NC HealthConnex: New Look for Easier Navigation

 

NC HealthConnex: New Look for Easier Navigation

 

South Piedmont AHEC’s Maria Goergen will host an informative Lunch n’ Learn session on December 17 from noon-1 p.m. See the latest updates and improvements to NC HealthConnex (NCHIE) that will make navigation simpler and more efficient for your practice.

Take advantage of this learning opportunity.

Register for Lunch n' Learn

If you need assistance from a Practice Support coach, please contact us at [email protected].

by Joy Avery

Secure Your Spot at the NCMS Advocacy Summit!

Whether you're a healthcare professional, community leader, or passionate individual, the NCMS Advocacy Summit provides a platform to discuss, learn, and collaborate on shaping the future of healthcare.

 

We are thrilled to invite you to the NCMS Advocacy Summit, a groundbreaking event dedicated to exploring and advancing crucial topics in healthcare. Join us on March 1, 2025, from 9 am to 5 pm at the StateView Hotel, located at 2451 Alumni Drive, Raleigh, NC 27606.

Event Highlights:

  • Engaging Sessions: Delve into discussions on Access to Care Solutions, Corporate Practice of Medicine, AI in Healthcare, and much more!
  • Diverse Perspectives: Gain insights from esteemed speakers representing various states and local community leaders, providing a comprehensive view of healthcare advocacy.
  • Networking Opportunities: Connect with professionals who share your passion for healthcare advocacy. The last session of the day will be a townhall allowing leaders from specialty and county societies to speak.

Registration is Open, but Space is Limited! Don't miss this opportunity to be part of a transformative event. Secure your spot today by registering today!

We look forward to your participation in this impactful event.

by Joy Avery

Scurvy: Not Just an 18th Century Sailors Ailment

 

Scurvy is a disease caused by a severe deficiency of vitamin C (ascorbic acid), which is essential for the production of collagen. This protein helps maintain the health of skin, blood vessels, bones and connective tissue.

Without enough vitamin C, the body cannot properly repair tissues, heal wounds, or fight infections. This can lead to a range of symptoms including:

  • fatigue and weakness
  • swollen, bleeding gums or loose teeth
  • joint and muscle pain and tenderness
  • bruising easily
  • dry, rough or discoloured skin (reddish or purple spots due to bleeding under the skin)
  • cuts and sores take longer to heal
  • anaemia (a shortage of red blood cells, leading to further fatigue and weakness)
  • increased susceptibility to infections.

The inability of some people to source nutritious foods with sufficient vitamin C is fueling a re-emergence of scurvy. Factors such as poor diet, food deserts, the cost-of-living crisis, and more increases the risk of vitamin C deficiency.

Read the full article here.

by Joy Avery

Capitol Chronicle: Rep. Greg Murphy Elected Co-Chair of the GOP Doctors Caucus

 

2025 Outlook on the Hill
Murphy Elected Co-Chair of the GOP Doctors Caucus

 

The GOP Doctors Caucus of the US House of Representatives has elected Rep. Greg Murphy, MD (NC-3.) as co-chair for the 119th Congress. Rep. Dr. Murphy represents North Carolina’s 3rd congressional district in Congress. Joining him as co-chair in 2025 will be John Joyce, MD, a Pennsylvania dermatologist.

“Our country faces many great challenges, and now more than ever, we need thoughtful solutions to expand access to affordable, high-quality care,” Murphy and Joyce said in a joint statement.

The 119th Congress will convene on January 3, 2025.

 

Do you know your state and federal legislators? More importantly, do your legislators know you?
The NCMS can help you connect with policy makers as a constituent and advocate!

by Joy Avery

From the Bottom of Our Hearts, THANK YOU for Your Generosity During #GivingTuesday!

 

Thanks to your generosity, this year's #GivingTuesday campaign was the BEST ever!

 

On behalf of the NCMS Foundation, we want to say THANK YOU to those who participated in #GIVINGTUESDAY!

Together we are helping to improve the health and wellbeing of North Carolinians.

Learn more about the NCMS Foundation here.

by Joy Avery

National Influenza Vaccination Week: Importance of Flu Vaccination

National Influenza Vaccination Week is observed December 2-6, 2024

 

National Influenza Vaccination Week (NIVW) is a critical opportunity to remind everyone 6 months and older that there's still time to protect themselves and their loved ones from flu this flu season by getting their annual flu vaccine if they have not already. CDC data shows that flu vaccination coverage was lower last season, especially among certain higher risk groups, including children. When you get a flu vaccine, you reduce your risk of illness, and flu-related hospitalization if you do get sick. This week is meant to remind people that there is still time to benefit from the first and most important action in preventing flu illness and potentially serious flu complications: get a flu vaccine today.

Since flu viruses are constantly changing and protection from vaccination decreases over time, getting a flu vaccine every year is the best way to reduce your risk from flu. A flu vaccine is the only vaccine that protects against flu and has been shown to reduce the risk of flu illness, hospitalization, and death.

Flu can cause mild to severe illness, and at times can lead to death. Flu symptoms usually come on suddenly. People who have flu often feel some or all of these signs and symptoms:

  • fever* or feeling feverish/chills
  • cough
  • sore throat
  • runny or stuffy nose
  • muscle or body aches
  • headaches
  • fatigue (tiredness)
  • some people may have vomiting and diarrhea, though this is more common in children than adults.

*It's important to note that not everyone with flu will have a fever.

Most people who get flu will recover in a few days to less than two weeks, but some people will develop complications (such as pneumonia) as a result of flu, some of which can be life-threatening and result in death.

Sinus and ear infections are examples of moderate complications from flu, while pneumonia is a serious flu complication that can result from either flu virus infection alone or from co-infection of flu virus and bacteria. Other possible serious complications triggered by flu can include inflammation of the heart (myocarditis), brain (encephalitis) or muscle tissues (myositis, rhabdomyolysis), and multi-organ failure (for example, respiratory and kidney failure). Flu virus infection of the respiratory tract can trigger an extreme inflammatory response in the body and can lead to sepsis, the body's life-threatening response to infection. Flu also can make chronic medical problems worse. For example, people with asthma may experience asthma attacks while they have flu, and people with chronic heart disease may experience a worsening of this condition triggered by flu.

Visit the CDC's Influenza page here.

by Joy Avery

Register Now! NCTracks December 2024 Provider Training Schedule

Registration is now open for the NCTracks December 2024 training courses.

The courses are virtual, via Zoom, and can be attended remotely from any location.

Courses offered this month include:

  • Ordering, Prescribing and Referring (OPR) Provider Enrollment
  • Submitting a Prior Approval Private Duty Nursing (2 Dates Available)
  • Provider Recredentialing and Reverification
  • Provider Web Portal Applications
  • Using the Provider Message Center Inbox

Click here for more information on course schedule and access to zoom links.

 

by Joy Avery

Happy Birthday to Our Members Celebrating This Month!

Grab your party hats and noisemakers and let’s celebrate!

 

Randy S. Adams, MD
Swati S. Adawadkar, MD
Briggs M. Ahearn, MD
Collette Ah-Tye, MD
Edward S. Alessandrini, DMD, MD
Richard J. Alioto, MD
E. Jackson Allison, Jr., MD, MPH
Simon J. Allport, MD
Jesse R. Amezaga, MD
Barry D. Amos, MD
Sarah M. Anderson, MD
Wallace F. Andrew, Jr., MD
Brad L. Anglemyer, MD
William E. Anthony, Jr., MD
Ana M. Arango, MD
Perico N. C. Arcedo, III, DO
Dina L. Arceo, MD
Louis C. Argenta, MD
Tracy O. Arusuraire, MD
Savana E. Atkins, PA-C
Sam T. Auringer, MD
T. James Baden, MD, FACP
Charles E. Baker, MD
Vansanth B. Baliga, MD
Charles L. Baltimore, Jr., MD
W. Byron Barber, II, MD
Joseph U. Barker, MD
Laura B. Barton, PA-C
Karen L. Bash, MD
John W. Bass, PA-C
Tara K. Bastek, MD
Allyna E. Bates, PA-C
Sanjay Batish, MD
Gregory S. Bauer, MD
L. Neal Beard, Jr., MD
Walter B. Beaver, Jr., MD
Gregory G. Bebb, MD
Michelle L. Beckham, MD
Timothy M. Beittel, MD
James E. Bellard, MD
Barbara A. Bergdolt, MD
Donald R. Bergsma, Jr., MD
Chudaratna Bhargava, MD
Edgardo H. Bianchi, MD
Katherine R. Birchard, MD
Karl F. Bitter, MD
James F. Black, MD
Jesse A. Blackman, MD
Susan Blackwell-Crawford, PA-C
Benjamin R. Blaschke, PA-C
Seth J. Bleier, MD
Charles J. Blevins, MD
Zachary J. Bloom, MD
Robert J. Board, MD
Edwyn T. Bowen, Jr., MD
James H. Bradford, MD
Genevieve N. Brauning, MD
Karen E. Breach-Washington, MD
Katherine L. Breiter, MD
Samuel E. Britt, II, MD
Caitlyn N. L. Brown, PA-C
Michael A. Brown, MD
Natalie Bruce, MD
George F. Brumback, MD
Tracie C. Bryson, MD
Joseph A. Buglisi, Jr., DO
Kerry C. Bullerdick, MD
Nicole P. Bullock, MD
Holly J. Burge, MD
Rollin S. Burhans, Jr., MD
J. P. Burnette, MD, FACP
Brandon C. Burnsed, MD
D. Scott Burton, MD
Marco A. Caceres, MD, FACS
Stephanie A. Call, MD
T. Francis Camp, Jr., MD
Leah A. Carlson, MD
Fred A. Caruso, MD
Venkata R. Challa, MD
H. Royster Chamblee, Jr., MD
E. Ted Chandler, MD
Benjamin C. Chasnis, DO
Abdul G. Chaudhry, MD, FACS
Nicole R. Check, MD
Peter G. Chikes, MD, FACS
Terry C. Childers, MD, FAAP
Sean D. Childress, PA-C
Stephen K. Chiu, MD
San H. Choi, MD
Erika L. Clark-Trapp, MD
Shelby L. Clay-Rogers, MD
Bruce E. Cohen, MD
James B. Collawn, MD
Filiberto Colon, II, MD
Jessica S. Connett, MD
Tim E. Cooper, Jr., MD
Charles I. Cooperberg, MD
Robert P. Cope, DO
Anureet C. Copeland, MD
Nicola S. Corbett, MD
Joseph B. Cornett, MD
Elizabeth Corpuz, MD
Benjamin B. Covell, MD
Alfred J. Covington, Jr., MD
Chad E. Cox, MD
Karen L. Cross, MD
James J. Crossley, MD
John T. Curnes, MD
John W. Currens, MD
Samuel J. Dail, MD
Liam N. Daly, MD
Uma U. Darji, MD
Marc A. Darst, MD
David A. Dasher, MD
Andrew Davidson, MD
Kevin R. Davidson, MD
D. Whitaker Davis, MD
Devon L. Davis, MD
Robin L. Dawson, PA-C
Ernesto E. de la Torre, MD
John O. delCharco, MD
Jessica C. Derreberry, MD
Michael L. Dial, PA-C
Dawn M. Diaz, PA-C
Christopher F. Dibble, MD
Edward E. Dickerson, IV, MD
Ellen D. Dillavou, MD
Michael J. Donahue, MD, FAAD
Venkatarama S. Donepudi, MD
Kristin L. Donoghue, MD
Kevin E. Dougherty, MD
Ryan C. Dougherty, MD
Caron L. Dover, MD
Carrie A. Dow-Smith, MD
Melora T. Driver, MD
Fred M. Dula, Jr., MD
William T. Durham, MD
Raymond B. Dyer, MD
Matt D. Dyson, MD
J. William Eakins, MD
R. Crews Edens, PA-C
Kim D. Edhegard, II, MD
Lorven M. Edralin, MD
Charles D. Edwards, MD
Adekunbi E. Egwakhe, MD
Elizabeth A. Ehlers, PA-C
Stephen P. Ellison, MD
Wagdy A. Elmahdy, MD
Miles Elmore, MD
John A. Engelmann, Jr., MD
Susan A. Erkes, PA-C
Nathaniel A. K. Erskine, MD
Joseph J. Estwanik, MD
Anna F. Fakadej, MD
John T. Fallon, III, MD
Ann E. Farash, MD
Bruce E. Fee, MD
Dale E. Feldpausch, Jr., MD
Ana C. G. Felix, MD
Juan B. Firnhaber, MD
David M. Fisher, MD
Kellie E. Flock, PA-C
Rajat R. Fofaria, MD, FACC
Richard S. Foulke, MD
James J. Foutty, MD
Charadin Frank, MD
Nicholas Frankel, MD
Mel W. Fryar, MD
Walter H. Gajewski, MD
P. Mark Gallerani, MD
Lars B. Gardner, DO
W. Ronald Gardner, MD
James E. Garrett, MD, FACEP
Cynthia M. Gary, PA-C, MPH
Ashley L. Gelinas, MD
Henry Gerock, MD
Martin T. Gessner, MD
Robert W. Gibson, MD
Charles D. Godwin, MD
Geraldine F. Goertzen, MD
Kareem Goldson, MD
Manuel J. Gorrin-Rivas, MD, PhD
James A. Graham, MD
James J. Green, Jr., MD
P. David Green, MD
Lynellen B. Gregory, MD
Kathryn M. Greven, MD, FASTRO
Joe W. Grisham, MD
Christopher T. Grubb, MD
Cesar Guajardo, MD
W. Bonner Guilford, MD
Ashraf F. Guirgues, MD
Jagmohan D. Gupta, MD
Khie S. Ha, MD
Michel G. Haddad, MD
M. Suzanne Hampson, MD
Marla J. Hardenbergh, MD
Kyle C. Harner, MD
Charles D. Harr, MD
Phillip G. Harris, MD
Samuel R. Harris, MD
Kate A. Hatter, MD
Joseph S. Healy, MD
Jessica A. Hedrick, PA-C
Scott A. Hees, DO
Steven M. Heffner, MD
Craig S. Heinly, MD
William R. Henrick, MD
Richard C. Herring, MD, MBA
Shannon L. Hershberger, PA-C
Jason D. Higginson, MD
Matthew J. Hilsman, DO
Angela S. Hira, DO
Jonathan N. Ho, MD
Mary K. Hoffman, MD
Carla W. Holder, MD
Christopher M. Holland, MD
Walter B. Holland, MD
Christopher B. Holloman, PA
Steven D. Hollosi, DO
John D. Holly, MD
Kenneth A. Holt, MD
W. Borden Hooks, III, MD, FACS
Jennifer J. Hoover, MD
Teague L. Horton, MD
Frank M. Houston, MD
Joshua L. Hudgens, MD
Kevin G. Hueman, MD
James A. Hunter, MD
Joseph T. Inglefield, III, MD
Christopher W. Ingram, MD
Thomas G. Irons, MD
Mark T. Jackson, MD, FAAP
Ashokkumar C. Jain, MD, MBA, FAAP
Francis M. James, III, MD
Edward O. Janosko, II, MD, FACS
Jennifer A. Jarosz, MD
S. Taylor Jarrell, MD
Robert G. Jeffers, MD, MPH, FAAP
Robert B. Jennings, MD
Rupert W. Jilcott, III, MD
Suresh Jillellamudi, MD
Carrie E. Johnson, MD
Delores L. Johnson, MD, FACOG
Matrika D. Johnson, MD
Ryan C. Johnson, MD
John D. Johnston, MD
William O. Jolly, III, MD
Enrico G. Jones, MD
James D. Jones, MD
Jason D. Jones, MD
J. W. Jones, MD, FACP, AGAF
Allen M. Joseph, MD
Ismo M. Kaariainen, MD, FACP, FHM
Jacob A. Kahn, MD
Scott M. Kahn, MD
Haku K. Kahoano, MD
Saroj P. Kandel, MD
Adam T. Kansagor, DO
David M. Kaplan, MD
Sanjeev Katyal, MD
Douglas G. Kelling, Jr., MD, FACP
Jeffrey S. Kelly, MD
William H. Kelly, MD
Madison Kendrick
Paige N. Keough, PA-C
Kirsten S. Kerr, MD
Andrew D. Kersten, MD
Christine M. Khandelwal, DO
Gautam Khandelwal, MD
Khalid W. Khayr, MD
George R. Kilpatrick, Jr., MD
Whitney L. Kirchoff, MD
Richard E. Kleinmann, MD
J. Douglas Knoop, MD
Lawrence H. Knott, Jr., MD, FACS
William G. Kodzai, Jr., MD
Hollis C. Konitzer, MD
Shawn D. Kosnik, DO
William H. Kouri, MD
Kevin L. Krasinski, MD
Jack J. Kuritzky, MD
Cameron J. Kurowski, MD
Ryan P. Lamb, MD
Denise Lamm, PA-C
Graham G. Lashley, MD
Michael Lawrence, MD
David L. Leader, Jr., DO
William D. Lee, Jr., MD
Gail A. Leget, MD
Nancy C. Lehman, MD
Eric J. Lescault, DO
Daniel R. Lewis, MD
Kayleigh Lewis, MD
Jonathan L. Lin, MD
Kanhka Linthavong, MD
Peter M. Lipscomb, MD
Jennifer Lira, MD
Charles W. Lomax, MD
Chasity N. Long, PA-C
Gabriel Lopez, MD
Frank J. Lovato, PA-C
L.D.A. C. Luvis, MD, FACP
Yvonne Luyando, MD
William D. Lyday, MD
Kimberly G. Lykins, DO
Nchimunya M. Maambo, PA-C
Henry J. MacDonald, Jr., MD
Mary T. MacKenzie, MD
Lyndsay L. Madden, DO
Jerome J. Magolan, Jr., MD
Ureena Manandhar, MD
Nisha T. Manickam, DO
Wissam B. Mansour, MD
Scott A. Marinelli, DO
R. Wade Markham, MD
James W. Markworth, MD
Bernard A. Marshall, MD
Dennis L. Martin, MD
Tiffany Marum, MD
Janice M. Massey, MD, FAAN
Jordan S. Masters, MD
Michael J. Masters, MD
Emmett C. Mathews, Jr., MD, FACC, FACP, FAHA
Kimberly R. Maurer, MD
Ronald B. May, MD, FAAP
David B. Maybee, MD
David W. McAllister, MD
Jane H. McCaleb, MD
Chad M. McCall, MD, PhD
Robert J. McCammon, MD
Keith L. McCormick, MD
John T. McElveen, Jr., MD
Damian F. McHugh, MD, FACEP
Anjanette L. Mcilwain-McCollum, MD, FAAP
Karin R. McLelland, MD
Julian E. C. McLeod, PA-C
Steven J. McMahon, MD
John T. McMurtry, MD
Wendy W. McNeill, MD
Belinda J. McPherson, MD
Victor A. Medina, MD
Joan N. Meehan, MD
Milap P. Mehta, MD
John J. Meier, IV, MD
Frank M. Melvin, MD
Roman G. Melvin, MD
H. Curtiss Merrick, MD, FACP
David F. Michael, MD
Chad J. Michel, PA-C
J. Lloyd Michener, MD
R. Alden Milam, IV, MD
Edith H. Miller, MD
Sarah J. Mills, MD
Megan E. Milne, MD
Maria Minor, MD
Americo M. Minotti, MD
Rachel Miranda, MD
C. Brent Mizelle, MD
Aminu I. Mohammed, MD
Linda C. Mohr, MD
Gregory J. Mohs, MD
John L. Monroe, MD
Robert W. Monteiro, MD
Casey F. Morea, PA-C
Alan L. Morgan, MD
Robert G. Morgan, Jr., MD
Jacqueline H. Morris, DO
Artus M. Moser, Jr., MD
Amir R. T. Motameni, MD
Jon Mugweru, MD
Joseph L. Murad, MD
Daniel W. Murphy, MD
Katherine A. Murphy, PA-C
Mark T. Murphy, MD, FACC
Richard J. Murphy, MD
Joanna D. Murray, PA-C
Holly C. Musgrove, MD
Matthew B. Myers, MD
Keith V. A. Nance, MD
Charles R. Neal, MD
William A. Nebel, MD
David S. Nelson, MD
Edwin C. Newman, III, MD
Rosemarie C. Newman, MD, FACOG
Gregory S. Nichols, DO
Peter J. Noone, MD
Steven R. Norris, MD
David Notman, MD
Charles F. O'Cain, MD
Michael J. O'Connell, DO
Brian P. O'Donnell, MD, FAAP
Matthew D. Ohl, MD
Ambrose S. Okonkwo, MD
John G. Oliver, MD
Michael R. Oswald, MD
Harold P. Overcash, MD, FAAP
Carroll C. Overton, MD
Jennifer D. Pace, PA-C
Alexander T. Page, MD
Branson H. Page, MD
Hannah M. Palko, PA-C
John A. Papalas, III, MD
Pankaj N. Parikh, MD, FACC
Danna M. Park, MD, FAAP
Eunee K. Park, MD
Robert I. Park, MD
Sung W. Park, MD
Chad W. Parkes, MD
Danielle E. Parrish, PA-C
James S. Parsons, MD
Matthew R. Paszek, MD
Amish V. Patel, MD
Beena N. Patel, DO
Sanjay A. Patel, MD
William R. Patton, MD
Alfredo L. Pauca, MD
Matthew W. Payne, MD
Robin T. Peace, MD
James V. Perciaccante, MD
Henry T. Perkins, Jr., MD
Paul C. Perlik, MD
Everett L. Perry, MD
Jennifer H. Peterson, MD
Frederick E. Pfeiffer, MD
Kelly W. Philpot, MD
Dana P. Piasecki, MD
Sandra R. Picone, MD
Noah R. Pierson, MD
Harold C. Pillsbury, III, MD, FACS
Holly T. Pilson, MD
Javier A. Piraino, DO
Stuart W. Point, MD
Stewart M. Polsky, MD
William L. Pomeroy, III, MD
Matthew A. Popa, MD
James R. Post, MD
George W. Poulos, MD
James B. Powell, II, MD
Kothai Divya Pragatheeshwar, MD
Emily D. Privette, MD
James E. Pugh, Jr., MD
Amitabh Purohit, MD
Hannah M. Rabinovich, MD
Shrinivas Rajagopalan, MD, PhD
Jennifer L. Raley, MD
Randle W. Ramsey, Jr., DO
R. Pinkney Rankin, Jr., MD
Michael P. Ransone, MD
Tayyabah Rayyast, PA-C
Kelsey L. Rea, PA-C
Lloyd F. Redick, MD
F. Ed Reedy, Jr., MD, FAAP
Steven H. Reid, MD
Donald P. Renaldo, MD
Christopher R. Reynolds, MD, FACEP
Jonathan C. Riboh, MD
Anne S. Richardson, MD
Jesse E. Roberts, MD
Leroy Roberts, Jr., MD, FACR
Matthew G. Robinson, MD
Stephen C. Robinson, MD
Shannon M. Roche, DO
R. Mark Rodger, MD
David H. Rosenbaum, MD
Michael D. Rosenberg, MD
Elizabeth G. Rossitch, MD
R. Kyle Rothman, MD
Michael C. Rowland, MD
Kathleen R. Ruddiman, DO
Roberto Rupcich, MD
Jarmella P. Russell, MD
Jeff K. Russell, MD
William J. Rutledge, MD
Philip R. Saba, MD
Barbara E. Salamon, MD
David L. Saliba, II, MD
M. A. Samia, MD
James R. Sancrant, Jr., DO
Kenton L. Sanders, MD
Dharmesh R. Sanghani, MD
Charles W. Scarantino, MD, PhD
Richard J. Schneider, MD
Lisa C. Scott, MD
Julie Seung
Ashish P. Shah, MD
Christopher T. Shah, MD
Kesha D. Shah, MD
Hadley J. Sharp, MD
Traci E. Sheaffer, MD
Robert E. Shepherd, MD
Richard H. Shereff, MD
Roger D. Shetterly, MD
Wright D. Shields, MD
J. Daniel Shoffner, MD
Sylvia P. Shoffner, MD
Steve A. Siciliano, MD
Leah M. Sieren, MD
David W. Sillmon, MD
Kelsey E. Simmons, DO
Wendy W. Simmons, PA-C
Selvaratnam Sinna, MD
Douglas K. Slater, MD
David L. Smith, MD
Henry L. Smith, II, MD
Ian M. Smith, PA-C
S. Keith Smith, MD
Timothy T. Smith, DO
T. Truett Smith, Jr., MPAS, PA-C
David H. Snow, MD
Mona M. Soliman, MD
Jessica Son, MD
David R. Sopko, MD
Stephen C. Sorsby, MD
Carey V. Stabler, MD
Walter J. Steele, MD
Phillip A. Stetler, DO
William R. Stetler, Jr., MD
Amanda R. Steventon, MD
William L. Stewart, MD, FAAP
Christopher A. Stiff, MD
Michael W. Stratemeier, MD
Christopher T. Stuart, MD
Geeta Subramaniam, MD
Slade A. Suchecki, DO
Jeffrey M. Suchniak, MD
Sang H. Suh, MD
Emily X. Sun, MD
yun sun, MD
Blythe W. Swaim, PA-C
Jason A. Swenson, MD
Bradley M. Swinson, MD
Danielle M. Sykes, PA-C
Shan Tang, MD
Robert B. Tannehill, MD
Muhammad F. Tariq, MD
Eli C. Tate, MD
Barry H. Teasley, MD
Alan R. Thalinger, MD
Chanchamma A. Thannikkary, MD
Brian T. Theune, MD
Christopher C. Thomas, MD
David T. Thomas, MD
Alan M. Thomley, MD, FACC
Sarah H. Todd, MD
R. Morris Treadway, Jr., MD
An N. Truong, MD
Robert C. Turner, MD, FACP
James W. Turpin, MD, MPH
Maria G. Uberti, MD
Jamie Udwadia, MD
Ryan C. Vann, PA-C, MHS
Daniel P. Vaughan, MD
William B. Veazey, MD
Ralph N. Vick, MD
Nicholas A. Viens, MD
Keith E. Volmar, MD
Rock P. Vomer, II, DO
Kelly R. Wackerle, MD
Kerri M. Wahl, MD
Aikya F. Waldo, MD
William R. Walker, MD
Kelley Wallace, Jr., MD
Peter A. Wallenborn, III, MD
Stephen L. Wallenhaupt, MD
Sherry Wang, MD
Yi-Zhe Wang, MD
Patrick L. Ware, MD
John G. Warren, PA-C
Nikunj P. Wasudev, MD
James M. Watson, MD
Polly J. Watson, MD
Samantha S. Watson, MD
Stanley R. Watson, MD
John A. Watts, V, MD
James P. Weaver, MD
Andrew B. Weber, MD
Nathaniel D. Weber, DO
Jade E. Weeks Kimble, PA-C
Michael D. Wehmueller, MD
Jack H. Welch, MD
John A. Welshofer, MD
David R. Wiercisiewski, MD
William D. Wilcox, MD
Geoffrey E. Wile, MD
Robert F. Wilfong, MD
Margaret J. Willhide, MD
Catherine E. Williams, PA-C
Christine A. Williams, PA-C
Martin K. Williams, MD
Noelle L. Williams, MD
Adam K. Willson, MD
Charles F. Willson, MD
David M. Wilson, MD
Heber G. Winfield, III, MD
Christopher E. Winstead-Derlega, MD
Robert I. Wodecki, MD
Michael R. Wolff, MD
Neil T. Wolfman, MD
Jonathan Wons, MD
Charles T. Woodham, MD, FACS
Richard H. Wray, III, MD
Thomas H. Wroth, MD
Lawrence R. Wu, MD
Katherine I. Yancey, MD
Jesse G. Yarborough, Jr., MD
Stephen M. Yeh, MD
Daniel M. Yoder, MD
Judith S. Yongue, MD
Sung-Eun Yoo, MD
Robert K. Yowell, MD
Mark S. Zalaznik, MD
Juozas A. Zavadzkas, MD
Brian Y. Zhao, MD
Deborah F. Zimmermann, PA-C

by Joy Avery

7 Days Until #GivingTuesday! Can We Count on You?

After back-to-back days of deals on Black Friday and Cyber Monday, join us in kicking off the holiday giving season on #GivingTuesday!

 

On this Global Day of Giving, we’re raising funds to improve access to care for all North Carolinians.

We want to empower all North Carolinians to achieve their optimal state of health, and your involvement is essential!

Ways to gear up for #GivingTuesday

  • Donate. Lock in your gift now!
  • Follow us on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram
  • Share this message and our social media posts with colleagues, friends and family and encourage them to join the movement

 

We’ve got just one week left until the historic day of giving! Let’s do this!

 

by Joy Avery

🎉It's New Member Monday!🎉

Join us in welcoming these new members to the North Carolina Medical Society!

 

  • William B. Anderson, MD
  • Deanna M. Bencic, PA-C
  • Matthew J. Braswell, MD
  • Timothy A. Carlon, MD
  • Anne M. Cross, MD
  • Ellen M. Gaudlip, MD
  • Rebecca A. Gibson, MD
  • Matthew S. Lucky, DO
  • Manogna N. Manne, DO
  • Anthony J. Marois, MD
  • Allyson C. Metro, MD
  • Kyle E. Nappo, MD
  • Uma B. Pendem, MD
  • Javier A. Piraino, DO
  • Haneen Qunbar
  • Matthew G. Sharp, DO
  • Blake A. Stacey, MD
  • Haley D. Wartman, MD

We are thrilled to have you!

Not a member but would like to be? Joining is simple. Visit our membership center here.

by Joy Avery

General Assembly Passes Third Round of Hurricane Helene Relief

 

The General Assembly has passed a third round of Hurricane Helene relief funding totaling $252 million.

The first two rounds of relief funding by the legislature totaled approximately $922 million. The latest round of funds brings the total commitment to $1.1 billion.

Senate Bill 382’s $252 million in spending includes $220 million to be transferred from the state’s Savings Reserve to the Helene relief fund. There is also around $100 million for local government loans in areas and $100 million in loans for water and wastewater repair projects.

The Helene-related spending includes a number of items, including compensation for education employees for instructional days missed during the hurricane and extension of various waivers on licensing, housing, care facilities, and it also pauses the adoption of the 2024 Building Code for six months to stop regulatory changes from hampering recovery efforts.

The bill takes $50 million from the Office of State Budget and Management’s (OSBM) Disaster Relief Reserve to the Office of Recovery and Resiliency to cover that agency’s recently announced budget gap. The funds will support homeowner recovery projects under the Rebuild NC program for the 2024-25 fiscal year. Per the bill, OSBM will be required to monitor NCORR’s spending and operations. Additionally, the state auditor will conduct financial and performance audits of NCORR by July 1, 2025, and report back to the legislature.

Some of the key spending items include:

  • $25 million for debris removal uses
  • $33.75 million for childcare stabilization grant extensions for the Department of Health and Human Services, Division of Child Development and Early Education
  • $125 million from the Transportation Emergency Reserve for repair and reconstruction of transportation infrastructure in the affected areas
  • $574,578 in recurring funds to adjust funds provided state university institutions, as determined by the UNC enrollment funding model for changes in resident student credit hours.
  • $7,837,646 for UNC enrollment loss mitigation. Broken down that includes $1,364,971 East Carolina University, $1.5 million for the University of North Carolina at Asheville, over $19,000 for University of North Carolina at Greensboro, more than $3.7 million for the University of North Carolina at Pembroke, and over $1.251 million for Winston-Salem State University.

Read the full article here.

by Joy Avery

COVID-19 Vaccine and Reimbursement Guidelines for 2024-2025 for NC Medicaid

 

On June 27, 2024, the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices (ACIP) recommended 2024–2025 COVID-19 vaccination with an FDA-approved or authorized vaccine for ages 6 months and older. On Aug. 22, 2024, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA), approved new COVID-19 vaccines for the 2024-2025 season, FDA: Covid-19 Vaccines. For details on the 2024-2025 Covid-19 vaccines, visit the CDC's MMWR: Use of COVID-19 Vaccines for Persons Aged ≥6 Months: Recommendations of the Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices — United States, 2024–2025.

NC Medicaid will cover the COVID-19 2024-2025 vaccines and CPT codes 91318-91322 with an effective date of Aug. 22, 2024.

The Novavax vaccines for the 2024-25 season under CPT code 91304 are covered with an effective date of Aug. 30, 2024.

COVID-19 vaccines are part of the Vaccines for Children program (VFC) (CDC VFC List) for beneficiaries ages 18 and younger. Based on updated Centers for Medicare and Medicaid (CMS) guidance related to the PREP Act, NC Medicaid will cover pharmacy point-of-sale claims for COVID-19 vaccines for beneficiaries ages 3 and older through Dec. 31, 2024. Beginning Jan. 1, 2025, NC Medicaid will only cover COVID-19 vaccines for beneficiaries ages 19 and older in the pharmacy point-of-sale setting.

Read the full NCDHHS bulletin here.

by Joy Avery

Want to be Part of a Dynamic Team? Join Ours! The North Carolina Medical Society is Hiring!

 

The North Carolina Medical Society (NCMS) is looking for talented, driven individuals to help us shape the future of healthcare in North Carolina. We are currently hiring for two key positions: Coordinator, Association Management and Manager, Financial Operations.

 

Manager, Financial Operations - NCMS Foundation

The Manager, Financial Operations manages day to day financial transactions of the North Carolina Medical Society Foundation (NCMSF) and other affiliated organizations. Processes accounts payable and receivables, reconciles bank statements, performs accounting and audit functions and other financial administration of the Enterprise.

Get a full description of the Manager, Financial Operations - NCMS Foundation position here.

Coordinator, Association Management

The Coordinator, Association Management manages the day-to-day needs of the Association Management department. This department manages and operates 14 component associations. Duties include project coordination, conference and event support, membership recruitment and retention, daily accounting functions, responding to member and prospective member inquiries, and preparation and follow-up activities associated with board and committee meetings.

Get a full description of the Coordinator, Association Management position here.

How to apply:

Send your resume to [email protected].

by Joy Avery

Rates of Postpartum Depression Have Doubled in the Last Decade. Many are Asking Why.

 

Rates of postpartum depression -- a serious mood disorder affecting new moms within the first 12 months after childbirth -- have doubled over the last decade, according to a new study of more than 440,000 people from Kaiser Permanente Southern California. The rate of diagnosis jumped from about 9% in 2010 to 19% in 2021.

This is part of a larger trend. Mental health conditions are now the leading cause of pregnancy-related deaths in the U.S., according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

Postpartum depression symptoms can include persistent feelings of sadness, lack of interest in activities, eating and sleep disturbances and excessive irritability or crying. It's more serious than the temporary and mild sadness of the "baby blues," according to the American Psychiatric Association.

Read the full article here.

by Joy Avery

Join DOCMS at the University Club Wednesday, December 11!

 

Join DOCMS at the University Club!

Wednesday, December 11, 2024 | 6:00pm - 8:00pm

University Club, 3100 Tower Boulevard, Suite 1700 - Durham, NC 27707

AGENDA: 

6:00pm- 6:30pm – Socializing & Housekeeping

6:30pm- 7:30pm – Dinner & Guest Speaker

7:30pm- 7:45pm – Q&A

7:45pm- 8:00pm – DOCMS 2024 Business

"Doctors and Empathic Communication: An Oxymoron?

Reading the Room, the skill you were never taught!"

 

Speaker:

Anthony N Galanos, MA, MD | Professor of Internal Medicine, Duke University

 

Dr. Galanos (Dr G) came to Duke in 1989 to do a Fellowship in Geriatric Medicine and has never left. He started the Ger Med Consult Service at Duke Univ Hospital in 1995 and started Duke Palliative Care in 1998.He retired from Clinical Med in 2023 and has stayed on to teach, debrief and mentor housestaff, Fellows and Faculty. He has always been interested in clinical teaching and often employs role play and rapping to hold the interest of his audience. He is here to demonstrate the efficacy and fun of role play while teaching a concept like “reading the room”.

1 CME Credit is available! Click here for how to claim your credit.

DOCMS Members & Prospective Members - FREE to attend

Guests - $25 to attend (will be collected at meeting site)

by Joy Avery

NCMS Recognizes NCMS Disaster Relief Fund Contributors

A heartfelt THANK YOU to these individuals and organizations for their contribution to the NCMS Disaster Relief Fund. Your generous donation is far more than just a financial contribution; it’s a lifeline for the many affected by Hurricane Helene, and vital in providing support to healthcare professionals and communities impacted by this disaster.

We invite you to spread the word about the NCMS Disaster Relief Fund and stay engaged with us as we work together to help restore our Western North Carolina neighbors.

We are grateful to have you in our community!

 

  • Bangladesh Medical Association of North Carolina
  • Rebecca S. Carlin, MD
  • Carolina Complete Health Inc.
  • Anonymous
  • James M. Provenzale, MD
  • Moulton Family Fund
  • Puraven Beauty and Wellness
  • UBS Financial Services, Inc.
  • Donald P. Wilcox
  • American Medical Association Foundation
  • Atlantic Internal Medicine
  • Amar M. Amaresh, MD
  • Edwin C. Bartlett, Sr., MD
  • Deanna M. Boyette, MD
  • Edwin K. Burkett, MD
  • Cobb County (GA) Medical Society
  • John A. Fagg, MD
  • Barbara Hodde
  • Martha G. Peck, MD
  • Gary Price, MD
  • Eugene E. Wright, Jr., MD
  • Kathy F. Wright
  • Curi
  • Anonymous
  • Christopher T. Grubb, MD
  • Lyndon K. Jordan, III, MD, FACR
  • Katie Lowry, MD, MPH
  • Laura J. Luckadoo, MD
  • Robeson Pediatrics
  • Kirby Sheridan
  • Catherine L. Sotir, MD
  • Vinod C. Vallabh, MD
  • Ian D. Archibald, MD
  • Preecha Bhotiwihok, MD, MPH
  • John W. Black, MD
  • Anonymous
  • Gay M. Bowman
  • Georgi N. Brockway, MD
  • Michael T. Brohawn
  • Anonymous
  • Carolina Complete Health Network
  • Sharon M. Foster, MD, FAAP
  • Donna C. Graves, MD
  • M. Mark Hester, MD
  • Suneya G. Hogarty, DO
  • Marius J. Ilario, MD
  • Linda W. Lawrence, MD
  • Douglas S. McFarlane, MD
  • Mark B. Moeller, MD
  • Anonymous
  • Raleigh Orthopaedic Clinic, PA
  • Timothy J. Reeder, MD, MPH, FACEP
  • Alan J. Rosenbaum, MD
  • Anonymous
  • Marshall Z. Schwartz, MD
  • Douglas D. Sheets, MD, FACOG
  • W. Alan Skipper, CAE
  • Jennifer K. Stoddard, MD
  • STUSQU, PLLC
  • Lisa W. H. Thompson, MD
  • Cheryl L. Walker-McGill, MD, MBA
  • Craig E. Webb, MHS, PA-C
  • Johnathan D. Williams, MD
  • Anonymous
  • Idil Aktan, MD
  • R. D. Almkuist, II, MD
  • American Board of Pediatrics Inc
  • Caroline D. Ames, MD, FACS
  • James H. Antoszyk, MD
  • Joy Avery
  • Timothy M. Beittel, MD
  • Anonymous
  • Anonymous
  • Cedar Mount Behavioral Health, PA
  • Center For Pain Management, PLLC
  • Melissa M. Coale, MD
  • Anonymous
  • Kim D. Dansie, MD
  • Jackie M. Davis-Jones
  • Jessica F. Doerrler, PA
  • Patricia Duncan
  • Peter A. Eweje, MD
  • Mark W. Featherston, MD
  • Anonymous
  • Joanne M. Fruth, MD
  • Lisa M. Gangarosa, MD
  • Highland Medical Associates
  • Anonymous
  • Joseph P. Hunstad, MD, FACS
  • Kitsie Jones
  • Christopher P. Jordan, MD
  • Kerry Kendall
  • Eugenie M. Komives, MD, FAAFP
  • Ted R. Kunstling, MD, FCCP
  • Andrew S. Lamb, MD
  • Keith LaScalea, MD
  • Anonymous
  • Elizabeth G. Livingston, MD
  • Anonymous
  • Laura L. Martinez, MD
  • Darlyne Menscer, MD
  • Ashley Newton
  • J. Thomas Newton, MD
  • Carolyn O'Conor, MD
  • Michael K. Patrick, MD
  • Patricia Petrick, MD
  • Emily Rayes-Prince, MD
  • Anonymous
  • Corianne D. Rogers, MD
  • Nimesh B. Shah, MD
  • Kristen M. Shipherd
  • Maria J. Small, MD
  • Anonymous
  • Michol Stanzione, DO
  • Steele Creek Dermatology
  • Al Steren, MD and Diane Snyder Steren, MD
  • Martha Strange, MD
  • Thomas M. Swantkowski, MD, AGAF, FACG
  • Marian L. Swinker, MD, MPH
  • Christopher L. Tebbit, MD
  • Monecia Thomas, PhD
  • Dimitri G. Trembath, MD
  • Michael J. Utecht, MD, FACEP
  • Lynnea Villanova, MD
  • Bonnie E. Wagner, PA-C
  • Rebecca Y. Weinshilboum, DO
  • Carl J. Westcott, MD
  • Thomas R. White, MD
  • Anonymous
  • Women's HealthCare Consultant PC
  • Nagarjuna Yerra, MD
  • Michael Bartiss, MD / Family Eye Care of the Carolinas
  • David Boone, MD
  • Carolina Complete Health
  • Karl Chiang, MD
  • John Chretien, MD
  • Anonymous
  • Kelly Fedoriw, MD
  • Carolyn Ferree, MD
  • Alison Gardner, MD
  • John Goldfield, MHS, PA-C
  • Akilah Grimes, MD
  • Sandra Jackson / Eastern Pediatrics
  • Matthew Katz, MS / MCK Health Strategies
  • Melissa Kenny
  • Donna McGee, MD
  • Larry Napolitano, Jr., MD
  • Michael P. Reddy-Miller, MD
  • Anonymous
  • Andrew Pasternak, MD
  • Antonio Ramirez, MD
  • Beth Remhof
  • Jennifer Root, MD
  • Richard Savage, MD
  • Anonymous
  • Soma Sengupta, MD
  • Nimesh Shah / Noble Hospitality Investment
  • Amanda Trimpey, MD, MPH, FACOEM
  • Yunxiang Zhu, MD

 

*Please note: List reflects donations received through Tuesday, November 19.

by Joy Avery

Thousands of American Youth Living with Inflammatory Bowel Disease

 

A study published in Gastroenterology provides the most comprehensive assessment to date of pediatric inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) prevalence in the United States.

The research, led by investigators from the Crohn's & Colitis Foundation, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, and the University of Pennsylvania, estimates that more than 100,000 American youth under the age of 20 live with IBD. The study illustrates that the prevalence of pediatric IBD in the U.S. continues to increase and is among the highest worldwide.

This landmark study analyzed data from two commercial insurance claims datasets (Optum's Clinformatics Data Mart database and Carelon Research's Health care Integrated Research Database) and Medicaid data from five states (Florida, New York, Pennsylvania, Ohio, and California), providing a nationally representative picture of physician-diagnosed pediatric IBD across the country.

The researchers utilized a validated combination of medical diagnoses and prescription medications to identify IBD cases, and calculated age-, sex-, and race-specific estimates of IBD prevalence. These estimates were then standardized to the 2020 United States Census to generate national prevalence estimates. The study found an increase of about 22% for Crohn's disease and 29% for ulcerative colitis in the pediatric population compared to 2009 prevalence data.

Continue to full article here.

by Joy Avery

Preparing for Your Thanksgiving Feast? Put Food Safety at the Top of Your List!

The Holidays are a Time for the Three F's: Family, Feasts, and Fun!

 

Whether you’re cooking up a classic turkey dinner, baking mouthwatering desserts, or preparing that famous side dish, food safety should be a priority! As you start to gather your ingredients, be sure to check the FDA’s Recalls, Market Withdrawals, & Safety Alerts list.

Around Thanksgiving and Christmas, rates of foodborne illness tend to rise, often due to the increased handling of raw meats, dairy products, and the large volumes of food being prepared and shared. According to the CDC, 1 in 6 Americans gets sick from foodborne illnesses each year. Though most cases are mild, serious illnesses can lead to hospitalizations or even death.

Common Foodborne Illnesses during the holidays:

  • Salmonella: One of the most common culprits during the holidays, particularly from raw poultry.
  • E. coli: Found in undercooked meat, especially ground beef, E. coli bacteria causes serious stomach cramps and diarrhea. During the holiday season, the USDA noted that over 40% of E. coli outbreaks occurred in December and January.
  • Listeria: Linked to dairy products, deli meats, and even fresh produce, Listeria is particularly dangerous for pregnant women and can lead to miscarriage or severe health complications. The CDC reports that Listeria outbreaks are more likely to be reported in the colder months when foods like cheese and deli meats are more commonly consumed.

Tips for Holiday Food Safety:

  • Pay attention to recalls
  • Thoroughly wash hands and utensils
  • Cook to the proper temperature
  • Refrigerate leftovers (refrigerate within two hours of cooking)

by Joy Avery

Mobile Outreach Unit Delivering Essential Care to Uninsured

image credit: WRAL

 

Meeting patients where they are: That’s the simple but impactful mission behind UNC Health Johnston’s Mobile Outreach Unit.

 

The bus is equipped with various medical equipment, an exam table and a consultation area.

Leah Johnson works as UNC Health Johnston’s community outreach coordinator. She explained the goal of the mobile unit is to serve as the first point of care while connecting patients to primary care physicians and long-term resources.

“We work with the patient from the moment we’re creating their medical chart in our electronic system, to getting them registered for their appointment, connecting them with a physician, helping them figure out how to go to the hospital to get their labs drawn, helping them pay for that and helping them pay for medication if they need it,” shared Johnson.

Registrations for most clinics and screenings are not required.

Many of the walk-in patients Johnson sees are uninsured.

“It feels like all the time we run into diabetics and people with high blood pressure who know they have a diagnosis, who have previously been on medication, but because they’re uninsured they have let their health fall to the wayside,” said Johnson.

The Mobile Outreach Unit holds five urgent care clinics each month spread throughout Johnston County. Clinics are often held on weekends or after hours on weekdays to help with accessibility.

Clinics are open to patients between 6 months and 65 years of age.

Some screenings have additional requirements for eligibility, for example lung cancer screenings through the Mobile Outreach Unit require patients to have a long-term history of smoking.

Read the full article here.

by Joy Avery

It's 'Easier for You' to Renew Your 2025 NCMS Membership

 

The immediate crisis caused by Hurricane Helene in Western North Carolina has subsided. Now, the long journey to full recovery is beginning.

Included on your 2025 invoice is a spot to Round Up When You Renew! The money raised will support your colleagues as they re-build, re-open, and start to care for patients again.

Also, we’ve made it Easier for You to renew your 2025 state, county, and NCMS managed specialty society dues … all on one convenient invoice.

Look for your 2025 Membership Dues Invoice in your inbox or renew online now — and remember “Round Up and Renew” and it’s “Easier for You.”

Renew Today!

by Joy Avery

FDA Approves Revuforj to Treat a Genetic Form of Leukemia

image credit: pharmaphorum

 

 

Just three days after Syndax Pharmaceuticals revealed data from a trial of revumenib in one indication of acute leukemia which chilled investors, the FDA has approved the small molecule in another indication of the disease.

On Friday, the U.S. regulator signed off on Revuforj as the first menin inhibitor to treat a genetic type of leukemia called lysine methyltransferase 2A (KMT2A). The nod applies to patients one year and older with relapsed or refractory leukemias who have rearrangements of the KMT2A gene.

The approval came six weeks ahead of its target date and is the second FDA new drug endorsement for Syndax in the last three months. In August, Syndax and its commercial partner Incyte earned a thumbs up for Niktimvo (axatilimab), a CSF-1R inhibitor to treat chronic graft-versus-host disease (cGVHD) in patients who’ve failed at least two prior lines of systemic therapy.

Continue to full article here.

by Joy Avery

Reminder: Disaster Relief Applications for Health Care Professionals Not Currently Enrolled as an NC Medicaid Provider

 

The NC Department of Health and Human Services is committed to ensuring continued access to care for NC Medicaid beneficiaries, as well as reimbursement to qualified providers for services rendered, in good faith, throughout the period of impacts from Hurricane Helene, retroactively from Sept. 25, 2024, through Dec. 31, 2024, (unless otherwise communicated by DHHS).

  • The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) granted approval effective October 1, 2024, for DHHS to implement a temporary, expedited enrollment process for health care professionals to become an NC Medicaid provider due to a natural disaster. This process is not for providers who regularly see NC Medicaid beneficiaries.

Health care professionals who will be rendering services to NC Medicaid beneficiaries due to Hurricane Helene can complete and submit an application through the NCTracks Provider Portal. Please refer to the disaster provider enrollment job aid Disaster Relief Provider Enrollment Application Job Aid (PRV703) located under Quick Links on the NCTracks Provider Enrollment home page for necessary instructions to complete the temporary disaster provider enrollment application. Be sure to review the job aid before starting to complete the application, as several preliminary steps are necessary.

Providers must indicate the application is for Disaster Relief by answering “Yes” to the Disaster Relief enrollment question on the Online Application page of the application.

Note: This is not for providers who see NC Medicaid beneficiaries on a regular basis.

Please review North Carolina Medicaid Provider Enrollment Disaster Relief and Waiver or Modification of Requirements Under Section 1135 of the Social Security Act from the Secretary of Health and Human Services for additional information.

Information about Governor Cooper’s Declaration of a State of Emergency can be found at Governor Cooper Declares State of Emergency Ahead of Hurricane Helene.

Contact:

  • NCTracks Call Center: 800-688-6696
  • Provider Ombudsman: 866-304-7062, [email protected]

by Joy Avery

Don't Miss Thursday's Medicaid Managed Care Fireside Chat

Medicaid Managed Care Fireside Chat
Thursday, November 21
12:00 p.m. - 1:00 p.m.

 

Please join this month's Fireside Chat on November 21, hosted by Dr. Janelle White, Chief Medical Officer of Medicaid, Medicaid colleagues and CEOs from Standard Plans and Tailored Plans.

Topics will include:

  • Hurricane Helene response and recovery efforts
  • Results from the 2023 Consumer Assessment of Healthcare Providers and Systems
  • Medical Clinical Policy Updates
  • Pharmacy Updates
  • Collaborative Care Capacity Building Program (CoCM)
  • Community Alternatives Program (CAP) Referral Process for Children and Disabled Adults

by Joy Avery

Save the Date: 2nd Annual CoCM Behavioral Health Care Manager Summit

2nd Annual CoCM Behavioral Health Care Manager Summit

May 16, 2025

Conference Center at GTCC | Colfax, NC

 

Mark your calendar for the 2nd Annual Collaborative Care Model (CoCM) Behavioral Health Care Manager (BHCM) Summit, presented jointly by NC AHEC and Southern Regional AHEC. Explore the pivotal role of BHCMs in CoCM and their significant impact.

This summit will feature esteemed national and state CoCM experts, including representatives from the AIMS Center at the University of Washington. Attendees will benefit from insightful presentations by experienced CoCM BHCMs and integrated behavioral health Subject Matter Experts.

Don't miss out on this invaluable training opportunity! Registration details will be available soon.

by Joy Avery

Collaborative Care Model: Problem-Solving Therapy Training

COLLABORATIVE CARE MODEL (CoCM)

Problem-Solving Therapy (PST) Training

December 2 | 9 a.m.-4 p.m.

 

Please join on December 2 from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. at Southern Regional AHEC in Fayetteville to empower your practice with Problem Solving Therapy (PST).

PST is an evidence-based model that employs short interventions to help individuals develop effective coping skills to manage life’s challenges. This six-hour skills-building workshop will give Behavioral Health Care Managers working in Primary Care and Specialty Care settings an understanding of the fundamental principles of Problem-Solving Therapy.

Speaker: Annie McGuire, MS, LMHC, MHA Clinical Trainer & Practice Coach, AIMS Center, University of Washington

Objectives:
• Identify the steps involved in the PST model.
• Explain the role of PST in Collaborative Care Model.
• Describe how PST can improve patient outcomes.
• Demonstrate the application of PST techniques in clinical scenarios.
• Use PST strategies to address common patient issues.
• Evaluate the effectiveness of PST interventions in practice.
• Critique different PST techniques based on patient outcomes.
• Develop personalized PST plans for patients.
• Design innovative solutions to integrate PST into collaborative care.

by Joy Avery

MedBoard Matters Podcast: NC DHHS’s Response to Hurricane Helene

The North Carolina Medical Board's Jean Fisher Brinkley talks with State Health Director Dr. Betsey Tilson about all of the things NC DHHS has been doing to safeguard the health and safety of people impacted by Hurricane Helene, how they are helping licensees safely continue to practice, and more.

 

 

 

Jean Fisher Brinkley

Communications Director, North Carolina Medical Board

Jean Fisher Brinkley is NCMB’s Communications Director, a role that involves developing and overseeing production of communications materials and strategies needed to enhance public and professional awareness and understanding of the Board and its mission. She joined NCMB in 2008, after an 11-year career in newspaper journalism, most of it dedicated to reporting on medicine, health policy and the business aspects of health care.

Brinkley earned a bachelor’s degree in English from Mills College in Oakland, CA, and a master’s degree in journalism from the University of California, Berkeley. She lives in Raleigh with her husband and two daughters.

You can reach Jean at [email protected]

Dr. Betsey Tilson

State Health Director and NC DHHS Chief Medical Officer

Elizabeth Tilson serves North Carolina as the State Health Director and the Chief Medical Officer for the Department of Health and Human Services. In this role, she promotes public health and prevention activities, as well as provides guidance and oversight on a variety of cross-Departmental issues including the COVID-19 Pandemic Response, the Opioid Epidemic, Early Childhood, Medicaid Transformation, and Healthy Opportunities.

Prior roles include serving as the Medical Director of Community Care of Wake and Johnston Counties, Chief Network Medical Director for Community Care of North Carolina, and Assistant Consulting Professor and Cancer Control Specialist with Duke University Medical Center. Dr. Tilson practiced primary care pediatrics for 26 years and has been active in leadership roles in many local, state, and national pediatric, public health and preventive medicine organizations.

Dr. Tilson is a graduate of Dartmouth College (BA), Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine (MD), and the University of North Carolina – Chapel Hill (MPH).  She completed Residencies and is board certified in both Pediatrics and General Preventive Medicine/Public Health.

by Joy Avery

URGENT: Impending Medicare Physician Payment Cut Is Looming

U R G E N T

Impending Medicare Physician Payment Cuts
Impact Survey

 

 

For four consecutive years, Medicare providers have experienced annual payment cuts, while the costs of maintaining a practice and healthcare facilities have increased annually. Another 2.8% payment cut is scheduled for 2025, and practice costs are projected to increase by 3.56% over the next year.

The North Carolina Medical Society continues to engage with members of Congress to find a solution to the growing crisis resulting from these devastating cuts, and we urgently need your assistance in that effort. Help us make our outreach on Capitol Hill more impactful by sharing information on how previous and anticipated cuts have and will affect your practice and your patients.

Please respond to this survey by November 22, 2024. Please also help this effort by circulating this notice and survey with your colleagues. The more responses we receive, the stronger our message.

NOTE: At the end of the survey, we ask for your contact information.  That information will not be shared in any distribution of the survey results without your explicit permission. We need practice/contact information to avoid duplicate entries of responses, since the survey notice will be sent through multiple channels and could generate more than one reply from a practice. We especially need home addresses, which is how individuals' members of Congress are identified. This will enable us to quantify and qualify the impact of Medicare cuts geographically. We respect the confidentiality of your information.

 

by Joy Avery

ALL IN: First Round of Wellbeing First Champion Award Recipients Recognized!

At the North Carolina Medical Society’s LEAD Conference Gala, hospitals and health systems that completed Phase 1 of ALL IN: Caring for North Carolina’s Caregivers initiative were honored on-stage. The Dr. Lorna Breen Heroes’ Foundation CEO Corey Feist, JD, MBA and CMO Stefanie Simmons, MD, FACEP, along with NCMS CEO Chip Baggett, JD, presented these organizations with the Wellbeing First Champion badge.

This year, the North Carolina Clinician and Physician Retention and Well-being (NCCPRW) Consortium and the Dr. Lorna Breen Heroes’ Foundation (DLBHF) launched their partnership with the ALL IN: C4NCC initiative, beginning with Phase 1 – Breaking Down Barriers to Help-Seeking. To qualify for the Wellbeing First Champion badge, hospitals and health systems must remove invasive and stigmatizing mental health language from credentialing applications, addendums, and peer review forms.

Since its launch in April, ALL IN: C4NCC is proud to recognize the following health systems and organizations as Wellbeing First Champions, celebrating their commitment to protecting and prioritizing health worker well-being.

 

 

Tameka Peterson, Vice President, Chief Provider Experience Officer for Credentialing & Medical Staff Operations accepted the award


Nadia Charguia, MD, Executive Medical Director of the Well-being Program at
UNC Health and UNC School of Medicine accepted the award.


Michelle McMoon, PA-C, PhD, Director of Education and Professional Development and Chair of the WakeMed Physicians Practices
Well-being subcommittee and Susan Force, Director of Medical Staff Services accepted the award.

Mike Causey, Commissioner of Insurance accepted the award.

Recognized, but not present.

 

North Carolina is inviting all remaining hospitals, health systems, and practices that credential licensed health workers to go “ALL IN” and join the efforts of NCCPRW and DLBHF. Together, we’re taking steps to improve workplace policies and practices that reduce burnout, normalize help-seeking, and strengthen professional well-being – accelerating impact to improve health workers’ well-being and mental health.

 

 Click here to learn more about ALL IN: Caring for NC Caregiver’s and its 3-phased approach.

by Joy Avery

Make Plans Now! Join NCMS for 2025 National Advocacy Conference

 

Registration is open! 

 

Make your plans today to join us in Washington, DC for the 

AMA’s 2025 National Advocacy Conference

 

2025 National Advocacy Conference

February 10-12, 2025 / Washington, DC

Use these links to Register and 

to secure your Accommodations. 

The 2025 NAC will address urgent health policy issues 

Impacting the medical profession and patients like 

 

Medicare payment reform 

Workforce challenges 

Prior Authorization 

 

Make plans today to be part of our North Carolina team 

Headed to Capitol Hill in February.  Your support matters! 

If you have more questions, contact Alan Skipper, NCMS VP External Affairs, [email protected]

Do you know your state and federal legislators? More importantly, do your legislators know you?
The NCMS can help you connect with policy makers as a constituent and advocate!

 

by Joy Avery

Shine-A-Light on Lung Cancer Event is Tuesday. Make Plans to Attend Today!

 

Lung cancer continues to be one of the most common cancers in America, and it is the leading cause of cancer deaths annually.

The American Cancer Society estimates about 234,580 new cases of lung cancer will be diagnosed in 2024, while about 125,000 will die from the disease. These numbers are more than colon, breast and prostate cancers combined.

In partnership with GO2 Foundation for Lung Cancer, FirstHealth will host its annual Shine-A-Light event at 5:30 p.m. on November 19 at the FirstHealth Cancer Center located at 135 Page Road North, Pinehurst, N.C.

The event is free and open to the public and will include a presentation about clinical trials at FirstHealth. The research treatment opportunities at FirstHealth are part of the same research treatment opportunities that you would find at the country’s leading academic hospitals.

Event attendees will also be able to take part in a lighting ceremony.

FirstHealth’s event will be one of more than 200 similar events held across the country during November, which is Lung Cancer Awareness Month.

For more information or to register for FirstHealth’s Shine a Light on Lung Cancer event or to register, call 800-213-3284. For more information on cancer services provided by FirstHealth of the Carolinas, visit nccancercare.org. [source]

by Joy Avery

It's 'Easier for You' to Renew Your 2025 NCMS Membership

 

The immediate crisis caused by Hurricane Helene in Western North Carolina has subsided. Now, the long journey to full recovery is beginning.

Included on your 2025 invoice is a spot to Round Up When You Renew! The money raised will support your colleagues as they re-build, re-open, and start to care for patients again.

Also, we’ve made it Easier for You to renew your 2025 state, county, and NCMS managed specialty society dues … all on one convenient invoice.

Look for your 2025 Membership Dues Invoice in your inbox or renew online now — and remember “Round Up and Renew” and it’s “Easier for You.”

Renew Today!

by Joy Avery

Hurricane Helene Disaster Response: Help for Helpers. Because You are NOT Alone!

 

In a disaster, it's essential that first responders and volunteers have the resources they need—when and where they need them.

If you are a first responder or volunteer experiencing stress, emotional fatigue, a mental health crisis or just need someone to talk to, you can call the Hope4NC Helpline, 1-855-587-3463. Hope4NC is free, confidential, and available 24/7.

Hope4NC is a Crisis Counseling Program which will provide immediate support and crisis counseling services for responders and volunteers providing Hurricane Helene disaster response.

by Joy Avery

HHS Releases Sexually Transmitted Infections Progress Report and Herpes Simplex Virus Addendum

 

The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) released the 2021–2023 Progress Report - PDF for the Sexually Transmitted Infections National Strategic Plan for the United States: 2021–2025. The progress report provides a high-level overview of progress on select federal agency programs, policies, research, and other activities during fiscal years 2021–2023.

The progress report features an at-a-glance table of the status of seven core indicators and seven disparities indicators, which were identified in the national plan as a quantitative approach to measuring progress on STI prevention and care in the United States. The most recently available data reveal that seven of the indicators have met or are moving toward annual targets and that seven have not met or are moving away from annual targets. Of this latter group, six indicators relate to syphilis, which is the focus of the National Syphilis and Congenital Syphilis Syndemic Federal Task Force led by HHS Assistant Secretary for Health, Admiral Rachel Levine, M.D.

“These data serve as a call to action for continued collaboration in our national response to STIs,” said Admiral Levine.“ Through education, awareness, and increased access to care, we can improve outcomes of syphilis, and other STIs, and safeguard the health of communities across our nation.”

Building on federal efforts to meaningfully prevent and control STIs in the United States, the Herpes Simplex Virus (HSV) Addendum to STI National Strategic Plan sets a unified national response to HSV. HSV is a lifelong condition that spreads primarily from skin-to-skin contact and is one of the most common STIs in the United States. Most people with HSV are asymptomatic and undiagnosed. For those who are symptomatic, HSV can cause recurring outbreaks of painful sores on the mouth or genital areas, and the stigma associated with HSV can significantly impact quality of life.

HSV was not initially included in the national strategy, which focused on chlamydia, gonorrhea, syphilis, and human papillomavirus. This is because the plan originally focused on STIs in the United States for which there are federally funded control programs. Additionally, HSV is not a nationally notifiable condition and there is no existing national surveillance system for HSV or neonatal herpes to measure progress. Likewise, diagnosing genital herpes can be challenging, since many people do not have symptoms.

“HSV is a critical priority for us. Future iterations of the STI Plan will incorporate HSV within its purview. HHS will work with communities who are underserved and disproportionately affected to prevent HSV and improve access to care, while also advancing health equity and reducing stigma,” said Kaye Hayes, Deputy Assistant Secretary for Infectious Disease and the Director of the Office of Infectious Disease and HIV/AIDS Policy.

The development of the HSV Addendum was guided by principles focused on integrating the latest science; prioritizing federal actions; leveraging existing infrastructure, capacity, and resources; and coordinating action between national, state, territorial, tribal, and local community organizations and members. [source]

Read the 2021–2023 STI Progress Report - PDF
Read the HSV Addendum - PDF
Read the STI Federal Implementation Plan - PDF
Read the STI National Strategic Plan - PDF

by Joy Avery

Join the American Indian Respiratory Health Initiative Fireside Chat and Tele-town Hall on November 14

 

The North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services, in collaboration with the North Carolina Commission of Indian Affairs, will host a live fireside chat and tele-town hall on Thursday, November 14, from 6 to 7 p.m., to discuss the updated flu and COVID-19 vaccines and other steps to protect tribal communities against severe respiratory illness, hospitalization and long-term respiratory health complications. Panelists will also discuss ways people can find nearby health care providers and access care, as well as how to access free or low-cost vaccines.

The town hall is part of an ongoing initiative to raise awareness of respiratory illnesses, promote vaccination and improve the overall health of American Indian communities throughout North Carolina. The initiative is guided by a newly formed American Indian Respiratory Health Advisory Group, composed of leaders and health care providers throughout North Carolina’s tribal communities.

Event participants include:

  • Greg Bryant, Health Committee Chairperson, North Carolina Commission of Indian Affairs
  • Katie Lowry, M.D., MPH, Pediatrician, Robeson Pediatrics
  • Aiyana Lynch, Development & Marketing Director, The CARE Clinic

The fireside chat will stream live from the NCDHHS Facebook and YouTube accounts, where viewers can submit questions. The event also includes a tele-town hall, which invites people by phone to listen in and submit questions. People can also dial into the event by calling 855-756-7520 Ext.114212#.

The American Indian community is among those most severely impacted by respiratory viruses — double that of white, non-Hispanic individuals. Seasonal vaccines are the best way to prevent people ages 6 months and older from experiencing severe cases of flu and COVID-19, especially for those who are at a higher risk of complications from the viruses. This includes people who are under 5 and those 65 and older, pregnant and/or living with chronic medical conditions. Updated vaccines are needed even if individuals have received vaccinations in the past. The updated vaccines were developed to protect against current virus strains.

In addition to flu and COVID-19 vaccines, RSV vaccines are now available for older adults and pregnant women. Some babies and children under 2 may also need to receive an immunization to help build protection against RSV.

Testing and treatment are available to catch virus cases early and help prevent severe illness. Reach out to a health care provider as soon as symptoms begin to test for the flu, COVID-19 or RSV and see if treatment is needed.

Visit MySpot.nc.gov for information, guidance and resources on seasonal vaccines and how they support respiratory health. [source]

by Joy Avery

Diabetes Performance Improvement in Primary Care

Diabetes Performance Improvement in Primary Care - Enduring
Online Self-Paced Learning

Free for the first 100 to register!

Complete at your own pace

 

This educational activity aims to inform the learner about the status of diabetes and chronic kidney disease in primary care. This activity will explore barriers and facilitators to promote patient engagement in treatment. This activity will focus on performance improvement methods and activities which promote health among patients with diabetes.

Objectives

  • Describe barriers and strategies for clinical care teams in the screening, diagnosis, and treatment of patients with diabetes and chronic kidney disease (CKD).
  • Utilize new methods to identify how diabetes and CKD disproportionately affect racial and ethnic minorities in clinical workflows.
  • Explain processes for screening, diagnosis, and raising awareness about diabetes and its connection to chronic kidney disease (CKD).

For more information and to register, click here.

by Joy Avery

North Carolina Hospitals See Surge in Pediatric Pneumonia Cases

‘A-typical pneumonia’ is landing more children in Triangle-area hospitals for treatment.

Mycoplasma pneumonia, often referred to as ‘a-typical pneumonia’ is landing more children in Triangle-area hospitals for treatment.

It’s the same kind of bacteria that causes walking pneumonia.

Dr. Zachary Willis, UNC Children’s pediatric infectious disease specialist, explained the case volume the area is currently seeing is “a bit unusual.”

“Commonly, we would see it in older children and teenagers but recently we’re seeing it more in younger children which is something of a surprise,” Willis said. “Children as young as 2 years old we’re seeing with us.”

Willis explained that most who get sick with this type of pneumonia can recover on their own.

“There is no vaccine for this specific type of infection but there are antibiotics that are effective,” Willis said.

UNC Hospitals reports 40 positive cases of mycoplasma pneumonia were reported during the last week of October 2024. During that same period last year, zero cases were detected.

Read the full article here.

by Joy Avery

Join the Community Alternatives Program Fall Provider Webinar

 

NC Medicaid Long Term Services and Supports (LTSS) will host a Fall Provider webinar on Community Alternatives Program (CAP) services Wednesday, November 20, 2024, from 9 a.m. to 12 p.m.

Providers who support Community Alternatives Program for Children (CAP/C) and Community Alternatives Program for Disabled Adults (CAP/DA) Medicaid beneficiaries enrolled in NC Medicaid Direct will receive updates and have an opportunity to ask questions.

To register, visit the NCLIFTSS (Acentra) web page.

The webinar will cover:

  • Hurricane Helene disaster recovery efforts
  • CAP Population Census and Health Disparity Report
    • Proposed data to display on the CAP Dashboard
    • CAP/DA waitlist management process
  • CAP/DA Renewal Waiver update
  • CAP/C Utilization of attendant nursing care (ANC), pediatric nurse aide (PNA) and In-home aide (IHA) services in combination with other Medicaid and waiver services
  • CAP Measurements of Continuous Quality Improvement Strategies

Contact: NCLIFTSS (Acentra) or 833-522-5429

by Joy Avery

Register Now! PANS and Related Inflammatory Brain Disorders – Advances in Immunopsychiatry

Join Us for On-Demand CME –Free to North Carolina Physicians

 

PANS and Related Inflammatory Brain Disorders: Advances in Immunopsychiatry features nationally and internationally renowned experts skilled in diagnostic and therapeutic approaches who will present a diverse range of emerging clinical and research challenges, insights, and advances in the field of inflammatory brain disorders.

 

Download the pdf here.

by Joy Avery

NCDHHS: Notification Required for Change of Ownership

Enrolled providers must notify the Department at least 30 days prior to the effective date of a change of ownership.

 

Consistent with state and federal law, NCDHHS requires notification of any change of ownership (CHOW) for providers enrolled as a NC Medicaid provider. The enrolled provider must notify the Department at least 30 days prior to the effective date of any CHOW.

Providers will need to complete the Provider Change of Ownership Disclosure Form. The form is located on the NCTracks Providers webpage under Quick Links.

Once the form is downloaded, the Provider will need to:

  1. Complete all applicable fields within the CHOW form
  2. Email the form and any supporting documentation to [email protected]

In addition to submitting the Disclosure Form, both the former and new owner must make changes to the provider’s NCTracks enrollment record.  For information regarding the enrollment, termination or modification of the NCTracks Provider Enrollment record due to a CHOW, review the Change of Ownership (CHOW) FAQs and follow the instructions as applicable to the intended structure of the NCTracks enrollment record under the new owner.

Questions? Contact: NCTracks Call Center: 800-688-6696

by Joy Avery

Joy, Giving, and Community Spirit: 20th Annual Cheers! for Brenner Children's Hospital

 

The 20th Annual Cheers! for Brenner Children's Hospital will take place Friday, November 15, at the Millennium Center in downtown Winston-Salem.

Organizers are promising an extraordinary evening filled with joy, giving and community spirit. The event is presented by Simply Southern, which has committed to match all funds raised, up to $150,000, amplifying the impact of each dollar donated.

Atrium Health Levine Children’s Brenner Children's Hospital in Winston-Salem, a full-service children’s hospital serving western North Carolina, is the Triad region’s only children’s hospital, pediatric emergency department, Level I children’s surgery center and Level I pediatric trauma center, a distinction it has held since 2011 when it became the first in the state.

Since its inception in 2005, Cheers! has raised over $3 million, with funds helping Brenner Children's Hospital deliver critical services, advance research and ensure that every patient receives exceptional care. Over the years, this beloved event has become a heartfelt tradition, bringing together generous individuals, former patients, families and friends, all united in support of Brenner Children’s Hospital’s mission.

To celebrate its 20th anniversary, Cheers! will feature an array of activities, including a seated dinner, specialty cocktails and both live and silent auctions. The evening will conclude with an energetic late-night silent disco, providing a unique experience to cap off a memorable night.

“As we celebrate 20 years of Cheers! for Brenner Children's Hospital, we’re reminded of the incredible impact our community’s support has had," said Lisa Marshall, chief philanthropy officer and vice president at Atrium Health Wake Forest Baptist. "This longstanding generosity has allowed us to expand our reach and elevate our services, ensuring that we can continue making a profound difference in the lives of countless children and families. Together, we’re building a legacy of hope that grows stronger every year."

More information about the 20th annual Cheers! for Brenner Children's Hospital, including ticket sales and sponsorship opportunities, can be found at BrennerChildrens.org/Cheers.

“We encourage our community to join us on Friday, Nov. 15 for an unforgettable evening of celebration, unity, and philanthropy as we work together to make a difference in the lives of children in need,” Marshall said. [source]

by Joy Avery

Enhanced Breast Cancer Screening for Women with Dense Breast Tissue

 

AdventHealth Hendersonville is excited to announce the availability of contrast-enhanced mammography (CEM) for patients in Western North Carolina, particularly benefiting women with dense breast tissue. The CEM is available through AdventHealth Imaging Hendersonville’s Hologic 3Dimensions® mammography system.

Recent research has shown that standard mammography can be 30% to 40% less sensitive in women with dense breast tissue. Studies prove that contrast-enhanced mammography is especially effective on dense breasts because it is unaffected by background breast tissue, making it an easier and more effective exam.

In the U.S., mammograms are recommended yearly or bi-yearly for people aged 40 to 74.

According to the National Cancer Institute, nearly half of women 40 and older who get mammograms have dense breasts. For women with dense breast tissue, or women with a high risk of cancer, contrast-enhanced mammography offers the ability to find cancer earlier.

With contrast-enhanced mammography before the patient has the imaging scans, they are given contrast dye through an IV. This dye shows up in the scans and allows for cancer to be recognized at the earliest possible stages. Contrast-enhanced mammography is also proven to reduce the number of biopsies on women who might not have cancer.

AdventHealth encourages women who are interested in this new cancer screening and diagnostic tool to talk with their doctor to find out if contrast-enhanced mammography is the right option for them. Patients may qualify for CEM cancer screening if they have dense breast tissue, intermediate risk of cancer, or are at high risk but do not qualify for MRI or would prefer CEM.

Extended Imaging Hours:

To make it easier for patients to receive the imaging services they need, AdventHealth now offers Extended Imaging Hours at our hospital in Hendersonville. Patients can call 828-681-2180 to schedule imaging appointments until 8 pm on Tuesdays and Thursdays.

AdventHealth Hendersonville is committed to providing comprehensive cancer care you can count on. With this new state-of-the-art cancer screening and diagnostic tool, women in WNC can have peace-of-mind knowing that AdventHealth is making it easier and more convenient to catch their cancer early.

To learn more or schedule an appointment, visit AdventHealthWNC.com or call 828-681-2180. [source]

by Joy Avery

Register Now! Psychiatric Presentations with a Neuroimmune Basis ECHO

Neuroimmune Foundation has partnered with Project ECHO® – an internationally recognized platform with over one million learners in 45+ countries focused on over 1000 medical conditions, to offer weekly didactics and case-based learning to physicians worldwide.

 

Download the pdf document here.

by Joy Avery

🎉It's New Member Monday!🎉

Join us in welcoming these new members to the North Carolina Medical Society!

 

  • Ian Adam, MD
  • Catherine M. Alexander, MD
  • Yonghee K. Cho, MD
  • Nicola S. Corbett, MD
  • Jakub M. Dmochowski, MD
  • Michael B. Geary, MD
  • John W. Henderson, II, DO
  • Andrew S. Hodge, DO
  • Kyle C. Lambert, PA-C
  • David M. Macknet, MD
  • Lauren S. Mokris, MD
  • Jessica R. Swavely, DO
  • Trishna Chand Thakur, MD
  • Paul R. Weaver, DO

We are thrilled to have you!

Not a member but would like to be? Joining is simple. Visit our membership center here.

by Joy Avery

A Message from the U.S. Surgeon General’s Office: Protecting the Wellbeing of the Clinical Workforce

 

A Message from the U.S. Surgeon General’s Office

 

“We know that better is not only possible but is vital before any more lives are lost among us or impacted further by the stigma that surrounds mental health. Health workers, in particular, now more than ever, deserve the care, treatment, and support they need, whenever they need it, and without any shame or fear of losing their health professional licenses, jobs, even careers.”

 

Jeane Garcia Davis, MSN/MPH, RN

Deputy Director for Science and Policy

U.S. Surgeon General’s Office

 

Jeane Garcia Davis, Deputy Director for Science and Policy at the U.S. Surgeon General’s Office, shares a video message with North Carolina physicians, PAs, trainees, residents, and students. In her message, she underscores national efforts to protect the wellbeing of the clinical workforce, highlighting landmark policies and investments aimed at transforming structures, systems, and workplace cultures. She emphasizes that the wellbeing of our nations and state’s health workers is just as vital as that of the patients they care for.

 

by Joy Avery

Key Stretch of Blue Ridge Parkway Reopens After Hurricane Helene Damage

 

Hurricane Helene carved a path of devastation across the southeastern United States in September and left areas like the Blue Ridge Mountains around Asheville, North Carolina in complete destruction. Now, less than two months later, an important part of the scenic Blue Ridge Parkway is once again open to drivers.

On November 6, the Blue Ridge Parkway announced that it reopened an 11-mile stretch of the famous road near Asheville. The newly reopened portion reaches from milepost 382.5 at U.S. 70 near the Folk Art Center to milepost 393.6 at NC Route 191 near the North Carolina Arboretum and the French Broad Overlook at milepost 393.8.

Continue reading here.

by Joy Avery

NCMS Recognizes NCMS Disaster Relief Fund Contributors

A heartfelt THANK YOU to these individuals and organizations for their contribution to the NCMS Disaster Relief Fund. Your generous donation is far more than just a financial contribution; it’s a lifeline for the many affected by Hurricane Helene, and vital in providing support to healthcare professionals and communities impacted by this disaster.

We invite you to spread the word about the NCMS Disaster Relief Fund and stay engaged with us as we work together to help restore our Western North Carolina neighbors.

We are grateful to have you in our community!

 

  • American Medical Association Foundation
  • Atlantic Internal Medicine
  • Amar M. Amaresh, MD
  • Edwin C. Bartlett, Sr., MD
  • Deanna M. Boyette, MD
  • Edwin K. Burkett, MD
  • Cobb County (GA) Medical Society
  • John A. Fagg, MD
  • Barbara Hodde
  • Martha G. Peck, MD
  • Gary Price, MD
  • Eugene E. Wright, Jr., MD
  • Kathy F. Wright
  • Curi
  • Anonymous
  • Christopher T. Grubb, MD
  • Lyndon K. Jordan, III, MD, FACR
  • Katie Lowry, MD, MPH
  • Laura J. Luckadoo, MD
  • Robeson Pediatrics
  • Kirby Sheridan
  • Catherine L. Sotir, MD
  • Vinod C. Vallabh, MD
  • Ian D. Archibald, MD
  • Preecha Bhotiwihok, MD, MPH
  • John W. Black, MD
  • Anonymous
  • Gay M. Bowman
  • Georgi N. Brockway, MD
  • Michael T. Brohawn
  • Anonymous
  • Carolina Complete Health Network
  • Sharon M. Foster, MD, FAAP
  • Donna C. Graves, MD
  • M. Mark Hester, MD
  • Suneya G. Hogarty, DO
  • Marius J. Ilario, MD
  • Linda W. Lawrence, MD
  • Douglas S. McFarlane, MD
  • Mark B. Moeller, MD
  • Anonymous
  • Raleigh Orthopaedic Clinic, PA
  • Timothy J. Reeder, MD, MPH, FACEP
  • Alan J. Rosenbaum, MD
  • Anonymous
  • Marshall Z. Schwartz, MD
  • Douglas D. Sheets, MD, FACOG
  • W. Alan Skipper, CAE
  • Jennifer K. Stoddard, MD
  • STUSQU, PLLC
  • Lisa W. H. Thompson, MD
  • Cheryl L. Walker-McGill, MD, MBA
  • Craig E. Webb, MHS, PA-C
  • Johnathan D. Williams, MD
  • Anonymous
  • Idil Aktan, MD
  • R. D. Almkuist, II, MD
  • American Board of Pediatrics Inc
  • Caroline D. Ames, MD, FACS
  • James H. Antoszyk, MD
  • Joy Avery
  • Timothy M. Beittel, MD
  • Anonymous
  • Anonymous
  • Cedar Mount Behavioral Health, PA
  • Center For Pain Management, PLLC
  • Melissa M. Coale, MD
  • Anonymous
  • Kim D. Dansie, MD
  • Jackie M. Davis-Jones
  • Jessica F. Doerrler, PA
  • Patricia Duncan
  • Peter A. Eweje, MD
  • Mark W. Featherston, MD
  • Anonymous
  • Joanne M. Fruth, MD
  • Lisa M. Gangarosa, MD
  • Highland Medical Associates
  • Anonymous
  • Joseph P. Hunstad, MD, FACS
  • Kitsie Jones
  • Christopher P. Jordan, MD
  • Kerry Kendall
  • Eugenie M. Komives, MD, FAAFP
  • Ted R. Kunstling, MD, FCCP
  • Andrew S. Lamb, MD
  • Keith LaScalea, MD
  • Anonymous
  • Elizabeth G. Livingston, MD
  • Anonymous
  • Laura L. Martinez, MD
  • Darlyne Menscer, MD
  • Ashley Newton
  • J. Thomas Newton, MD
  • Carolyn O'Conor, MD
  • Michael K. Patrick, MD
  • Patricia Petrick, MD
  • Emily Rayes-Prince, MD
  • Anonymous
  • Corianne D. Rogers, MD
  • Nimesh B. Shah, MD
  • Kristen M. Shipherd
  • Maria J. Small, MD
  • Anonymous
  • Michol Stanzione, DO
  • Steele Creek Dermatology
  • Al Steren, MD and Diane Snyder Steren, MD
  • Martha Strange, MD
  • Thomas M. Swantkowski, MD, AGAF, FACG
  • Marian L. Swinker, MD, MPH
  • Christopher L. Tebbit, MD
  • Monecia Thomas, PhD
  • Dimitri G. Trembath, MD
  • Michael J. Utecht, MD, FACEP
  • Lynnea Villanova, MD
  • Bonnie E. Wagner, PA-C
  • Rebecca Y. Weinshilboum, DO
  • Carl J. Westcott, MD
  • Thomas R. White, MD
  • Anonymous
  • Women's HealthCare Consultant PC
  • Nagarjuna Yerra, MD
  • Michael Bartiss, MD / Family Eye Care of the Carolinas
  • David Boone, MD
  • Carolina Complete Health
  • Karl Chiang, MD
  • John Chretien, MD
  • Anonymous
  • Kelly Fedoriw, MD
  • Carolyn Ferree, MD
  • Alison Gardner, MD
  • John Goldfield, MHS, PA-C
  • Akilah Grimes, MD
  • Sandra Jackson / Eastern Pediatrics
  • Matthew Katz, MS / MCK Health Strategies
  • Melissa Kenny
  • Donna McGee, MD
  • Larry Napolitano, Jr., MD
  • Michael P. Reddy-Miller, MD
  • Anonymous
  • Andrew Pasternak, MD
  • Antonio Ramirez, MD
  • Beth Remhof
  • Jennifer Root, MD
  • Richard Savage, MD
  • Anonymous
  • Soma Sengupta, MD
  • Nimesh Shah / Noble Hospitality Investment
  • Amanda Trimpey, MD, MPH, FACOEM
  • Yunxiang Zhu, MD

 

*Please note: List reflects donations received through Tuesday, November 5.

by Joy Avery

Best Practices for Implementing a New EHR System

 

Join Seppo Rinne, MD, PhD, as he explores practical strategies for navigating the complex process of transitioning to a new electronic health record (EHR) system. Drawing on real-world experiences from organizations that have successfully implemented EHR changes, learn how to manage the challenges of EHR transitions to enhance workflow efficiency and improve patient care. From initial preparation to system optimization, this session will provide actionable steps for health care administrators, informaticists, clinical leaders, and frontline clinicians and include a live Q&A moderated by Jill Jin, MD, MPH.

Learn more and register here.

by Joy Avery

Register Now! Medicaid Managed Care Fireside Chat.

 

 

Medicaid Managed Care Fireside Chat
Thursday, November 21
12:00 p.m. - 1:00 p.m.

 

Please join this month's Fireside Chat on November 21, hosted by Dr. Janelle White, Chief Medical Officer of Medicaid, Medicaid colleagues and CEOs from Standard Plans and Tailored Plans.

Topics will include:

  • Hurricane Helene response and recovery efforts
  • Results from the 2023 Consumer Assessment of Healthcare Providers and Systems
  • Medical Clinical Policy Updates
  • Pharmacy Updates
  • Collaborative Care Capacity Building Program (CoCM)
  • Community Alternatives Program (CAP) Referral Process for Children and Disabled Adults

by Joy Avery

Downed Trees Prompt Wildfire Concerns in Western NC

 

Trees were strewn about like sticks across western North Carolina after Hurricane Helene brought torrential water currents rushing through valleys.

Now those same washed-out trees and brush are causing concern for wildfires.

The North Carolina Forest Service said this weekend that the potential for increased wildfire activity is above normal in November.

“In the aftermath of [Helene], the amount of fuel on the ground is excessive. Smaller diameter fuels and leaf litter will quickly dry out,” the Forest Service wrote on Facebook.

In addition to the fallen debris providing numerous kindling opportunities, the forest service says they’ll have trouble responding to fires if they break out.

“Damage to roads, unstable, and downed trees will continue to challenge response, making it difficult for first responders to access some wildfires, which increases the potential for large wildfires in the most heavily impacted areas,” the forest service wrote.

Channel 9′s Dave Faherty spoke with a forester with the NCFS who said there’s still a lot of work to be done after Helene.

“We’re expecting people to do more burning this fall. We are worried about access with landowner roads and small woods roads that landowners say they have not had the time to clean out yet,” said Eve Ciotti with the NC Forest Service. ”So if a wildfire does occur we are worried about getting to that fire.”

The forest service says November is one of their busiest months. Last year they had 2,000 wildfires across the state, and 1,200 of them were in the month of November.

But despite the risk, there’s still the need to burn safely. Gary Miller and his son were working to clear trees on their property near Colletsville, but there are so many that they’ll have to cut them up and burn them sometime in the next month.

“We’re going to burn,” Miller told Faherty. “We have to get a burning permit, do everything like we’re supposed to, so we don’t endanger anyone else’s property.”

They say they’re waiting for some rain before setting fire to the fallen trees. Since the storm hit more than five weeks ago, there has been very little rain here.

Some parts of western North Carolina are currently in early drought stages. The NCFS said it’s important to keep an eye on the weather. The agency reminded residents to not burn anything on dry and windy days.

You can find more tips to prevent wildfires at this link. [source]

by Joy Avery

NC Clinician and Physician Retention and Well-being Consortium LEAD Highlights!

 

 

At the recent LEAD Conference, the North Carolina Clinician and Physician Retention and Well-being (NCCPRW) Consortium reaffirmed its dedication to improving the professional well-being of healthcare workers across the state. Earlier this year, NCCPRW joined forces with the Dr. Lorna Breen Heroes’ Foundation (DLBHF) to launch the ALL IN: Caring for North Carolina’s Caregivers initiative.

On Saturday, DLBHF CEO Corey Feist, JD, MBA and CMO Stefanie Simmons, MD, FACEP addressed conference attendees to share progress on Phase 1 of ALL IN: C4NCC and preview Phases 2 & 3 of the initiative. Phase 1, which began in April, called on hospitals and health systems to remove invasive and stigmatizing mental health language from credentialing applications, addendums, and peer review forms.

Since April, five North Carolina Health Systems, representing 45 hospitals and benefiting 14,000 credentialed health workers, along with the NC Department of Insurance, have audited, changed, and verified that their credentialing applications are free from intrusive and stigmatizing questions regarding mental health conditions and treatment.

We recognize the following recipients as Wellbeing First Champions:

  • HCA Healthcare
  • Novant Health
  • Sentara Health
  • UNC Health
  • WakeMed Health & Hospitals
  • NC Department of Insurance
    • revised its Uniform Credentialing Application, enabling many hospitals across the state that use this form to benefit from the change and further update their own supplemental forms.

 

 

 

Corey Feist, CEO of the Dr. Lorna Breen Heroes’ Foundation addresses LEAD attendees during Saturday afternoons session hosted by the NC Clinician and Physician Retention and Well-being Consortium.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

In the latter part of the NCCPRW Consortium session, Dr. Stefanie Simmons led a panel discussion titled “Leading Sustainable Systems-Change for a Healthy Workforce.” Panelists included Dr. Christina Bowen, Chief Wellbeing Officer at ECU Health; Dr. Nadia Charguia, Executive Medical Director of the Wellbeing Program at UNC Health and Medical School; and Dr. Jeffrey Hatcher, Chair of Physician Professionalism at Cone Health. They shared evidence-informed strategies being used within their organizations to drive and accelerate structural reforms, along with practical advice on initiating changes when resources and budgets are limited.

From left-right: panelists Jeffrey Hatcher, MD, FACP, Cone Health; Nadia Charguia, MD, UNC Health and Medical School; Christina Bowen, MD, ECU Health; moderator Stefanie Simmons, MD, FACEP, Dr. Lorna Breen Heroes’ Foundation.

 

Be sure to continue checking Morning Rounds, as we share more photos and details from a weekend of recognition and celebration!

by Joy Avery