Grace Howell, BA, Appointed to SMA’s Physicians-in-Training Committee

March 8, 2024 // Southern Medical Association

The Southern Medical Association (SMA) is pleased to announce the appointment of Grace Howell, BA, to SMA’s Physician-in-Training Committee. 

Currently a second-year medical student at the University of Mississippi Medical Center in Jackson, Grace also serves as the Executive Operations Director of Student Health Coalition of Mississippi, a student-led initiative focused on enhancing health literacy in the community. 

Of wanting to join the Physicians-in-Training Committee, "I am eager to participate in and contribute to any organization devoted to equipping aspiring physicians with the essential traits of knowledge, empathy, and strength throughout their careers," Grace said. "Additionally, my personal involvement with the SMA has tremendously influenced my life. Surrounding myself with like-minded physicians who stand where I aspire to be, was incredibly encouraging and impactful."

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.

Posted in: 2024

Congratulations to the Abstract Winners from SMA’s Physicians-in-Training Leadership Conference

March 4, 2024 // Southern Medical Association

Congratulations to the winners of this year's Abstract Competition!

Orals

1st Place
Jordan Beam, BS
University of Alabama at Birmingham Heersink School of Medicine 
“Metastatic Prostate Cancer Cells Effect on Tumor Microenvironment”

 

2nd Place
Meet Patel, MD
University of Alabama at Birmingham Heersink School of Medicine 
“Portosystemic Shunt Occlusion as Treatment for Recurrent Hepatic Encephalopathy Secondary to Congestive Hepatopathy”

 

3rd Place
Amanda Hardy, MD
University of Tennessee Health Science Center Internal Medicine
“Collision Course: An Unusual Presentation of Fatal Mucormycosis After a Motor Vehicle Accident” 

 

Posters

1st Place
Poonam Patel, MD
Norton Community Hospital 
“An Unusual Side Effect of Acyclovir: Junctional Rhythm”

 

2nd Place
Grace Hover Howell, BS
University of Mississippi Medical Center 
“"Know Your Numbers": A Report of a Medical Student-Led Preventative Health Intervention in the State of Mississippi”

 

3rd Place
Vagharsh Antanesian, MD, MPH
Norton Community Hospital 
“Viper Insecticide (Cypermethrin) Cardiotoxicity”

 

Judges' Choice
Emana Sheikh-Kapadia, DO
Kettering Health Dayton
“Dystrophinopathy vs. Idiopathic Inflammatory Myopathy: A Winding Road to Neuromuscular Diagnosis”

 

Thank you to all of the physicians-in-training who presented abstracts this year and thank you to all of the medical schools and residency programs that supported their participation.

More than $9,000.00 was awarded to this year's abstract winners and these awards are made possible through contributions to SMA's Research and Education Endowment Fund. 

“It  was incredibly exciting to hear what these exceptional medical students and residents are doing across various fields in medicine,” noted SMA Executive Director Randy Glick. “All of the presenters did an outstanding job. Their preparation, professionalism, and knowledge of their material were apparent and I foresee they will do great things in the feature.”

Posted in: 2024Abstract

FDA Approves Edwards EVOQUE Tricuspid Valve Replacement System

February 29, 2024 // Southern Medical Association

The US Food & Drug Administration (FDA) recently approved the Edwards EVOQUE Tricuspid Valve Replacement System – P230013.

According to the FDA's overview, the "EVOQUE valve is intended to treat patients with severely leaky tricuspid valve (tricuspid regurgitation) often caused by an enlarged heart or damaged native valve flaps (called leaflets)."

Additionally, the "EVOQUE valve could reduce the amount of blood that moves in the wrong direction through the tricuspid valve. As a result, the patient may have: improved quality of life, relief of symptoms such as tiredness or fatigue, [and] improved ability to exercise".

Click here to view the FDA's informational overview of this product.

Posted in: 2024

Matt Sherrer, MD, MBA, Appointed to SMA’s Education Committee

February 26, 2024 // Southern Medical Association

The Southern Medical Association (SMA) is pleased to announce the appointment of Matt Sherrer, MD, MBA, to SMA’s Education Committee. 

Dr. Sherrer is an Associate Professor in the Department of Anesthesiology and Perioperative Medicine at the University of Alabama at Birmingham. His clinical interests include leadership, teamwork, and collaboration in the perioperative space, and his publications reflect those interests.

"I would like to work with SMA on creating a leadership curriculum for the physicians in training," Dr. Sherrer said of his interest in serving on SMA's Education Committee. "I think this will be a great bridge resource as they think about their futures as an attending physician."

Posted in: 2024

TEST: Essentials of Psychotherapy

February 22, 2024 // Southern Medical Association
Posted in: Hidden

Elevate Your Wellness with These Simple Self-Care Strategies

February 13, 2024 // Southern Medical Association

In the whirlwind of modern life, where the demands of work, family, and society incessantly pull at our attention, the art of maintaining wellness and self-care transitions from a mere luxury to an absolute necessity. This constant tug-of-war often leaves our own well-being languishing in neglect. Yet, it's in the simplicity of self-care rituals that we find the key to unlocking a richer, more contented life. This guide is tailored to uplift your journey toward wellness, ensuring that the act of caring for oneself is elevated from an afterthought to a pivotal part of your daily regimen.

Cultivate an Attitude of Thankfulness

The journey to enhanced wellness begins with the simple act of practicing gratitude. Initiate your day by counting the blessings in your life, be it the gentle warmth of the morning sun or the cozy embrace of your bed. This practice pivots your focus from scarcity to abundance, cultivating a resilient and optimistic mindset. It's crucial to remember that gratitude extends beyond moments of joy, as finding value in the lessons from our challenges can lead to profound transformation.

Manage Digital Consumption

Our digital era brings the world to our fingertips, yet it exacts a price on our physical and mental well-being. The blue light from screens disrupts sleep patterns and strains the eyes. Actively choose to disconnect, carving out tech-free moments to immerse in the physical world, thus enhancing the quality of your rest and mental clarity. A digital detox is a gift your body and mind will thank you for.

Establish and Monitor Personal Well-Being Targets

In setting and monitoring wellness goals, we find direction and motivation in our self-care journey. This visibility into your own journey can be an invigorating force, especially on days when motivation seems fleeting. Tracking your self-care objectives on a PDF can provide a structured and easily accessible way to monitor your wellness journey and personal growth goals.You can generate a document online quickly using online tools. 

Dive Into Artistic Exploration

Creativity serves as a sanctuary for stress relief and personal expression. Allocating time for artistic endeavors like painting, writing, or music can be a source of immense therapeutic value. These pursuits break the monotony of daily life, ignite your imagination, and foster a deeper connection with your inner self. Let creativity be your haven from life's pressures, enriching your self-care routine in the process.

Organize Your Self-Care Plan

Efficient organization of your self-care activities through planners or apps ensures optimal use of your time while prioritizing your well-being. These tools enable you to embed self-care into your daily agenda, set reminders for wellness tasks, and reflect on your self-care progression. With your wellness objectives clearly outlined, you're more inclined to prioritize and adhere to them, making self-care an integral part of your life.

Make Movement a Daily Habit

Physical activity stands as a fundamental pillar of wellness, enhancing mood and overall health. Discover an activity that brings you joy—be it yoga, cycling, or dancing—and integrate it steadfastly into your routine. The aim is to revel in the movement of your body, not to chase after lofty fitness benchmarks. Let your physical activities be guided by pleasure, not pressure.

Overcome Destructive Inner Dialogue

Overcoming the barrier of negative self-talk is crucial for self-care. Recognize and counteract these detrimental narratives with positive affirmations and compassionate self-dialogue. Remind yourself of your strengths, achievements, and the progress you've made on your wellness path. Fostering self-love and kindness is vital for nurturing a healthy self-relationship.

Refine Your Self-Care Strategy

Periodically reviewing your wellness routine ensures it evolves to meet your changing needs and aspirations. Reflect on what's beneficial and what requires adjustment. Be willing to experiment with new self-care strategies and modify your approach as needed. This adaptability keeps your self-care regimen relevant and effective, contributing to sustained wellness and joy.

Embarking on a journey to elevate your wellness through straightforward self-care strategies is an empowering route to a more joyful and healthier existence. By weaving gratitude, screen time management, and routine evaluation into the fabric of your daily life, you lay down the foundations for a deeply fulfilling well-being. Remember, self-care is the ultimate expression of self-respect; it's how you honor your journey and your essence.

Join the Southern Medical Association to access a wealth of medical education resources, networking opportunities, and professional development tools, fostering excellence in patient care.

Janice Russell believes the only way to survive parenthood is to find the humor in it. She created Parenting Disasters so that parents would have a go-to resource whenever they needed a laugh, but also to show parents they aren’t alone. She wants every frazzled parent out there to remember that for every kid stuck in a toilet, there’s another one out there somewhere who’s just graced their parents’ walls with some Sharpie artwork!

Rodney Overstreet, BSN, CRNA, MNA, Appointed to SMA’s Education Committee

February 12, 2024 // Southern Medical Association

The Southern Medical Association (SMA) is pleased to announce the appointment of Rodney Overstreet, BSN, CRNA, MNA, to SMA’s Education Committee. In his role as a Nurse Planner for the Committee, Rodney will play a role in SMA's expansion of educational programming to include contact hours and CEUs for nurses which are an integral aspect SMA's multidisciplinary, interprofessional approach to patient care.

Currently a CRNA at UAB Medical West, in Bessemer, Alabama, Rodney felt called to heal from a young age. He has spent his career putting people to sleep — and now he wants to help them wake up. "They taught us how to heal others, but neglected to teach us how to heal ourselves," he said.

Rodney's nonprofit, Heal Our Healers, aims to remedy this institutional illness. Rodney enjoys studying and lecturing on burnout, compassion fatigue, and PTSD in healthcare providers.

Posted in: 2024

Rhonda Y. Williams, MBA, MSN, RN, Appointed to SMA’s Education Committee

February 12, 2024 // Southern Medical Association

The Southern Medical Association (SMA) is pleased to announce the appointment of Rhonda Y. Williams, MBA, MSN, RN, to SMA’s Education Committee. In her role as a Nurse Planner for the Committee, Rhonda will play a role in SMA's expansion of educational programming to include contact hours and CEUs for nurses which are an integral aspect SMA's multidisciplinary, interprofessional approach to patient care.

Rhonda is an author, coach, emotional intelligence strategist, and international speaker. Her past life includes executive roles such as Chief Nursing Officer and Hospital CEO. After a pair of dueling life crises, Rhonda decided to STOP THE MADNESS! Rhonda is on a mission to assist organizations and leaders in the pursuit of leadership excellence through mastery of self and unbridled enthusiasm for learning. She is the CEO of Dream Life Leadership Academy, LLC and the founder of Leadership Above the Grind Training and Development Academy. Rhonda is a four-time author and the host of The Coffee with Rhonda Show.

"For the past 20 years, I've been an advocate for clinicians and the patient experience while serving in executive and consulting roles, she said of the expertise she brings to SMA's Education Committee. "I'm honored to continue serving in this new capacity."

 

Posted in: 2024

SMA Services, Inc., Offers SMArt Solo(k)

February 6, 2024 // SMA Services, Inc.

SMA Services, Inc., is pleased to offer SMArt Solo(k), a  full-scope Qualified Retirement 401(k) Plan, for the solo-business owner:

  • Includes all standard 401(k) features but packaged and affordable for the solo business owners (no W-2 employees, except a spouse)
  • No compliance testing required
  • No 5500 Forms to file (until assets reach $250,000, but we handle that for you!
  • Full Investment Platform

For additional information, click here or email sales@sma.org.

 

Posted in: 2024

1st Quarter Compliance Calendar

January 26, 2024 // SMA Services, Inc.

With the start of the 1st quarter of the year, there are numerous 401(k) administration retirement plan compliance deadlines on the horizon.

Download a PDF of the Q1 2024 Compliance Deadlines

If you have questions or would like additional information about these compliance guidelines, please contact DeAnn Spence at dspence@sma.org.

Posted in: 2024

SMA Announces Dr. G. Waldon Garriss as Chair of the Education Committee

January 24, 2024 // Southern Medical Association

The Southern Medical Association (SMA) is pleased to announce G. Waldon Garriss, III, MD, MS, MBA, MHA, as the Chair of the Association’s Education Committee.

Dr. Garriss is Professor of Medicine and Pediatrics at Vanderbilt University Medical Center in Nashville, Tennessee. He most recently practiced internal medicine and pediatrics within the Wellstar health system in Marietta, Georgia and was Program Director for the Internal Medicine Residency Program at WellStar Kennestone Regional Medical Center, also in Marietta, Georgia.

A member of SMA since 2017, Dr. Garriss has served as a member of the Education Committee for more than six years, as well as a content reviewer for the Association. Additionally, Dr. Garriss has been instrumental in the creation of a scoring rubric to help standardize the SMA abstract review process. 

As a dually trained internal medicine and pediatric specialist who works as a clinician educator, Dr. Garriss has spent much of his career working to improve training for medical students, residents, fellows, and physicians in need of continuing medical education. Of his new role as the Education Committee Chair, Dr. Garriss said, “I enjoy collaborating with colleagues throughout the country to improve medical education and foster excellence,” 

Posted in: 2024

SMA Announces Dr. Buckley McCall as Chair of the Physicians-in-Training Committee

January 24, 2024 // Southern Medical Association

The Southern Medical Association (SMA) is pleased to announce Buckley McCall, MD, as the Chair of SMA’s Physicians-in-Training Committee.

A graduate of the University of South Carolina School of Medicine – Columbia, Dr. McCall is a first-year resident at Prisma Health Internal Medicine Residency – Greenville. Actively involved with the Physicians-in-Training Committee since 2021, Dr. McCall has served as a content reviewer and session moderator. In addition, he was the leader of the Committee’s Outreach Subcommittee for two years. 

Mentorship will be a focus for Dr. McCall during his tenure as Chair. “I believe that we could establish a larger mentorship network within the SMA; this would serve to benefit all members of the organization, allowing for interactions between generations of medicine,” he said. “Above all, I am looking forward to being a part of the continual development of SMA this year.”

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.

Posted in: 2024

A Discussion: Rising NAS Rates are Associated with Rising Buprenorphine Prescription Numbers

January 22, 2024 // Southern Medical Association

 

In this podcast, Southern Medical Journal (SMJ) Editor-in-Chief Dr. Steven Baldwin is joined by Dr. Martin Olsen to discuss the topic of “Rise in Rate of Neonatal Abstinence Syndrome is Associated with Rise in Buprenorphine Prescription Numbers”. Dr. Olsen, a Professor in the Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology at East Tennessee State University, has also co-authored an SMJ article on this subject that appears in the December 2023 issue.

Health Business Breakthroughs: Innovative Ideas for a Purposeful Venture Health Business Breakthroughs: Innovative Ideas for a Purposeful Venture

January 22, 2024 // Southern Medical Association

Embarking on the journey of starting a health-based business can be both exciting and challenging. With the growing interest in wellness and healthy living, there has never been a better time to start your own venture in this industry. In this article, the Southern Medical Association discusses the various aspects of launching a health-based business, from types of ventures to malpractice insurance to marketing strategies.

Types of Health-Based Ventures to Consider

When starting a health-based business, it's essential to explore the numerous options available. Examples of health-focused businesses include fitness centers and gyms, nutrition counseling services, wellness coaching, yoga or Pilates studios, health food stores or cafes, massage therapy practices, and physical therapy clinics. Assess your personal interests and strengths before deciding on a specific type of business to ensure long-term success.

Obtaining Necessary Licenses, Credentials, and Education

A clear and crucial step in starting a health-based business is determining the required licenses, credentials, or education for your chosen field. Personal trainers typically need certification from a recognized organization, while massage therapists often require a state license to practice. Research the requirements for your chosen field and ensure you have the necessary qualifications before embarking on your health-based business venture.

Get the Insurance You Need to Protect Your Business

Starting a health-based business brings immense opportunities for both profit and life satisfaction, but also prompts a need for comprehensive insurance coverage, especially for professionals like doctors venturing into private medical practices or those developing medical procedures or equipment. Securing insurance is paramount, offering a safety net against potential litigation. Consider options such as liability protection, property insurance, and malpractice insurance.

Cover Your Tail Now and Down the Road

For physicians transitioning from a previous practice, or who may do so in the future, understanding malpractice tail coverage becomes crucial. This tail coverage extends protection even after leaving a practice, ensuring continued financial security and peace of mind. Typically, the cost of tail coverage amounts to 200% of the annual premium at the malpractice policy's end date. Understanding the tail malpractice coverage needed in such instances not only safeguards practitioners but also reinforces their commitment to providing quality healthcare, alleviating concerns about potential liabilities from past practice.

Building a Resume for Your Health-Based Business

As you work towards starting a health-based business, having a strong resume is essential. Highlight your relevant experience, certifications, and education to showcase your expertise. Consultant Journal suggests including any awards or recognitions you've received, as these can help establish credibility with potential clients and partners. Don't forget to mention your unique skills and strengths that set you apart from competitors in the health and wellness industry.

Identifying Your Target Market

An important aspect of starting a health-based business is understanding your target market. Qualtrics advises considering factors such as age, gender, location, and income level to create a detailed profile of your ideal customer. This information will help you tailor your marketing efforts, products, and services to meet the needs and preferences of your target audience.

Establish Your Online Presence

In the digital age, search engine optimization (SEO) is a powerful tool for any business, particularly when starting a health-based business. By optimizing your website with relevant keywords and phrases, you can increase your visibility on search engines like Google and attract more potential clients. 

Ensure your website is easy to navigate, mobile-friendly, and contains valuable content that addresses the needs and concerns of your target market. To get ahead of the competition, make sure you're consistently updating your website with fresh content and engaging with your audience through social media and other online platforms.

Designing a Marketing Strategy

When starting a health-based business, a well-designed marketing strategy is crucial for success. Consider using a mix of traditional and digital marketing tactics, such as social media advertising, content marketing through blogging, videos, and podcasts, email marketing campaigns, local print or radio advertisements, and networking events and partnerships. 

Regularly evaluate the effectiveness of your marketing efforts and adjust your strategy as needed to maximize your return on investment. Learn more about content marketing strategies to maximize your impact.

Generating Leads for Your Health-Based Business

As you progress in starting a health-based business, generating leads is essential for growth. Effective lead generation strategies include offering free consultations or trials, hosting workshops, webinars, or classes, collaborating with complementary businesses, participating in local events or trade shows, and encouraging referrals from satisfied clients. Remember to follow up with leads promptly and consistently to increase your chances of converting them into paying clients.

Keep Your Stress Under Control

Starting a new business can be a whirlwind of excitement and stress. To alleviate this pressure, prioritize regular exercise as a cornerstone of your routine, as physical activity not only boosts energy but also reduces stress hormones. Socializing with cherished friends and family offers a vital outlet for emotional support, providing perspective outside the business realm. 

Additionally, practicing mindfulness or meditation techniques aids in calming the mind and fostering mental clarity amidst the chaos. Embracing a healthy work-life balance by setting clear boundaries and taking breaks when needed is crucial. 

Lastly, seeking mentorship or joining entrepreneurial communities allows for shared experiences and valuable guidance, offering a supportive network during the challenging startup phase. Incorporating these strategies can significantly reduce stress, allowing for a more balanced and resilient approach to new business ventures.

Starting a health-based business can be a rewarding and fulfilling endeavor if you take the time to plan and prepare. By considering the various types of ventures, getting the right malpractice insurance, obtaining the necessary credentials, building a strong resume, identifying your target market, implementing SEO strategies, generating leads, and keeping your stress in check, you'll be well on your way to achieving success in the health and wellness industry. By continually focusing on these key aspects, your health-based business will have a strong foundation for growth and prosperity.

The Southern Medical Association engages with and supports the efforts of medical schools, residency programs, academic medical centers, and health systems. Contact us today for more information! Phone: (800) 423-4992

Janice Russell believes the only way to survive parenthood is to find the humor in it. She created Parenting Disasters so that parents would have a go-to resource whenever they needed a laugh, but also to show parents they aren’t alone. She wants every frazzled parent out there to remember that for every kid stuck in a toilet, there’s another one out there somewhere who’s just graced their parents’ walls with some Sharpie artwork!

Photo courtesy of Pexels.

Secure Investors For Your Medical Prototype Using These Strategies

December 20, 2023 // Southern Medical Association

In an era marked by rapid technological advancements and the ceaseless pursuit of scientific knowledge, the role of medical prototypes in catalyzing monumental breakthroughs in healthcare is undeniable. For these nascent technologies to thrive and ultimately improve patient outcomes, securing investments is paramount. This article, courtesy of the Southern Medical Association, aims to elucidate the strategic steps required to attract and secure crucial investments, ensuring that revolutionary medical prototypes transition from concept to reality.

1. Demonstrate Effectiveness and Safety

Before potential investors part with their capital, they need irrefutable evidence of a prototype's viability. Comprehensive testing and validation not only demonstrate the prototype's effectiveness but also underscore its safety. It allows potential issues to be identified and addressed early on, reducing the risk of costly changes or recalls later. Moreover, it can also provide initial data for regulatory submissions, which is a crucial factor for investors considering the highly regulated nature of the medical device industry. A solid foundation of empirical evidence acts as a beacon, drawing in investors keen on supporting groundbreaking innovations.

2. Conduct Well-Designed Clinical Trials

Beyond initial testing, well-orchestrated clinical trials serve as the gold standard in the healthcare realm. By demonstrating a prototype's efficacy and safety in real-world scenarios, these trials provide tangible proof of its potential impact, and they can even be done remotely in some cases. Robust scientific validation through these trials can significantly sway investor decisions, emphasizing that their resources will be channeled toward a prototype with verifiable results.

3. Collaborate with Respected Healthcare Professionals 

Medical prototypes benefit immensely when endorsed by recognized figures in the healthcare domain. Collaboration with esteemed healthcare professionals and thought leaders can amplify a prototype's merits, granting it instant credibility to investors. Start by identifying professionals who are influential in your niche, and approach them with a well-prepared pitch. This should be similar to an investor pitch in that it needs to include a clear explanation of your product, its benefits, how it differs from existing solutions, and the positive impact it could have on patient care. Offer them the opportunity to test your prototype and provide feedback, and be open to their insights.

4. Provide Market Research Data

Investors, being savvy stakeholders, need assurance that there exists a tangible demand for the prototype in question. Offering robust market research data can effectively illustrate the prototype's relevance and need within the healthcare ecosystem. Start by conducting thorough market research to identify existing gaps in the healthcare sector that your product could fill. This can be done through online surveys, focus groups, or interviews with healthcare professionals and potential users. Additionally, consider looking into industry reports, studies, and statistics that can provide insights into current trends and future projections. Such data-driven insights can be the deciding factor for investors contemplating the economic viability of the innovation.

5. Secure Intellectual Property Rights for Market Advantage

To truly stand out in the competitive healthcare landscape, prototypes must have a distinctive edge. Securing intellectual property rights, whether through patents, trademarks, or copyrights, ensures this uniqueness remains protected. For investors, these rights also offer an assurance: that their investment is safeguarded against imitators, ensuring a competitive market advantage.

6. Source Components Like Sensors and Transducers

The quality and reliability of a medical prototype often hinge on the components it utilizes. By sourcing these components from reputable global suppliers, one ensures the product's durability and effectiveness. From transducers that sense pressure to a sensor for handsets and more, these technological marvels enable precise monitoring and diagnosis for patients. Investors, particularly those attuned to technological innovations, are likely to be captivated by prototypes harnessing such cutting-edge capabilities. Look for a seller that offers inventory updates in real-time so you’ll always have access to the parts you need.

7. Form Strategic Partnerships

Leveraging the might of established entities in the healthcare domain can be instrumental. By forging strategic partnerships with healthcare organizations, pharmaceutical giants, or medical device manufacturers, you can gain access to invaluable resources and expertise. These collaborations, symbiotic in nature, not only enhance the prototype's prospects but also present a more compelling case for potential investors.

In conclusion, as we stand on the brink of numerous healthcare revolutions, the role of medical prototypes as harbingers of change is clear. However, without the crucial fuel of investment, many of these promising innovations might never see the light of day. By adhering to the steps outlined above, entrepreneurs and innovators can exponentially increase their chances of securing investments. As the world keenly anticipates the next wave of healthcare breakthroughs, ensuring that medical prototypes receive the support they deserve is not just beneficial—it's imperative. 

Interested in joining the Southern Medical Association? Learn more today.

Janice Russell believes the only way to survive parenthood is to find the humor in it. She created Parenting Disasters so that parents would have a go-to resource whenever they needed a laugh, but also to show parents they aren’t alone. She wants every frazzled parent out there to remember that for every kid stuck in a toilet, there’s another one out there somewhere who’s just graced their parents’ walls with some Sharpie artwork!

Call for Education Committee Members

December 7, 2023 // Southern Medical Association

Call for Education Committee Members

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 3 committee conference/Zoom calls 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 
  • Assist with faculty/speaker recommendations and procurement
  • Conduct podcast/webinar interviews

Benefits of Service

  • Complimentary registration to SMA meetings
  • Expense reimbursement for moderating sessions at SMA meetings
  • 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 specialities 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 visit sma.org/leadership and complete the form at the bottom of the page. 

Dr. Desirée Burroughs-Ray Appointed to SMA’s Education Committee

November 21, 2023 // Southern Medical Association

The Southern Medical Association (SMA) is pleased to announce the appointment of Desirée Burroughs-Ray, MD, MPH, FAAP, to SMA’s Education Committee, whose purpose is to oversee the development of all educational activities and programming for the Association to ensure the Association fulfills its stated CME mission. 

"We are very pleased that Dr. Burroughs-Ray is a part of our Education Committee," noted SMA Executive Director Randy Glick. We are confident she will bring her enthusiasm and expertise to this role."  

Dr. Burroughs-Ray has been involved with SMA since 2022. She has served as Assistant Professor of Pediatrics and Internal Medicine at University of Tennessee Health Science Center since 2020 and was appointed Associate Program Director of their combined Internal Medicine-Pediatrics Residency in 2021. In addition, Dr. Burroughs-Ray serves as faculty advisor for the Internal Medicine Resident Wellness Committee and has presented workshops and webinars on the topic. 

News You Can Use: 2024 Cost of Living Adjustments for Retirement Plans

November 16, 2023 // SMA Services, Inc.

2024 Cost of Living Adjustments for Retirement Plans

The Internal Revenue Service recently announced its cost-of-living adjustments applicable to dollar limitations on benefits and contributions for retirement plans generally effective for Tax Year 2024 (see IRS Notice 2023-75). Most notably, the limitation on annual salary deferrals into a 401(k) or 403(b) plan will increase to $23,000, and the dollar threshold for highly compensated employees will increase to $155,000. The more significant dollar limits for 2024 are as follows:

Defined contribution plan annual additions limit

  • 2024: $69,000 | 2023: $66,000

Maximum elective deferral for 401(k) and 403(b) plans

  • 2024: $23,000 | 2023: $22,500

Maximum contribution limit or Governmental Section 457 plans

  • 2024: $23,000 | 2023: $22,500

Highly compensated employee pay threshold

  • 2024: $155,000 | 2023: $150,000

Key employee compensation in top-heavy tests

  • 2024: $220,000 | 2023: $215,000

Qualified plan compensation limit

  • 2024: $345,000 | 2023: $330,000

SIMPLE plan maximum elective deferral

  • 2024: $16,000 | 2023: $15,500

Social Security taxable wage base

  • 2024: $168,600 | 2023: $160,200

Catch-up contribution (age 50 or older) for 401(k), 403(b) and 457 plans

  • 2024: $7,500 | 2023: $7,500

Catch-up contribution (age 50 or older) for SIMPLE 401(k)

  • 2024: $3,500 | 2023: $3,500

Defined benefit annual plan limit

  • 2024: $275,000 | 2023: $265,000

If you have questions about retirement plan contributions, please contact SMA Services at tpa@sma.org.

Dr. Christopher D. Jackson Installed as the 118th President of the Southern Medical Association

November 8, 2023 // Southern Medical Association

The Southern Medical Association (SMA) is pleased to announce the installation of Christopher D. Jackson, MD, FACP, FSSCI, as the Association’s 118th President. Dr. Jackson was installed October 28, 2023 during SMA’s Annual Scientific Assembly in Greensboro, North Carolina. With his installation, Dr. Jackson becomes the first Black President of SMA and will serve for the year 2023-2024. 

“With his innovation and passion, Dr. Jackson is poised to lead SMA in a promising and exciting direction,” said Randy Glick, SMA Executive Director. “He believes strongly in education and lifelong learning, both of which are foundational pillars of the Association.”

Dr. Jackson serves as Associate Professor of Medicine, Assistant Dean of Student Affairs, and Associate Program Director for Curriculum at the University of Tennessee Health Science Center (UTHSC) Internal Medicine Residency in Memphis. A native of Augusta, GA, he graduated from Emory University with a degree in Biology and Sociology. He received his Doctor of Medicine degree at the Medical College of Georgia. He completed his internal medicine and chief residency year in patient safety and quality improvement at UTHSC before joining the faculty in the Division of General Internal Medicine and the Center for Health System Improvement in 2019.

Mentorship, including the development of a mentoring academy, will be a key priority during Dr. Jackson’s presidential tenure. “Mentorship doesn’t just end with medical students and residents. Practicing physicians and even those who are nearing the end of their career often need guidance on the next steps to take,” he said. “I hope this is a process where everyone, regardless of their stage of life, can be included through a refined mentor matching process.” 

Recognizing that education is the core of SMA’s mission, Dr. Jackson also intends to foster innovation in professional development and education that is relevant to those in academic medical centers, private practices, and in rural health settings. “As technology and research continue to redefine the boundaries of healthcare, it is crucial that our physicians are not only keeping pace but also leading the way,” he noted. “By creating an environment that encourages curiosity, nurtures creativity, and celebrates innovative thinking, we can ensure our physicians are equipped with the latest knowledge and skills. This not only enhances their professional growth but also ensures the highest quality of care for our patients.”

An active member of SMA for eight years, Dr. Jackson has served on SMA’s Education Committee and as an assistant editor for the Southern Medical Journal, the Association’s peer-reviewed journal. In addition, he has served as faculty for numerous SMA webinars and podcasts. 

Congratulations to Duke University School of Medicine — 2023 SMArt Bowl Winning Team!

November 8, 2023 // Southern Medical Association

Congratulations to Rick Laoprasert, Pranav Warman, and Sunny Yang Liu from the Duke University School of Medicine! They are the winners of this year’s SMArt Bowl! 

Teams of medical students and residents participated in this fun-filled, Jeopardy!-style competition that took place on October 27, during SMA’s Annual Scientific Assembly in Greensboro, NC. 

Hosted by Dr. Christopher Morris (himself a previous Jeopardy! contestant!), participants from the Brody School of Medicine, Duke University School of Medicine, Lake Cumberland Regional Hospital, Lewis Gale Medical Center, and Norton Community Hospital spent the evening vying for cash prizes as they competed in rounds of multispecialty medical trivia questions.

After 10 rounds of friendly competition, the Duke Blue Devils were crowned this year’s champion, with each player receiving $1000. Last year’s winning team – Lake Cumberland Regional Hospital – took second place, with each team member receiving $250!

Thank you to Constellation Quality Health for sponsoring this year’s SMArt Bowl and to all of the teams who participated. We hope to see you all in Atlanta in 2024!

Posted in: 2023Annual Scientific Assembly
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