On April 19, New York State Senator Steve Rhoads and Legislator John Ferretti stopped by the Seaford Fire Department’s Annual Easter Plant Sale to show their support. This cherished springtime event brings the community together with a colorful selection of flowers and plants—offering a perfect way to celebrate the season and give back to the dedicated volunteer firefighters who serve Seaford every day. Senator Rhoads, a volunteer firefighter in Wantagh for over 30 years, thanked the department for organizing the event and expressed his sincere appreciation for their continued service and sacrifice.
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The Original Salpino of Wantagh, N. Babylon & Dix Hills
ANTIPASTO (Choose one)
•Hand Made Mozzarella Caprese
•Jumbo Shrimp Cocktail (35-40 Pieces)
• Traditional Antipasto Platter
MAIN COURSE
(Choose one)
• Pan-seared Norwegian Salmon with Seasonal Sautéed Veggies
SALAD (Choose one)
• Spinach & Goat Cheese
•Giardinastro
•Garden
•Caesar FIRST COURSE (Choose one)
•Penne alla Vodka
•Farfalle Primavera
•Baked Ziti
•Stuffed Shells
• Orecchiette Broccoli Rabe & Sausage
•Chicken Marsala
•Chicken Francese
•Eggplant Parmigiana
•Pork Chop Caprese
•Steak Pizzaiola
Package also includes one dozen dinner rolls. Orders must be placed by May 9th.
DESSERT (Choose one)
•Fresh Fruit Bowl
•10 Large Cannoli
Small gathering? Call us for more catering options!
CALL AND PLACE YOUR ORDER TODAY!
Available at Salpino Wantagh, North Babylon & Dix Hills.
High School Students Form An Inter-School Wellness Connection
Tips for good physical and mental health were passed along from Seaford High School students to their younger counterparts during a series of wellness presentations.
Volunteers from the high school visited seventh grade health classes at Seaford Middle School to educate students on topics such as healthy eating, exercise, bullying and cyberbullying, time
management and vaping. Each session included a digital presentation, discussion and an activity.
High school Assistant Principal Alex Mantay said the idea came from the Wellness Committee, which is comprised of administrators, teachers and pupil personnel services staff. They sought students who would be willing to put together presentations on relatable
health topics for middle schoolers.
Four groups presented over two days. The high school students were paired up based on their areas of interest.
“Whatever topic they chose is something they felt passionate about presenting,” Mr. Mantay said. “The students really stepped up, as some of these issues can be hard to talk about. If we got
Seaford High School students talked about being an upstander during an antibullying presentation in a seventh grade health class at the middle school. Photo courtesy of the Seaford School District
through to even just one student that would make it worthwhile.”
Junior Rob Jeranek was part of a group that presented on diet, exercise and vaping. He shared a personal story about how he changed his eating habits and it greatly improved his health.
“It’s great that students get to learn new health tips from people like them,” he said.
Mr. Mantay said that the presentations were filled with genuine, personal stories. He commended the high school students for opening up to their younger peers and sharing experiences that can benefit others.
The wellness presentations by the high school students demonstrated numerous Seaford Scholar traits including being
communications, networkers, mindful, principled, reflective and risk-takers. Mr. Mantay said the hope is to make these wellness sessions an annual event. He thanked health teachers Kristen Ancona, Ken Botti, Kurt Dankenbrink and Cara Klasson for allowing the high school students to come in and present to their classes.
Computer Scientists Add Another Dimension To Their Skill Set
Sixth graders are continuing to expand their knowledge of computer skills at Seaford Middle School, as they were recently introduced to 3D printing.
A computer science course that debuted this year focuses on critical thinking and innovation. All sixth graders take the every-other-day course that equips them with digital skills that will be useful in a wide variety of fields.
Students began the year by learning two types of coding languages. They coded with JavaScript through Code.org, then advanced to Python using the Codesters platform.
Middle School
Moving on to 3D printing brings a more artistic aspect to computer science, explained teacher Alex Merola.
Recently, students have been designing their own objects using Tinkercad software. Mr. Merola has been engaging his classes in design competitions, where students create objects on the program.
With two 3D printers in the front of the room, students have been able to watch their ideas come to life. At the beginning of the unit, they suggested ideas for objects, which Mr. Merola designed and printed for demonstrations. These included animals, cartoon characters, snowflakes, fidget toys and the Seaford Scholars logo.
After a class vote, the winning choices get printed.
Mr. Merola discussed with students the fundamentals of 3D printing, such as how the machines work and what industries use the technology. He said the coding and modeling skills sixth graders are learning this year will benefit them in advanced computer science courses and will be applicable in many careers.
Seaford
sixth graders Ryan Mancuso, left, and Jace Coffin watched the 3D printer in action in their computer science room. Photos courtesy of the Seaford School District
Tysha Loayza, left, and Roma Seelall showed some of the objects that were made during 3D printing demonstrations.
As part of a series of wellness presentations, high school students shared tips on healthy eating. Photo courtesy of the Seaford School District
Splish Splash Gears Up For 2025 Season And Debut Of All-New Water Playground
From soak to spray there’s water every which way, beginning this summer at New York’s Largest Water Park, Splish Splash, the park will debut an all-new water playground. Set to open for visitors in summer 2025, the new kids’ zone will welcome the tiniest of tots as the water park reopens for its 35th Season on Saturday, May 24. The brandnew splash-tastic water playground will offer more than 15 fun and silly ways to stay cool during family’s visits to Splish Splash. The new area will be decked out with three-pint sized water
slides, six interactive spray features, five water play features, a dump bucket and fun for all to soak and spray. In addition to the new water playground, the park will be adding new events to add to their already diverse line-up. Splish Splash will kick off the season with entertainment Opening Weekend. Kids of all ages will love Kids Fest weekends in June and the annual Father’s Day Belly Flop contest on Saturday, June 14. Then, in July and August, the park will bring back its Shark in the Park, Touch a Truck and Hero Appreciation and
Teacher Appreciation weeks. There will be more surprises around the corner this season.
This world-class oasis of 96 tree-covered acres offers fun for all and located just off the Long Island Expressway. The park offers two wave pools, a large Kiddie Area, a lazy river, and many different food and merchandise locations. Splish Splash offers unique thrilling attractions and high-speed slides like Bombs Away, Riptide Racer, and Bootlegger’s Run, the first water coaster in New York full of breathtaking drops, including one from nearly five stories high.
To celebrate the all-new water playground and Splish Splash’s 35th Season, guests can purchase a 2025 Season Pass now for as low as five payments of $20 each which is best way to experience the park. Season Passes come with an array of perks from
discounts on food and retail, free parking, bring a friend tickets and more.
To kick off the 2025 Season, Splish Splash is hiring 1,000 team members and accepting applications in all departments. Those who apply today can work as a lifeguard at the park’s all-new water playground or make one of the park’s famous Ben’s Soft
Pretzels. Positions are also available in Park Services, Admissions, Retail, Security, Guest Services and more.
The park offers competitive wages starting at up to $20 per hour, scholarships and advancement opportunities, incentive programs, monthly special events, discounts on food and retail, free admission to Splish Splash and 14
other amusement parks in the United States and much more. The park is accepting applications for those ages 14 and up, there are also opportunities for professionals and retirees. For more information on the all-new water playground, to purchase Season Passes or apply for a position, visit splishsplash. com.
Laughter Is The Best Medicine
MAY HAPPENINGS
SATURDAY AND SUNDAY MAY 3rd AND 4th
9:00AM-4:00PM
TUBER AND PLANT SALE
The Long Island Dahlia Society will host a tuber and plant sale at the Gazebo at the Bayard Cutting Arboretum. They will also be at Farmingdale State College May 6th, 7th and 8th, 9:00am to 4:00pm. For more info: LongIslandDahlia. org Tom Gangone Long Island Dahlia Society 631-972-8829
SATURDAY, MAY 3rd
11:30AM-1:00PM
BEREAVEMENT SUPPORT GROUP
If you have experienced the loss of a loved one, OLPH Church in Lindenhurst has a support group to help you through your loss. Starts Saturday May 3- June 28, 2025. The group is a 9 week commitment and registration is required. If interested, contact OLPH rectory at 631-226-7725 ext 200. OLPH Church is located 210 South Wellwood Ave in Lindenhurst.
4:00PM
BLESSINGS IN THE AFTERNOON
Farmingdale United Methodist Church invites the community to Blessings in the Afternoon at the Village Green Gazebo. Please bring your family and friends for an afternoon of Gospel Singing and Praise. Snacks and drinks will be available. For more information, please call 516 694-3424
6:30PM
NIGHT AT THE RACES
HOLIDAYS
11th - MOTHER'S DAY
26th -
MAKE A SUBMISSION!
Events must be submitted at least two weeks prior to the event date and will run free of charge on a space available basis. For more info, call 631.226.2636 x275 or send events to editorial@longislandmediagroup.com
Will be held at Wade-Burns VFW 7279, 560 N. Delaware Avenue in Lindenhurst, Doors open at 6:30 p.m. Admission $10.00. For more information please call 631-8889854.
7:00PM
OUR LADY OF GRACE CHOIR ANNUAL CONCERT
Free Will Offering, all welcome, just walk in. Light hospitality to follow. The church is located on 666 Albin Ave. in West Babylon. For more information, please call 631-587-5185. For the month of Our Blessed Mother Mary, the parish choirs perform their 19th annual spring concert. This evening we also welcome members of the St Padre Pio Prayer Group, established in 1970 with Vatican approval.
FRIDAY, MAY 9th
7:30PM
(doors open at 7:00pm) LIVE AUCTION AND TRIVIA NIGHT
Our Lady of Perpetual Help in Lindenhurst, School Auditorium, 240 South Wellwood Avenue, Lindenhurst. Four rounds of trivia interspersed with live auction of new and gently used donated items hosted by the Blue Door Thrift Boutique. $5 entry fee includes auction paddle, raffle ticket, drink ticket. Light snacks provided or bring your own. 50/50, raffle basket, gift certificate to Trivia winning team. Contact Tricia Buckley at buckleyt@optonline.net for more information and reservations.
MONDAY, MAY 12th
6:00PM-8:00PM
BREAST CANCER SYMPOSIUM West Islip Breast Cancer Coalition is hosting a Breast Cancer Symposium at the West Islip Public Library. The rate of breast cancer risk in young adults from the age of 20 - 40 years old has become increasingly high. Never too young to educate yourself, and bring a friend! Please consider joining us. Early detection saves lives! For more information call 631-669-7770 or email, info@ wibcc.org
WEDNESDAY, MAY 14th
6:00PM-10:00PM
CHEFS FOR A CAUSE
The Babylon Breast Cancer Coalition is hosting "Chefs For A Cause" at The Piermont, 494 Fire Island Ave. in Babylon. Over 25 restaurants from Long Island. No Walk-ins. $125 per ticket. For more information, please call 631-8934110
THURSDAY, MAY 15th
7:00PM
Designer Purse Bingo Brumidi Lodge in Deer Park Doors open at 5:30 games begin at 7pm. $30.00 Admission – includes 3 boards per game 10 games to be played.Coffee, Tea, Dessert and Door Prizes. 2075 Deer Park Ave. in Deer Park. Tickets must be purchased by 5/5/25. For tickets call Karen 631-943-3622
Celebrate ‘Oyster Bay Day’ With A Full Day Of Family Fun! Live Music, Carnival Games, Inflatables, Axe
Throwing & More On May 3rd
Get ready for a day of excitement, entertainment, and local flavor at the annual ‘Oyster Bay Day’ celebration! Town Supervisor Joseph Saladino and Town Clerk Richard LaMarca invite families to enjoy this vibrant street festival on Saturday, May 3rd, from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. in the heart of historic Oyster Bay (on Audrey Avenue and Spring Street).
This family-friendly festival, sponsored by the Oyster Bay-East Norwich Chamber of Commerce, transforms the streets of Oyster Bay into a lively celebration featuring:
• Live Music & Entertainment
• Carnival Games &
Inflatables for Kids
• Axe Throwing & a Video Game Truck
• Food Trucks & Local Eateries
• Unique Vendors & Shopping
“Oyster Bay Day is the perfect way for families to enjoy a fun-filled day while supporting our amazing local businesses,” said Supervisor Saladino. “From carnival games and live music to incredible food and shopping, there’s something for everyone!”
“Come take a stroll through our beautiful streets, enjoy delicious bites, and experience all that historic Oyster Bay has to offer,” added Town Clerk LaMarca. “It’s a great day for families to explore,
play, and celebrate our wonderful community!”
Special Thanks to Our Sponsors! This incredible event is made possible by our generous sponsors, including News 12 Long Island, Nassau Financial Credit Union, Optimum, Brooks Robb & Callahan, Mill-Max, New York Life, Oyster Bay Brewing Co., Oyster Bay Community Rowing, Harbor House/ Oyster Bay Manor, BLI 106.1, Italian American Citizen’s Club of Oyster Bay, Sanctuary Home & Patio, WBAB 102.3, Game Truck, Long Island Propane, Wild Bill’s Craft Beverages, Stellina Bakery & Café, USDAN Summer Camp for the Arts, Jump and Jam Long Island, and Foam with Us.
Town Clerk Lamarca Announces Special One-Stop Passport Weekend
Looking To Get Away This Summer?
To help residents looking to obtain new passports, Oyster Bay Town Clerk Richard LaMarca announced that his office will offer a special one-stop Passport Weekend on Saturday, May 3rd and Sunday, May 4th from 9am to 3pm at both Town Hall North in Oyster Bay and Town Hall South in Massapequa. Residents are required to book appointments in advance.
“Residents looking to apply for a new passport are invited to visit Town Hall during Passport Weekend to receive assistance,” said Town Clerk LaMarca. “We can help you with organizing your documents, obtaining a photo and submitting the documents for approval.”
Requirements for applying for a passport include:
• One 2x2 color photograph
with a clear view of the applicant’s face against a plain white or light colored background. Photos will also be available for $10 at both Town Halls North and South during Passport Weekend.
• Proof of U.S. Citizenship – Previously issued undamaged U.S. passport, certified birth certificate, Consular Report of Birth Abroad or Certification of Birth, Naturalization Certificate, or Certificate of Citizenship.
• Proof of Identity –Naturalization Certificate, Valid Driver’s License (cannot have been issued or renewed in the last six months), Current Government ID (city, state or federal), Current Military ID (military and dependents).
Oyster Bay Harbor Cleanup & Marine Education Expo – A HandsOn Environmental Adventure!
Wildlife Encounter, Marine Exhibits, Activities, Games & Great Volunteer Opportunity For Students
Town Supervisor Joseph Saladino and Councilman Tom Hand invite residents to participate in an Oyster Bay Harbor Cleanup and Marine Education Expo, scheduled for Saturday, May 3rd (rain date May 4th) at Theodore Roosevelt Memorial Park in Oyster Bay. Co-sponsored by the Friends of the Bay, the day offers volunteers – individuals, families, companies and organizations – an opportunity to give back to the environment by removing litter from the shoreline and below.
“The Marine Education Expo features environmentalists and marine educators offering information on local wildlife, including encounters with some animal ambassadors, interesting ecosystem restoration projects,
solutions to tackle marine pollution, a marine vessel restoration project and boat yard tour, and family fun activities,” said Supervisor Saladino.
“This is your chance to step up for our environment while having fun and learning about our incredible marine ecosystem,” added Councilman Hand. “From exciting wildlife encounters to hands-on restoration projects, this event is an unforgettable experience for all ages. Join us for an amazing day of action and discovery!”
Volunteers are invited to participate in the cleanup, which will run from 9:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. The central meeting place will be Theodore Roosevelt Memorial Park launching ramps and waterfront
gazebo off of Larrabee Avenue in Oyster Bay. Additional locations for the clean-up include Stehli Beach in Bayville and Centre Island Beach in Bayville. Certificates are available upon request for students seeking to fulfill volunteer requirements. In prior years, harbor and beach cleanup events have resulted in 40,000lbs of debris being collected by volunteers and town workers.
Individuals and groups who are interested in registering for this environmental cleanup should visit www. oysterbaytown.com/ volunteerform or call the Department of Environmental Resources at (516) 677-5943.
• This service does NOT apply to Adult Renewals unless your Passport is expired for 5+ years.
Town Clerk LaMarca has offices located at Town Hall North, 54 Audrey Avenue in Oyster Bay and Town Hall South, 977 Hicksville Road in Massapequa. Passport appointments are available Monday through Friday, from 9:30am to 3:30pm, and during this special Passport Weekend. For appointments in Oyster Bay, please call (516) 6246324. For appointments in Massapequa, please call (516) 797-7962. For information on passport requirements and processing times, as well as instructions for passport renewals, visit www.travel. state.gov.
Saladino Announces Free Boating Safety Seminars For April & May
Oyster Bay Town
Supervisor Joseph Saladino and the Town Board are encouraging residents to take advantage of free Boating Safety Seminars being offered at Community Centers across the Town. These essential courses, taught by the Town’s Department of Public Safety Bay Constable Unit, will cover critical topics, including safe vessel operation, state regulations, and the responsibilities of boat ownership and operation.
As of January 1, 2025, all motorized vessel operators in New York State, regardless of age, will be required to possess a valid boating safety certificate.
Supervisor Saladino stated, “Boating is a
cherished activity in our Town, and safety must always come first. These seminars are an excellent way for residents to stay informed, comply with state law, and ensure that everyone can enjoy our waterways safely. I encourage all residents, young and old, to take advantage of this free program and join us in making our waters safer for all.”
Course Details:
• Wednesday, April 30, 2025 from 6PM – 10PM at Marjorie Post Park Community Center (451 Unqua Road, Massapequa Park).
• Sunday, May 18, 2025 from 8AM to 4PM at Town Hall North (54 Audrey Avenue, Oyster Bay). Participants must be at least 10 years old to register. While the seminars are free, advance registration is required. In New York State, individuals aged 18 and older must pay a $10 fee for a permanent boating safety certificate issued by the New York State Office of Parks, Recreation, and Historic Preservation. There is no fee for participants under 18. Completing an approved boating safety course is mandatory to obtain the certificate. For more information, please call (516) 677-5350. To register, visit https:// oysterbaytown.com/ safeboating
RECIPE OF THE WEEK:
Wee Chicken & Waffles with Jezebel-Maple Syrup
Childrencommonly like to give their mothers a break from cooking on Mother’s Day. Youngsters may be eager to help out in the kitchen and whip up something that Mom is certain to enjoy. But many recipes can be complicated for younger children or others who might not be so adept with meal creation. However, with a few ingredients that families may already have on hand, it’s possible to craft a delicious Mother’s Day brunch. This recipe for “Wee Chicken & Waffles with Jezebel-Maple Syrup” from Denise Gee’s “Southern Appetizers: 60 Delectables for Gracious Get-Togethers” (Chronicle Books) utilizes commercially available miniature waffles and popcorn chicken bites to create a chicken and waffles dish with a kick. Serve alongside mini muffins, deviled eggs, cheese and crackers, and other brunch dishes that are simple for youngsters and their little fingers to prepare.
Serves 10 to 12, Three or Four Waffles Each Jezebel-Maple Syrup
2 cups maple syrup
1/4 cup pineapple preserves
1/4 cup apple jelly
1 1/2 tablespoons prepared horseradish
3/4 teaspoon ground black pepper
Directions:
1/2 teaspoon salt
40 mini waffles from a 10.9-ounce package, lightly toasted
40 pieces cooked fried popcorn chicken
Finely chopped fresh Italian flat-leaf parsley or green onion for garnish (optional)
Hot sauce for serving
To make the syrup: In a large microwave-safe glass measuring cup with pour spout (one holding at least 3 cups) or a bowl, add the maple syrup, pineapple preserves, apple jelly, horseradish, pepper, and salt; whisk to combine.
Microwave the mixture on high for 35 seconds. (You also can heat it in a small saucepan on low until the mixture is warm.) Stir and taste, adjusting the flavor if desired. Set the syrup aside.
Place the toasted waffles on a large serving platter. Top each waffle with a piece of chicken. Drizzle the chicken-waffle bites with about 1 teaspoon of the syrup. Garnish with the parsley, if desired, and serve with the remaining syrup and hot sauce.
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LONG ISLAND MEDIA GROUP
New York Blood Center Issues Urgent Call For Donors As
Drops 20% Ahead Of Trauma Season
New York Blood Center (NYBC) has issued an urgent call for blood donations, especially from those with types O+ and O- blood. The current supply of O- blood, the universal blood type used in emergencies, has dropped to a critically low two-day level, and overall collections are nearly 20% below hospital demand. NYBC expects to collect only about 6,500 donations this week, falling approximately
1,600 donations short of what is needed to maintain a safe and stable blood supply in New York.
Spring travel, school breaks, and packed calendars have kept regular donors away— leaving donation levels dangerously low at a time when they should be ramping up. Each year, more than 56,000 traumas are reported in New York State, most occurring between May and September when
accidents, car crashes, and violent injuries rise dramatically. Blood transfusions are often needed to treat traumas, and a spike in traumatic accidents can cause a strain on the blood supply.
Type O+ is the most common blood type, representing nearly 40% of the U.S. population. Type O- is the universal blood type and is commonly used in emergency settings. A shortage of both types, both locally and nationally,
poses serious concerns for our healthcare system, and the need for donors is critical.
“Spring can be an exciting season with warmer weather on the way and fun holiday celebrations, but it’s also a critical time of year for the blood supply,” said Andrea Cefarelli, Senior Vice President at New York Blood Center. “As we start to build our inventory ahead of the traumaheavy summer season, the
NEWSPAPERS SERVICE DIRECTORY
need is more urgent than ever. We’re calling on our community, especially type O donors, to roll up their sleeves and make a donation today. Your blood donation could be the lifeline that ensures our hospitals are ready to face any emergency that comes their way.”
Blood donors can give every 56 days, and platelet donors can give twice per month. The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) recently lifted
several blood donor eligibility restrictions. To view current eligibility guidelines, visit nybc.org or call 800.688.0900. To make an appointment, donors can call 1-800-933-2566 or visit nybc.org. Can’t donate blood? You can still make a lifesaving impact by supporting NYBC’s mission through financial contributions or volunteering your time.
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BUDGET? 631-226-2636, press 276 THINKING ABOUT ADVERTISING YOUR BUSINESS and not sure how to get started? Call today and one of our experienced Sa les Representatives will assist you. We c an help you with a lin e ad or a di splay ad. Let us at SOUTH BAY'S NEIGHBOR NEWS PAPE RS set up an adv ertising program for you. Y ou'll be glad you di d! Call 631-226-2636, ext. 276
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SAT. MAY 3 9AM- 3PM PRICED TO SE LL Cher ry Mahog any Bedroom Set, Oak Dining Room 6 chairs & Brkft China Set for 12 other furniture, Crystal, Capodimonte, Collectables, Corningware, Pots & Pans, Christma s Ornaments, Microwave, Yard Tools, and much mo re 192 East 5th St Deer Park (off West on Ave)
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TO place an ad in the CLASSIFIED section, call 631-226-2636, press “2” A sales representative will be happy to assist you
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Place your ad in our Classifieds 631 -2 26- 2636 Ex t. 276
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Why It’s Harder Than Ever To Make An Appointment With Your Doctor
(State Point) Americans face unprecedented wait times to see their doctors. This squeeze is particularly acute in primary care, but is also being felt in specialties like neurology, psychiatry and OB/ GYN.
According to the American Medical Association (AMA), here are the top reasons why it’s harder than ever to be seen by a health care provider:
1. Not enough doctors. With the U.S. population growing and aging, the need for physicians continues to grow. Yet, according to the American Association of Medical Colleges, the physician shortage is projected to reach 86,000 by 2036.
2. A broken Medicare system.
With an aging population and more Medicare patients on the horizon, the Medicare system needs significant reform. Today, Medicare pays physicians nearly 30% less than it did in 2001, when adjusted for inflation. So while the overhead costs of running a practice—equipment, office space, staff salaries— have all soared, payment for caring for Medicare patients has decreased dramatically, making running a practice extremely challenging.
“Physicians have shouldered the burden of a broken Medicare payment system for far too long. Especially in small, independent practices, and practices in rural and underserved areas, physicians have been forced to cut costs, eliminate staff, or limit the
number of Medicare patients we see,” says Bruce A. Scott, M.D., president of the AMA. “These are steps we take simply to keep the doors open and the lights on. But unfortunately, because of this dysfunction, all patients—not just Medicare patients—are put at risk when our flawed and outdated payment system forces physicians to close their practices.”
3. Administrative burdens. Increasing bureaucracy and administrative barriers, such as prior authorization, consume significant time for physicians. Doctors today, on average, spend two hours on paperwork for every one hour they spend with patients.
4. Backlog and burnout. One of the ultimate legacies of COVID-19 is a backlog of services and screenings put off during the pandemic, now offered by fewer providers. Two in three doctors admitted to experiencing burnout during the pandemic, according to a survey from the AMA, the Mayo Clinic and Stanford Medicine. That’s the highest level of burnout ever recorded by the AMA. One in five physicians surveyed during the pandemic said they planned to leave medicine within the next two years, while one in three said they’d cut back on their hours.
While there is indeed a crisis in care, the AMA says that there are solutions to address the problem. They include:
• Fixing the broken Medicare payment system. The Medicare Payment Advisory Committee has called for connecting physician payment to the Medicare Economic Index, which would ensure rising practice costs do not continue to overwhelm what Medicare pays.
• Adding voices to the chorus of patients and physicians calling for reform. Those concerned about this problem and worried about continued access to their physician, can visit FixMedicareNow.org.
“It is imperative that we take steps as a country to help all patients get the high-quality care they need and to ensure physicians can continue to deliver it,” says Dr. Scott.
