As your local health insurance partner, Wellmark Blue Cross and Blue Shield has been working side-by-side with the medical field for over 80 years. Our roots are as strong as our mutual desire to keep all Iowans healthy. We value working with physicians to promote preventive care and keeping patient costs down, while being committed to increasing access to quality health care for all. These are just some of the reasons why more providers choose to be part of the Wellmark network.
Mission:
To advance the practice of medicine through advocacy, education, and engagement with physicians throughout Iowa to ensure the highest quality of care for the patients they serve.
Vision:
To be the leading voice in medicine to make Iowa a premier destination for physicians to live, work, and serve their communities.
Contact Us: Iowa Medicine
515 E. Locust St., Ste. 400 Des Moines, IA 50309
Phone: 515.223.1401
President: Alison Lynch, MD
CEO: Steven W. Churchill, MNA
Executive Editor: Sara Opie
Managing Editor: Kelsey Wolfe
To Advertise:
Contact Heather Lee
Phone: 515.421.4776
Email: hlee@iowamedical.org
Subscriptions:
Annual Subscription $45
Iowa Medicine, Journal of the Iowa Medical Society (ISSN 0746-8709), is published quarterly by the Iowa Medical Society, 515 E. Locust St., Ste. 400, Des Moines, IA 50309.
Periodicals postage paid at Des Moines, Iowa and at additional mailing offices.
Postmaster:
Send address changes to Iowa Medicine, 515 E. Locust St., Ste. 400, Des Moines, IA 50309.
Editorial Content:
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Copyright 2025-2026
Iowa Medical Society:
Opinions expressed by authors do not necessarily represent the official policy of the Iowa Medical Society. Iowa Medicine does not assume responsibility for those opinions. Products and services advertised in Iowa Medicine are neither
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University of Iowa Health Network Rehabilitation Hospital, a venture with Encompass Health
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IN TIMES OF UNCERTAINTY, NEVER WASTE A CRISIS
ALISON LYNCH, MD President, Iowa Medical Society
The following is an edited transcript of Dr. Lynch’s speech:
Good evening. I want to thank you all for being here tonight, as we celebrate the 175th Anniversary of the Iowa Medical Society and the passing of the IMS President’s medallion. Milestones like this are a good time to reflect on where we’ve been, where we are now, and where we are headed.
I am grateful to be with all of you in this beautiful auditorium tonight. Hancher Auditorium is a special place to me. In June, 1985, I walked across the stage of Hancher Auditorium as I graduated from
“As in arts and literature, Iowa City is a beacon of medical advancement.”
Iowa City West High School. In 1998, I walked across the stage of Hancher Auditorium again, as I graduated from the University of Iowa Carver College of Medicine. Both of those events were in the old Hancher, and tonight I get to become the 176th President of the Iowa Medical Society in the new Hancher.
Hancher Auditorium is named after Virgil Hancher, who served as University of Iowa’s President from 1940-1964. President Hancher understood the tremendous benefits of bringing people together to experience arts and culture, and today we are the beneficiaries of his bold vision to create a performing arts center that would bring the world’s finest performing artists to Iowa. As in arts and literature, Iowa City is a beacon of medical advancement.
When I think about my path to this moment, I want to acknowledge my most important mentor, my father, Dr. Richard Lynch. My dad was a pathologist here at the University of Iowa. He was also an immunology researcher, a department head, an interim dean, a teacher, a mentor, a writer, a veteran, a New Yorker, an Iowan. It was a special joy to share the profession of medicine with him.
I also want to acknowledge the rest of my family who are here with me tonight. My mother, Nancy Lynch. She has been an incredible support to me, and her willingness to step in whenever I needed help with my three kids made it possible for me to be a doctor and a mom. And my husband, Eric. You are my best friend and your support helps me to be a better doctor and a better person. Meeting you was the luckiest thing that ever happened to me.
I joined the faculty at the University of Iowa Hospitals and Clinics in 2003 after completing my residency training in Family Medicine and Psychiatry. I have focused my
practice on the integration of mental and physical health care, and for the past eight years I have primarily focused on addiction medicine. I direct the UI Addiction and Recovery Collaborative or UI ARC, which incorporates clinical services, educational programming, research, outreach, and advocacy in addiction medicine. I see patients in our MAT clinics. I teach students, residents, fellows, and practicing physicians how to provide high-quality care to people with addiction and mental health conditions. I direct several grant funded projects aimed at improving access to care for people with substance use disorders. I work with an awesome multidisciplinary team of talented and dedicated people at UI ARC, some of whom are here tonight. I want to thank my UI ARC team for all your support and for helping create an environment that allows me to go to work at my dream job every day.
Over the past year, we worked together to bring an exhibit to campus called the Into Light Project. This exhibit features portraits and stories of Iowans who have lost their lives due to overdose, and it helps to humanize the experience of addiction, facilitate conversations and compassion, and combat stigma. These stories are testimony that too many lives have been cut short, and that we still have work to do to make addiction treatment widely accessible. The exhibit will be at the Old Capital Museum through the end of 2025, and I invite you to stop by and see it while you are in Iowa City.
As we look toward the future, we face a time of change, transition,
“When I was a medical student, I had the opportunity to do a rotation in the Dominican Republic. It was educational and incredible, and I’ve never forgotten how fortunate I was to experience it.”
and uncertainty. When I find myself feeling overwhelmed or anxious about the future, there are a couple of ideas that I find helpful. First, human connection is powerful and important. The recent pandemic underscored the critical role that human contact and interaction have on our collective well-being. For many of my patients, loneliness and social challenges contribute to their mental health and substance use problems, and this was very apparent during the pandemic. Johann Hari, a British journalist, observed “The opposite of addiction isn’t sobriety, it is human connection.” Not only does lack of human connection lead to worsening mental health and substance use disorder symptoms, but the presence of human connection prevents mental health and substance use disorders and restores mental health. When I was a first year medical student, one of our faculty, Dr. Bill Erkonen, a radiologist, counseled his students to “just keep showing up.” I think his words meant to literally keep showing up and being a part of the group. If we don’t show up, we get left out or left behind or left alone, and that isn’t good for our mental health and wellbeing. Nor is it good for success in medical school.
The second idea I find helpful during times of uncertainty is to never waste a crisis. In a crisis environment, things are shifting and often chaotic or confusing. The risk/benefit calculations of the past may adjust, making something that seemed risky or out of reach suddenly feel more accessible. Keep your eyes open, opportunities often present themselves during these times, and people may be open to new ideas or willing to try new things.
I want to close by telling you a little bit about the work of the Iowa Medical Society Foundation. The Foundation supports medical students via scholarships, engagement with the AMA, student leadership development programs, and Global Health Studies Clinical
Experiences along with support of the medical community at large through public health initiatives, professional development, and leadership opportunities.
For students, the opportunity to travel abroad and learn about health, health care, and the practice of medicine in other countries and cultures can have a profound impact. When I was a medical student, I had the opportunity to do a rotation in the Dominican Republic. It was educational and incredible, and I’ve never forgotten how fortunate I was to experience it. These types of opportunities for students are as important as ever, but sometimes the cost is prohibitive.
Scholarships from the IMS Foundation make global health experiences more accessible to more medical students. There are several ways to support the Foundation, from single donations to recurring donations, and a new legacy society for planned giving.
The newly established 1850 Legacy Society, created in conjunction with our 175th Celebration, is a way for physicians to continue to make an impact in the future, without having to tap into their assets today. As you consider your legacy, I hope you will consider becoming a Charter Member of the 1850 Legacy Society.
And with that, here is to another 175 years, and I hope to see you all at the 200th anniversary of IMS! ■
Scan the QR code To learn more
A DRIVE TO COMMEMORATE 175!
It was a night to remember in Iowa City.
OWILLIAM M cMILLAN, MD Chair, Iowa Medical Society 175th Celebration Committee and Past President
n Friday, May 2, 2025, more than 200 guests gathered at the iconic Hancher Auditorium to commemorate a historic milestone—175 years of the Iowa Medical Society. The evening was a vibrant blend of activities, including a past presidents’ reception, cocktail reception, dinner, awards, and the inauguration of our 176th President, Alison Lynch, MD. What a celebration!
We had 15 past presidents and CEOs attend, spanning over six and a half decades for a special reception. We gathered in an area where 18 milestone walk banners were displayed highlighting significant moments of IMS’s
175 Planning Committee
William McMillan, MD, Committee Chair
Marygrace Elson, MD
Lillian Erdahl, MD
Tom Evans, MD
Alison Lynch, MD
Noreen O'Shea, DO
Brian Privett, MD
Christina Taylor, MD
Peter Tonui, MD
Jessica Zuzga-Reed, DO
175 years. It was a joy to see so many faces from years gone by. And one of the crowd favorites was Herky the Hawkeye, giving highfives and posing for photos with all of the guests.
The evening’s program featured distinguished guests including AMA President Dr. Bruce Scott, U.S. Representative Dr. Mariannette Miller-Meeks, and UI Carver College of Medicine Dean Dr. Denise Jamieson. Together, they underscored the critical role IMS has played in advancing medical practice and policy in Iowa and beyond.
A highlight of the evening was the premiere of IMS’s 175th Anniversary video—an inspiring look at our shared journey through the decades. (If you haven’t yet watched it, visit the 175th page on iowamedical.org. It’s a must-see!)
We also recognized Five Iowa Physicians to Watch during the program, a new award as part of our 175 celebration. These notable five were honored with a video (also on the website) and recognized for their innovation, leadership, and impact in their Iowa communities.
Donations to the IMS Foundation in honor of Dr. Lynch and our 175th resulted in nearly $17,000 raised. Those gifts will be carefully
managed and directed by the IMSF Board to help medical students with global health scholarships and other significant needs over the next several years. Thank you to everyone who generously donated.
Following the inauguration and speech from Dr. Lynch, the crowd was pleasantly surprised by the University of Iowa pep band who showed up to play the Iowa fight song and other crowd-favorite pep songs. It was delightful. The room of attendees was on their feet clapping and cheering.
Our goal was simple: to create a celebration worthy of 175 years. I think we accomplished that and so much more. Based on the feedback, I think we hit the mark. It’s never easy to consider how to truly capture 175 years in one night, but through the videos, milestone walk, cupcakes in the shape of 175, stickers, social media, and the great photos now on the website, I think we did.
Thank you to everyone who joined us. You were part of something historic. As we look ahead to the next 25 years, let’s not wait so long to celebrate. We’re already envisioning more regular gatherings—perhaps every five years—to continue the celebration of what the Iowa Medical Society is and stands for: to be the leading voice in medicine to make Iowa a premier destination for physicians to live, work, and serve their communities.
Cheers to us! ■
175th Celebration and President’s Dinner
Friday, May 2, 2025
Hancher Auditorium
The night in photos
More photos and the 175 video can be found on the website or scan this QR code:
Photo credit: Seterah Dillon
FOUR RECIPIENTS HONORED WITH ANNUAL IMS AWARDS
Every year, the Iowa Medical Society recognizes physicians, laypersons, and organizations who have provided outstanding contributions to IMS, the medical profession, or public health by presenting them with awards. Here are the 2025 winners:
Award of Merit
Robert Lee, MD
The IMS Award of Merit is given to an IMS physician who has served IMS and the medical profession with distinction.
Dr. Lee is a retired family physician from the Iowa Clinic in Johnston. He is a respected leader whose dedication to the medical profession has had a lasting impact on colleagues, students, and the health care community.
With many years of service to IMS, the American Academy of Family Physicians, and as a delegate to the American Medical Association, Dr. Lee has consistently championed the values of collaboration, advocacy, and excellence in medicine. He is being honored for his outstanding leadership, innovative contributions, and commitment to mentoring the next generation of physicians. Dr. Lee is especially admired for his kindness,
John F. Sanford Award
Kari Harland, PhD, MPH
This award is given to honor a layperson who has made outstanding contributions to the public health field or in the field of health care.
Dr. Harland is honored with the John F. Sanford Award this year. Dr. Harland is a distinguished leader in public health research and advocacy whose work continues to shape the future of health care in Iowa and beyond. As a longtime member of the University of Iowa Hospitals and Clinics Department of Emergency Medicine, Dr. Harland has
dedicated her career to addressing the needs of vulnerable populations through evidence-based research and statewide collaboration.
Dr. Harland is recognized for her innovative leadership, ability to bridge science and service, and tireless pursuit of data-driven solutions that improve lives. Her work during the COVID-19 pandemic as Director of the Data Coordinating Center for the COVERED and PREVENT studies led to life-saving insights that protected emergency health care workers across the country.
compassion, and team-oriented approach—qualities that have made him a trusted mentor and role model to countless peers and future leaders in Iowa’s medical community.
One of her most recent projects, policies affect the mental health of Iowa’s youth, with a special focus on underserved communities.
Dr. Harland’s work inspires us all and demonstrates her dedication to improving public health.
Washington Freeman Peck Award
Houses into Homes
This award is given to a lay organization to honor its contributions to public health.
Houses into Homes is a Johnson County nonprofit that helps individuals and families exit crisis situations by providing gently-used furniture and household items to create comfortable homes. They are recognized for their innovative and compassionate approach to public health and
reducing waste while uplifting vulnerable members of the community with dignity and care. From ensuring every child has a bed to sleep in to mobilizing a strong network of volunteers, House into Homes has made a lasting impact by turning basic needs into opportunities for hope and healing.
Congratulations!
IMS / Copic Physician Humanitarian Award
Elaine Berry, MD
This award is given to an Iowa physician recognized for volunteering medical services and contributions to their community through principles focused on dignity, social justice, and compassion. Specifically recognizing those who unassumingly volunteer outside the spectrum of their day-to-day lives. The recipient of the award designates a $10,000 donation to be provided to an Iowa health care-related 501(c)(3) organization sponsored by Copic.
Elaine Berry, MD, is recognized with this award for faithfully serving her patients and community in southwest Iowa since 1988. She graduated from
the University of Iowa College of Medicine, is board-certified by the American Board of Family Practice, and was board-certified in Hospice and Palliative Medicine from 2008 to 2018.
After more than 35 years in Family Practice, Dr. Berry now serves as the Chief Medical Officer at Cass Health in Atlantic, Iowa. She is the Cass County Medical Examiner—a role she has held since 1989—and has been the Medical Director of the Cass County EMS Association, where she has worked with all-volunteer ambulance services within the county since the early 1990s.
During her career, Dr. Berry served on numerous medical boards and committees throughout Iowa, including the board of the Iowa
Medical Society, as an alternate delegate on the Board of the Iowa Academy of Family Practice, and on committees including the Iowa Medical Political Action Committee, Iowa Medical Society, and was appointed by the governor to serve on the Member Advisory Committee of Iowa Telemedicine Project.
Other passions of hers include serving as the volunteer medical director for Hospice in Cass County from 1991 to 2017 and teaching numerous medical students.
2025-2026
IMS BOARD OF DIRECTORS
Executive Committee
President
Alison Lynch, MD Psychiatry UIHC
Board of Directors
President-Elect
Lillian Erdahl, MD Surgical Oncology UIHC/Iowa City VA Medical Center
Past-President
Christina Taylor, MD Internal Medicine Clover Health, Value Based Care
Board Chair
Peter Tonui, MD General Surgery Iowa Clinic
Secretary-Treasurer
Joel Ryon, MD Chief Medical Officer Great River Health
Robert Bartelt, MD Orthopedic Surgery
Cedar Valley Medical Specialists
Emily Boevers, MD OB/GYN Waverly Health Center
Lindsey Jenkins, MD
OB/GYN OB/GYN Associates of Des Moines PLC
Daniel McCabe, MD
Emergency Medicine UIHC
Kaaren Olesen, DO OB/GYN Broadlawns Medical Center
Noreen O’Shea, DO
Ex officio and Policy
Forum Speaker
Behavioral Medicine
Des Moines University
Rachel Preisser, MD
Radiology & Diagnostic
MercyOne
Waterloo Medical Center
Victoria Sharp, MD
Ex officio and AMA
Delegation Chair
Urology, Family Medicine
VA Iowa City
Healthcare System
Mara Syring, DO
Pediatric Hospitalist
McFarland Clinic
Keith Vollstedt, MD
Surgery and General
Humphrey Wong, MD
MercyOne Genesis
Pulmonary Associates
Fadi Yacoub, MD
Nephrology
Mercy Cedar Rapids
Adetayo Oladele-Ajose, MD
Resident Director
University of Iowa
Josi Barscz, OMS-III
Medical Student Director
Des Moines University
Daniel Moe, M3
Medical Student Director
University of Iowa Carver College of Medicine
MEET THE
AMBASSADORS
The Iowa Medical Society is proud to introduce our inaugural class of IMS Ambassadors. These dedicated members will serve as vital connections within their clinics and practices—helping to share updates from IMS, answer questions, encourage peer involvement, and represent physician voices at events throughout the year.
As an IMS member, you’re invited to reach out to any of our ambassadors for insight into IMS initiatives or to share your thoughts on important issues affecting the profession.
This new program strengthens the lines of communication between IMS and our members—fostering
collaboration, transparency, and a deeper sense of community across the state.
“We are thrilled to have these physicians as the face of IMS at their clinics and look forward to working with all of them to further our vision to be the leading voice in medicine to make Iowa a premier destination for physicians to live, work, and serve their communities,” said Alison Lynch, MD, IMS President.
We’re excited to welcome our ambassadors and grateful for their leadership and commitment. ■
We asked the ambassadors why they said yes to becoming involved. Here’s what they told us:
“I want to help improve health care access in our great state. I want physicians to have a voice at the table.”
Molly Gross, MD
The Iowa Clinic
“More than ever, physicians need to speak up for their patients and each other.”
Laura Raid-Witthoeft, MD Dubuque Ob/Gyn
“I want to help physicians have the tools to provide the best care to patients.”
Matthew Sojka, MD
MercyOne Northeast Iowa
If you are interested in being considered for an IMS Ambassador role, please contact Grace Fleming, CNP, Member Engagement and Strategic Alliance Specialist at: gfleming@iowamedical.org or 515-421-4773.
Iowa Medical Society Ambassadors:
• Kenneth Andersen, MD MercyOne Des Moines
• Dustin Arnold, DO, CMO UnityPoint Cedar Rapids
• Jennifer Beaty, MD Des Moines University
• Tasha Beenken, DO West Des Moines OB/GYN
• Timothy Dettmer, MD Mason City Clinic
• Christina Gillmor, MD Wolfe Eye Clinic
• Molly Gross, MD The Iowa Clinic
• Jeydith Gutierrez, MD University of Iowa Health Care
• Tiffani Milless, MD Goldfinch Lab
• Brian Privett, MD Iowa Eye Center
• Cheryl Quinn, DO Van Buren County Hospital
• L aura Raid-Witthoeft, MD Dubuque OB/GYN
• Bryce Robison, MD Family Health Care of Siouxland
• Matthew Sojka, MD MercyOne Northeast Iowa
• Mureema Solberg, MD Newton Clinic
• Michael Strong, MD University of Iowa Health Care
• Christopher Walsh, MD Linn County Anesthesiologists
• A ngie Wild, MD University of Iowa Health Care
• Hanna Zembrzuska, MD University of Iowa Health Care
IYOUR MEMBERSHIP IN ACTION
COMMUNITY BUILDING ACROSS THE STATE!
HEATHER L. LEE
Membership and Sponsorship Director
n advance of this year’s member survey, which you hopefully participated in last month, we started working on creating some closed forums for our members to share ideas, thoughts, and gain a sense of community (a top ranked item of what members wanted from IMS from our past two years of the membership survey). We are happy to announce we currently have three closed forums available:
• Medical students
• Physicians in Residency and Fellowships
• Early Career Physicians
You may access these forums by signing in to your account on https://members.iowamedical.org/ MIC/Login
Each forum has two to five medical students or physicians in those practice areas who are helping
create relevant content and help spur discussions/engagement.
If you are in one of the three areas listed, and do not have access to the forums, please contact Grace Fleming at gfleming@iowamedical. org to get added to the list.
Our team is hoping to launch some additional forums later this year, so stay tuned for those and if you have an idea for a forum let us know!
Is it TikTok? No it’s DocTok!
In addition to the forums, later this year we hope to launch “IaDocTok.” This will be short video logs (2-5 minutes) submitted by an IMS member to give a glimpse into their practice, something interesting they want to share or are working on, or
simply to highlight what is happening. Now is your chance to shine on a short video log … get creative, make it fun or keep it serious, we’ll be anxious to hear from you. Note, IMS is not currently on TikTok, so none of these videos will be shared on that social media channel. However, we will consider sharing the videos on IMS’s social media channels. Keep that in mind as you create your DocTok. ■
To submit a vlog, please contact me at Hlee@iowamedical.org
CONGRATS SHARP DR.
Ex officio Iowa Medical Society Board Member and former President, Victoria Sharp, MD, was confirmed to the Iowa Board of Medicine! Dr. Sharp was nominated by Governor Kim Reynolds and approved by the Senate in May. We wish Dr. Sharp the best in her new role.
AMA HOD 2025 ANNUAL MEETING REPORT IOWA’S MARTA VAN BEEK, MD, ELECTED TO THE AMA BOARD OF TRUSTEES
TVICTORIA SHARP, MD, MBA
Chair, Iowa Delegation, AMA HOD
he American Medical Association (AMA) House of Delegates (HOD) addressed several critical issues during its annual meeting recently held in Chicago, June 6-11. Nearly 700 physicians, residents, and medical students met to help fulfill the AMA’s core mission of promoting medicine and improving public health.
The big news of the week was that our own Marta Van Beek, MD, MPH, dermatologist and Mohs surgeon at Iowa Health Care, was elected to the AMA Board of Trustees. Placement of an Iowa physician in this national position is great news! Previously three physicians with Iowa ties were President of the AMA: Barbara McAneny, MD, 2018-2019, received her MD degree and completed Internal Medicine residency training at the University of Iowa,
Dr. Donovan F. Ward, MD 19641965, a surgeon from Dubuque, IA and Walter Bierring, MD 19341935, a pathologist at the University of Iowa. Congratulations to Dr. Van Beek!
During the meeting, the AMA discussed the top two advocacy issues being considered in Congress under the Budget Reconciliation bill. Following years of federal advocacy, the House passed the “Doctor Fix” through this package, which would ensure Medicare physician reimbursement adjusts with inflation. Additionally, concerns regarding Medicaid cuts, particularly relating to provider taxes and state directed payments for hospitals took center stage. Our delegation, in conjunction with the North Central Medical Conference, participated in eight
reference committees: Ethics and Bylaws, Advocacy, Medical Education, Governance and Finance, Public Health, AMA Governance and Finance, Medical Practice, Medical Service, and Science and Technology. Testimony is based on expertise, best evidence in medical and health policy literature, and state medical associations and national medical specialty societies’ perceptions and priorities. There were over 225 reports and resolutions for consideration.
Detailed reference committee testimony, thoughtful House of Delegates (HOD) debate, and votes led to new and updated American Medical Association (AMA) policies and direction for the AMA Board of Directors and staff. A few of these will be highlighted below
and additional details can be found on the AMA HOD’s annual meeting website.
• “ To call this moment humbling doesn’t capture it,” said the new AMA President Bobby Mukkamala, MD, an otolaryngologist in Flint, MI in his inauguration speech. He recalled his own recent health care journey after having an 8-cm left temporal lobe tumor discovered last November with subsequent surgery where 90% of the tumor was removed. He emphasized that he is determined that physicians can lead health care reform.
• Willie Underwood III, MD, MSc, MPH, a urological surgeon from Buffalo, New York, won the office of AMA president-elect.
• A n emergency resolution was passed stating disapproval of the unprecedented removal of the Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices (ACIP) 17 sitting members, including University of Iowa Health Care’s Dean Jamieson. As AMA President Bruce Scott said, “ACIP has been a trusted national source of science- and datadriven advice and guidance on the use of vaccines to prevent and control disease.” Which is put at risk by this recent action.
New policy
• To make sure health augmented intelligence (AI), generally known as artificial intelligence, works for both patients and physicians.
• To encourage GME programs to help residents and trainees engage in physician-led care to help strengthen the fight against scope of practice expansions.
• To create an environment in which medical students can improve their Step 1 or Level 1 performance and advance toward a holistic residency-application process:
T he NBME and NBOME to continue evaluating barriers related to testing centers (e.g., rescheduling, cost, etc.).
Medical schools to assist in scheduling of USMLE and COMLEX-USA exams and consider opportunities for flexibility.
• To decrease administrative burden, including redundant compliance training. ■
The next Interim AMA HOD meeting is in National Harbor, MD, November 14- 17, and the next AMA HOD Annual meeting will be back in Chicago, June 5-10, 2026.
IIOWA HEALTHCARE WORKFORCE SUMMIT
THREE KEY FINDINGS DEVELOPED AS NEXT STEPS
TRACY LARSON, DNP
Co-Chair, Iowa Healthcare Workforce Summit
owa is facing a mounting healthcare workforce shortage that threatens the state’s ability to provide quality care to its residents— especially in rural and underserved areas. The shortage spans nearly every level of the healthcare system, including physicians, pharmacists, nurses, dental providers, direct care workers, instructors, public health personnel, administrators, and more. While this is a nationwide issue, Iowa’s rural geography, aging workforce, and systemic barriers make the shortages particularly severe within our state.
This growing shortage jeopardizes not only the availability of care but also quality and accessibility.
retention, and sustainability across our healthcare system.
FADI YACOUB, MD
Co-Chair, Iowa Healthcare Workforce Summit
Without meaningful interventions, like expanding training opportunities and introducing students to healthcare workforce opportunities earlier in their learning careers, and improving work environments, Iowa’s healthcare workforce will continue to struggle. This highlights the need for focused action on local and statewide strategies to improve recruitment, education and training,
Recognizing this need, the Iowa Rural Healthcare Workforce Initiative, an ongoing collaborative leadership initiative between the Iowa Medical Society, Iowa Hospital Association, Iowa Pharmacy Association, and Iowa Primary Care Association, in partnership with the Iowa Department of Health and Human Services, brought together a committee of engaged individuals to help plan the Iowa Healthcare Workforce Summit; a one-day convenance of key stakeholders to craft solutions to combat the healthcare workforce shortage in Iowa. As co-chairs of the committee, we wanted to ensure that the core of the day embodied the initiatives’ goals to gather input from individuals about the status, challenges, and general healthcare experience in their local community.
“The intent was to take this information to identify actionable solutions that address and improve these challenges by amplifying existing resources and effective strategies, and we could not be happier with the outcome.”
The Iowa Healthcare Workforce Summit, held May 14, comprised of more than 70 participants from various areas of the healthcare system, including healthcare
professionals and administrators, community members, community organizations, direct care workers, recruiters, nurses, pharmacists, and physicians. The event began with Patrik Johansson, MD, MPH, from Washington State University as our keynote speaker. Dr. Johansson delivered a compelling address on rural healthcare shortages, emphasizing the importance of community-based solutions and inclusive research efforts to improve access and outcomes.
The morning continued with a panel discussion moderated by Alison Lynch, MD, IMS President which included David Kermode, DO of Broadlawns, David-Paul Cavazos, MBA of Grinnell Regional Medical Center, Emily Shields, MA of Community Colleges for Iowa, Jackie Barber, DNP or Morningside School of Nursing, and Jason Misurac, MD, University of Iowa Pediatric Nephrology. The panelists shared their insights on addressing the workforce shortage and improving recruitment and retention efforts. Their perspectives sparked meaningful dialogue and provided a comprehensive view of the challenges and opportunities we face across the system. Attendees then participated in three workgroup sessions focused on Education and Training, Recruitment, and Retention. Each session provided an opportunity to dig deeper into these critical areas, with participants sharing experiences and brainstorming innovative solutions. The day concluded with a voting and consensus-building session, where participants identified three statewide themes and countless ideas to shape Iowa’s healthcare workforce efforts moving forward.
Workgroup Session One: Education and Training
Participants focused on middle and high-school students, college students, graduate students, apprentices, and trainees and reflected on the main reason(s) these groups leave Iowa.
Key Solutions:
1. Support early (middle and high school) exposure to healthcare careers
2. Statewide collaborations for the sharing of successful, evidencebased education programs
3. Improve community trust and representation
4. Ensure access to essential services for students of all generations (transportation, housing, food)
5. Promote Iowa through strategic marketing and community partnerships
6. Increase credential and credit flexibility and mobility
7. Develop strategies to bridge generational differences in expectations and workplace culture
Workgroup Session Two: Recruitment
Participants focused on newly graduated healthcare personnel looking for their first job and the leading causes for this group to leave the state.
Key Solutions:
1. Improve work environments (support employee autonomy, reduce admin burdens)
2. C ompetitive employment agreements (pay, benefits, loan assistance/repayment)
3. Human-centered recruitment
4. Build belonging through healthcare community engagement programs
5. Streamline licensing and credentialing to allow providers to practice at the top of their scope
6. Mechanism for tracking and sharing health career openings
7. Virtual support for rural providers (telehealth, remote monitoring, etc.)
8. Modernize healthcare messaging in Iowa to be mission-purpose focused and authentic
9. Employer toolkits sharing best recruitment practices
Workgroup Session Three: Retention
In this session, participants talked about currently practicing and established healthcare workforce personnel and the primary reasons that professionals leave or stay in their Iowa workplace.
Key Solutions:
1. Redesign work structures to address burnout systematically
2. Work with employers to improve culture (empathy and support)
3. Engage later-stage professionals as mentors
4. Decrease administrative burdens
5. Flexible support systems for staff
6. Improved wages
7. Modify licensure requirements: improve process and transferability
8. Implement AI and technology advancements
Key Findings
Participants voted on the top three overarching themes that would move the needle to improve the healthcare workforce shortage. The final results included:
1. Support early (middle and high school) exposure to healthcare careers
2. Improve work environments (support employee autonomy, reduce admin burdens)
3. Redesign work structures to address burnout
Next Steps Healthcare Workforce Taskforce Review of Top Three Shortage Solutions
Taskforce members will devise tactical next steps for identifying where the three key themes exist within the current statewide strategic plan, key organizations to take part in each theme, and desired outcomes to measure our efforts.
1. Support Early (middle and high school) Exposure to Healthcare Careers with Hands-On Opportunities
• Fit with Strategic Plan: Grassroots and pipeline recruitment
• Key Stakeholders: Schools, colleges, healthcare employers, workforce boards, etc.
• Starting Point: Identify existing programs and promote opportunities
2. Improve Work Environments (support employee autonomy, reduce admin burdens)
• Fit with Strategic Plan: Supports employee well-being and retention
• Key Stakeholders: Employees, HR, leadership, IT partners
• Starting Point: Assess autonomy and admin burden issues
3. Redesign Work Structures to Address Burnout Systematically
• Fit with Strategic Plan: Supports staff well-being and operational sustainability
• Starting Point: Identify burnout drivers and pilot new care models ■
IN THEIR OWN WORDS
Presented by
Congratulations to the IMS 2025 winners of the Five Iowa Physicians to Watch Award. These honorees were recognized in May at the 175th Celebration and President’s Dinner. They were also showcased in a video played during the anniversary event. We asked each of the winners to share their thoughts on winning this first-ever award from IMS:
MUHAMMAD AJMAL , MD
Interventional Cardiologist, Great River Health, West Burlington
“Receiving the IMS Five Iowa Physicians to Watch award is a meaningful recognition of my commitment to leadership and innovation in medicine. As an interventional cardiologist, I strive to advance creative approaches to patient care and improve cardiovascular outcomes. This honor reflects the impact of collaborative efforts within our community and the value of pushing boundaries in clinical practice. I’m grateful for the opportunity to influence change and inspire the next generation of physicians. This award motivates me to continue striving for excellence and future success in health care.”
CHRISTOPHER KIM, MD
Orthopaedic Sports Medicine and Shoulder Surgery, The Iowa Clinic,West Des Moines
“It was an honor to be recognized for this award! It would not have been possible without the hard work and dedication of our team at The Iowa Clinic. Orthopaedics requires coordinated care, and there are a lot
of moving parts. Our team makes that possible, and they deserve the most recognition! Thank you IMS!”
YOGESH SHAH, MD
Medical Director, Broadlawns Memory Center, Des Moines
“I’m deeply honored to be named one of the Five Iowa Physicians to Watch. This recognition is not just a reflection of my efforts, but a testament to the dedication of my colleagues at Broadlawns Medical Center and the strength of the patients and families I have the privilege to support. It reinforces the value of compassionate, communitycentered care—especially for those facing complex challenges like dementia. I’m grateful for the opportunity to be part of a profession that allows me to make a meaningful impact each day.”
MARIA STORY, MD
Nephrologist, Southeast Iowa Regional Medical Center, West Burlington
“I am honored to have received this award and that SEIRMC felt my efforts deserved to be nominated. I feel humbled to be recognized by the Iowa Medical Society. I have chosen to work in rural Iowa because I love
serving people and I am thankful SEIRMC supports me in developing innovative projects that benefit the community. I plan to continue leading initiatives that benefit southeastern Iowans and hopefully help close the health gap between rural and urban residents.”
ANGIE WILD, MD
Clinical Assistant Professor of Emergency Medicine, University of Iowa Department of Emergency Medicine, Iowa City
“Winning the IMS Five Iowa Physicians to Watch award is a significant milestone in my career. It represents recognition and celebration of the contributions I’ve made in my academic career in medicine, particularly those that may not be easily quantifiable. Despite legislative challenges in Iowa regarding my work, this award shows that our medical community still values and supports the importance of what I do.” ■
To view the video of our honorees, scan the QR Code
MUHAMMAD AJMAL , MD
CHRISTOPHER KIM, MD
YOGESH SHAH, MD
MARIA STORY, MD
ANGIE WILD, MD
Advanced Endoscopy
Minimally Invasive Care for Pediatric GI Patients
Advanced endoscopy is transforming the way providers approach gastrointestinal (GI) conditions in young patients. This minimally invasive technique uses a camera-equipped endoscope to examine the gastrointestinal tract, liver and pancreas without requiring traditional surgical methods. For children, this means less pain, shorter recovery times and reduced hospital stays — all of which are crucial in pediatric care.
Andrew Huang Pacheco, MD, Pediatric Gastroenterologist at Children’s Nebraska, who has completed advanced training in endoscopy around the world, is one of only 30 advanced pediatric endoscopists in the U.S. He now brings these leading-edge techniques to patients and families across the region and beyond.
Innovative Techniques for Better Outcomes
Children’s is one of the few hospitals and medical centers nationwide offering these advanced endoscopic procedures, including:
• Confocal Microscopy: A groundbreaking technique available at just one other pediatric center in the nation, confocal microscopy provides real-time, 1,000x magnification imaging to detect tissue sensitivities and allergic reactions.
• Endoluminal Functional Lumen Imaging Probe (EndoFLIP): Used during endoscopy, EndoFLIP measures pressure and dimensions in the esophagus, allowing for precise diagnosis or esophageal disorders.
• Endoscopic Retrograde Cholangiopancreatography (ERCP): Combining X-ray imaging with an endoscope, ERCP is a powerful tool for diagnosing and treating problems in the bile and pancreatic ducts.
• Endoscopic Ultrasound (EUS): Offered by approximately 17 providers nationwide, this procedure uses a specialized endoscope with ultrasound technology to evaluate the gastrointestinal tract and surrounding structures.
• Peroral Endoscopic Myotomy (POEM): One of just four pediatric programs in the country offering POEM, this procedure treats a rare swallowing disorder called achalasia by endoscopically operating on the esophagus rather than the typical approach through the abdomen.
To learn more about Children’s Gastroenterology, Hepatology and Nutrition, scan the QR code or visit ChildrensNebraska.org/ReferGI.
A Collaborative Approach to Excellence
The Gastroenterology, Hepatology and Nutrition team works closely with providers across Children’s specialties, including Pediatric Surgery, to provide comprehensive care to our patients and families.
Recently, Andrew Huang Pacheco, MD, Pediatric Gastroenterologist, and Adil Shah, MD, Pediatric Surgeon, successfully performed Children’s first-ever POEM procedure. Their collaborative approach—including detailed planning and hands-on practice using models—ensured the best possible outcome for the patient.
The strong partnership between pediatric GI specialists and surgeons ensures a seamless approach to addressing complex cases, maximizing the benefits of advanced endoscopic techniques.
Patient- and Family-Centered Care
Children’s providers are compassionate and keep families informed at every step of their child’s personalized treatment plan. Patients and families traveling from more than 90 miles outside of Omaha can access the Rainbow House, a 56-room overnight guest house for a patient’s immediate family.
Content submitted by Children’s Nebraska
Pictured: Andrew Huang Pacheco, MD, Pediatric Gastroenterologist
IMS LEGISLATIVE OVERVIEW
HISTORIC SUCCESS
TSETH BROWN, JD
Director of Government Relations
he First Session of the 91st General Assembly will be remembered by great uncertainty in light of significant state and federal changes, but also numerous historic successes for Iowa physicians. These successes come as Governor Kim Reynolds and both chambers of the Iowa Legislature prioritized major initiatives to combat Iowa’s physician workforce shortage crisis.
During the legislative interim leading up to the 2025 session, IMS met with members, policymakers, and other stakeholders to identify the top issues and legislative priorities impacting the House of Medicine in Iowa. These include meetings throughout the fall with the Governor’s office and relevant agencies, as well as donations to legislators from the Iowa Medical Political Action Committee (IMPAC). In September, IMS convened the Committee on Legislation (COL) to draft recommendations for legislative priorities ahead of the upcoming session. On December 6, IMS hosted Operation I.O.W.A.—a one-day summit of 60 physician leaders, health care executives, and community leaders to craft solutions to Iowa’s physician workforce shortage both legislatively and nonlegislatively. As a result, IMS provided 24 recommendations to
policymakers. On December 13, the IMS Board of Directors voted to approve the COL’s legislative priority recommendations and pursue opportunities to advance policy recommendations form the Operation I.O.W.A. report.
IMS’ two priorities leading up to session, Expand the Physician Workforce and Reform Prior Authorization, both passed this session with broad bipartisan support. IMS’ policy recommendations to the legislature prior to session included: Bolstering physician loan repayment programs, increasing funding for additional and existing residency programs, reducing administrative red tape associated with prior authorization, and increasing physician reimbursement rates for Iowa’s most in-need specialties. After conclusion of the session, highlights of the successfully passed measures include: increased funding of $150 million for general medical education (GME) residency slots, doubled funding to $8 million and streamlining Iowa’s health care loan repayment programs, investing $640,000 in unbundled Medicaid rates for maternal health reimbursement codes, investing $1 million for cancer research, and advancing the most robust prior authorization reform package to pass the Iowa Legislature in recent memory. ■
2025 Legislative Session Timeline
Operation I.O.W.A.
IMS convenes 60 physician leaders, health care executives, and community leaders for one-day summit to craft solutions to Iowa’s physician workforce shortage. As a result, 24 recommendations are provided to policymakers.
House/Senate Caucuses
House and Senate leaders meet with party to decide legislative priorities for the upcoming session.
First Day of Session
The first session of the 91st General Assembly convenes with a scheduled end date of May 2.
Condition of the State
Governor Reynolds announces major initiative to expand physician workforce.
Funnel Week I
All bills must pass through committee in their chamber of origin. IMS engages grassroots advocacy to defeat two significant anti-vaccine measures.
Funnel Week II
All bills must pass their chamber of origin and committee in the opposite chamber. IMS continues to advance priority bills and defeat problematic proposals.
IMS Prior Auth Bill (HF 303) Passes
House of Representatives passes IMS Prior Auth Bill (HF 303) for final time.
110th Day of Session
The legislature continues to work past the last scheduled day of session as negotiations continue on budgets and some policy proposals.
Rural Health Bill (HF 972) Passes
Senate passes Governor’s Rural Health Bill (HF 972) for final time.
End of Session
The House gavels out at 6:31 am after an all-night session to pass remaining bills and budgets.
Prior Auth Bill
(HF 303) Becomes Law
Gov. Reynolds signs IMS’ Prior Authorization Bill into Iowa state law.
Rural Health Bill (HF 972) Becomes Law
Prior Authorization Bill
HF 303
IMS’s priority legislation the last two sessions passed the legislature in April before being sent to the Governor for her signature. This bill requires health insurance carriers to respond to a request for a prior authorization within 48 hours for urgent requests, 10 days for nonurgent requests, and requires the provider receive notice of the request within 24 hours. It also requires insurers to review required requests and eliminate prior authorization for procedures that are usually approved. Authorizes complaints to be made to the Insurance Division and provides various data metrics that must be reported to the Division and Legislature, providing much needed transparency.
Key Policymakers
IMS thanks Representative Shannon Lundgren (House Bill Sponsor, Commerce Committee Chair), Representative Carter Nordman (House Floor Manager), and Senator Mike Klimesh (Senate Bill Sponsor, Floor Manager, HHS Committee Chair), Representative Megan Srinivas (House Ranking Member), for their support on HF 303 and work to advance this critical reform.
IGOV Rural Health Bill
HF 972
Iowa lawmakers passed Governor Kim Reynolds’ landmark proposal to bolster the physician workforce in alignment with IMS recommendations! HF 972 makes record-level investments of $150 million in the physician workforce by increasing the number of general medical education (GME) residency slots, strengthening maternal health services by appropriating $640,000 in unbundled Medicaid maternal health rates, and nearly doubling funding to $8 million for healthcare loan repayment programs. This proposal sets Iowa apart from all other states in the country by taking bold action to meaningfully address Iowa’s physician shortage.
Key Policymakers
IMS thanks Governor Kim Reynolds, Representative Carter Nordman (House Bill Sponsor, Floor Manager, HHS Committee Chair), and Senator Mike Klimesh (Senate Bill Sponsor, Floor Manager, HHS Committee Chair), for their support of HF 972 and the physician workforce. ■
Help Wanted — Medicaid CMO
Iowa HHS is seeking a dynamic and experienced physician leader to serve as the Chief Medical Officer (CMO) for our Medicaid program.
The CMO will be responsible for:
• Guiding clinical strategy
• Implementing care delivery
• Iowa-specific health concerns and population health outcomes
As a member of the Medicaid executive team, the Medicaid Chief Medical Officer establishes and builds connection points to other core program functions within Iowa HHS, including child welfare, public health and community behavioral health.
As a division of the Iowa Department of Health and Human Services (HHS), Iowa Medicaid insures more than 700,000 Iowans, operating with a budget of nearly $7 billion. Reporting directly to the Iowa Medicaid Director, the Medicaid Chief Medical Officer is a key member of the Iowa Medicaid Leadership Team. For a complete recap of the 2025 Legislative Session scan the QR code
Governor Kim Reynolds signing the Rural Health Bill at Guthrie County Hospital
Governor Kim Reynolds signing the Prior Authorization Bill at the Iowa State Capitol
UNIVERSITY OF IOWA CARVER COLLEGE OF MEDICINE
SPECIAL THANKS TO UI PHOTOGRAPHER: LIZ MARTIN, UI HEALTH CARE MARKETING AND COMMUNICATIONS
DES MOINES UNIVERSITY COLLEGE OF OSTEOPATHIC MEDICINE
SPECIAL THANKS TO DMU PHOTOGRAPHER: DAN VANDER BEEK, DES MOINES UNIVERSITY
CELEBRATING BOLD, COMPASSIONATE SERVICE IN IOWA
DENISE JAMIESON, MD, MPH
University of Iowa Vice President for Medical Affairs and the Tyrone D. Artz Dean, Carver College of Medicine
It was an honor to attend the recent Iowa Medical Society gala— hosted at the beautiful Hancher Auditorium in Iowa City—and to mark 175 years of service to Iowa physicians, residents, and medical students.
I believe we do our best work when we work together, with a shared sense of purpose. So, it was a privilege to spend the evening celebrating a vision shared between IMS and University of Iowa Health Care: advancing the health of our communities and finding solutions to make sure quality care is accessible for 3.2 million Iowans.
I also had the opportunity to
her patients who are, unfortunately, often stigmatized because of their medical condition—making it harder to seek out treatment.
Dr. Lynch started our first medication for addiction treatment clinic for substance use disorders in 2017. Today, she directs the UI Addiction and Recovery Collaborative, which incorporates clinical services, educational programming, research, outreach, and advocacy in addiction medicine. She directs several grant-funded projects aimed at improving access to care for people with substance use disorders—this includes training providers across the state
in prescribing medications to treat addiction. She even started a mobile clinic, driving a van out to meet her patients where they most need her care and expertise.
To her patients, Dr. Lynch delivers a clear and consistent message: Help is here and it’s effective.
And now she gets to share that message more broadly as she steps into this new role with IMS. We, as a state, are fortunate to benefit from her leadership.
Dr. Lynch will surely stay busy as IMS addresses the statewide issues that are important to all of us—such as physician workforce needs—but I know that she will also use this
and take care of our state. That’s vision, and the pursuit of better solutions matter. When we come together in support of a common ssion, we strengthen the foundation of health
INVESTING WISELY FOR THE MARATHON
ROSS POLKING, CFP®, AIF®, MBA, Senior Business Development Advisor
Investing can often feel like a high-stakes game. We’ve all heard the stories about someone who got in early on a hot stock or nailed the perfect cryptocurrency trade. It’s easy to look at those stories and feel like success is just a matter of luck or being in the right place at the right time. But just like in sports, chasing investment returns without a solid strategy and discipline can lead to disappointment, sometimes even failure.
Imagine that you’re a marathon runner lining up to cover 26.2 miles as fast as possible. In the beginning, it’s tempting to sprint ahead when you see other competitors charging forward. But you could burn out too quickly and not have enough gas left to finish the race.
I learned this the hard way. My first marathon was in Minneapolis, back in the early 2000’s. My only strategy was to carb load the night before, with a plate of pancakes at Perkins. Other than that, I figured I would pace off the front-runners.
Why not? After all, they must have known what they were doing. So, if I wanted success, chasing them made sense. I quickly realized my mistake and almost had to be carried to the car after crossing the finish line.
The same basic principle applies to investing. You might see some stocks or assets with dramatic short-term returns. The temptation to jump in and participate is overwhelming. Everyone else is doing it, right? But just because something looks like a sure bet in the moment doesn’t mean that it aligns with your longterm success. FOMO is real. However, just like in a marathon, committing yourself to a solid, pre-planned strategy will help ensure you successfully cross the finish line.
Fortunately, I learned my lesson after that first race and adapted my approach. Ultimately, this landed me at the Boston Marathon a decade later. If what other investors are doing is not part of your
plan, then have the discipline to tune out the noise and stick to your strategy. Chasing short-term returns might feel rewarding in the moment, but it’s often a sprint that leaves you exhausted, with nothing to show for your effort.
A disciplined, long-term approach to investing may lead to greater returns. Our team here at Foster Group is incredible at keeping clients focused on the plan and long-term goals. There is no chasing, but rather building and trusting the process. And most importantly, you won’t need to be carried to the car afterward.
Stay diversified!
Foster Group provides customized financial planning and investment management services to people who want more. Not more status … but more purpose. We use tested methods to help you pursue your goals, whether you want to taste wines across the world, or get a taste of service in your community. It’s all part of being truly cared for.
DELIA IRISH, MD
At the 25th session of the State Society, “At this session the first woman physician was admitted to membership in the State Medical Society, Doctress Delia S. Irish of Davenport.”
Delia Irish, MD, the first female member of the Iowa Medical Society, was not originally from Iowa. Born in New York and raised Wisconsin, Dr. Irish moved to Davenport after earning her medical degree from a special women’s medical college in Philadelphia in 1868. When she moved, only seven other female physicians were practicing in Iowa at the time.
In 1875, a quarter of a century after its founding, Dr. Irish joined the Iowa Medical Society as its first female member. At a time when women in medicine faced widespread discrimination, Dr. Irish’s membership marked progress toward a more inclusive profession. Dr. Irish’s addition to the Iowa Medical Society notes an important time in medical history,
as only five years before, the medical school at Iowa State University had opened, and both men and women were allowed to attend. This opportunity brought women from all over the United States to Iowa to study medicine. Dr. Irish’s journey paved the way for generations of women in Iowa’s medical community.
Within the Iowa Medical Society, Dr. Irish’s joining created a direct path for women to reach new heights within the organization. Rep. Mariannette Miller-Meeks, MD, was elected as IMS’s first female president in 2006, over a century after Dr. Irish joined.
Dr. Irish’s monumental membership paved the way for women, not only within the Iowa Medical Society but in the nation as a whole. Since Dr. Irish became an IMS member, the number of female physicians has grown to over 3,000 in Iowa and over 370,000 in the United States. ■
Source: Iowa Public Television
We can stop HIV, Iowa —
by testing for both HIV & other sexually transmitted infections
Health care providers are essential to ending the HIV epidemic in Iowa. The best first steps you can take are offering routine HIV screening and speaking openly with patients about their sexual history.
Acquiring any sexually transmitted infection (STI) increases the likelihood of HIV acquisition. Therefore, prompt diagnosis and complete treatment of people with STIs is very important. This prevents the long-term health consequences of STIs and reduces the likelihood of acquiring HIV or other STIs.
Please consider the following when discussing patients’ sexual health needs:
testing
Diagnosing HIV quickly and linking people to treatment immediately are crucial to reducing HIV transmissions and improving health outcomes for all. HIV
Syphilis testingSyphilis testing
Data from 2023 show over 940 cases of all stages of syphilis in Iowa, an increase of more than 230% since 2018.
The populations acquiring syphilis are also changing. Rates among our Black, Indigenous and persons of color are increasingly disproportionate. The percentage of cases among women has also increased significantly, from only 12% in 2021 to approximately 38% in 2023. We need your help to raise awareness and increase testing, early diagnosis and treatment to reduce syphilis transmission.
Extragenital testing for chlamydia and gonorrhea
Extragenital testing is testing for chlamydia and gonorrhea at any body site other than the urethra, vagina, or cervix. It includes testing in the rectum or oropharynx, based on patient-reported exposure, regardless of condom use.
Visit the STI Program page at Iowa HHS for Iowa-specific resources https://hhs.iowa.gov/hiv-sti-and-hepatitis/sti-program
From time to time, the FDA, manufacturers, and other agencies issue recalls or serious warnings about devices, drugs, instruments and other healthcare-related products. When one of these notices impacts your medical practice, it is important to follow a comprehensive process and document all the steps you have undertaken to avoid potential liability and to maintain care for patients. Depending upon the situation, medical providers may want to seek legal counsel to clarify their duties and responsibilities.
CONSIDERATIONS
1. Always start with the most recent and accurate information from the agency and/or manufacturer. In general, the warnings and recalls describe the risks, benefits, and potential actions.
2. Recall and warning notices frequently contain the following types of actions, and you should be aware of these specifics for a given patient and a given biologic, drug, device, or other healthcare-related product:
○ The recommended treatment or action for users to minimize risks or impact of the affected product to their patients.
○ Actions to be taken such as correction or removal of the device.
○ Necessary monitoring or additional steps for follow up with patients.
○ Any available alternatives.
3. Follow the manufacturer’s recommended action steps exactly, document those steps, and in the event that you cannot, document why you can’t. For individual patient encounters, your actions should also be documented in their personal medical record. In the case of patient non compliance with your recommendations, document their informed refusal.
4. Be aware that the manufacturers and pharmaceutical companies often put the responsibility for patient notification and counseling on the licensed healthcare providers. For example, typical language in recalls or
warnings may read as follows: “[Manufacturer’s name] will not communicate with patients directly about this issue. If patients have been impacted as part of this issue, healthcare providers have the responsibility to inform patients and/or update a patient’s care pathway.”
5. Use your patient lists, EHR, and other resources to try to identify all of your affected patients. This applies most importantly to when you were the prescriber, used the device, or implanted the materials into your patient. If the recall is a general over-the-counter medication or one that you did not prescribe, the extent to which you identify, notify, and counsel is likely reduced.
6. If you are unable to reach affected patients, try at least two attempts, and ideally use multiple modes such as phone, emails, etc. In serious recalls, it may be necessary to send a “return receipt requested” letter and keep a copy.
7. Some warnings/recalls may result in high volumes of patient calls, therefore, you should direct inquiries (as best as possible) to an informed respondent in your office or facility who can provide the guidance and who understands when scheduling appointments with the providers is necessary It might be advisable for your “designated informed respondent” to have a script available. While the recalls and warnings are generally written at the provider level of understanding, many consider sending the patients the exact verbiage from the manufacturer. Document every phone call with patients.
CONCLUSION
One of the most complicated issues is the financial responsibility for all the above actions. In some instances, the necessary followup visits, procedures, and therapy are paid by the patient or their insurer, and patients may need to make claims against the manufacturer for reimbursement. In other instances, the manufacturer will describe the process by which they will assist patients and their insurance payers to reduce costs and any financial burden from the recalls or serious warnings. Lastly, in the event of legal action against the manufacturer or entity responsible for the harm, it is important that the facilities, licensed providers, pharmacists and other healthcare professionals follow all of the above steps to avoid being also named. In general, the legal actions are against the manufacturer and not the healthcare professionals and facilities, however, each case (individual or class action) is very fact-based.
Engagement and Communication
2025 IMS EDUCATION SCHEDULE
Mark your calendar and plan to join us for any of the upcoming activities. Additional events, timely updates, and registration are available on the IMS website at: iowamedical.org
CE Seminar Series
This series will be held OVER THE NOON HOUR as scheduling allows. The one-hour presentations are scheduled for the noon hour unless otherwise advertised.
• Thursday, July 17:
CE ECHO: Treatment & Monitoring of Perinatal Mood & Anxiety Disorder
• Tuesday, July 22:
CE Webinar: Social Determinants of Health
• Monday, August 11:
CE Webinar: Human Papillomavirus Update
• Wednesday, September 17:
CE Webinar: Mental Health & Suicide Prevention
• Thursday, September 18:
CE ECHO: Gestational Diabetes & Obesity
• Tuesday, September 23:
CE Webinar: Healthcare & Economics
• Thursday, October 23: CE ECHO: Substance Use in Pregnancy: Symptoms, Screening, and Referral
• Tuesday, November 18: CE Webinar: Advocacy
• Thursday, November 20: CE ECHO: Caring for Vulnerable Patients
• Thursday, December 18: CE ECHO: High Risk Pregnancies in Rural Iowa
SCAN HERE
for our full calendar of events
Student/Resident Webinar Series
This series will be held OVER THE NOON HOUR as scheduling allows. These one-hour webinars will be specifically developed for medical students and residents to help prepare them for their education and careers.
• Tuesday, August 19: Student Webinar: How to Choose Your Financial Advisor – Advice from a Physician
• Tuesday, October 7: Student Webinar: Volunteerism Panel
• Tuesday, November 11: Student Webinar: Leadership
Thursday, March 27 Mason City
Thursday, May 22
Quad Cities
Wednesday, June 18 Des Moines
Wednesday, October 15 C ouncil Bluffs
Thursday, November 6 Waterloo
Dates subject to change.
Council Bluffs
NEW IN NORTH LIBERTY INCREDIBLE FOR IOWA
Now Open!
University of Iowa Health Care is now closer than ever. Our new state-of-the-art campus offers emergency care, orthopedics, sports medicine, and more, alongside services like a drive-thru pharmacy, lab, and diagnostic imaging. It’s the excellence we’re known for, right in the heart of North Liberty. Because we’re here to make all of Iowa better.
To learn more, visit:
uihc.org/north-liberty
If an unexpected outcome occurs, you need someone to talk to now. With Copic, you get a 24/7 hotline staffed by experienced physicians. Day or night, they can offer guidance and help you consider options to navigate the way forward. We’re here for the humans of healthcare.
| 800.421.1834 What keeps you up at night shouldn’t wait until morning.
