Get Into The Holiday Spirit at the Capital Medical Society Foundation Holiday Auction
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.
CMS Non-Endorsement Statement
The editors welcome contributions from members. Opinions expressed in the Cap Scan are those of the individual authors and do not necessarily reflect policies or opinions of the Capital Medical Society or Capital Medical Society’s endorsement.
Cap Scan is the official publication of the Capital Medical Society. Advertising in Cap Scan does not imply sponsorship or endorsement by the Capital Medical Society nor necessarily imply the accuracy or reliability of any advertisement displayed in this publication.
Danny Estupiñán, M.D. - 1st
Stephanie A. Wolanin, M.D. - 1st
Viet Bui, M.D. - 2nd
Thomas I. Lawhorn, M.D. - 2nd
Francis C. Skilling, Jr., M.D. - 2nd
Ernesto Umana, M.D. - 2nd
William T. Kepper, M.D. - 3rd
David Tedrick, M.D. - 4th
Sharron Foster, M.D. - 6th
Muhanad Hasan, M.D. - 6th
Ovidiu Marina, M.D. - 6th
Yvette Mignon, M.D. - 7th
W. Harris Green, M.D. - 8th
Peter E. Loeb, M.D. - 8th
Srinivas Saripalli, M.D. - 9 th
Trinity Belgrave, M.D. - 10 th
HAPPY BIRTHDAY!
{NOVEMBER BIRTHDAYS}
Cyneetha Strong, M.D. - 10 th
Timothy Sweeney, M.D. - 10 th
David W. Draper, M.D. - 11th
Nihar P. Jani, M.D. - 11th
Paul Arons, M.D. - 12 th
Ronald Mageau, M.D. - 14th
Jeffery Snyder, M.D. - 14th
Prasanti Tatini, M.D. - 14th
Moritz Dehler, M.D. - 15th
Robert M. Snider, M.D. - 15th
Less Shrestha, M.D. - 16th
Alexander Vanderby, M.D. - 16th
Alexander J. Brickler, III, M.D. - 17th
H. Avon Doll, M.D. - 17th
Andy Kozel, M.D. - 18th
Carl David Vegas, M.D. - 18th
{DECEMBER BIRTHDAYS}
Stephen W. Duncan, M.D. - 1st
Terry W. Sherraden, M.D. - 1st
Chaowen Jason Chen, M.D. - 2nd
J. Orson Smith, M.D. - 3rd
Dorothy White, M.D. - 3rd
Panagiotis Gavathas, D.O. - 4th
Maci McDermott, M.D. - 4th
Clarence William Applegate, M.D. - 5th
Walter E. Colón, DMD - 5th
Anthony Otekeiwebia, M.D. - 5th
Narayanan Krishnamoorthy, M.D. - 7th
Jonathan Appelbaum, M.D. - 8th
Arjun V. Kaji, M.D. - 8th
Joshua Somerset, M.D. - 9 th
Larry D. Taylor, M.D. - 9 th
Charles W. Kent, M.D. - 11th
Jorge V. Perez-De Armas, M.D. - 12 th
W. Brad Stephens, M.D. - 13th
Trey M. Blake, III, M.D. - 14th
Shlermine Aupont Everidge, M.D. - 14th
Samuel D. Yu, M.D. - 14th
Ava Katarina Voss, M.D. - 15th
Gary Winchester, M.D. - 15th
Lattisha Kerr, M.D. - 16th
Giovana Charite, M.D. - 18th
Cristina B. Rodriguez, M.D. - 18th
Ericka Mapp, M.D. – 19 th
Arthur S. Clements, M.D., PhD - 20 th
DeCoria McCauley, M.D. - 20 th
Cynthia Tie, M.D. - 20 th
David Jones, M.D. - 21st
Amy Haddock, M.D. - 22nd
Brian Kacheris, M.D. - 19 th
Jean-Paul Tran, M.D. - 20 th
Al E. Deeb, M.D. - 22nd
D.J. Underwood, M.D. - 22nd
Hudson Ash-Rafzadeh, M.D. - 23rd
John L. Meade, M.D. - 23rd
Christopher Pope, M.D. - 24th
Zachary Stachura, M.D. - 24th
Carla M. Holloman, D.O. - 25th
Ann Marie Brown, M.D. - 26th
Kristi Reese, M.D. - 26th
Michael J. Mangan, M.D. - 27th
Fang Sarah Ko, M.D., PhD - 29 th
Valerie A. Lazzell, M.D. - 29 th
Brook Jacob Hill, M.D. - 30 th
Abel Romero-Corral, M.D. - 23rd
Aneesh Rahangdale, M.D. - 24th
Richard Kelley Myers, M.D. - 26th
Efren L. Baltazar, M.D. - 28th
Michelle Miller, M.D. - 28th
Robert Watson, M.D. - 28th
Daniel Bernabe, M.D. - 29 th
Bartlomiej Nowosielecki, M.D. - 29 th
Madeline Mickler, M.D. - 30 th
Tim A. Broeseker, M.D. - 31st
Matthew Lee, M.D. - 31st
E. Jonathan Perry, M.D. - 31st
Paul Shadowen, M.D. - 31st
Gregory K. Todd, M.D. - 31st
Please tell the advertiser you saw their ad in the Cap Scan magazine!
NEW DOCS ON THE BLOCK
Clara Barranco, M.D.
Medical School: Florida State University
Internship: Orlando Regional Medical Center
Residency: Orange Park Hospital Practice: Family Dermatology of North Florida
Specialty: Dermatology
Nihar P. Jani, M.D.
Medical School: Medical College of Baroda
Internship/Residency: Bronx Lebanon Hospital Center
Fellowship: Temple University Practice: North Florida Nephrology Associates
Specialty: Nephrology
Casey N. Rust, M.D.
Medical School: Florida State University
Internship/Residency: Carolinas Medical Center
Fellowship: University of North Carolina Practice: FSU SeniorHealth Specialty: Family Medicine, Geriatrics
PROFESSIONAL NOTES
In September 2024, Maria Andrews, M.D. stepped into the role of Program Director at the Tallahassee Memorial Family Medicine Residency Program. “It is a wonderful challenge,” shared Dr. Andrews. “I am honored to champion our mission to train excellent family physicians for this community.” Dr. Andrews succeeds Dr. Joseph Mazziotta, who served in this position since 2015. Congratulations, Dr. Andrews!
Maria Andrews, M.D. was recently presented with her Masters of Science in Medical Anthropology from the University of Oxford. Despite earning her Masters in 2013, she was finally able to receive her degree in-person. Congratulations, Dr. Andrews!
Del Carter, M.D. was recently selected to be a Fellow with Doximity, a private, secure professional medical network for physicians. Dr. Carter will be writing original articles for their clinician networking platform over the next year. Congratulations, Dr. Carter!
FORMAT INTO A QUARTER PAGE B&W AD
Narayanan Krishnamoorthy, M.D. was recently accepted to the 2025 class of the Florida Medical Association’s Karl M. Altenburger, M.D. Physician Leadership Academy. The Leadership Academy is an intensive, 11-month professional development program that helps emerging physician leaders develop specific non-clinical skills they need to be effective advocates for the medical profession and their patients. Congratulations, Dr. Krishnamoorthy!
Ron Saff, MD is pleased to announce the addition of Aila Rawlins, PA-C. She is originally from Sopchoppy and since graduating PA school in 2016 has been solely working in the role as an allergy and asthma PA in Punta Gorda. She will bring a wealth of knowledge and is excited to be coming home.
FORMAT INTO A QUARTER PAGE B&W AD
Ron Saff, MD is pleased to announce the addition of Aila Rawlins, PA-C. She is originally from Sopchoppy and since graduating PA school in 2016 has been solely working in the role as an allergy and asthma PA in Punta Gorda. She will bring a wealth of knowledge and is excited to be coming home.
Ron Saff, MD is pleased to announce the addition of Aila Rawlins, PA-C. She is originally from Sopchoppy and since graduating PA school in 2016 has been solely working in the role as an allergy and asthma PA in Punta Gorda. She will bring a wealth of knowledge and is excited to be coming home.
850-386-6680
850-386-6680
2300 Centerville Rd, Tallahassee, FL 32308
(Across from the Centerville Post Office)
2300 Centerville Rd, Tallahassee, FL 32308
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.
Please tell the advertiser you saw their ad in the Cap Scan magazine!
CAPITAL MEDICAL SOCIETY LUNCH AND LEARN SEMINARS
On September 18th, Shannon Hartsfield and Eddie Williams III with Holland and Knight, provided an excellent presentation: 2024 HIPAA Regulatory, Enforcement Update.
On October 16th, Katie Howard with James Moore & Co., provided an excellent presentation: Medical Staff Morale: Boosting Retention in Today's Dynamic Healthcare Landscape.
We thank Truist Medical Specialty Group for sponsoring the September 18th Lunch and Learn. Their representatives were Brandon Hogue, Vince Link, and Karen Watts.
MARK YOUR CALENDARS FOR THE 2025 LUNCH AND LEARN SEMINARS!
Wednesday, February 19
Wednesday, March 19
Wednesday, April 16
Wednesday, May 14
Wednesday, June 18
Wednesday, August 20
Wednesday, September 17
Wednesday, October 15
Wednesday, November 19
We thank Diana O’Bryant with Hancock Whitney for sponsoring the October 16th Lunch and Learn.
Cost: $12 per person, per seminar (includes lunch)
For more information or to RSVP, please contact Rosalie Carlin at (850) 877-9018 or rcarlin@capmed.org.
Seminars will be held at the Capital Health Plan on Governors Square Blvd. – and we thank CHP for providing this venue.
LAST CALL: DONATED ITEMS NEEDED FOR THE CMS FOUNDATION HOLIDAY AUCTION
The Holiday Auction is December 5th and to make this the most successful one yet we need donated items--especially experiential opportunities which are extremely popular at auctions!
Would you or someone you know consider donating:
• Week/Weekend at Vacation Homes
• Hunting or Fishing Trips
• Concert Tickets
• Culinary experiences
• Lessons: golf, cooking, pickleball, other
We are also seeking gift baskets:
• Hunting or Fishing Gear
• Sports Memorabilia or Tickets
• Children’s Toys
• Games
• Home Décor
• Jewelry
• Paintings/Art
• Fine Wine & Spirits
• Pet Items
• Holiday Items
If you would like to donate an item, please call the CMS office at (850) 877-9018.
Also, many of our member offices donate a themed basket each year and they are a big hit! If your office would like to donate a basket, please contact Rosalie Carlin at (850) 877-9018 or rcarlin@capmed.org.
If you’d rather find another way to help with the Holiday Auction, please keep the following in mind:
Stadium (288 Champions Way, Bldg. B). Invitations were mailed to your residence, so be sure and register by November 21st!
• Be an Individual Sponsor. Make a donation of $100 or more in support of the 2024 Holiday Auction. We will publish the names of our individual sponsors in our event materials.
We hope you can help to make this year bigger and better than ever!
• Plan to attend! Mark the Holiday Auction on your calendar. We want everyone to join us on Thursday, December 5 at 6:00 pm at The Dunlap Champions Club at FSU – Doak Campbell
Russell Cole, M.D.
Tuesday, January 28, 2025
6:00 pm
FSU Alumni Center (1030 West Tennessee Street)
CMS Members and their Spouse/Guest are invited
~ We will also be recognizing Incoming and Outgoing Board Members ~ Invitations will be mailed to your residence. We hope to see you there!
To the Capital Medical Society members who have served in the military, We Thank You!
Member Name Branch of Service
Jay E. Allard, M.D. Navy
Rank
Commander
Robert Jackson Atwater, M.D. Air Force Major
Donald C. Beeckler, M.D. Army Major
David Bryant, D.O. Navy
Lieutenant
J. Brewster Caldwell, D.O. Army Major
Francisco Carpio, M.D. Air Force
Michael C. Cavallaro, M.D. Navy
Lieutenant Colonel
Commander
Daniel P. Conrad, M.D. Air Force Major
David Ernest Craig, M.D. Army Major
Ryan D. Curran, M.D. Marine Corps Corporal
Steven Ashley Currieo, M.D. Air Force Major
Thomas Dean Dalrymple, M.D. Army Major
JW Richard Davis, M.D. Navy
Lieutenant
Charles Deal, M.D. Army
Larry Deeb, M.D.
Specialist III
“I completed my internship in Internal Medicine at Naval Medical Center Portsmouth in Virginia in 2018. I went on to become an Aviation Medical Examiner (AME) and Medical Department Head for the Navy Reserve Center at NAS Jacksonville until 2023.”
– David Bryant, D.O.
U.S. Public Health Service
William Crawford Dixon IV, M.D. Army
Wade Douglas, M.D. Army
Russell W. Eggert, M.D. Air Force
Margarett Conklin Ellison, M.D. Army
Tom Enoch, M.D. Navy
John P. Fogarty, M.D. Army
James D. Geissinger, M.D. Air Force
Tom Haney, M.D. Air Force
Donald Ray Hansard, M.D. Army
Jerry Harris, M.D. Army
Emily Hoffman, M.D. Navy
Floyd Jaggears, M.D. Navy
Roland Jones, M.D. Air Force
Lawrence D. Kaelin, M.D. Army
Commander/Lt. Commander (Inactive Reserve)
Lieutenant Colonel
Major
Colonel
Lieutenant Colonel
Lieutenant Commander
Colonel (Retired), US Army Medical Corps
Captain (Worked as a Surgeon)
Flight Surgeon
Captain
Major
Lieutenant (O-3)
Lieutenant Commander
Major
Major
“I served in the United States Marine Corps as a noncommissioned officer from 1995 to 2003. I was deployed around the world working and supporting helicopter and fighter jet squadrons.”
– Ryan D. Curran, M.D.
Member Name
Branch of Service Rank
Howard Kessler, M.D. Army
F. Andrew Kozel, M.D. Air Force
Joel Kramer, M.D. Coast Guard
Thomas Lawhorn, M.D. Air Force
Nancy Loeffler, M.D. National Guard
Charles Gordon Long, M.D. Air Force
Gordon Low, M.D. Air Force
Joe Mazziotta, M.D. Air Force
Earl McKenzie, M.D. Marine Corps & Navy
Major
Captain
Lieutenant Commander, Public Health Service
Major
Captain
Major
Retired Lt. Colonel
Major
Lieutenant Commander
“I served 2 years as an Internist at Martin Army Hospital in Fort Benning, Georgia, home of the infantry. We lived on the post in a Captain’s duplex and, after promotion, the Major’s quarters. It was an excellent 2 years with a terrific internal medicine team. This was my first exposure to GI endoscopy.”
– Terence Reisman,
Meredith McKinney, M.D. Army
Spurgeon W. McWilliams, M.D. Army
David Durant Miles, M.D. Navy
Charles E. Moore, M.D. Navy
William Leigh Morse, M.D. Navy
James F. O’Neill, M.D. Air Force
David Jason Oberste, M.D. Air Force
Thomas Peele, M.D. Army
Duncan Postma, M.D. Army
M.D.
Major
Major
Lieutenant
Lieutenant Commander
Lieutenant Commander
Senior Airman
Major
Captain
Captain
Shawn Ramsey, D.O. Army E-4
Krista Ware Rankin, M.D. Air Force
Terence Reisman, M.D. Army
Steve Sarbeck, M.D. Navy
William Paul Sawyer, M.D. Navy
Brence Sell, M.D. Army
J. Brian Sheedy, M.D. Navy
William P. Simmons, M.D. Navy
Major
Major
Lieutenant Commander
Lieutenant
Major
Lieutenant Commander
Lieutenant, JAG Corps
“I served 8 years in the United States Army as a physician. Throughout my career, my primary duty station was Walter Reed Army Medical Center in Washington, D.C.”
– Brence Sell, M.D.
Francis C. Skilling, Jr., M.D. Navy
George Francis Slade, M.D. Navy
J. Orson Smith, M.D. Army
Robert Snider, M.D. Air Force
James William Stockwell, M.D. Navy
John Michael Streacker, M.D. Army
Timothy J. Sweeney, M.D. Air Force
Larry D. Taylor, M.D. Navy
James Albert Totten, M.D. Army
Carl David Vegas, M.D. Air Force
James F. Walton, III, D.D.S. Navy
Kenneth R. Wasson, M.D. Navy
Cheau Williams, M.D. National Guard
Charles D. Williams, M.D. Air Force
John L. Williams, M.D. Air Force
Pat Munroe Woodward, M.D. Army
Lieutenant/Medical Corps Reserve
Lieutenant Commander
Captain
Captain
Lieutenant
Specialist (Combat Medic)
Major
Commander
Captain
Major
Lieutenant Commander
Lieutenant Commander
Lieutenant Colonel
Captain
Lieutenant Colonel
Captain
“I served as a U.S. Navy medical officer with the 3rd Marine Battalion in 1973-74. I came to develop a deep appreciation for those in the military who protect our country and our citizens every day.”
– Francis C. Skilling, Jr., M.D.
CALLING FOR NOMINATIONS FOR THE I.B. HARRISON, M.D. HUMANITARIAN AWARD
AND THE THOMAS L. HICKS, M.D. OUTSTANDING PHYSICIAN AWARD
The Capital Medical Society and the Capital Medical Society Alliance will host the annual Celebration Awards Dinner on March 27, 2025 at the Dunlap Champions Club at FSU, in honor of Doctors’ Day. At the event, we will be awarding the I.B. Harrison, M.D. Humanitarian Award, a prestigious award initiated by Capital Health Plan, and the Thomas L. Hicks, M.D. Outstanding Physician Award.
The criteria for the awards differ. The criteria for the I.B. Harrison, M.D. Humanitarian Award are predicated on the values that came to be associated with the late Dr. I.B. Harrison: treating all patients with respect and dignity. Dr. Harrison was known as the voice for the ethical, compassionate practice of medicine. He is not only the inspiration for the award, but its first recipient, as well.
The Thomas L. Hicks, M.D. Outstanding Physician Award honors a physician who has demonstrated distinguished leadership in organized medicine, community volunteerism, political and governmental activities, clinical excellence, and
educational activities; particularly with medical students. The late Dr. Hicks is not only the inspiration for the award, but its first recipient, as well.
We are seeking nominations from the CMS membership as both of these awards are presented to physicians by their peers.
Nomination Form – I.B. Harrison, M.D. Humanitarian Award
Nomination Form – Thomas L. Hicks, M.D. Outstanding Physician Award
Please give thoughtful consideration to nominating a physician for each award. Please mail or email your completed nomination forms to the Capital Medical Society. All nominations are held in the strictest of confidence.
The deadline for nominations is January 10th.
David Huang, M.D.
2024 Recipient of the I.B. Harrison, M.D. Humanitarian Award
Joseph Mazziotta, M.D.
2024 Recipient of the Thomas L. Hicks, M.D. Outstanding Physician Award
WHY IT'S IMPORTANT TO CELEBRATE OUR FELLOW PHYSICIANS
By John Bailey, D.O.
I hope that we can encourage CMS members to think about physicians who have served the community and the profession well. Why is it important to keep up with the awards? Because the physicians who are recognized are held up as an example to the community, and to their younger peers. Because there are so many counter-examples being held up to scrutiny every day in the news, television reports, and social media. Because medicine really is a good cause, a calling, and not
Nomination Form – I.B. Harrison, M.D. Humanitarian Award
a technology to be "managed." Because practicing medicine is a risky business that places doctors in harm’s way for the benefit of others. Because society, and especially the Capital Medical Society, needs to reward its heroes of today, and inspire its heroes of tomorrow.
Please consider nominating your physician colleagues for these awards.
Nomination Form – Thomas L. Hicks,
I.B. Harrison, M.D.
Thomas L. Hicks, M.D.
M.D. Outstanding Physician Award
CMS Membership & CM E Meeting
Cutting Edge Developments in Psychiatry
Jeffrey T. Ferraro, M.D., Capital City Psychiatry
Aneesh Rahangdale, M.D., UCF/HCA Consortium at HCA Florida Capital Hospital Residency Program
Faisal A. Munasifi, M.D., Psychiatry Associates of Tallahassee
CMS Membership & CM E Meeting
OCTOBER 15, 2024
THE MAGUIRE CENTER FOR LIFELONG LEARNING AT WESTMINSTER OAKS
Abuse Across the Lifespan-Domestic Violence (2-Hour CME)
Please Thank Our Sponsors for their Support of the October 15th CMS Membership and CME Meeting
Supporting Sponsors
FSU Health Clinical Practices administered by Florida Medical Practice Plan, Inc.
James Moore & Co.
Tallahassee TMS
Meeting Sponsors
MagMutual
Social Catering and Social Kitchen
SYNOVUS Displayer
Novo Nordisk
To view the Minutes from this meeting, click here.
Mary P. Norton, M.D., TPCA/ Tallahassee Pediatrics
A NEW BEGINNING: THE JOURNEY OF A DIABETIC PATIENT
By Antoni Kafrouni, M.D.
The patient arrived at our clinic, visibly weary but determined. Just three days earlier, he had been hospitalized due to diabetic ketoacidosis, a severe complication from uncontrolled diabetes, with an average glucose level of 450 mg/dL. After intensive treatment, including intravenous insulin, he was discharged with a new insulin regimen.
During our follow-up, I learned that the patient, in his mid-forties and a father of two, had long hoped to manage his diabetes with diet alone. However, denial had led him to neglect his health. “I never thought it would get this bad,” he admitted, reflecting on his experience in the hospital.
Facing a new chapter, he made significant lifestyle changes, overhauling his diet and cutting down on starches and sugary foods. He began morning walks in his neighborhood, gradually finding joy in
the routine. With prescribed medications and discipline, he lost an impressive 45 pounds in three months, motivated by his desire to be there for his children.
Monitoring his blood sugar levels became a routine, empowering him to understand how food and activity affected his glucose. By the end of three months, he achieved what seemed impossible: he came off insulin treatment. “I can’t believe it. I’m free from insulin!” he exclaimed during a follow-up visit.
His transformation impacted every aspect of his life, inspiring him to encourage others to prioritize their health. With strong family support, he found change more manageable, emphasizing that it’s never too late to improve one's health.
This patient’s story illustrates resilience and the power of commitment. It serves as a reminder that proactive health management can profoundly affect individual and family dynamics.
Preventing Diabetes Health Problems
Diabetes is a disease that occurs when your blood glucose, also called blood sugar, is too high. When it’s not managed, diabetes can damage the eyes, kidneys, nerves, and heart, and is linked to some types of cancer.
If you have diabetes, taking charge of your health as soon as possible may help you prevent other health problems.
diabetes.
CARDIOVASCULAR BENEFITS OF GLP-1 AGONISTS
By Antoni Kafrouni, M.D.
GLP-1 agonists, a class of medications used primarily to treat type 2 diabetes, have garnered significant attention for their cardiovascular benefits. Research has consistently shown that these drugs not only aid in glycemic control but also contribute to improved cardiovascular outcomes, making them an important option for diabetic patients, particularly those at risk for cardiovascular disease.
Several large clinical trials have demonstrated that GLP-1 agonists, such as liraglutide and semaglutide, significantly reduce the risk of major adverse cardiovascular events (MACE), which include heart attack, stroke, and cardiovascular-related death. For example, the LEADER trial showed that liraglutide reduced MACE by 13% compared to placebo in patients with type 2 diabetes at high cardiovascular risk. Similarly, the SUSTAIN-6 trial indicated that semaglutide lowered the risk of cardiovascular events by 26%.
The mechanisms behind these benefits are multifaceted.
GLP-1 agonists improve endothelial function, reduce inflammation, and help in weight loss, all of which are beneficial for cardiovascular health. By promoting weight loss, these medications can help lower blood pressure and improve lipid profiles, further reducing cardiovascular risk factors. Additionally, GLP-1 agonists have been shown to have a direct effect on the heart, promoting cardiac
function and potentially offering protective effects against heart failure.
Moreover, these medications have been associated
Preventing Diabetes Health Problems
Diabetes is a disease that occurs when your blood glucose, also called blood sugar, is too high. When it’s not managed, diabetes can damage the eyes, kidneys, nerves, and heart, and is linked to some types of cancer.
If you have diabetes, taking charge of your health as soon as possible may help you prevent other health problems.
Here are some tips to help you prevent or manage diabetes.
Manage your A1C blood glucose, blood pressure, and cholesterol levels.
Ask your doctor what your goals should be, and stay informed about your A1C level.
Make lifestyle changes to slowly build healthy habits.
Take small steps to eat healthier, be more physically active, and get enough sleep.
Take care of your mental health.
mental health counselor may help you find healthy ways to cope with stress.
Take your medicines on time, even if you feel healthy.
Talk to your doctor or pharmacist for help if you have trouble managing your medicines.
Work closely with your primary care provider.
They can help you prevent or manage diabetes and refer you to other health care professionals for related health problems.
Visit niddk.nih.gov for more information on preventing diabetes health problems. h e althinfo@niddk.n ih.gov
Dr. Kafrouni is a board-certified endocrinologist. He serves as the Medical Director at TMH Physician PartnersEndocrinology, Obesity & Diabetes.
A
THE MEDICAL PROS AND CONS OF HAVING PETS
By Michelle Miller, M.D.
My family decided to adopt a kitten the summer before my son started the first grade as a reward for good behavior and to instill some responsibilities for him. We figured a cat would be easier to care for than a dog and my son loves cats. My son and I perused the local animal shelter website and saw a picture of a 3 month old black cat named “Leo” and fell in love[1]. We lucked out when we went to the shelter during their walk-in hours. He was still there, a little shy but playing with a toy made of pipe cleaners in his cage. When we brought him home, he spent a few hours hiding out behind our sofa but since then has been very active and playful, especially if we shoot hair ties or table top tennis balls around the house.
Of course, it is mostly up to me to take care of the new pet as I’ve had the most experience with pets. My husband only had a hamster growing up and didn’t have a dog or cat until we moved in together in college. Whereas, I’ve grown up with multiple outdoor cats and a handful of dogs. We had to euthanize our last pets- a cat and a dog over five years ago due to old age and health conditions while my son was an infant. Both pets had been in our lives for over ten years so our grief was considerable with this decision and it took time for us to consider bringing in new pets to our family. While this is a concern for people considering having a pet, according to a survey taken in 2020, about 42.5% of owners have euthanized a pet in the past due terminal illness, injury, dangerous or unmanageable behavior, poor quality of life, and inability to provide adequate care[2].
References
Most people know about the inherent benefits of having pets such as companionship and increase in physical activity, but I was surprised to learn that purring has been associated with an increase in healing. “It can also reduce the risk of heart disease, with cat owners having 40% less risk of having a heart attack. A cat’s purr at a frequency of 18 to 35 hertz may also support tendon repair and joint mobility. At 25 to 50 hertz, purring promotes the healing of injured muscles and tendons. At 100 hertz, purring can reduce pain, increase recovery time after surgery, and ease breathing in patients with chronic respiratory disease[3].”
Leo
However, even though I am a cat lover, I am also someone that reacts to them slightly. I used to joke that if I pet a cat and don’t wash my hands, the next time I touch my face my lips swell slightly giving me the cosmetic look that most people will do under the needle for. I used to think my only recourse was antihistamines, but now there are cat foods that have the Fel d1 antibody created by chickens exposed to cats, thereby neutralizing this antigen that causes most reactions. I will be trialing this soon so ask me in 3-6 months what the results are[4].
Having pets also means being proactive for diseases with regular vaccines and prophylaxis medications for fleas/ticks. Most doctors when hearing about kittens and cats will likely think back to Pasteurella and cat scratch fever caused by Bartonella, which are health risks with having cats/kittens[5 & 6]. Cat bites are generally dirty and deep wounds requiring
2. Park, Rachel, and Kenneth Royal. 2020. “A National Survey of Companion Animal Owners' Self-Reported Methods of Coping Following Euthanasia.” NCBI. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih. gov/pmc/articles/PMC7558086/
3. Knight, John. n.d. “Is a Cat's Purr Actually Helpful to our Bones?” Hand and Wrist Institute. https://handandwristinstitute.com/is-a-cats-purr-actually-helpful-to-our-bones/
4. “Anti-Fel d1 immunoglobulin Y antibody-containing egg ingredient lowers allergen levels in cat saliva.” 2019. NCBI. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6764009/
6. Lloret, Albert, and Tadeusz Frymus. n.d. “GUIDELINE for Pasteurella multocida infection — ABCD cats & vets.” ABCD cats & vets. https://www.abcdcatsvets.org/guideline-forpasteurella-multocida-infection/
“ANIMALS ARE SUCH AGREEABLE FRIENDS. THEY ASK NO QUESTIONS; THEY PASS NO CRITICISMS.” – GEORGE ELIOT
antibiotics especially if on hands so teaching children early on to not use their hands as toys but instead to use cat toys that are longer to reduce this risk. With dogs, most people will think about horrific dog bites especially those seen on children’s faces so it is important to socialize dogs early and to teach children not to go near unknown dogs or even put their faces near known dogs especially if there is food nearby. And of course, rabies is 100% fatal if not treated early on, which is why rabies vaccines are recommended for all pet cats and dogs[7]. Tick borne illnesses are on the rise due to global warming so it is imperative that if your pet will be exposed to the outdoors that they are on a prophylaxis medicine[8]. As an amateur bird enthusiast, cats are the number one predator for birds and are associated with 1.34 billion bird deaths in the US a year, so I plan on keeping our cat indoors unless he is in a carrier for outdoor travel[9].
Veterinarian medicine has also changed with more specialists, testing, and treatment options. As such, the cost of pet health care has also exploded and there are options for pet health insurance. Some vets of course will not accept the insurance due to decrease in reimbursements, same in the medical world with the increase in Direct Primary Care. A good read that explores the veterinarian world is “The Other Family Doctor by Karen Fine, DVM”[10].
I do recommend that if you are considering getting a pet that you first look at the local animal shelters. There are a multitude of animals that need to be adopted. If you are unsure what type of pet to get, I suggest volunteering at the animal shelter or going to a local dog park or cat cafe to see where you feel the happiest.
7. “Rabies.” n.d. American Veterinary Medical Association. https://www.avma.org/resourcestools/one-health/rabies
10. Fine, Karen. 2024. The Other Family Doctor: A Veterinarian Explores What Animals Can Teach Us About Love, Life, and Mortality. N.p.: Knopf Doubleday Publishing Group. IF YOU’D LIKE TO SHARE A PHOTO OF YOUR PET, WE’LL FEATURE THEM IN AN UPCOMING ISSUE OF CAP SCAN! PLEASE EMAIL YOUR PET PHOTO TO SHANNON BOYLE AT SBOYLE@CAPMED.ORG.
9. “House Cats are a Major Threat to Our Birds.” n.d. Audubon Pennsylvania. https:// pa.audubon.org/news/house-cats-are-major-threat-our-birds
CAPITAL MEDICAL SOCIETY FOUNDATION AWARDS MORE THAN $50,000 IN SCHOLARSHIPS TO FSU MEDICAL
STUDENTS
On October 8, the Capital Medical Society Foundation awarded scholarships to nine students in their first or second year of medical school at the Florida State University College of Medicine or third or fourth year at its Tallahassee Regional Campus. Historically, the CMS Foundation has now provided over $800,000 in scholarships to FSU College of Medicine students. Three of these students were also chosen to receive awards from other CMS Foundation scholarship funds: Anesthesiology Associates of Tallahassee Scholarship Fund – Kirstie Walters; The
William Frederick Lindsey, M.D. and Jimmie Moore Lindsey Scholarship Fund – Owen Moore; and The Charles D. “Pedro” Williams, M.D. Scholarship Fund – Ashley Archer.
Dr. Frank Walker, Chair of the CMS Foundation Scholarship Committee, presented the scholarship check to each of the recipients.
(Standing, l-r) 2024 CMS Foundation Scholarship Recipients: Owen Moore, Dhenu Patel, Mikalin Huckeba, Andy Asher, Abigail Watson, Ashley Archer, Kaleigh Wingate, Kirstie Walters, and Jason Bowden; Dr. Anthony Speights, CMS Foundation Scholarship Committee member; Tom Block, CMS Foundation Executive Director; (seated, l-r) Dr. David Stewart, CMS Foundation Board Director and Scholarship Committee member; Dr. Frank Walker, Chair, CMS Foundation Scholarship Committee; Dr. Tracey Hellgren, CMS Foundation Board President and Scholarship Committee member; Dr. Mark Cannella, CMS Foundation Scholarship Committee member; Dr. Elizabeth Dickens, CMS Foundation Scholarship Committee member; Dr. Scottie Whiddon, CMS Foundation Scholarship Committee member; and Dr. Sandeep Rahangdale, Dean, FSU College of Medicine Tallahassee Regional Campus and CMS Foundation Scholarship Committee member.
Dr. Mark Cannella, anesthesiologist and member of the CMS Foundation Scholarship Committee, co-presented the scholarship from the Anesthesiology Associates of Tallahassee Scholarship Fund. CONGRATULATIONS
Kaleigh Wingate, Kirstie Walters, and Jason Bowden; (seated, l-r) Dr. David Stewart, CMS Foundation Board Director and Scholarship Committee member; Tom Block, CMS Foundation Executive Director; Dr. Tracey Hellgren, CMS Foundation Board President and Scholarship Committee member; Paula S. Fortunas, CMS Foundation Board Director; and Geri Forbes, CMS Foundation Board Director.
(Standing, l-r) 2024 CMS Foundation Scholarship Recipients: Owen Moore, Dhenu Patel, Mikalin Huckeba, Andy Asher, Abigail Watson, Ashley Archer,
(Standing, l-r) 2024 CMS Foundation Scholarship Recipients: Owen Moore, Dhenu Patel, Mikalin Huckeba, Andy Asher, Abigail Watson, Ashley Archer, Kaleigh Wingate, Kirstie Walters, and Jason Bowden; (seated, l-r) Dr. Sandeep Rahangdale, Dean, FSU College of Medicine Tallahassee Regional Campus and CMS Foundation Scholarship Committee member; Tom Block, CMS Foundation Executive Director; and Dr. Alma Littles, Dean, FSU College of Medicine.
Photo credit: FSU College of Medicine/Colin Hackley
Do You Know What Your 2023 Gift to the Capital Medical Society Foundation Made Possible?
$5.5 Million in Donated Specialty Medical and Dental Care donated by 340 We Care Network volunteer physicians and dentists to 1,821 low-income, uninsured adult patients
Physician Donations helped provide confidential wellness coaching to physicians who have experienced unusual stress, demands, and symptoms of burnout as they care for the patients of this community
$56,500 in Medical School Scholarships to nine FSU College of Medicine students to help defray the cost of their medical education
Photo Credit: FSU College of Medicine/ Colin Hackley
Celebrating our 50th Anniversary in 2025
SUPPORT THE MISSION THROUGH YOUR END-OF-YEAR GIFT BY DECEMBER 31, 2024
I would like to make a contribution to support the mission of the Capital Medical Society Foundation
Enclosed is my tax-deductible gift of: $__________
___ I would like to dedicate my gift in memory of:
___ I would like to dedicate my gift in honor of:
___ I would like to designate my gift for:
___ Area of Greatest Need
___ CMSF Physician Wellness Program
___ The CMSF Scholarship Fund for FSU College of Medicine students
___ The We Care Network
___ The CMSF General Endowment Fund
___ The Anesthesiology Associates of Tallahassee Scholarship Endowment Fund
___ The Ronald G. Pickett Endowment Fund
___ The We Care Network Endowment Fund
___ The Julia Revell St. Petery, M.D. Scholarship in Pediatrics Endowment Fund
___ The CMSF Food Pantry at FSU College of Medicine-Tallahassee Regional Campus
___ The J. Orson Smith, M.D. Scholarship in Internal Medicine Endowment Fund
___ The Charles D. “Pedro” Williams, M.D. Scholarship Endowment Fund
___ The William Frederick Lindsey, M.D. and Jimmie Moore Lindsey Scholarship Endowment Fund
___ I am directing a required minimum distribution from my IRA, before Dec. 31.
___ I would like to learn more about making a pledge, a stock donation, making a gift in my will or making a life insurance gift. Please contact me at:
Please return this card, along with your gift payable to:
Society Foundation 1204 Miccosukee Road Tallahassee, FL 32308
For more information or if you have any questions, please call (850) 877-9018 or (850) 321-1648.
Credit Card, Direct Debit Gifts, and Recurring Gifts may be made at: www.capmed.org/donate
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
Pam Irwin
Robin McDougall, LCSW
David D. Miles, M.D.
United Partners for Human Services –proceeds from the Tallahassee Beer Festival
We Care Network Anonymous
The CMS Foundation Scholarship Fund
David Bellamy, M.D. – In Memory of Harold J. Crochet
David Bellamy, M.D. – In Memory of George F. Ewing
Capital Medical Society Foundation –FSU College of Medicine Tallahassee Regional Campus Food Pantry
Anonymous
Yvonne Brown
Elaine Geissinger – In Honor of Hardworking Medical Students
David Jones, M.D.
The Charles D. “Pedro” Williams, M.D. Scholarship Endowment
Dr. and Mrs. Charles D. Williams –In Memory of Edgar Moore
In October 2024, the CMSF integrated Blackbaud’s Donor Cover into the online gift transaction process. This allows donors to pay fees for their eligible transactions so that their entire gift comes to the foundation for the intended designation, with 100% of the gift amount fully tax deductible. Donor Cover is an optional feature and donors can opt out by unchecking the box before completing their gift transaction.
Gifts may be made by credit card or direct debit at https://capmed.org/donate/, or by check. Checks should be made payable to the CMS Foundation. Indicate on the memo line of your check to which designation you would like to give. Bring your check to the CMS Office or mail it: Capital Medical Society Foundation, 1204 Miccosukee Road, Tallahassee, FL 32308.
If you would like to discuss a gift of appreciated securities, an insurance policy, designation of retirement plan assets, estate gift, or multi-year pledge, please contact Tom Block at tblock@capmed.org or (850) 321-1648.
Make a Gift Now!
Monthly Recaps
RECEIVED 431 REFERRALS, WITH 195 PATIENTS NEW TO THE PROGRAM
During the months of August & September 2024, the We Care Network
$1,120,161 IN DONATED CARE WAS REPORTED BY WE CARE NETWORK VOLUNTEERS
SCHEDULED 196 APPOINTMENTS WITH VOLUNTEER PHYSICIANS AND DENTISTS
The We Care Network program thanks our referring and donating providers.
To our CMS members and We Care Network partners who provided healthcare to new patients in August and September 2024, your generosity and support of the We Care Network makes a difference.
Click here to view a detailed list of providers for August and September 2024.
We thank the following people, businesses, and organizations for sponsoring or displaying at CMS Meetings/Events in 2024:
Airway Works, LLC
Align Technology
Allegro Tallahassee
Au Pair in America
Audiology Associates of North Florida
Be Strong Therapy Services
Betsy Barfield Photography
Big Bend Hospice
Bristol Myers Squibb
CAMPUS USA Credit Union
Capital Health Plan
Clear Connect Medical Imaging
Dodson Insurance
Eye Associates of North Florida Florida Blue
Florida Medical Association
Florida State University College of Medicine
FSU Health Clinical Practices administered by Florida Medical Practice Plan, Inc.
FSU College of Medicine - Tallahassee Regional Campus
Geistlich
Hancock Whitney
HCA Florida Capital Hospital
Holy Comforter Episcopal School
James Moore & Co.
KWB Pathology Associates
Maclay School
MagMutual
Medical A/R Revenue Solutions
Moore Ellison & McDuffie, CPAs, PA
MTM Specialists
Novel Mind & Wellness Center
Novo Nordisk
NutritionAbbey.com
Periodontal Associates of North Florida
PhRMA
Prime Meridian Bank
Salvin
Secure Records Solutions
Select Specialty Hospital
Seminole Sitters
Social Catering and Social Kitchen
Southern Medical Group, PA
Straumann
Stretch Zone
SYNOVUS
Tallahassee Ear, Nose, and Throat, P.A.
Tallahassee Memorial HealthCare
Tallahassee TMS
TC Federal Bank
The Pickle Pad
TMH Federal Credit Union
TMH Physician Partners - Pulmonary, Critical Care & Sleep
True North Advisors – Northwestern Mutual Private Client Group
