STRENGTH IN NUMBERS
and mentorship opportunities for our next generation of leaders in medicine – specific topics that they may not have access to in the day-to-day medical school curriculum .
My first exposure to organized medicine was as a medical student with the Michigan chapter of the American Academy of Family Practice ( AAFP ). Though I did not pursue family medicine initially , this influenced my eventual return to it during my years as an Air Force physician as my chosen specialty .
After Training : Diverse Paths , Common Goals
As medical professionals transition into their careers , whether in private practice , employed settings , public health or the payor side of health care , organized medicine continues to offer invaluable opportunities :
• Private Practice : Physicians in private practice benefit from joining professional associations that provide resources for continuing education , networking opportunities and advocacy efforts tailored to independent practitioners .
• Employed Medicine : Those working within hospitals or health care systems find organized medicine crucial for staying informed about industry trends , participating in quality improvement initiatives and influencing health care policy at institutional levels .
• Public Health : Organized medicine intersects significantly with public health initiatives , enabling professionals to collaborate on community health projects , advocate for preventive care measures and address disparities in health care access .
• Payor Side : Even health care insurers and administrators engage with medical organizations to foster collaborative efforts aimed at improving patient outcomes , cost-effectiveness and policy alignment .
I have had the privilege of GLMS and KMA membership throughout various stages of my career — from my time at the University of Louisville and Norton Healthcare to my role in public health and now on the payor side . My membership offered me a way to maintain my individuality in medicine and also to engage with my colleagues in a way that is not always available in medicine today . My involvement with GLMS intensified during my tenure at the Louisville Metro Department of Public Health and Wellness , where collaboration with community partners like Family Community Clinic , Supplies Overseas and Seed to Oaks through GLMS Foundation initiatives was invaluable during the Hepatitis A outbreak in Jefferson County and later , the COVID-19 pandemic .
Since entering the payor realm , my membership has allowed me to remain in touch with friends and colleagues , and also the issues that remain important to them in clinical practice . I am better informed about the issues that need to be addressed from every angle of medicine . Even though the prior authorization legislation that was desired did not pass this year , there are many of us who continue to work to simplify prior authorization and reimagine reform so that it benefits patients ’ health while ensuring that physicians receive fair payment while minimizing administrative burden .
BENEFITS OF ORGANIZED MEDICINE Education and Awareness
Continuing medical education ( CME ) opportunities offered by medical societies keep members abreast of advancements in clinical practice , technological innovations and regulatory changes . Access to cutting-edge research and interdisciplinary collaboration enhances the quality of patient care and promotes lifelong learning among health care professionals .
The Kentucky Medical Association continues to produce high-quality CME offerings , which have been instrumental in my professional development . These sessions , often featuring local experts such as Dr . Monalisa Tailor , have enriched my practice and kept me informed about critical health care issues .
Sense of Belonging and Networking
Membership in medical associations fosters a sense of community among health care professionals . Whether through local chapter meetings , national conferences or online forums , members connect with peers , share best practices and forge meaningful professional relationships that span specialties and geographical boundaries .
GLMS has gone above and beyond in creating networking opportunities that accommodate busy schedules . Events like the Bats game at Louisville Slugger Field , the Doctors ’ Ball and the President ’ s Celebration have allowed me to connect with colleagues and their families , fostering relationships that extend beyond professional settings .
Making a Difference
Organized medicine empowers individuals to make a tangible impact on health care policy and practice . By participating in advocacy campaigns , contributing to research initiatives and championing patient-centered care , members play a pivotal role in shaping the future of health care delivery and public health strategies .
In recent years at GLMS and as a Delegate to the KMA , I have been involved in advocating for important medical and public health issues in our state . While at the Health Department , I had many opportunities to promote prevention , such as championing flu vaccines . More recently , my efforts have included measures to prevent gun violence , including serving on the KMA ’ s Gun Violence and Firearm Safety Work Group . Collaborating with passionate colleagues has been inspiring , pushing me to contribute more effectively to positive change . Even when progress is gradual , the
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