named one of the recipients of this year’s Robin McDougall Access to Care Award, is the second ever recipient of the Dr. J. Orson Smith M.D. Scholarship in Internal Medicine. She spent her 3rd and 4th years of medical school at the FSU College of Medicine Pensacola Regional Campus, and is now at the University of South Florida completing a residency in Internal Medicine.
“On behalf of the Capital Medical Society Foundation Board of Directors, we are quite proud to salute you as the second ever recipient of the J. Orson Smith, M.D. Scholarship in Internal Medicine award. The CMSF Board of Directors wishes you the very best in your chosen profession and hopes that you will consider a future home in Tallahassee or the Big Bend. Our medical community needs you. Thank you for your passion to promote access to care, and for your desire to serve chronic illness patients.”
- Dr. Tracey Hellgren, CMS Foundation President
JEMMA R. THOMPSON, M.D. RECEIVES CMS FOUNDATION’S JULIA REVELL ST. PETERY, M.D. SCHOLARSHIP IN PEDIATRICS
On behalf of the Capital Medical Society Foundation, Dr. Louis St. Petery awarded the Julia Revell St. Petery, M.D. Scholarship in Pediatrics to Jemma R. Thompson, M.D. on May 17, 2024 at the Florida State University College of Medicine Annual Awards Ceremony.
The named scholarship, honoring the late Dr. Julia St. Petery who passed in 2021, was created to commemorate her passion for the practice of pediatric medicine and her humanitarian spirit and determination to provide all children the same access to healthcare.
FSU College of Medicine’s Pediatric Clerkship Directors nominated the recipient. The Capital Medical Society Foundation (CMSF) awards the scholarship based on its criteria.
Hoping to follow in Dr. Julia St. Petery’s footsteps in pediatrics, Dr. Jemma Thompson has moved to Gainesville to complete her residency at the University of Florida College of Medicine - Shands Hospital Pediatric Residency.
“Dr. Thompson exemplifies our future, a young physician who will take an on-going interest in increasing access to medical care for underserved pediatric patients. We wish her the best as she begins her residency in Pediatrics at the University of Florida College of Medicine - Shands Hospital.”
- Dr. Louis St. Petery
“On behalf of the Capital Medical Society Board of Directors, we are quite proud to be a participant in the awarding of a scholarship to our third recipient of the Julia Revell St. Petery, M.D. Scholarship in Pediatrics, Dr. Jemma Thompson. The CMSF Board of Directors wishes you the very best in your chosen profession and hopes that you will consider Tallahassee or the Big Bend as your future home. Our medical community needs you.”
- Dr. Tracey Hellgren, CMS Foundation President
CAPITAL MEDICAL SOCIETY FOUNDATION SUPPORTS INPATIENT HOSPICE UNIT
Tom Block, Executive Director of the Capital Medical Society Foundation, presented a check for $5,000 to Dena Strickland, President of the Big Bend Hospice Foundation on July 3, 2024. “The CMS Foundation is happy to support First Commerce Center for Compassionate Care, a peaceful inpatient hospice unit on the third floor of Tallahassee Memorial Hospital,” said Block. “The Center will ensure that patients transition from hospital to hospice care in a seamless, dignified and supportive manner.”
The state-of-the-art inpatient unit opened in May 2024. Capital Medical Society Foundation was saluted as a Founder at the Water Oak level for its support of the Center.
CAPITAL MEDICAL SOCIETY FOUNDATION SUPPORTS INPATIENT HOSPICE UNIT
Tom Block, Executive Director of the Capital Medical Society Foundation, presented a check for $3,000 to Elder Care Services on July 2, 2024. The grant award was accepted by Elder Care Services’ Nicole Ballas, Chief Development Officer; and Jocelyne Fliger, President and CEO. The grant award aligns with the Capital Medical Society Foundation’s mission that includes supporting efforts to increase access to health care services. Elder Care Services’ program of home-based care for seniors provides necessary services in-home, as well as, transportation to doctors and other healthcare providers. We appreciate Elder Care Services ongoing commitment to make these important services available to seniors in our community.
CAPITAL MEDICAL SOCIETY FOUNDATION SUPPORTS ACCESS TO CHILD SAFETY SEATS
Capital Medical Society Foundation’s Executive Director Tom Block presented a check for $3,000 to KidSafe of Lutheran Social Services of North Florida, Inc. on July 3, 2024. Representatives from Lutheran Social Services’ Board of Directors and staff accepted the grant award that will help fund the KidSafe program. Pictured l-r: Board Secretary, Beth McBride; Board President, Barbara Ehlmann; Executive Director, Dorothy Hinkle; Board Treasurer, Jan McPherson; Board Vice President, Pastor Jennifer Kopacz; CMS Foundation Executive Director, Tom Block; and Board Member, Gary Rusinko. KidSafe provides life-saving new safety seats to economically vulnerable families who cannot afford to buy them. The funding will be used for the expansion of the safety seat program and for the development of an educational/assistance community component that will increase the efficacy of child safety seat use in Tallahassee/Leon County. The Capital Medical Society Foundation is pleased to support this child safety program.
CAPITAL MEDICAL SOCIETY FOUNDATION SUPPORTS THOSE WITH VISION IMPAIRMENT
On July 1, 2024, Capital Medical Society Foundation’s Executive Director Tom Block presented a check for $3,000 to Lighthouse of the Big Bend to assist in the purchase of aids for their clients with vision loss. Lighthouse of the Big Bend Chief Executive Officer Tina Torrance accepted the grant award. The aids improve the quality of life for the visually impaired and help them manage their health and medical care more independently. We applaud the work of the Lighthouse of the Big Bend!
Get Your Tickets!
6th Annual Tallahassee Beer Festival
Benefiting UPHS Human Services Agencies, Including Capital Medical Society Foundation
Saturday, August 10, 2024
2:00 pm – 6:00 pm
Donald L. Tucker Civic Center
The Tallahassee Beer Festival is a fundraiser benefiting the member organizations of the United Partners for Human Services, including Capital Medical Society Foundation. The profits from every ticket purchased go straight back to the community. To support the Capital Medical Society Foundation and the We Care Network, go to https://www.ticketmaster.com/ event/2200609BC32C2A1D and click “unlock” and then enter code CAPMED when adding tickets to your cart.
CALLING FOR AUCTION ITEM DONATIONS!
The Capital Medical Society Foundation Holiday Auction will be held on Thursday, December 5, 2024. We want to make it bigger and better than ever, so we are requesting donated items, large or small!
Do you have any of the items on our wish list or know someone you can ask to donate them?
• Week/Weekend at Vacation Homes
• Hunting Trips or Fishing Trips
• Hunting or Fishing Gear
• Sports Memorabilia
• Children’s Toys
• Games
• Home Décor
• Jewelry
• Paintings/Art
• Fine Wine & Spirits
• Pet Items
• Holiday Items
Also, if you’re out and about shopping and find a treasure, keep us in mind!
The deadline to receive items is Thursday, November 21.
If you have any questions or would like to donate an item, please call the CMS office at (850) 877-9018.
Holiday Auction invitations will be mailed in November!
WE THANK OUR
We Thank Our Donors
We thank the following donors who recently made a gift to the CMS Foundation:
Capital Medical Society Foundation –Area of Greatest Need
Tracy Eckles, D.D.S.
Robin McDougall, LCSW
We Care Network
David Beggs
H. Avon Doll, Jr., M.D.
Charles A. Frueauff Foundation
We Care Network Endowment
Healogics
The CMS Foundation Scholarship Fund
David Bellamy, M.D. – In Memory of Justin Lee Cummings, M.D.
David Bellamy, M.D. – In Memory of Thomas Harrison
Capital Medical Society Foundation –FSU College of Medicine Tallahassee Regional Campus Food Pantry Anonymous
Elaine Geissinger – In Honor of Hardworking Medical Students
Hearth & Soul
David Jones, M.D.
Sandeep Rahangdale, M.D.
The Anesthesiology Associates of Tallahassee Scholarship Fund (Unendowed)
David Jones, M.D.
The Julia Revell St. Petery, M.D. Scholarship in Pediatrics Fund (Unendowed)
David Jones, M.D.
The Charles D. “Pedro” Williams, M.D. Scholarship Fund (Unendowed)
David Jones, 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 $135 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 2023-24, which ended June 30, 2024, 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 fiscal year 2024, which ended June 30th. 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 2024.
➢ 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 fiscal year 2024, the CMSF awarded a total of $14,000 in grants to the Big Bend Hospice Foundation for the First Commerce Center for Compassionate Care, 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.
Eric Berenson, M.D.
Michael Bernhardt, M.D.
Robert Bradford, M.D.
Tim Broeseker, M.D.
Tony Bryant, M.D.
Viet Bui, M.D.
David Burns, M.D.
Joseph Camps, M.D.
Erin Carlquist, M.D.
Stephen Carr, M.D.
Gilbert Chandler, M.D.
Armand Cognetta, Jr. , M.D.
Raymond Cottrell, M.D.
Chris DeRosier, M.D.
Jose Diaz, M.D.
H. Avon Doll, M.D.
David Dolson, M.D.
Chesley Durgin, M.D.
Adam Engel, M.D.
Nicholas Farber, M.D.
Christine Fitzsimmons, D.O.
Jerry Ford, M.D.
Alexander Franz, M.D.
Spencer Gilleon, M.D.
Andrew Golden, M.D.
Amy Haddock, M.D.
Aaron Hayson, M.D.
Todd Hewitt, M.D.
Brett Howard, M.D.
Marc Inglese, M.D.
Okanta Jackson, M.D.
Antoni Kafrouni, M.D.
Kenneth Kato, M.D.
James Killius, M.D.
Amulya Konda, M.D.
Maribel U. Lockwood, M.D.
Kurt Luhmann, M.D.
Michael Mangan, M.D.
Sean Meagher, M.D.
David Mellman, M.D.
Jason Mitchell, M.D.
Thank You
To our CMS members and We Care Network partners who provided healthcare to new patients in April and May 2024. Your generosity and support of the We Care Network makes a difference.
Manoela Mota, M.D.
Chukwuma Okoroji, M.D.
Anthony Otekeiwebia, M.D.
David Pascoe, M.D.
Allison Retzer, M.D.
Stephen Richardson, M.D.
Andres Rodriguez, M.D.
Karen Russell, M.D.
Jamey Sarvis, M.D.
Andras Schaffer, M.D.
Scott Sellinger, M.D.
Hardeep Singh, M.D.
Joshua Somerset, M.D.
Bhavik Soni, M.D.
Joseph Soto, M.D.
Amanda Stephens, D.O.
Kris Stowers, M.D.
Christopher Sundstrom, M.D.
Liberty Taylor, M.D.
Scott Taylor, D.O.
William Thompson, M.D.
Jean-Paul Tran, M.D.
Kaisa van der Kooi, M.D.
Andrew Vargas, M.D.
Carl Vegas, M.D.
Prashanth Vennalaganti, M.D.
Andrea Venturini, M.D.
David Vermess, M.D.
Tony Weaver, M.D.
Kenneth Whithaus, M.D.
William Yaakob, M.D.
Samuel Yu, M.D.
Dentists
Jean-Pierre Bastien, D.M.D.
Laban Bontrager, D.M.D.
Walter Colón, D.M.D.
Brittney Craig, D.M.D.
Alan Dransfield, D.M.D.
Aixa Guzman, D.M.D.
William McFatter, D.D.S.
Lawrence Weaver, D.D.S.
Jacob Zellner, D.M.D.
You're changing lives in our community.
Facilities
Advanced Urology Institute
Airway Works, LLC
Anesthesiology Associates
Apalachee Primary Care
Bastien Dental Care
Beachton Denture Clinic
Brittney K. Craig, DMD
Bond Community Health Center
Bristol Dental Clinic
Capital City Anesthesia
Care Point Health & Wellness Center
Coolidge Court Dental Care
Dermatology Associates
Digestive Disease Clinic
Eye Associates of North Florida
Family Dermatology of North Florida
Florida Cancer Specialists and Research Institute
Gadsden County Health Department
Jessie Furlow Medical Center
Ketchum, Wood, & Burgert
Pathology Associates
Madison Medical Center
Neighborhood Medical Center
North Florida Nephrology Associates
North Florida Womens Care
North Monroe Medical Center
Periodontal Associates of North Florida
Radiology Associates of Tallahassee
Red Hills Dental Associates
Sergeant Ernest I. “Boots” Thomas
VA Clinic
Southeast Radiology Partners
Southeastern Plastic Surgery
Southern Medical Group, P.A.
Southern Vitreoretinal Associates
Tallahassee Community College
Dental Hygiene Clinic
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
Endocrinology Specialists
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 Quincy
TMH Physician Partners
Radiation Oncology Specialists
TMH Physician Partners Southwood
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 Podiatry Associates
Vascular Surgery Associates
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 months of April or May 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) 894-6727 or mail to 1204 Miccosukee Road, Tallahassee, FL, 32308. Thank you!
We Thank Our Referring Providers
APRIL & MAY 2024
Jay Allard, M.D.
Anne Ananga, APRN
Wade Baggs, M.D.
Clifton Bailey, M.D.
Katrina Ball, APRN
Karen Bartley, M.D.
Jean-Pierre Bastien, D.M.D.
Marie Becker, M.D.
John Bidwell, D.D.S.
Robert Bradford, M.D.
Kendra Brady, APRN
Jenifer Brickler, M.D.
Alexander J. Brickler III, M.D.
Tim Broeseker, M.D.
Viet Bui, M.D.
Callie Burch, APRN
Carlos Campo, M.D.
Francisco Carpio, M.D.
Carlos Castro, M.D.
Gilbert Chandler, M.D.
Victor Chou, D.M.D.
Melba Colon-Renta, M.D.
Deborah Congdon, APRN
Raymond Cottrell, M.D.
Jill David, APRN
Brian Del Carlo, D.D.S.
David Dixon, D.O.
William Dixon IV, M.D.
Louisa Dowling, APRN
Alexander Dudley, D.M.D.
Makeba Earst, D.D.S.
Nathalie Esellem, APRN
Cynthia Evans, APRN
Shlermine Everidge, M.D.
Christine Fitzsimmons, D.O.
Jerry Ford, M.D.
Sharron Foster, M.D.
Dale French, D.O.
Hong Gao, M.D.
Yolanda Gibson, APRN
Lillie Green, APRN
Judy Griffin, APRN
Aixa Guzman, D.M.D.
Muhanad Hasan, M.D.
Aaron Hayson, M.D.
Hantz Hercule, M.D.
Brett Howard, M.D.
Marc Inglese, M.D.
Joey Jarrard, M.D.
Anneka Johnson, APRN
Farhat Khairallah, M.D.
Elaine Larkins, APRN
Janice Lawson, M.D.
Jessica Lea, APRN
Brion Long, D.M.D.
Deanna Louie, M.D.
Laura Machado, M.D.
Michael Mangan, M.D.
Ashok Manocha, B.D.S.
Ovidiu Marina, M.D.
Kaitlin McGrogan, D.O.
Damon McMillan, M.D.
Lisa Menchion, APRN
Kelley Miller, APRN
Marcia Morris, APRN
Manoela Mota, M.D.
Jayan Nair, M.D.
Thomas Noel, M.D.
Abiodun Ogunremi, APRN
Chukwuma Okoroji, M.D.
Rose Origa, APRN
Anthony Otekeiwebia, M.D.
James Parker, M.D.
Robert Ambre Pasup, P.A.
Kaushal Patel, M.D.
Paresh Patel, M.D.
Mitchell Peabody, D.O.
Jorge Perez de Armas, M.D.
Lisa Perkins, APRN
Cilla Poppell, M.D.
Hari Ravipati, M.D.
Hussein Rayatzadeh, M.D.
Terence Reisman, M.D.
Charlie Richardson, M.D.
Adrian Roberts, M.D.
Carla Robertson, APRN
Jarrod Robertson, M.D.
Andres Rodriguez, M.D.
Karen Russell, M.D.
Lucilita Salvador, P.A.
Benjamin Shivar, P.A.
Eliot Sieloff, M.D.
Joseph Soto, M.D.
Bryan Spooner, D.P.M.
Alana Steaple, APRN
Amanda Stephens, D.O.
Christopher Sundstrom, M.D.
Yusef Syed, M.D.
Scott Tetreault, M.D.
John Thabes, M.D.
Erin Thames, APRN
Faye Tinson, APRN
Jean-Paul Tran, M.D.
Anthony Vara, M.D.
Andres Vargas, M.D.
Prashanth Vennalaganti, M.D.
Andrea Venturini, M.D.
Lakeshia Washington, APRN
Jeffrey Wasserman, D.O.
Eula Weaver, APRN
Tony Weaver, M.D.
Brandy Whitlow, D.D.S.
Barbara Williams, M.D.
Shynequria WilliamsMcNealy, APRN
Alexandra Wright, M.D.
RECEIVED 479 REFERRALS, WITH 222 PATIENTS NEW TO THE PROGRAM
During the months of April & May 2024, the We Care Network
SCHEDULED 195 APPOINTMENTS WITH VOLUNTEER PHYSICIANS AND DENTISTS
$1,004,835 IN DONATED CARE WAS REPORTED BY WE CARE NETWORK VOLUNTEERS