Strength in Service: A Year of Impact and Growth for GLMS
Bert T. Guinn, MBA, CAE | GLMS EVP / CEO
As we reflect on GLMS accomplishments, one thing is unmistakably clear: our collective strength lies in service— to physicians, to patients, to each other and to the communities we call home. In a time when medicine is more complex and demanding than ever, GLMS has continued to deliver clarity, support and advocacy for physicians across our region. Together, we are shaping a dynamic, forward-thinking medical society that stands tall on the values of collegiality, compassion and collaboration.
It has been a privilege to serve alongside our highly engaged GLMS Board of Governors and President, Dr. Lewis Hargett, whose steady hand, wisdom and unwavering advocacy have led us through a year of growth.
Expanding Our Reach and Relevance
This year, we grew our visibility and engagement across multiple social media platforms. Notably, our LinkedIn following increased by 21.8 %, underscoring our strategic focus on connecting with physicians and amplifying their voices in the broader health care conversation.
We hosted our 11th Wear the White Coat program, giving 23 community and statewide leaders the opportunity to walk in the shoes of local physicians. Every participant reported being“ very satisfied” with the program’ s three components,“ Pre-Op, Shadowing and Post-Op,” proving the power of real-life experience and storytelling in building engagement and trust.
We also introduced Private Practice in the Modern Era, a timely panel for medical students exploring the evolving realities of independent practice. Our new Student Advocacy Mentorship Program further bolstered student engagement by connecting future physicians with mentors to guide them through health policy, advocacy and resolution-writing.
Delivering Tangible Value for Physicians
Behind the scenes, GLMS delivers real, measurable value to members. Our MedCentral credentialing team had another standout year, processing 586 initial applications and 1,509 reappointments. With an average turnaround of only 27 days, we lead in efficiency and are well ahead of our Med30 money-back guarantee. The reappointment completion rate of 96 % speaks volumes about the accuracy and reliability of this service.
Insurer hassles at your practice? We work on those, too. Our Practice Management department recovered an average of $ 1,525 per reported hassle— more than double last year’ s figure— putting real dollars back into practices and reducing administrative burdens.
Our newly integrated MedCentral Insurance Credentialing( provider enrollment) services saw a 130 % increase in utilization. We now serve clients in six states: Kentucky, Indiana, North Carolina, Virginia, West Virginia and Florida. Our team processed over 750 payer applications. For Annual Maintenance clients alone, the program saved about 2,580 hours in directory verifications and payer communications, and more than $ 145,000 in staff time and overhead. These aren’ t abstract wins— they directly impact physicians’ time, finances, and peace of mind.
Leading Through Advocacy
At the Kentucky Medical Association( KMA) Annual Meeting, GLMS again led in statewide medical advocacy. We submitted 13 thoughtful, forward-looking resolutions— covering topics from expanded dental care access to coronary calcium scoring coverage— and saw 12 adopted, with the 13th referred for further discussion.
This kind of policy leadership ensures that physician voices in greater Louisville actively shape the future of medicine in Kentucky.
Building a Healthier Community Together
The GLMS Foundation continues to extend our mission into the heart of the community. At this years Doctor ' s Cup, we awarded $ 125,000 in scholarships to ten exceptional UofL medical students, alleviating some of the financial burden of medical education and supporting the future of the profession.
Through events like our annual Doctors’ Ball, our Pickleball Clinic and Tournament and the Smoketown Neighborhood Celebration, we combined service, recognition, volunteerism, wellness and fun. In the process, we delivered over 800 pounds of fresh produce, farm-fresh eggs and blankets to families in need, and raised essential funds for wellness initiatives in underserved areas.
With physicians leading on the front lines of health care, investments in physician wellness are just as crucial. Along these lines, we continued to provide free, anonymous professional counseling to physician members and medical students— recognizing that caring for others begins with caring for yourself.
Momentum That Belongs to You
This year, 157 new or returning members joined our ranks. And with a 95.4 % retention rate— exceeding the industry benchmark for the seventh year— GLMS remains not just strong, but thriving.
And perhaps one of our longest-running benefits: GLMS dues have not increased for 23 years— a powerful testament to our commitment to affordability and value in membership.
I’ m also deeply proud of our exceptional GLMS staff, who bring energy, creativity and care to their work. Every success in this report reflects their dedication. It’ s an honor to work with a team so committed to our mission.
All this momentum belongs to you— our members. You are the reason our advocacy matters, and our mission thrives. Amid health care’ s many challenges, you show up with integrity, compassion and resilience.
As we look ahead, let’ s stand together. Let’ s keep building an organization where physicians feel seen, supported and empowered to lead change. Thank you for all you do. Thank you for being an integral part of GLMS.
We are strong and resilient because you are.
Bert T. Guinn, MBA, CAE EVP / CEO
2025 GLMS Annual Report 7