TULSA TULSA
CALENDAR OF EVENTS TABLE OF CONTENTS
02 Calendar of Events
LEADERSHIP
TULSA COUNTY MEDICAL SOCIETY
Physicians Advancing Health Care
BOARD OF DIRECTORS
Ondria Gleason, MD - Pres.
John Tedesco, DO - Pres.-Elect
Sharon D’Souza, MD - V.P.
Stephen Bruns, MD - I.P.P.
Christopher Emerson, MD
Karen Gold, MD
Diane Heaton, MD
Brian Macha, MD
Reetu Singh, MD
Sharon Smallwood, MD
James Webb, Jr., MD
STUDENT RESIDENT COUNCIL LEADERSHIP
Sydney Marouk, OSU, OMSIV
Lily Robistow, OU, MSIII
TULSA COUNTY MEDICAL SOCIETY FOUNDATION
Physicians Caring for the Community
BOARD OF DIRECTORS
David Griffiths, MD - Chair
Peter Aran, MD
Stephen Bruns, MD
Ondria Gleason, MD
Michael Hairston, CTFA
Martina Jelley, MD
Brian Macha, MD
David Minielly
Kulsum Siddiqui
John Tedesco, DO
Matthew Wenger, MD
Mark McElreath, MPA Executive Director TCMS & TCMS Foundation mark@tcmsok.org
Pam Oppelt Care Coordinator Project TCMS pam@tcmsok.org
Joetta Cunningham Director of Operations TCMS joetta@tcmsok.org
Ashley Bishop Development Coordinator Project TCMS ashley@tcmsok.org
JUL01 TCMSDrillersNight atONEOKStadium
Tuesday,July1,at6:00PM
Join usforan eveningoffun,food,baseball,and fireworks.Seatingis LimitedsoRegisterNow!
JUL02 TCMSFoundationBODMeeting 6:00PMatTCMS
JUL04 IndependenceDay
HappyIndependenceDayfromTCMS,theTCMS Foundation,andProjectTCMS! Ourofficeswill beclosed July4th.
JUL09 TCMSBoardofDirectors Meeting 6:00PMatTCMS
JUL22 OSDSTulsaDermatologyRSS Speaker:ScottJackson,MD
Topic:Exploring higher-levelendpointsfrom head-to-headstudyinthetreatmentof moderate tosevereatopicdermatitis
Registration:5:30PM
Location:PoloGrill,2038UticaSquare,Tulsa Dinner:6:00PM
ContactJoettaCunningham: joetta@tcmsok.org formoreinfo.
AUG09 OSMABoardofTrusteesMeeting 10:00AMatOSMAinOKCorviaZoom
SEP20 OklahomaAllergy&AsthmaSociety AnnualMeeting-SavetheDate 8:00AM-3:00PM Moredetailsto come
PROPERPRESCRIBINGCMEDATES(VIRTUAL)
JUL18 SEP12 NOV13 DEC05 Friday,July 18, 12-1PM Friday,September12,12-1PM Thursday,November13,6-7PM Friday,December5,12-1PM
Speaker: Cori H. Loomis, JD., McAfee & Taft Free for OSMA members& $75 for non-member physicians
Tosignup, or for moreinformation, contact KatieKemper, 405-601-9571, kemper@okmed.org,orvisit www.okmed.org
*Signed intolawin2018,Oklahoma’s Senate Bill 1446 mandatesthat all physicians complete onehourofCMEinpain managementper year. Tohelp Oklahoma’s physiciansbetter understand howthis new law impacts their practice and patients,the OklahomaState Medical Associationishosting
Oklahoma CityandTulsa. This one-hour event offers insighttothelegalissuesaffectingpain management andan overviewofthe new laws connectedwith prescribing opioids topatients.AllOklahoma physicians with a DEAlicense are requiredtotakethis onehourcourseannually.
Strengthening the Physician Community by Increasing our Engagement with Members.
Ondria C. Gleason, M.D.
Summer is in full swing, and so is the spirit of engagement at the Tulsa County Medical Society! As your President, I’m excited to share that our calendar is bustling with opportunities to connect, grow, and welcome the next generation of physicians Whether you're a long-time member, a resident just beginning your journey, or a medical student stepping into the world of medicine for the first time, there's a place for you here.
We’re hosting several events this year and taking additional steps to engage with our members It’s been inspiring to see so many of you showing up to support one another and build our community. From connecting over burgers and drinks to cheering at the ballpark, each moment we spend together strengthens our professional network and personal bonds
TCMS and OSMA recently hosted two special welcome events for first-year residents It was our first time hosting a Welcome Lunch with first-year OSU Residents at their annual Casual Conversations day in Tulsa TCMS Vice President Sharon D’Souza, M.D., and Executive Director Mark McElreath greeted over 110 residents, informing them about TCMS and OSMA Just a few days later, we gathered again for a Welcome Breakfast with first-year OU Residents Dr D’Souza, Dr James Webb, Mr McElreath, and I welcomed over 50 OU first-year Residents with breakfast. Several connections were made, and we had conversations over coffee and a hearty breakfast All of these young doctors are bright, motivated, and eager to serve the people of Tulsa I couldn’t be more proud to welcome them into our community.
Not to be outdone, our local medical students are also getting a warm welcome We will host a lunch for 34 firstyear medical students at the OU-TU School of Community Medicine, giving them an early introduction to what TCMS is all about: connection, advocacy, and support. It’s never too early to start building a professional community, and we’re committed to making TCMS a home for students from day one We’ll be welcoming first-year medical students at the OSU College of Osteopathic Medicine in August as well.
And it’s not all about meetings; sometimes, we need to have fun together That’s why I was happy to see so many new and familiar faces at our recent Tulsa Drillers game! Nothing beats a summer evening at ONEOK Field, especially when shared with colleagues, friends, and families Whether you came for the baseball, the food, or just a good time, we were glad to have you there Events like this remind us that community is built both inside and outside the clinic walls.
If you haven’t joined us yet this year, what are you waiting for? Whether you're a practicing physician, a resident, a medical student, or a life member TCMS is your professional home in Tulsa. We offer leadership opportunities, networking, advocacy, wellness support, and, most importantly, a chance to be part of something bigger than yourself We are a community of physicians supporting physicians, and your membership makes us stronger.
To those who are already involved, thank you Your energy and enthusiasm are what make these events successful To those considering membership, come see what we’re about. Join us at an upcoming event, reach out to a board member, or simply stop by to say hello There’s never been a better time to get involved
Here’s to an engaged, connected, and thriving medical community!
Warm regards,
Ondria C Gleason, MD TCMS President
Medical Student Scholarship Applications Open
Tulsa County Medical Society and TCMS Foundation
The TCMS Foundation is pleased to announce that it is now accepting scholarship applications from the OU-TU School of Community Medicine and OSU College of Osteopathic Medicine Medical Students. From July 1 to August 31, 2025, medical students are invited to apply for this prestigious scholarship opportunity.
The Scholarship Fund was established in 1964 as a 501(c)3 organization from proceeds received from a community-wide mass immunization for Polio sponsored by TCMS. In 2010, the fund became a program of the Tulsa County Medical Society Foundation. The Fund had a total of $31,500 in the beginning. It was envisioned that approximately $2,500 annually would be presented until the fund was depleted.
To date, over $1.52 million in scholarships has been given to 1,342 medical students. The number of applications received annually ranges from 40 to 50.
The Educational Assistance Award Scholarship aims to support and empower the next generation of healthcare professionals by providing financial assistance to eligible candidates.
Click Here to Apply
To be eligible, students must be in good standing and enrolled in their second, third, or fourth year in the 2024-2025 academic year at OU School of Community Medicine or OSU College of Osteopathic Medicine.
TCMS Foundation Scholarship Fund - Click Here to Give Now
The TCMS Foundation, a nonprofit 501(c)(3) charitable organization, is dedicated to:
Supporting Education: Providing scholarships to medical students through educational and charitable giving.
Creating a Lasting Legacy: Ensuring the enduring impact of the Tulsa County Medical Society.
Dr. Audrey Corbett Appointed Interim Chair of Internal Medicine at OU School of Community Medicine
OU School of Community Medicine
TULSA, OKLA - The OU School of Community Medicine (SCM) is pleased to announce the appointment of AudreyCorbett, MD, MBA, FACP, as Interim Chair of the Department of Internal Medicine, effective July1,2025, pending OU Board of Regents approval.
We extend our sincere gratitude to Dr. Mike Weisz for his dedicated service of over thirty years and his leadership within the Department of Internal Medicine. His commitment to patient care, education, and mentorship has left a lasting impact on generations of learners and colleagues.
Dr. Corbett has become a well-established and recognized leader within the Department of Internal Medicine, the SCM, and our hospital systems. A proud alumna of the OU School of Community Medicine, she returned to Tulsa after postgraduate training at the University of Missouri – Kansas City, followed by academic appointments at the University of Colorado and Harvard Medical School. Since rejoining SCM in 2017, she has risen through the faculty ranks and now serves as Associate Professor of Internal Medicine, Associate Dean for Clinical Affairs, and Chief Medical Officer for OU Health Physicians – Tulsa.
Her leadership in clinical operations, quality improvement, and interprofessional care delivery has been instrumental in advancing our clinical enterprise across four health systems. She has also earned repeated recognition as an educator and mentor, receiving multiple teaching and service awards from students and faculty alike.
Dr. Corbett brings to this new role a steady hand, a deep understanding of our unique community mission, and a servant-leadership style that reflects the very best of our school’s values. I am confident she will provide strong guidance during this time of transition and continued progress.
The TCMS and TCMS Foundation staff and Board of Directors extend their heartfelt thanks and congratulations to Michael Weisz, MD, on the occasion of his retirement from medicine. His many years of dedicated leadership with TCMS and OSMA have shaped our community with integrity, vision, and compassion. Dr. Weisz's contributions leave a lasting legacy, and we are deeply grateful for his service. We wish him all the best in this next chapter!
Championship Lessons: What the OKC Thunder’s Victory Teaches About Practicing Medicine
Tulsa County Medical Society
The Oklahoma City Thunder’s recent championship season has sparked pride across the state Their journey to the top wasn’t just about athleticism, it was about discipline, collaboration, resilience, and strategy. Interestingly, the same principles that carried the Thunder to victory are also at the core of excellent medical practice. For physicians across Tulsa County, the Thunder’s success offers meaningful insights into what it takes to perform at the highest level.
Teamwork: The Foundation of Success
The Thunder’s season demonstrated the power of teamwork While individual talent played a role, it was their ability to work as a cohesive unit that brought them success. Every player understood their role and trusted their teammates, allowing the team to function with remarkable efficiency
In medicine, a similar dynamic is essential. Physicians work closely with nurses, specialists, therapists, and support staff to provide patient-centered care. Like a basketball team, healthcare teams rely on communication, mutual respect, and clearly defined roles The outcomes, whether a game won or a life saved, depend on how well the team works together.
Preparation: Practicing for Performance
Behind every game-day performance was extensive preparation - film study, training sessions, and practice drills. The Thunder’s coaches and players devoted themselves to preparation to ensure they were ready for every challenge
Physicians, too, are constantly preparing. Years of education and training form the base, but medicine also requires lifelong learning. From continuing medical education (CME) to staying current with research and clinical guidelines, physicians must constantly refine their knowledge and skills. While an athlete prepares for the next opponent, a physician prepares for the next patient.
Adaptability: Adjusting on the Fly
The Thunder excelled not just because they had a plan, but because they knew how to adjust it In-game strategy changes, substitutions, and responses to opponents’ moves were key to their championship run.
Medicine requires a similar ability to adapt. Clinical situations can change rapidly, and no two patients are exactly alike Physicians must interpret new information in real time and adjust treatment plans accordingly. Both fields reward those who can think on their feet.
Resilience: Bouncing Back from Setbacks
Throughout their season, the Thunder faced injuries, losses, and tough competition Their resilience, mentally and physically, helped them stay focused and overcome adversity.
In the medical profession, setbacks come in many forms: difficult diagnoses, unexpected outcomes, and emotional fatigue Resilience enables physicians to process these challenges, learn from them, and continue to provide excellent care.
Purpose: A Driving Force
Finally, the Thunder played with passion and a clear sense of purpose, representing their team, their city, and their fans. That sense of meaning fueled their success.
Physicians, too, are driven by purpose The commitment to healing, to supporting patients and communities, and to upholding the standards of the profession is what sustains physicians through long hours and demanding work
Closing Thoughts
As an organization, the Tulsa County Medical Society celebrates not only what our physicians do, but how they do it Like Oklahoma City’s championship team, our medical community is built on the values of teamwork, preparation, adaptability, resilience, and purpose.
You may not have confetti falling in the OR or a roaring crowd in your clinic. But every day, you contribute to something bigger than yourself - just like a championship team You show up, put in the work, lift up those around you, and stay committed to a common goal: delivering outstanding care to the people of Tulsa County. Thank you for practicing medicine with a championship mindset Whether it’s Game 7 or a Tuesday morning clinic, we see your dedication - and we’re proud to be on your team.
TCMS Hits It Out of the Park at Drillers Night!
Tulsa County Medical Society
The Tulsa County Medical Society (TCMS) hosted a fantastic evening of fun and friendship at our fourth annual Drillers Night on the Coors Light Deck at ONEOK Field. Members and their families gathered to enjoy a perfect summer night filled with baseball, delicious food, and great company. The lively atmosphere, complete with classic ballpark fare and stunning views of the game, offered a wonderful opportunity for members to relax, connect, and celebrate the camaraderie that makes TCMS such a strong community
The evening concluded with a spectacular fireworks show that lit up the Tulsa skyline, capping off a memorable night and a great way to start the July 4 Holiday. Events like Drillers Night highlight the importance of community and connection outside of clinical settings, and we’re grateful to everyone who joined us Thank you for making the night a success - we look forward to many more opportunities to come together and celebrate our incredible organization and our members!
Welcoming New OU and OSU Residents
Tulsa County Medical Society and Oklahoma State Medical Association
The Tulsa County Medical Society (TCMS) and the Oklahoma State Medical Association (OSMA) proudly welcomed new medical residents to Tulsa this June with events held at both the Oklahoma State University (OSU) and University of Oklahoma (OU) campuses. These gatherings served not only as warm welcomes but also as opportunities to connect with local medical leadership and learn more about organized medicine in Oklahoma
On June 16, TCMS and OSMA partnered with OSU to host lunch at the annual Casual Conversations meeting, providing Chick-fil-A lunch to more than 110 new residents Dr Sharon D'Souza, TCMS Vice President and OSMA Trustee, and Mr. Mark McElreath, Executive Director, addressed the group, sharing insights about the importance of advocacy, community engagement, and professional development through organized medicine.
Later in the month, on June 27, TCMS and OSMA visited the OU-Tulsa campus to greet over 50 new residents with a welcome breakfast. A panel of speakers including Dr D’Souza, Dr Ondria Gleason (TCMS President), Dr. James Webb (TCMS Board Member), and Lily Robistow, MSIII and OSMA Student Alternate Trustee, offered words of encouragement and support They also spoke, emphasizing our organizations ongoing commitment to resident involvement.
These events reflect TCMS and OSMA’s continued dedication to supporting the next generation of physicians in Oklahoma, fostering early connections between residents and their medical community.
Webinar: The One Big Beautiful Bill ActThe Final Product
When: August 12, 2025, 12:00 PM, CDT Can't attend live? Receive the recording!
ABOUT THE WEBINAR:
The One Big Beautiful Bill Act went through many iterations by the time it came down to a final house approval in July 2025. Confusion rained as to what had survived in the Bill and what had been eliminated. This presentation is designed to zero in on the Healthcare related hurdles that made it to the end of the race.
ABOUT THE SPEAKER:
Healthcare Economist Michael Bertaut is a Certified Health Consultant and Professional of the Academy of Healthcare Management. He has more than 30 years of analytical experience in the healthcare, telecom and retail industry sectors. On the ground in D.C. when the healthcare reform law (PPACA) was
written, Michael has taken part in more than 1,100 public discussions on healthcare costs and the impact of reform since 2009. Mike is a fellow of the Academy of Applied Politics at Louisiana State University, and author of this Hermes Award winning healthcare blog. Michael earned his MBA and BA from Louisiana State University and just celebrated his 35th year as a cancer survivor Michael is recognized as a national commentator on healthcare reform, quoted in the Washington Post, Chicago Tribune, and state and local publications. He is a regular guest on the Talk Louisiana radio show
After registering, you will receive a confirmation email containing information about joining the webinar
OKMGMA webinars are approved for 1.0 CE credit hour of LIVE learning from MGMA state for those attending the live session. OKMGMA Webinars are approved for 1.0 CE credit hour from MGMA state for on-demand listening.
OKMGMA webinars are FREE for members! You must be logged in to register. ($75 non members)
Oklahoma Medical Group Management Association (OKMGMA)
Plan for Level I Trauma Center in Eastern Oklahoma Moves Forward
Legislation formalizes public-private partnership between Saint Francis Health System and OSU Medical Authority
OKLAHOMA CITY - For far too long, northeast Oklahoma has lacked access to a Level I Trauma Center for both adult and pediatric patients. That is now set to change, thanks to critical legislative action and a landmark partnership between Saint Francis Health System and the Oklahoma State University (OSU) Medical Authority.
Two key bills HB 2784 and HB 2793 formally establish a public-private partnership mechanism to develop a Level I Trauma Center serving Eastern Oklahoma Both measures became law on May 29 without the Governor’s signature, marking a major milestone in expanding high-level trauma care in the region
“Minutes matter when lives are on the line,” said House Speaker Kyle Hilbert, R-Bristow. “This partnership is a gamechanger for northeast Oklahoma. It strengthens patient safety and ensures access to the highest level of trauma care closer to home. Establishing a Level I Trauma Center for adult and pediatric patients in Tulsa has been a top priority of the House Republican Caucus, and we’re proud to see this effort move forward with broad support.”
“Establishing a Level 1 Trauma Center in Tulsa will significantly enhance access to the highest level of emergency care for residents in eastern Oklahoma,” said Senate President Pro Temp Lonnie Paxton, R-Tuttle. "It ensures that critical trauma services, which are often the difference between life and death, are available close to home, reducing the need for patients to be transported to Oklahoma City. The provisions of these pieces of legislation strengthens patient care in our state while providing training for world class physicians.”
“Establishing a Level I Trauma Center in Eastern Oklahoma is not just about today’s emergencies it’s about building a sustainable, collaborative health system for the future,” said House Majority Leader Mark Lawson, R-Sapulpa. “This partnership between OSU and Saint Francis is a model for how we can expand access, improve training, and invest wisely in public health across our state especially when it comes to delivering high-quality trauma care for both adults and children ”
Saint Francis Health System, Oklahoma’s largest locally owned hospital system, has invested heavily in this initiative over the past decade.
“As Tulsa’s only locally owned and operated hospital system, the Saint Francis Health System has invested substantial resources over the last decade toward establishing a Level I Trauma Center serving Eastern Oklahoma where a majority of the System's trauma patients are from rural communities,” said Dr Cliff Robertson, President and CEO of Saint Francis Health System. “Saint Francis seeks to operate a Level I Trauma Center in Tulsa that will enhance life-saving care for adult and pediatric trauma patients and, through a continued partnership with Oklahoma State University, provide training for our state’s next generation of doctors
Saint Francis is in the final stages of preparation for adult Level I Trauma verification by the American College of Surgeons, with a formal survey anticipated in 2025. Following that, the health system will begin the process for pediatric Level I Trauma verification
“We are grateful for the leadership of Speaker Hilbert, Senate President Pro Tempore Lonnie Paxton, and the Legislature, as well as Governor Stitt, for recognizing and supporting this critical need,” Robertson added.
The partnership will also enhance academic training and clinical experience for future physicians through OSU’s involvement.
“The OSU Medical Authority is proud to participate in a publicprivate partnership with Saint Francis Health System to enhance both medical education and trauma services across eastern Oklahoma,” said Jay Helm, Chair of the OSU Medical Authority. “Since 2016, Saint Francis has been a vital partner in supporting OSU Medical Center, our teaching hospital in downtown Tulsa. This initiative supports our ability to prepare future physicians while addressing a critical healthcare need in our region ”
The initiative also has strong backing from regional business and civic leaders
Mike Neal, President and CEO of the Tulsa Regional Chamber, said: “The Tulsa Regional Chamber strongly supports the establishment of a Level 1 Trauma Center in Tulsa. As the economic engine of eastern Oklahoma and a center of healthcare innovation, our region must be equipped with the highest standard of emergency care. This initiative supports workforce development, research and long-term economic resilience. A Level I Trauma Center represents a vital investment in both the immediate and future well-being of the Tulsa region ”
Why It Matters for Oklahomans
Faster, coordinated emergency response Saint Francis will serve as the primary destination for the region’s most serious emergencies, improving outcomes through rapid trauma care.
Specialists’ available 24/7 Level I designation requires trauma surgeons, neurosurgeons, and other experts to be physically present not just on call for critical cases Better care for rural and pediatric patients Rural and underserved communities in Eastern Oklahoma will benefit from timely, top-tier trauma care closer to home Physician training and education As a teaching site through OSU, the trauma center will help train future doctors especially for Oklahoma’s rural health needs Commitment to excellence Saint Francis will meet and maintain the nation’s highest standards in trauma care, ensuring continuous improvement and accountability
Welcome New Members!
By joining TCMS and OSMA our members are among friends, colleagues, and peers, who share their interest, concern, and dedication, to the medical profession Our strength relies on individual members like these, who are committed to making an impact on the field of medicine. Share with them the opportunity to join! Have them visit www.tcmsok.org/join or have them contact Mark or Joetta at 918.743.6184 or email tcms@tcmsok.org.
AlanM. Hawxby,MD
Surgery-Transplant
AscensionSt.John 2000S.WheelingAveSte1100 TulsaOK74104
P:918.744.2925
AddisonR. Wood,DO,PHD OrthopedicSurgery
TulsaBone&Joint 4812S109 EAveth TulsaOK74146
P:918.392.1400
In Memoriam
LisaD. Macek,MD
Pediatrics
WarrenClinic 1801EKenoshaSt TulsaOK74012
P:918.615.6941
We take a moment to honor the memory of our esteemed members and colleagues who have passed away, leaving behind a legacy of dedication and compassion in the field of medicine. Their contributions have profoundly impacted countless lives, and their absence will be deeply felt within our community. As we reflect on their lives, let us remember the words of Ralph Waldo Emerson: "To live in hearts we leave behind is not to die." We encourage all members to share their memories and tributes, celebrating the remarkable individuals who have shaped our society and inspired us all.
John Carl Sacra, M.D.
Member since September 19, 1973 - 52 Years
John Carl Sacra was a loving son and brother, devoted husband, proud father and stepfather, cherished grandfather, loyal friend, accomplished physician, and a visionary leader in emergency medicine and trauma system development He passed away on May 30 after a courageous battle with cancer.
Born on February 8, 1944, in Pauls Valley, Oklahoma, to H E and Julia Sacra, John was the second child and only son From an early age, he distinguished himself both academically and athletically, emerging as a natural leader.
Affectionately known as "Johnny" in his hometown, he graduated as valedictorian of the Pauls Valley High School Class of 1962. An Eagle Scout and captain of the football team, he also earned All-State honors in track for three consecutive years on a state championship-winning team. He accepted an appointment to the United States Military Academy at West Point, but was medically discharged after two years.
John returned to Oklahoma for undergraduate work at the University of Oklahoma and went on to graduate from the OU College of Medicine. He completed his residency in Internal Medicine at the Medical College of Georgia and became board certified in both Internal Medicine and Emergency Medicine Early in his career, he was recognized for his leadership in the field of Emergency Medicine. He served as Medical Director of the Trauma Emergency Center at Saint Francis Hospital in Tulsa for 18 years, following similar roles in Augusta, Georgia, and at St. John Medical Center in Tulsa Later, he served as full-time Medical Director for the Medical Control Board for 11 years, overseeing to view the full details, please click here
5315 S. Lewis Avenue
Tulsa, OK 74105-6539
Return Service Requested
