Christopher Morris, MD, Appointed to SMA’s Education Committee

September 17, 2026 // Southern Medical Association

The Southern Medical Association (SMA) is pleased to announce that Christopher Morris, MD, has been appointed to the Association’s Education Committee.

A board-certified rheumatologist with more than 25 years of experience, Dr. Morris is in private practice at Arthritis Associates in Kingsport, Tennessee. He received his undergraduate degree from Tulane University and his medical degree from the Universidad Autónoma de Guadalajara. He completed his internship and residency at the University of Tennessee Medical Center in Knoxville and rheumatology fellowships at Bowman Gray School of Medicine and the Medical College of Georgia. Dr. Morris also has served as a clinical educator for internal medicine residents at East Tennessee State University and affiliated hospitals in Tennessee and Virginia.

Dr. Morris has been involved with SMA since presenting his first paper at an SMA meeting in Nashville in 1990. Over the years, he has served the Association in numerous leadership and volunteer capacities, including as Chair of the Education Committee in 2018 and as SMA President from 2020–2021. He also has contributed to numerous SMA educational programs and served as host of SMA’s SMArtBowl medical trivia competition.

“Education has always been an important part of my involvement with SMA, from presenting my first paper more than 35 years ago to serving as Education Committee Chair and later as President,” said Dr. Morris. “I am pleased to become more actively involved with SMA again and look forward to helping develop educational programs that support our members and advance the Association’s mission.”

Sangeetha Isaac, MD, Appointed to SMA’s Education Committee

September 17, 2026 // Southern Medical Association

The Southern Medical Association (SMA) is pleased to announce that Sangeetha Isaac, MD, has been appointed to the Association’s Education Committee.

Dr. Isaac is an Assistant Professor of Medicine in the Division of Hematology and Oncology at the University of Missouri, specializing in genitourinary oncology. She completed her Hematology and Oncology fellowship at East Carolina University and has trained and practiced in India, Singapore, and the United States, providing her with a broad perspective on medical education and physician training across diverse healthcare systems.

Throughout her career, Dr. Isaac has been actively involved in the education and mentorship of medical students, residents, and fellows through bedside teaching, didactic instruction, curriculum development, mentorship, and scholarly activities. She has a particular interest in creating accessible, high-quality educational experiences that encourage professional growth and lifelong learning.

Dr. Isaac also serves as Chair of SMA’s IMG Support & Advocacy Ad Hoc Committee and previously served as Chair of the Physicians-in-Training Committee. In her current role, she has led the development of educational and mentoring initiatives for international medical graduates, including the Fellowship Forward Mentorship Program and Residency Forward educational series.

“As a member of SMA’s Education Committee, I look forward to collaborating with colleagues to develop innovative, high-quality educational programming that promotes lifelong learning and professional growth,” said Dr. Isaac. “I am pleased to have the opportunity to contribute to SMA’s educational mission and its commitment to supporting physician education and professional excellence.”

Haya Kidwai, BARSC-MD, Appointed to SMA’s Physicians-in-Training Committee

September 16, 2026 // Southern Medical Association

The Southern Medical Association (SMA) is pleased to announce the appointment of Haya Kidwai, BARSC-MD, to SMA’s Physician-in-Training (PIT) Committee.

Haya is a second-year medical student at the University of South Carolina School of Medicine Columbia. She completed her undergraduate education at the University of South Carolina Honors College as part of the University’s seven-year BS/MD program, graduating summa cum laude.

She has been involved in research throughout her undergraduate and medical education, with experience spanning clinical and basic science projects in areas including wound healing, language development, and cancer screening. Her work has included undergraduate thesis research as well as clinical research at Gibbs Cancer Institute.

In addition to her research, Haya is active in student leadership, mentorship, advocacy, and community outreach. She serves as Treasurer of the American Medical Association chapter at her institution and is a member of the AMA Region 4 Policy Committee. Haya also serves as Legislative Chair of the South Carolina Dermatology Trainee Advocacy Group, Vice President of the American Medical Women’s Association chapter and Dermatology Interest Group, and as a mentor to first-year medical students. Most recently, she established a chapter of the national SPOTS (Sun Protection Outreach Teaching by Students) organization at her institution and serves as President of this volunteer community outreach program.

“I am excited to serve on SMA’s Physicians-in-Training Committee and to advocate for medical students and trainees throughout all stages of their training,” Haya said. “I am especially passionate about helping trainees connect with meaningful opportunities for mentorship, research, leadership, and service, and I look forward to helping ensure they are aware of the resources and opportunities available to support their professional growth.”

Posted in: Physicians-in-Training

Hello Sono: October 27 POCUS Webinar Spotlight

September 15, 2026 // Southern Medical Association

The Southern Medical Association (SMA) is pleased to welcome Tatiana Havryliuk, MD, founder of Hello Sono, as the featured presenter for the complimentary webinar, Everyday Uses for Ocular Ultrasound, taking place on Tuesday, October 27.

A straightforward, practical session on using ultrasound to evaluate acute visual changes, distinguish common posterior-chamber pathologies, and support safe decision making when ophthalmology isn’t immediately available. You’ll walk away understanding:

When ocular ultrasound is most helpful.
How to obtain safe, reliable ocular views.
What normal retinal and vitreous anatomy looks like.
Key findings such as vitreous hemorrhage, retinal detachment, and increased optic nerve sheath diameter.
How results guide urgency, consultation, and patient disposition.

Date: Tuesday, October 27, 2026
Time: 11:30 am CDT/12:30 pm EDT
Click Here to Register

Feel free to share this post and invite your colleagues!

About Dr. Havryliuk
Dr. Tatiana Havryliuk is an emergency physician and founder of Hello Sono. With 15 years of experience using POCUS in diverse settings, from urban EDs to Everest Base Camp, she is dedicated to extending its benefits to more patients. With Hello Sono, she and her team support practices in building compliant, high-quality, and profitable POCUS programs through tailored education and implementation.

Posted in: POCUS

Constellation Quality Health: September 2026 ECHO Session Presenter Spotlight

September 14, 2026 // Southern Medical Association

Join the next Hypertension & Cardiovascular Disease Interdisciplinary ECHO session!

On Thursday, September 24, 2026, from 12:00–1:00 p.m. EST, Lisa Foglia, MD will highlight the implementation of a cardiac risk assessment quality improvement initiative at the Mountain Area Health Education Center (MAHEC), an FQHC in Western North Carolina.

Participants will explore workflows, screening tools, referral pathways, and team-based approaches that support early identification of pregnant and postpartum patients at risk for cardiac conditions. The session will focus on feasible, scalable interventions that can be integrated into routine obstetric care to strengthen care coordination, improve timely escalation and referral, and advance maternal health outcomes in resource-limited settings.

Register Now: https://iecho.org/public/program/PRGM1708971721668ATTEUOM16N

Free Credits Offered: eg, CHES, MCHES, CPH, CHW

Southern Medical Association designates this educational activity for a maximum of 1 AMA PRA Category 1 Credit ™. Physicians should claim only the credit commensurate with the extent of their participation in the activity.

This activity has been planned and implemented in accordance with the accreditation requirements and policies of the Accreditation Council for Continuing Medical Education (ACCME) through the joint providership of Southern Medical Association and Constellation Quality Health. The Southern Medical Association is accredited by the ACCME to provide continuing medical education for physicians.

About Constellation Quality Health
Constellation Quality Health, formerly known as CCME, is a leading health care quality organization dedicated to bringing clarity and insight to the big picture in health care. Through cutting-edge technology, data analytics, and deep industry expertise, Constellation Quality Health provides actionable insights and strategic guidance to improve system performance while providing patient-centered, cost-effective care. For more information, please visit www.constellationqualityhealth.org.

Posted in: CQH Collaborative Partner News

American Journal of Hypertension Announces 2nd Hypertension Summer School

September 13, 2026 // Southern Medical Association

The American Journal of Hypertension (AJH) will host its 2nd Hypertension Summer School, July 22–26, 2027, at Loyola University in Chicago, Illinois. Registration opens January 1, 2027.

Designed to bring together trainees, clinicians, and investigators with an interest in hypertension, the Summer School offers an opportunity for participants to learn from experts while building connections with colleagues and the next generation of hypertension scientists and educators. The program may also be valuable for clinicians and basic scientists who are shifting the direction of their research and want to strengthen their understanding of principles, concepts, and emerging techniques in hypertension research.

The program will include scientific lectures from experts; workshops addressing topics such as artificial intelligence, drug discovery, and blood pressure measurement; and a “Know Your Professional Self” series. Participants will explore hypertension from basic, clinical, and population perspectives while benefiting from opportunities for community, inspiration, and professional development.

The Summer School is open to graduate students, postdoctoral fellows, medical students, residents, established investigators, and clinicians. AJH will provide room, food, and some financial support for travel.

Download the Program Flyer

Posted in: Physicians-in-Training

Dr. Philip Hartman, MD, Elected as President-Elect Designate

September 8, 2026 // Southern Medical Association

The Southern Medical Association (SMA) is pleased to announce that Philip Hartman, MD, has been elected as President-Elect Designate.

The SMA membership recently voted and Dr. Hartman will serve as the 2026 President-Elect Designate and will begin his term during SMA's Annual Scientific Assembly November 6-7, 2026, in Houston, Texas. Dr. Hartman will serve as the Association’s President in 2028-2029.

“Dr. Hartman has long been a dedicated leader within SMA, generously contributing his time, experience, and perspective in support of our Association and its members,” noted SMA Executive Director Randy Glick. “His continued commitment to SMA’s mission, its members, and the future of the organization makes him exceptionally well suited to serve once again in this important leadership role.”

100 Words: SMA President Dr. David Netscher’s September Message

September 1, 2026 // David Netscher, MD

The members, the mission—who better to narrate mission accomplishment than Cady Coleman, retired NASA astronaut and U.S. Air Force colonel? We see the end product, from lift-off to safe return, but do not always appreciate preparation and cogs in the wheel that accomplish the mission. SMA’s standing committees include Education, Burn Planning, Physicians-in-Training, and Awards and Scholarships, with the IMG Support & Advocacy Ad Hoc Committee and initiatives including SMA Connect, Residency and Fellowship Forward Programs, and Mentoring. Our members are our strength through connection, contribution, and commitment. Please continue advancing SMA’s mission and vision through participation and leadership.

David Netscher, MD
SMA President, 2025-2026

These 100-word messages serve as a way to keep SMA members connected throughout the year. Each montly installment will offer a thoughtful overview of SMA’s work, recognize the people who strengthen our community, and highlight timely updates across the Association.

Posted in: Annual Scientific Assembly

“The Missing Referral – When to Consult a Physiatrist” — Southern Medicine Podcast is Now Available

August 24, 2026 // Southern Medical Association

In this episode of the “Southern Medicine Podcast,” Aaron Yang, MD, and G. Waldon Garriss III, MD, MS, MBA, MHA, FAAP, MACP, discuss the field of physical medicine and rehabilitation, exploring its role in collaborative patient care, evolving approaches to treatment, and practical insights that physicians across a wide range of specialties can apply when caring for patients with musculoskeletal and other rehabilitation needs.

About the Podcast Guests

Dr. Aaron Yang is an Associate Professor and Vice Chair of Faculty Development in the Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation (PM&R) department at Vanderbilt University Medical Center where his practice focuses on musculoskeletal and spine conditions. Additionally he currently serves as the Associate Program Director for the PM&R residency program and Course Director for medical student rotations.

Dr. G. Waldon Garriss is a Professor of Medicine and Pediatrics at Vanderbilt University Medical Center. A Med-Peds physician and educator, he has devoted his career to patient care, physician training, and graduate medical education leadership. He currently serves as SMA's President-Elect Designate and has been an active leader in advancing physician education and professional development throughout his career.

Join SMA in Houston for the 2026 Annual Scientific Assembly

August 19, 2026 // Southern Medical Association

The 2026 Southern Medical Association Annual Scientific Assembly brings physicians, healthcare professionals, residents, fellows, and medical students together in Houston this November for timely, evidence-based education, hands-on learning, and opportunities to connect with colleagues from across the healthcare community.

Taking place November 6–7 at the TMC³ Collaborative Building in Helix Park, with an optional preconference POCUS Bootcamp on November 5, this year’s Assembly offers attendees the opportunity to earn up to 21.5 hours of CME.

From responsible pain management and patient safety to physician well-being and career development, the Assembly is designed to provide practical knowledge and strategies that can be applied across specialties and practice settings. Nationally recognized speakers, expert panels, emerging research, and interactive learning will explore some of the most important issues facing physicians and healthcare professionals today.

Pain Management & Opioid Use: 1.25 Hours

Explore patient-centered approaches to pain management through sessions addressing multidisciplinary care, regenerative medicine, drug repurposing, and musculoskeletal care.

Medical Ethics & Physician Well-Being: 3.0 Hours

Gain practical insights into professional resilience, work-life balance, ethical decision-making, interdisciplinary collaboration, and building a fulfilling, sustainable career in medicine.

Patient Safety: 8.25 Hours

Explore evidence-based approaches to patient safety through education addressing healthy aging, fall prevention, concussion assessment, musculoskeletal care, nutrition, point-of-care ultrasound, surgical decision-making, and chronic disease management.

Optional Pre-Assembly POCUS Bootcamp*: 6.0 Hours

Get an early start on the Assembly with a hands-on Point-of-Care Ultrasound (POCUS) Bootcamp on November 5. Participants will build bedside ultrasound skills through focused instruction, hands-on scanning, and procedural applications. *Separate fee required. Space is limited.

Preview the Assembly on YouTube

Want a closer look at what awaits you in Houston? Visit SMA’s Assembly and Assembly Highlights YouTube playlists to hear directly from featured speakers and preview the ideas, innovations, and practical insights they will bring to this year’s program.

The video conversations explore topics such as leadership and resilience, caring for elite athletes, concussion assessment, musculoskeletal ultrasound, multidisciplinary collaboration, drug repurposing, tissue repair, and physician well-being.

Connect and Celebrate in Houston

The Assembly experience continues beyond the educational sessions, with two special ticketed events offering opportunities to reconnect with colleagues, make new connections, and celebrate the SMA community.
(Tickets may be purchased separately during registration).

On Friday evening, members and guests will gather at Daikin Park, home of the Houston Astros, for the Members Reception featuring food, drinks, live music, and time to enjoy the ballpark setting. Transportation will be provided from the Blossom Hotel Houston.

On Saturday evening, the Assembly will conclude at the Blossom Hotel with the SMA Annual Dinner and Member Recognition. This year’s theme, Houston Nights: Celebrating Our Members, Our Mission, Our Momentum, sets the stage for an evening recognizing excellence, celebrating SMA members, and honoring the shared mission that brings the Association together.

Make Plans to Join Us

Whether you are a longtime Assembly attendee or joining us for the first time, Houston offers an opportunity to learn from leading experts, gain practical insights for your practice, connect with colleagues, and be part of the SMA community.

Exclusive member registration rates are available, along with special joining-member rates that include Assembly registration and one full year of SMA membership.

Come for the education. Stay for the connections, celebration, and inspiration.

Join us in November at the TMC³ Collaborative Building in Houston.
Explore the program, watch speaker previews, and register today!

Posted in: Annual Scientific Assembly

Call for SMA Education Committee Members

August 18, 2026 // Southern Medical Association

The Southern Medical Association (SMA) is currently seeking members to join our Education Committee. As a committee member, you'll play a pivotal role in shaping the future of medical education.

To be considered, you must be a dues-paying member in good standing who has a desire to fulfill the Committee’s charge to “...oversee the development of all educational activities and programming for the Association to ensure the Association fulfills its stated CME mission.”

The Education Committee will serve the Association through content review, content recommendation, speaker recommendation and procurement, as well as offer direction with regard to grants and sponsorships.

Commitment

Commit to a 1-year term of service
Attend at least 1 committee conference/Zoom call per year
Respond to Committee-related emails within 24-48 hours
Respond to online voting initiatives (eg, ballots, resolutions) within 5 days
Review conference abstracts
Review content for conflicts of interest (accredited education)
Assist with faculty/speaker recommendations and procurement
Conduct podcast/webinar interviews

Benefits of Service

Recognition on the SMA website
Opportunities to develop curricula and educational programming
Sharing your expertise to help guide the future generation of healthcare providers

Together, we can develop relevant educational programs, foster learning across specialties and disciplines, and contribute to the field of medicine.

If you're ready to make a difference and help shape SMA’s educational landscape, please click "Apply Now" and sign in to complete the application.

Apply Now

IMG Spotlight: Shaheem Ur Rehman

August 18, 2026 // Southern Medical Association

My IMG Story
By Shaheem Ur Rehman

I am an international medical graduate from Pakistan whose journey to residency in the United States reflects perseverance, adaptability, and a strong commitment to clinical excellence. I graduated from Fazaia Medical College, Islamabad, in 2022, an institution affiliated with the Pakistan Air Force, where I developed a strong foundation in clinical medicine and patient care.

My journey toward residency was shaped by persistence and resilience. Coming from a medical school without a strong international alumni network, the pathway was particularly challenging, with repeated rejections and setbacks. However, I remained consistent in my efforts, driven by the belief that determination and hard work would eventually open doors.

Throughout this process, I committed myself not only to advancing my own career but also to making the journey easier for other international medical graduates. I actively pursued opportunities despite obstacles, eventually securing U.S. clinical experiences that strengthened my application and prepared me for residency training.

My perseverance was rewarded when I matched into an Internal Medicine residency at Baptist Memorial Medical Education in the Golden Triangle region of Mississippi. This milestone represents not only a personal achievement but also the culmination of years of dedication, resilience, and continuous effort.

Staying true to my guiding principle of “making things easier for IMGs,” I have since taken an active role in mentoring and guiding other international medical graduates. I have conducted educational sessions covering the full USMLE pathway—from exam preparation and securing U.S. clinical experience to residency application strategy and interview preparation. Through these initiatives, I aim to support IMGs navigating similar challenges and share the lessons learned from my own journey.

I have joined the SMA IMG community with the same mission: to contribute, support, and simplify the pathway for future international medical graduates striving to achieve residency training in the United States.

“Every rejection I faced became part of the path that prepared me for where I am today. My goal now is to make that path less difficult for the next IMG coming after me.”

Dr. Rehman is a member of SMA's IMG Support & Advocacy Ad Hoc Committee.

Posted in: IMG

Help Shape the Next Generation of Physicians as a PIT Mentor

August 18, 2026 // Southern Medical Association

The Southern Medical Association (SMA) is pleased to reintroduce the SMA Physicians-In-Training (PIT) Mentoring Program, an initiative that aims to foster development and growth of both established physician or physician-in-training mentors and physician-in-training mentees through promoting genuine, long-term relationships among individuals with differing levels of experience in the medical field.

This program pairs medical students and/or residents with experienced mentors—including current fellows, junior faculty, and senior residents who have successfully matched—to provide structured guidance, practical insights, and personalized support. Through this mentorship, participants will gain greater clarity, strengthen their applications, and build confidence as they pursue their next step in their medical journey.

Eligibility Requirements
Participants must be active SMA members to enroll in the program. Not yet a member? Join SMA today to access the application and take part in this valuable opportunity.

Now Accepting Applications
We invite you to apply as a mentor and contribute to an initiative designed to foster development and growth for both mentors and mentees.

Apply

Posted in: Physicians-in-Training

Prepare for Residency: September Webinar Sessions for IMGs

August 18, 2026 // Southern Medical Association

The Southern Medical Association’s IMG Support and Advocacy Ad Hoc Committee invites international medical graduates to participate in a series of webinars offering practical guidance for navigating the U.S. residency application and Match process.

This September, three consecutive Wednesday sessions will address key stages of the residency journey—from building a competitive application and developing strong application materials to preparing for interviews and navigating the Match. Each session begins at 12:00 pm Central.

Building a Competitive Residency Application

September 2, 2026 | 12:00 pm Central
Guest Speaker: Arsalan Z. Iqbal, MD
Register for the Sept. 2 Webinar

This session will provide a comprehensive overview of the U.S. residency application process, with particular attention to the challenges and opportunities faced by international medical graduates. Participants will learn how to strategically approach the application process, identify factors that strengthen their candidacy, and develop a well-rounded application that effectively communicates their experiences, accomplishments, and readiness for residency training.

About the Speaker: Dr. Iqbal is an Internal Medicine resident at Magnolia Regional Health Center and an international medical graduate with clinical research experience at the University of Mississippi and University of Michigan. A member of SMA’s IMG Support and Advocacy Committee, he is committed to mentoring and supporting IMGs pursuing residency training in the United States.

CV, Personal Statement, and Letters of Recommendation

September 9, 2026 | 12:00 pm Central
Guest Speaker: Samhitha Gundakaram, MD
Register for the Sept. 9 Webinar

This session will focus on three key components of the residency application: the curriculum vitae, personal statement, and letters of recommendation. Participants will learn how to present their experiences effectively, develop a compelling personal narrative, and understand the role of strong letters of recommendation in supporting their candidacy. The session will also highlight common mistakes and practical strategies for creating a cohesive and professional application.

About the Speaker: Dr. Gundakaram is a PGY-3 Internal Medicine resident and member of SMA’s IMG Support and Advocacy Committee, where she leads the Mentorship and Networking Subcommittee. An international medical graduate, she also co-developed SMA’s Fellowship Forward Mentorship Program and has experience mentoring IMG applicants.

Interview Preparation and Match Strategy

September 16, 2026 | 12:00 pm Central
Guest Speaker: Amna Bint I. Munir, MD
Register for the Sept. 16 Webinar

This session will prepare applicants to navigate residency interviews and the subsequent Match process with confidence. Participants will learn strategies for effective interview preparation and communication, approaches to common and challenging interview questions, and professional follow-up. The session will also address rank-order list considerations and practical strategies for navigating the Match process as an international medical graduate.

About the Speaker: Dr. Munir is a PGY-3 Internal Medicine resident at North Alabama Medical Center and an international medical graduate. Through SMA’s IMG Support and Advocacy Committee, she has helped develop mentorship and educational initiatives for IMGs, including Fellowship Forward, and is leading efforts to develop Residency Forward.

These September webinars are part of SMA’s ongoing efforts to provide international medical graduates with practical education, mentorship, and resources as they pursue training and professional opportunities in the United States.

Posted in: IMG

“Sports Medicine Beyond the Sidelines: Collaboration, Innovation, and Caring for Active Patients” — Southern Medicine Podcast is Now Available

August 12, 2026 // Southern Medical Association

In this episode of the “Southern Medicine Podcast,” Ashley Karpinos, MD, MPH, FAAP, FACP, and G. Waldon Garriss III, MD, MS, MBA, MHA, FAAP, MACP, explore the evolving field of sports medicine, taking a closer look at training pathways and common injuries, as well as treatment approaches and the role of the sports medicine physician. Their conversation also highlights interdisciplinary care, emerging trends, and practical considerations for physicians caring for athletes and physically active patients

About the Podcast Guests

Dr. Ashley Karpinos is an Associate Professor of Medicine, Pediatrics, and Orthopaedic Surgery at Vanderbilt University Medical Center. She serves as Program Director of the Medicine-Pediatrics Residency Program, practices primary care and sports medicine, and is a team physician for Vanderbilt Athletics. Her clinical and academic interests include the primary care of athletes, female athlete health, and resident education and mentorship.

Posted in: Southern Medicine

Top 16 Winners Announced for the 2026 Virtual Abstract Competition

August 11, 2026 // Southern Medical Association

Congratulations to the Top 16 Winners of SMA’s 2026 Virtual Abstract Competition!

With more than 50 abstracts presented during the August 4–6, 2026 virtual event, physicians-in-training from 33 medical schools and residency programs showcased their research and connected with peers. SMA extends its appreciation to every participant whose contributions made this year’s competition a success.

“We are incredibly proud of the talented medical students and residents who participated in this year’s competition and shared such engaging case presentations and insights into the latest developments in medicine and health care,” said SMA Executive Director Randy Glick. “Each presenter deserves recognition for the dedication and preparation they brought to the competition, and we commend them for contributing to the success of this year’s event.”

Top 16 Abstract Winners
Listed in alphabetical order

Muhammad Awan, BS
Alabama College of Osteopathic Medicine
Herpes Zoster Ophthalmicus Presenting with Suspected Orbital Myositis Following Recent Recombinant Zoster Vaccination

Kelly Bates, BA
Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine
Pregnancy Outcomes After Gynecologic Surgery with COSEAL

Racha Cherradi, BS
Texas A&M University Naresh K. Vashisht College of Medicine
Disease-specific risk of hematologic malignancy in autoimmune bullous diseases

Varun Indugula BS, MS
UNC School of Medicine
Evaluating Patient Screening for an Anti-Tau Clinical Trial for Early-Onset Alzheimer’s Disease

Marianne Koleng, MS
Nova Southeastern University
The Role of Magnesium and Zinc Deficiencies in Exacerbating Interleukin-6 (IL-6) Metabolic Dysfunction-Associated Steatotic Liver Disease (MASLD)

Joshua Lewis, BS
Alabama College of Osteopathic Medicine
The Impact of Gender-Affirming Hormone Therapy on Healing and Complications Following Burn Injury

Agostino Loiacono, MD
HCA Houston Clear Lake / University of Houston
The Diagnostic Decoy: Acute Retroviral Syndrome Presenting as Fever and Myalgias in the Setting of Rhabdomyolysis

Rachel Lusk, BS
South Alabama College of Medicine
Unmasking the Trigger: Reactive Infectious Mucocutaneous Eruption Secondary to Parainfluenza Virus Type 2

Matthew Lynch, BS
University of Florida College of Medicine
Synchrony and Safety: Toward a Neurobiological Model of Therapeutic Alliance

Monisha Krishna Murthy, MD
University of Tennessee Health Science Center
Familial Left Ventricular Noncompaction Presenting as Advanced Systolic Heart Failure: A Missed Opportunity for Genetic Evaluation

Teresa Nguyen, DO
Carilion Clinic Internal Medicine Residency
Linezolid Toxicity: A Case of Linezolid-Induced Pancytopenia

Jessica Olatt, BS
University of Tennessee Health Science Center
An Uncommon Presentation of Legionnaires’ Disease: Neurologic Symptoms and Acute Kidney Injury Preceding Respiratory Symptoms

Michael Roque, BS
UAB Heersink School of Medicine
Implementing Vision Education in a Student-Run Free Clinic to Promote Eye Care Behaviors

Abdul-Ahad Sheikh
University of Missouri - Kansas City
An Expanding Reliance: The Growing Role of Vascular Surgeons at the Center of Modern Trauma Care

Zachary Tucker, MS
Alabama College of Osteopathic Medicine
Multiple Trocar-Site Hernias Following Robot-Assisted Incisional Hernia Repair: A Case Report

Nithin Yenugu, MD
HCA Houston Healthcare
Mycoplasma pneumoniae Presenting as Intestinal Pseudo-Obstruction: A Rare Extrapulmonary Manifestation

WHAT'S NEXT FOR THE WINNERS?
The winners will be contaced by SMA regarding the logistics of presenting their abstracts in person at SMA’s Annual Scientific Assembly taking place November 6-7, 2026 in Houston, Texas, to compete for more than $4,000 in monetary prizes.

Posted in: Physicians-in-Training

Rula Freiji, MD, MPH, Appointed to SMA’s Education Committee

August 10, 2026 // Southern Medical Association

The Southern Medical Association (SMA) is pleased to announce that Rula Freiji, MD, MPH, has been appointed to the Association’s Education Committee.

Dr. Freiji is a pediatrician and pediatric infectious diseases specialist with extensive experience in hospital-based and outpatient care, infectious disease consultation, and preventive health. She earned her medical degree from Emory University School of Medicine, where she also completed her pediatric residency and fellowship training in pediatric infectious diseases. She later earned a Master of Public Health with a focus in international health and epidemiology.

Throughout her career, Dr. Freiji has demonstrated a strong commitment to education, prevention, and community health, including mentoring medical and other healthcare professional students and providing educational programs for parents, healthcare professionals, and communities.

"I am particularly interested in preventive health, especially through healthy nutrition and how we can best promote good habits in families,” Dr. Freiji said. “We are seeing more patients with obesity at younger ages, along with increasing rates of type 2 diabetes." She also has a strong interest in promoting healthier, less processed foods and increasing awareness of how artificial ingredients may potentially affect long-term health.

Dr. Freiji looks forward to bringing her clinical, public health, and educational experience to the Committee and contributing to educational initiatives that promote prevention and healthier outcomes for patients and families.

6th Annual Marie Skłodowska-Curie Symposium on Cancer Research and Care: Call for Abstracts

August 7, 2026 // Southern Medical Association

The goal of this symposium is to promote collaboration between cancer care researchers and care providers, biotech, pharma, nonprofit organizations and policymakers from the United States, Canada, and countries of Central and Eastern Europe, to accelerate the development and clinical testing of new cancer treatments and improving cancer care.

Abstract Submission Details

Submit an Abstract

Categories that will be considered:

Genomics
Immunotherapies
Vaccines and Prevention
Melanoma
Soft Tissue Sarcoma
Women’s Health
GU
GI

Word Limit: 250 words

Submission Format: Oral and Poster - 10-minute presentations each

Submission Instructions: To submit an abstract, you must have an SMA account. If need assistance with creating your free subscriber account, please contact [email protected]. SMA membership is not required to submit an abstract.

Deadline to Submit an Abstract: September 11, 2026, at 11:59 p.m. CDT
Click HERE to submit an abstract.

If you have any questions, please contact:
Caroline Loftis
Southern Medical Association
E-mail: [email protected]
Phone: (205) 421-4177

Posted in: Partner News

Hello Sono: August 25 POCUS Webinar Spotlight

August 6, 2026 // Southern Medical Association

The Southern Medical Association (SMA) is pleased to welcome Tatiana Havryliuk, MD, founder of Hello Sono, as the featured presenter for the complimentary webinar, Gallbladder Ultrasound for Everyday Practice, taking place on Tuesday, August 25.

This 30-minute session provides a practical overview of utilizing bedside ultrasound for biliary evaluations. It highlights how POCUS delivers immediate diagnostic value by enabling accurate identification of gallbladder anatomy, precise differentiation between stable stones and acute inflammation, and confident, real-time clinical decisions that streamline patient management. You’ll walk away understanding:

When gallbladder ultrasound is most helpful
How to obtain clear gallbladder views at the bedside
What normal gallbladder anatomy looks like
Key findings such as gallstones, wall thickening, pericholecystic fluid, and a sonographic Murphy’s sign

Date: Tuesday, August 25, 2026
Time: 11:30 am CDT/12:30 pm EDT
Click Here to Register

Feel free to share this post and invite your colleagues!

Posted in: POCUS

Dr. Michael Longaker Selected as the 2026 Moreton Research Award Recipient

August 3, 2026 // Southern Medical Association

The Southern Medical Association is pleased to announce that Michael Longaker, MD, MBA, DSc(hon), has been selected as the 2026 recipient of the Dr. Robert D. and Alma W. Moreton Research Award to be presented at this year’s Annual Scientific Assembly in Houston, Texas.

Dr. Longaker is the Deane P. and Louise Mitchell Professor of Surgery at Stanford University School of Medicine. His research focuses on wound repair and fibrosis, particularly the biological differences between fetal and postnatal wound healing. Over more than three decades, his work has helped advance understanding of scar formation, tissue regeneration, and the role mechanical forces play in the healing process.

His research has also contributed significantly to the fields of fibroblast biology and skeletal stem cells. His laboratory identified both mouse and human skeletal stem cells and has explored their roles in fracture repair, cartilage regeneration, bone healing, and disease. Dr. Longaker's work in fibrosis extends across multiple tissues and organ systems, with the broader goal of better understanding the mechanisms of healing and regeneration.

With more than 1,400 scientific papers to his credit, Dr. Longaker is also an inventor on more than 100 issued or pending patents and patent applications. His numerous honors include the Medallion for Scientific Achievement from the American Surgical Association and the Lifetime Achievement Award from the Society of University Surgeons. He is a member of both the National Academy of Medicine and the National Academy of Sciences.

Dr. Longaker will present the Moreton Lecture on Friday, November 6, 2026 during SMA’s Annual Scientific Assembly. His lecture, is titled “Toward a Unifying Hypothesis for Fibrosis”.

Posted in: Annual Scientific Assembly

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