Videos from SMA’s 2nd Annual Virtual Abstract Competition Available on YouTube

SMA is excited to announce that videos from the 2nd Annual Virtual Abstract Competition are now available for viewing on YouTube. We are grateful to all of the talented physicians-in-training who contributed their work and shared their insights. Their presentations represent hours of hard work and a deep commitment to advancing medical knowledge.

SMA also extends its appreciation to the medical schools and training programs that supported these participants, fostering an environment that encourages research and collaboration.

Randy Glick, SMA Executive Director, remarked, "We’re proud of each and every one of these physicians-in-training who dedicated their time and effort to participate in the competition. Their dedication to research and advancing their knowledge shines through in these presentations, and it’s inspiring to see such promising work from future leaders in medicine."

Visit SMA's YouTube channel and click on the VAC 2024 playlist to view the videos and support these outstanding future physicians!

Congratulations to SMA’s 2024 Annual Scientific Assembly Abstract Winners

Southern Medical Association Announces Recipients of the 2024 Dr. Donna Breen Scholarships

The Southern Medical Association (SMA) is proud to announce the recipients of the 2024 Dr. Donna Breen Scholarships, awarded during SMA’s Annual Scientific Assembly held October 24-26 in Atlanta, Georgia. Thanks to the extraordinary generosity of Dr. Donna Breen, MD, FACS, SMA’s 2021-2022 President, these scholarships, each valued at $2,250, have been awarded to Madison Thornton, a fourth-year MD/MPH student at Tulane University School of Medicine in New Orleans, and Ben Loftis, a third-year medical student at the University of South Alabama’s Frederick P. Whiddon College of Medicine.

Madison is applying to Internal Medicine-Pediatrics (Med-Peds) programs and has a passion for adult congenital cardiology. Her career aspirations include advancing academic medicine, contributing to medical education and mentorship, and advocating for public health.

Ben has served as a leader in SMA’s Physicians-in-Training Personal Development and Wellness Subcommittee, where he is dedicated to supporting the well-being of future healthcare professionals. He is also involved in research on provider wellness and burnout and has held roles as orientation leader for an incoming class and President of the Calm Nutrition Group.

"Dr. Breen’s remarkable generosity has allowed SMA to invest in deserving students like Madison and Ben, individuals committed to advancing medicine and bettering patient care," said SMA Executive Director Randy Glick. "We are deeply grateful to Dr. Breen for her continued leadership and support."

SMA extends warmest congratulations to both recipients and appreciates the commitment of all applicants who strive to make a difference in their communities. It is through generous donations, as well as contributions to SMA’s Research and Education Endowment Fund, which has provided more than $3.7 million in financial support through scientific research grants, loans, and medical student scholarships. To learn more or to donate, please visit https://sma.org/research-and-education/

Ben Loftis and Madison Thornton
with Dr. Donna Breen

Southern Medical Association Announces Recipients of the Society of 1906 and Society of 1924 Scholarship Awards

The Southern Medical Association (SMA) is proud to announce the recipients of its prestigious Society of 1906 and Society of 1924 Scholarships, awarded during SMA’s Annual Scientific Assembly held October 24-26 in Atlanta, Georgia. These scholarships, each in the amount of $2500.00,  are presented annually to medical students who demonstrate exceptional academic achievement, leadership, and a commitment to advancing health care.

This year’s Society of 1906 Scholarship, commemorating the founding of the Southern Medical Association, has been awarded to Charissa Obeng-Nyarko of the Florida State University College of Medicine. Charissa graduated from Florida Agricultural and Mechanical University in 2017, after which she completed a two-year fellowship at the National Institutes of Health, where she contributed to translational research and gained clinical experience with diverse patient populations. This experience deepened her desire to pursue a career in medicine and she plans to pursue residency training to become an academic dermatologist following medical school. Although Charissa wasn't able to attend the presentation ceremony in person, she sent a sincere message, thanking SMA for her scholarship.

Shivani Jain

The Society of 1924 Scholarship, which celebrates the establishment of the SMA Alliance, has been awarded to Shivani Jain from Louisiana State University Health Sciences Center in New Orleans. Shivani is completing her MD training at LSUHSC, having previously earned her undergraduate degree in Biology and Sociology. She has also completed graduate training in Medical Genetics, Epidemiology, and Global Health, show- casing her commitment to healthcare improvement across disciplines. 

"Each year, we are inspired by the dedication and vision of this year’s recipients,” said Randy Glick, SMA Executive Director. "These scholarships serve as an investment in the next generation of healthcare leaders, supporting their education and empowering them to make lasting impacts in their chosen fields. We are honored to support Charissa and Shivani as they continue their journeys in medicine.”

The SMA extends heartfelt congratulations to both recipients and appreciates the commitment of all applicants who strive to make a difference in their communities. The Society of 1906 and Society of 1924 Scholarships are made possible through generous contributions to the SMA’s Research and Education Endowment Fund, which has provided more than $3.7 million in financial support through scientific research grants, loans, and medical student scholarships. To learn more or to donate, please visit https://sma.org/research-and-education/.

SMA Celebrates Partnership with Constellation Quality Health, as Constellation Awards Scholarships to Future Medical Leaders

The Southern Medical Association (SMA) is proud to recognize Constellation Quality Health for its generous support of the next generation of healthcare professionals. During SMA’s Annual Scientific Assembly, held October 24-26, 2024, in Atlanta, Georgia, Constellation Quality Health awarded two $2,500 scholarships to outstanding third-year medical students.

Michael
Chuvanjyan

The first scholarship, the Constellation Quality Health Scholarship, was awarded to Michael Chuvanjyan from the University of Central Florida College of Medicine in acknowledgment of his exceptional academic performance and dedication to patient care.

Brendan
Rosamond

The second scholarship, the Constellation Quality Health Donald J. DiPette Scholarship, was presented to Brendan Rosamond from the University of Houston Tilman J. Fertitta Family College of Medicine honoring his commitment to the field of medicine. This  scholarship is named in honor of Dr. Donald J. DiPette, a distinguished leader within SMA and the  medical community, known for his unwavering dedication to medical education.

Although neither student could attend the presentation ceremony in person, Michael and Brendan each sent a heartfelt message, thanking Constellation Quality Health and SMA.

Randy Glick, Executive Director of the Southern Medical Association, stated, “We are thrilled to celebrate the achievements of these talented students and to recognize the invaluable partnership we have with Constellation Quality Health. Their support plays a crucial role in promoting the education and development of our future healthcare providers, and we are proud to honor the legacy of Dr. DiPette, who has been a guiding force in advancing medical education, as well as SMA.”

Steven Martin, President and CEO of Constellation Quality Health, commented, “We believe that investing in the education of future medical leaders is essential for the advancement of healthcare. Both Michael and Brendan exemplify the qualities we seek to encourage in our future physicians. We are excited to support their journeysand look forward to seeing the impact they will make in the medical community. Furthermore, Dr. DiPette's unwavering commitment to medical education serves as an inspiring example for all of us, and we are honored to carry on his legacy through these scholarships.

This partnership highlights the commitment of both the Southern Medical Association and Constellation Quality Health to fostering excellence in healthcare education and supporting the development of skilled healthcare providers.

Congratulations to Lake Cumberland Regional Hospital IM Residency Program — The 2024 SMArtBowl Winning Team!

Southern Medical Association Installs Dr. Loretta Loftus as President for 2024-2025

The Southern Medical Association (SMA) is pleased to announce the installation of Loretta Loftus, MD, MBA, as President for the term 2024-2025. Dr. Loftus was installed on October 26, 2024, during SMA’s Annual Scientific Assembly held in Atlanta, Georgia.

Dr. Loftus is a Professor of Medicine and Oncology and serves as the Vice Chair of the Department of Breast Oncology at the University of South Florida College of Medicine and Moffitt Cancer Center in Tampa, Florida. She is also the principal investigator for Moffitt’s National Comprehensive Cancer Network Breast Outcomes Project. Previously, Dr. Loftus was an Assistant Dean and Professor of Medicine, as well as Section Chief of Hematology and Oncology at the University of Missouri-Kansas City School of Medicine and Truman Medical Center.

She earned her BS degree from Tulane University and her MD from the University of Kansas School of Medicine. Dr. Loftus completed her internship and residency in Internal Medicine at the University of Kansas Medical Center, followed by fellowships in Hematology and Medical Oncology at the University of Rochester Medical Center in New York. Additionally, she holds an MBA from the University of South Florida College of Business.

During her presidency, Dr. Loftus plans to focus on wellness and the prevention of comorbid conditions prevalent in SMA's geographic territory. She will also advocate for diversity in membership and leadership, and work to strengthen ties between academia and the community. "It is a privilege to serve as President, and I am committed to developing innovative programs for accessible education that address these initiatives," she said. “Service to others is a core commitment of mine, and I look forward to continuing this work in my new role.”

An active member of SMA for over 40 years, Dr. Loftus was a founding member of SMA’s Southern Association of Oncology and played a key role in its formation. She has also served on SMA’s Education, Steering, and Strategic Planning Committees. In 2017, she was the guest editor for the Southern Medical Journal’s special issue on breast cancer, a role she will reprise in 2025. In addition to her work with SMA, Dr. Loftus is a member of the Mystery Writers of America and aspires to publish her own mystery novel.

SMA Celebrates Success of Its 116th Annual Scientific Assembly

From October 24-26, 2024, the Southern Medical Association (SMA) proudly hosted its 116th Annual Scientific Assembly in Atlanta, Georgia. The event brought together professionals across various medical specialties, providing an opportunity for attendees to fulfill mandatory DEA requirements on opioids and substance use disorders, while engaging in enlightening discussions with expert faculty on topics ranging from finding joy in medicine to the impact of AI on clinician performance. Other key areas included sessions on hypertension and cardiovascular disease, professional boundaries, racial disparities in provider-patient communication, as well as palliative care, music therapy, and the environmental impact on patient care. In addition to these educational sessions, attendees had the chance to interact with exhibitors showcasing the latest in medical advancements and innovations.

"This year’s Assembly was a success, thanks to the dedication and enthusiasm of everyone involved,” noted SMA Executive Director Randy Glick. “Our outstanding faculty inspired learning and engagement through their expertise, our attendees contributed to enriching discussions, our leadership shaped a vision for excellence, and our valued exhibitors and sponsors provided support to help make this meeting possible. We are excited to build on this momentum as we look forward to next year in New Orleans.” 

In addition to the educational sessions, physicians-in-training had the chance to showcase their research and case studies as they presented oral and poster abstracts, competing for more than $9,000 in awards. 

Another Assembly highlight was the Third Annual SMA SMArt Bowl, a medical trivia contest featuring teams of medical students and residents competing for $5,000 in prize money. 

The Assembly concluded with two celebratory events: SMA recognized outstanding medical students with more than $14,000 in scholarships in support of their educational journeys, and attendees gathered for the installation of Loretta Loftus, MD, MBA, as SMA’s 119th President. Dr. Loftus brings a wealth of experience to her role and looks forward to leading SMA in fostering continued collaboration and advancement in health care.

A Direct Approach to Research: Using Population Data to Introduce Medical Students to Data Collection

For many medical students, the path to getting involved in clinical research has a high barrier to entry. While research is a crucial part of medical education, the process of securing research opportunities, mentors, and adequate databases with the security clearance and data processing tools necessary to access them can be challenging. I faced these obstacles firsthand, struggling to find a way into clinical research during my early years of medical school. By the time I had begun research projects during my third year, I wished I had some low-cost tools that could have exposed me to gathering and applying my own data without the burden of needing connections within a particular health system.

However, there does exist a valuable and often overlooked tool that can introduce medical students to meaningful research even before they begin their clinical rotations: open-source population data. Provided by state health agencies, this data is publicly available and free to use. Some examples that I have used are the CDC WONDER database and the SC Rural Healthcare Dashboard. Unlike hospital records or other clinical data, which often require deep connections within academic departments, population health data is easily accessed by anyone with an internet connection. There’s no need to navigate institutional red tape, request permissions, or wait weeks for approval to access the information. This immediate availability makes population data a great place to start for medical students looking to conduct research.

The benefits of using open-source population data in medical education are numerous. First, it can serve as a powerful teaching tool for medical schools. By incorporating population health data into their clinical evidence curricula, schools can give students hands-on experience in data analysis and epidemiology, helping them understand how large-scale health data informs policy and clinical decisions. Second, working with state-level data helps students become familiar with the health challenges specific to their region, as well as learn more about their local health department. This is particularly important for future physicians, as an understanding of local health issues can enhance their ability to address the needs of the communities they will one day serve.

Additionally, many medical students are passionate about tackling health disparities. Population data offers a unique opportunity to explore these disparities at the state level. By analyzing data on chronic diseases, mortality rates, and access to healthcare, students can identify disadvantaged populations and regions within their state, and students can overlay this information with other variables such as funding dollars, medical education, and demographic data. This type of research not only builds students’ skills in applying online data to real-world problems but also empowers them to contribute to discussions on health equity. A student who is well-versed in the disparities that exist in their own communities will become a powerful healthcare advocate later in their career.

In short, medical schools should emphasize the use of population data as a research tool for students. By doing so, they can help bridge the gap for students who lack access to traditional research opportunities, while simultaneously fostering a deeper understanding of their local public health and disparities. This must not be an attempt to flood the field with lower-quality projects but serve as a stepping stone that can teach the next generation of medical students how to acquire, analyze, and present relevant data. Open-source population data is a readily available, cost-free resource that holds immense potential for teaching and learning. Encouraging its use can help train the next generation of physicians to not only become skilled clinicians but also be informed researchers and advocates for their communities.

Sources:

SC Center for Rural and Primary Healthcare. SC Rural Healthcare Resource Dashboard. Columbia, SC: University of South Carolina, School of Medicine; 2023. https://arcg.is/0fLSCW

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (2024, August 21). CDC WONDER. CDC.gov. https://wonder.cdc.gov/

Gabriel Patrautanu is a medical student at University of South Carolina School of Medicine, Class of 2025, and serves on the PIT Committee's Personal Development Subcommittee. Zuhaab Temuri is a fourth-year medical student at the University of South Carolina School of Medicine.

Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed in this article are those of the authors and do not necessarily reflect an official policy or position of the Southern Medical Association.

October 2024 SMArt Rounds – Sports Medicine Talk on Hand & Upper Extremity Part I

SMA’s PIT Committee and Staff Take Part in Medical Student Orientations

Members of the Southern Medical Association's (SMA's) Physicians-In-Training Committee, along with SMA staff, recently participated in medical student orientations across the Southern Region to introduce the benefits of joining SMA. These outreach efforts at the University of Alabama at Birmingham (UAB), the University of South Alabama (USA), and the University of Mississippi Medical Center (UMMC) successfully led to the addition of 30 new medical student members.

"It was a wonderful opportunity to connect with medical students across SMA's territory," said Caroline Branche, SMA's Director of Outreach. "I truly enjoyed sharing the various ways SMA can support them on their medical journey, and I look forward to seeing their future involvement with the organization."

About the PIT Committee

The duties of the Physicians-in-Training Committee are to participate in the development and evaluation of educational activities and programming of the Association aimed at pre‐medical students, medical students, interns, residents, and fellows. The Physicians‐in‐Training Committee will assist the Association in building the Association’s Foundational Pillar that recognizes that physicians in training have importance, special needs, and concerns, and will support their growth and development in their future healthcare careers.

Photo Captions --Upper Right: Physicians-In-Training Committee Member, Grace Howell (M3) represents SMA at UMMC's medical student orientation.
Middle Left: Physicians-In-Training Committee Member, Matt Holmes (M2) and Director of Outreach, Caroline Branche take part in UAB's medical student
orientation; Lower Right: SMA's Director of Outreach Caroline Branche shares the benefits of membership during USA's medical student orientation. 

SMA Announces Call for Abstracts for Its 2025 Physicians-in-Training Leadership Conference

2024 SMA Annual Scientific Assembly Survey

Dr. Carlos Ferrario Selected as the 2024 Moreton Research Award Recipient

The Southern Medical Association is pleased to announce that Carlos Ferrario, MD, FAHA, FASH, FAPS, FISH, FACC, has been selected as the 2024 recipient of the Dr. Robert D. and Alma W. Moreton Research Award to be presented at this year’s Annual Scientific Assembly in Atlanta, Georgia.

Dr. Ferrario is Professor Emeritus, Department of Surgery, and Founder of the Hypertension and Vascular Research Center, Atrium Health Wake Forest School of Medicine. In addition, he is the Founder of the Consortium for Southeastern Hypertension Control (COSEHC™), an organization which has pioneered medical and educational efforts directed to reduce cardiovascular deaths in the South, serving as its President and Chief Executive Officer until 2008. Dr. Ferrario has published over 500 papers, more than 70 book chapters, and five books and has mentored physicians, many of whom have become major medical leaders throughout the world.

Dr. Ferrario will present the Moreton Lecture on Friday, October 25, 2024 during SMA’s Annual Scientific Assembly. In his lecture, “The Janus Paradox. The Two Faces of ACE2 in Cardiovascular Disease”, he will discuss the clinical importance of the ACE2/Ang-(1-7)/Mas-R axis in counteracting Ang II pathological actions and elaborate on potential therapies to enhance ACE2 activity or directly supplement Ang-(1-7) to restore the protective balance in patients with severe COVID-19.

Gabriel Patrautanu, BS, Appointed to SMA’s Physicians-in-Training Committee

2024 Virtual Abstract Competition Top 20

Medical Student and Physician Roles in Preventive Health

Grace Howell, M3, speaks with Brian Williams, MD, MPH, about ways medical students and physicians can become involved with, and more educated about, the social determinants of health and preventive health in the South.

Ease Into Your Golden Years With These Essential Home Modifications

As we get older, the familiar comfort of home becomes increasingly important. Making a few strategic modifications can greatly enhance the safety and usability of a home for seniors who choose to age in place, a decision that not only provides comfort but also fosters a sense of independence. In this article, courtesy of Southern Medical Association, we’ll explore effective ways to adapt your living environment to meet the evolving needs of aging with dignity and confidence.

Enhancing Safety with Grab Bars
Installing grab bars in key areas like bathrooms and hallways is a simple yet effective modification to enhance home safety. These sturdy supports, equipped with non-slip grips and securely mounted, provide crucial balance and prevent falls when standing, sitting, or moving around. This addition not only prevents injuries but also significantly boosts confidence throughout your home.

Smoother Access with Lever Handles
Replacing traditional door knobs with lever handles is another practical modification that can make a big difference in your daily life. Levers are easier to use than knobs, especially if you have arthritis or limited hand strength. They allow doors to be opened with a simple push or pull, eliminating the need for twisting motions that can be challenging. This change not only enhances accessibility but also helps maintain your autonomy within your home, making every room easily accessible.

Brightening Spaces with Improved Lighting
Good lighting is crucial for maintaining safety and independence at home. Upgrade the lighting in your home to reduce shadows and glare, which can be hazardous. Install brighter, more energy-efficient bulbs in hallways, staircases, and task areas like the kitchen and bathroom. Consider motion-sensor lights that automatically turn on when you enter a room, ensuring you always have light when needed without having to search for a switch. Adequate lighting helps you move safely and confidently around your home, reducing the risk of falls.

Ensuring Reliable Plumbing
Maintaining efficient plumbing is crucial for ensuring a comfortable and functional home environment. Regular checks and prompt issue resolution prevent inconveniences, while using an app with plumbing live chat can be transformative, offering instant access to expert advice and quick problem resolution. This app also connects you with local, vetted professionals for any in-home repairs, providing quality service and effective maintenance.

Integration of Voice-Activated Technology
Incorporating voice-activated technology into your home can dramatically increase its functionality. Devices that respond to voice commands can control lights, televisions, thermostats, and even locks. This technology provides a way to easily manage your environment without needing to move around or handle physical controls. It’s not only convenient but also empowers you to maintain independence as you age, making it easier to interact with your home and stay connected with the world.

Smart Home Technology for Enhanced Safety
Integrating smart home technology can significantly improve the safety and convenience of seniors living at home. For instance, motion sensors can automatically turn lights on and off as someone enters or leaves a room, reducing the risk of falls by ensuring proper illumination. Smart thermostats, which we briefly mentioned before, can also help maintain a comfortable environment by adjusting temperatures based on occupancy and time of day. Additionally, voice-activated assistants can provide hands-free control over various home systems, making daily tasks easier for seniors.

Find The Perfect Contractor
While there are some home projects you can do on your own, others–such as electrical work–will need to be tackled by a pro. It’s crucial to do some research in order to find the best possible contractor for the job; not only will this potentially save you money, it will also prevent wasted time. Start by looking at customer reviews online, or by asking friends and loved ones if they can recommend anyone. Once you find a candidate, be sure to communicate your needs clearly.

Incorporating thoughtful modifications into your home significantly enhances your quality of life and reinforces your independence. These adaptations allow your living environment to evolve alongside your changing needs, ensuring comfort and security. By updating your space, you preserve your autonomy and enrich your daily living experience.

As a healthcare professional, Janice Russell knows the importance of balance in life.  While her days are filled with overcoming challenges in the healthcare industry, she believes the only way to survive parenthood while taking care of the sick is to find the humor in it.  She created Parenting Disasters so that parents would have a go-to resource whenever they needed inspiration.

Photo via Pexels

The SMJ Announces Call for Papers: 2025 Special Breast Cancer Issue

Dr. Glenn Talboy, Jr., Elected as President-Elect Designate