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

July 25, 2024 // Southern Medical Association

The Southern Medical Journal (SMJ) is currently considering submissions for a special issue dedicated to breast cancer that will publish in October 2025.

The SMJ will consider original research, perspectives, and review manuscripts that explore various aspects of this important topic, including detection, therapeutics, survivorship, and the psychosocial impacts of the disease. This special issue aims to highlight advancements and emerging treatments, address healthcare disparities, and promote multidisciplinary collaboration. By focusing on breast cancer, the SMJ strives to foster innovation, improve patient outcomes, and enhance public health awareness.

Topics for Consideration Include:

·        Different Types of Breast Cancer ·        Prevention
·        Screening, Detection, and Testing ·        Disparities in Care
·        Breast Cancer in Men ·        Emerging Therapeutic Strategies
·        Breast Cancer in Young Women ·        Management of Side Effects from Therapy
·        Breast Cancer in Senior Adults ·        Metabolic Aspects (Obesity, Diet, and Exercise)
·        Treatment Options ·        Fertility Preservation
               -- Surgical Treatments ·        Pregnancy and Breast Cancer
               -- Radiation ·        Depression and Breast Cancer
               -- Chemotherapy ·        Breast Cancer Survivorship
               -- Biological Therapies ·        Palliation/Supportive Care
               -- Hormonal Therapies  


Please Note

  1. Manuscripts should be submitted between now and January 10, 2025 to be considered for the special issue. Submission for the special issue should be indicated in the cover letter.
  2. All manuscripts will be peer reviewed.
  3. Please visit www.editorialmanager.com/smj for the complete instructions for authors and to submit your manuscript.
  4. For any questions about this special issue, please contact SMJ Managing Editor, Jennifer Price at jprice@sma.org.

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

July 17, 2024 // Southern Medical Association

The Southern Medical Association (SMA) is pleased to announce that Glenn Talboy, Jr., MD, FACS, has been elected as President-Elect Designate. 

The SMA membership recently voted and Dr. Talboy will serve as the 2024 President-Elect Designate and will begin his term during SMA's Annual Scientific Assembly October 24-26, 2024, in Atlanta, Georgia. Currently a member of the Fundraising and Endowment Committee (formerly the Outreach Committee), Dr. Talboy will serve as the Association’s President in 2026-2027.

"We look forward to Dr. Talboy's presidency," said SMA Executive Director Randy Glick. "His dedication to medical education and growing our membership, as well as fostering medical student and resident involvement will help guide SMA into the future."

Posted in: 2024

Enhancing Patient Experiences: Key Strategies for Medical Office Success

July 16, 2024 // Janice Russell

Ensuring patient satisfaction is pivotal in the healthcare industry, not only for the quality of care but also for the growth and reputation of medical practices. Positive patient experiences are closely linked to increased patient retention, referrals, and overall practice success. In this article, we will explore various strategies medical offices can employ to enhance patient satisfaction and thereby drive business growth.

Streamline Appointment Systems

Implementing an efficient scheduling system dramatically reduces wait times and streamlines the patient flow throughout the office. By minimizing delays, your practice shows respect for patients' time, which is often a critical factor in their satisfaction. Consider integrating a digital scheduling system that allows for real-time appointment updates and easy rescheduling options, ensuring a smoother and more responsive patient experience.

Expand Access with Digital Solutions

Offering online scheduling and telehealth services provides flexibility and convenience that today’s patients appreciate. By enabling patients to book appointments and consult with their doctors remotely, your practice can cater to a broader audience, including those with mobility challenges or time constraints. This modern approach not only meets the current healthcare demands but also positions your practice as forward-thinking and patient-oriented.

Foster a Welcoming Environment

Training your staff to greet each patient warmly and maintain a friendly atmosphere can significantly enhance the patient experience. A welcoming reception, empathetic communication, and attentive service are essential in making patients feel valued and cared for from the moment they step into your office. These interactions are often the first and most lasting impressions patients have of your practice. Encouraging staff to personalize their interactions with patients can further enhance the sense of being welcomed and appreciated.

Ensure a Comfortable Setting

Keeping your office clean, organized, and well-maintained is crucial in creating a reassuring environment for patients. A tidy and aesthetically pleasing setting can alleviate anxiety and help patients feel more relaxed during their visits. Regular maintenance checks and a focus on a clutter-free space can go a long way in sustaining a comfortable and inviting atmosphere. Incorporating elements such as calming colors and comfortable seating can further enhance the overall patient experience.

Educate and Inform Your Patients

Educating your patients about their medical conditions, treatment options, and preventive measures is essential for fostering understanding and trust. When patients have clear and accessible information, they are better equipped to make informed health decisions, enhancing their confidence in your practice. By saving these materials as PDFs, you ensure consistent formatting and content across various devices. A PDF converter allows for the easy conversion of files by simply dragging and dropping them. 

Uphold Privacy and Security

Maintaining strict privacy and confidentiality standards is fundamental in protecting patients' personal health information. Ensuring that all staff are trained on the latest privacy policies and use secure systems for storing patient data reinforces trust and satisfaction. A commitment to confidentiality not only complies with legal requirements but also signals to your patients that their personal information is safe and respected. Regular audits and updates to security protocols further demonstrate your dedication to safeguarding patient data.

Engage Through Feedback

Conducting follow-up calls or surveys to gather patient feedback is an excellent way to identify areas of improvement and adapt your services accordingly. This direct engagement shows patients that their opinions are valued and that your practice is committed to continuous improvement. Addressing concerns and implementing suggestions can significantly improve patient satisfaction and loyalty. Regularly reviewing and acting on feedback ensures that patient voices shape the quality of care you provide.

Adopting these strategies not only elevates the patient experience but also significantly contributes to the growth and success of medical practices. By focusing on efficiency, convenience, warmth, cleanliness, education, privacy, and feedback, your practice can build a strong reputation that attracts and retains patients. Implementing these measures demonstrates a commitment to excellence in patient care and practice management, ensuring a sustainable and prosperous future for your medical office.

Join the Southern Medical Association today to access premium benefits, including free online CME courses and exclusive medical journals.

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 Credit: Image is by DC Studio and is available via Freepik.

AMA Reports Physician Burnout Rate Falls Below 50%

July 8, 2024 // Southern Medical Association

For the first time in more than 4 years, the rate of physician burnout has fallen below 50%, according to findings from the American Medical Association's AMA Organizational Biopsy®. This initiative garnered more than 12,000 physician responses from 31 states and 81 health systems and organizations throughout 2023 to comprise this comprehensive physician comparison report.

Detailing trends across six performance metrics of "job satisfaction, job stress, burnout, intent to leave an organization, feeling valued by an organization and total hours spent per week on work-related activities", findings showed that during 2023, 48.2% of physicians reported at least one burnout symptom; this is down from 53% in 2022.

According to the AMA website, the aggregated data, which is exclusive to the AMA, serves "...to provide a national summary of organizational well-being and to serve as a comparison for other health care organizations. The results may be limited by the health systems that chose to participate."

Click here to learn more about the AMA's report. 

Posted in: 2024

Jordan Beam, BS, Appointed to SMA’s Physicians-in-Training Committee

July 1, 2024 // Southern Medical Association

The Southern Medical Association (SMA) is pleased to announce the appointment of Jordan Beam, BS, to SMA’s Physician-in-Training (PIT) Committee. 

A third-year medical student at UAB Heersink School of Medicine in Birmingham, Alabama, Jordan is currently in Montgomery, Alabama for her clinical rotation year. 

Jordan's desire to be a part of the PIT Committee is largely due to the SMA staff's hospitality during the last PIT Leadership Conference. "Everyone was so welcoming and inclusive and motivated me to join," she recalled. Having been research focused for large part of her pre-med and medical school life, Jordan is excited to also serve on the PIT Committee's Research and Development Subcommittee.  "There is something truly special about being involved in cutting-edge work that has the possibility to heal future generations, she said. I want to be a part of that [sub]committee to help medical students gain access to their schools research opportunities and resources, as well as encourage other students/residents to stay motivated in their existing research projects."

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

2024 Physicians-in-Training SMArt Bowl

June 17, 2024 // Southern Medical Association

Make Plans for You and Your Team to Compete in SMA's 2024 SMArt Bowl!
Friday Evening, October 25, 2024, as part of SMA’s Annual Scientific Assembly in Atlanta, Georgia

 

Register a team of up to 4 medical students and/or residents from your Medical School or Residency Program. Join a fun-filled and an adrenaline-fueled in-person competition to compete and test you and your team's medical knowledge. Enjoy socializing with peers and helping to continue SMA’s tradition of medical excellence!

Join us for an evening of fun and a chance to take home the coveted SMA PIT Medical Excellence Award, as well as this year's monetary awards:

  • 1st Place Team: $2000
  • 2nd Place Team: $1500
  • 3rd Place Team: $1000
  • 4th Place Team: $500

Deadline to Register: Friday, September 13, 2024. Please note the following:

  • There are only 4 team slots available this year due to time constraints.
  • Team slots are filled on a first-come, first-served basis.
  • Registration ends when all team slots are filled. 

Please note that each team member must pay the Assembly registration fee
once the team has been accepted to compete in the SMArt Bowl.

Assembly Registration Fees:
Resident/Fellow: $150
Medical Student: $100

SMArt Bowl Rulebook

Login or Create an Account to Complete this form

Posted in: 2024Annual Scientific AssemblyPhysicians-in-Training

Dr. Richard Leggett Named SMA Education Committee Vice Chair

June 10, 2024 // Southern Medical Association

The Southern Medical Association (SMA) is pleased to announce that Richard Leggett, MD, has been named Vice Chair of the Association’s Education Committee.

Dr. Leggett currently serves as a core faculty member with the Lewis-Gale Medical Center GME-Psychiatry program in Salem, Virginia, where he assists in the recruitment and training of general psychiatry residents. His special interests include cross-cultural and spiritual issues in psychiatry.

A member of SMA since 1988, Dr. Leggett joined the Education Committee in 2021 and has presented webinars on achieving balance in the biological, psychological, social, and spiritual areas of life. He has also been actively involved in the question development for SMA's SMArt Bowl, a medical trivia competition for medical students and residents held at the Annual Scientific Assembly.

Dr. Leggett looks forward to his new role as the Education Committee continues to develop relevant educational programs, foster learning across specialties and disciplines, and contribute to the field of medicine. "I consider it an honor to serve alongside Dr. Garriss and the rest of this wonderful Committee."

Posted in: 2024

Third-Year Pearls

May 24, 2024 // Naden Kreitz, BS

The third year of medical school—a much-anticipated milestone for us all. Looking back on my journey through this pivotal phase, I'm filled with gratitude for the invaluable experiences and lessons that will undoubtedly shape me as a future physician. Now that my third year is drawing to a close, I'm eager to share 5 pieces of advice for those gearing up to embark on this adventure:

    1. Maintain Humility: As you step into the realm of clinical practice, it's natural to feel a surge of excitement and empowerment. However, it's essential to check this enthusiasm with humility. Despite the eagerness to contribute, remember that as a medical student, you occupy a humble and important position on the healthcare hierarchy. Approach every task with gratitude for the opportunity to participate in patient care. By prioritizing service and empathy, you'll discover purpose in even the most routine duties, fostering enduring memories and enriching experiences. 
    2. Foster Curiosity: The third year is a whirlwind of activity, with little time for contemplation amidst the clinical hustle. Amidst the chaos, don't forget to pause and question. Take a moment to delve into the rationale behind medical decisions, seeking to understand the "why" behind every action. This habit of inquiry is the cornerstone of transformative learning. 
    3. Cultivate Patient Connections: Amidst the multiple responsibilities of clinical rotations, seize the opportunity to forge meaningful connections with patients. Building rapport not only enriches patient care but also deepens your understanding of medical conditions on a human level. As the medical student on the team, there is a unique opportunity to spend more time with patients and being able to develop a personal connection that will allow for growth in your journey of becoming a physician. 
    4. Resist the Urge to Compare: In the competitive landscape of medical education, it's easy to fall into the trap of comparison. However, remember that each student's journey is unique. Set your own goals and benchmarks, celebrating personal achievements without undue comparison to others. Additionally, try to adopt a spirit of camaraderie, supporting your peers in their endeavors. 
    5. Give Grace: Ultimately, it's crucial to extend grace to both yourself and those around you. Acknowledge that you won't have all the answers or execute every task flawlessly from the get-go, and that's perfectly fine. Embrace the third year as a period of learning and personal growth, allowing room for mistakes along the way. Whether you enter with a clear career path in mind or find yourself reassessing your goals midway through, grant yourself the grace to navigate this journey at your own pace. After all, it's the bumps and detours that often lead to the most profound discoveries and personal growth.

In essence, navigating the third year of medical school requires a delicate balance of humility, curiosity, and adaptability. Embrace the challenges, cherish the victories, and above all, approach each day with gratitude for the privilege of learning and serving patients. 

Naden Kreitz, BS, is a third-year medical student at the University of South Alabama and is a member of SMA's Physicians-in-Training Personal Development and Wellness Subcommittee.

Image from Pexels.com
Posted in: Physicians-in-Training

NIH-Supported Trial Addresses Barrier to OUD Treatment

May 17, 2024 // Southern Medical Association

Recently published results from a clinical trial supported by the National Institutes of Health’s (NIH) National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA), indicate that "Starting people with opioid use disorder on extended-release, injectable naltrexone (XR-naltrexone) within five to seven days of seeking treatment is more effective than the standard treatment method of starting within 10-15 days".

XR-naltrexone is one of three Food and Drug Administration-approved medications for the treatment of OUD and binds to and blocks opioid receptors in the brain, thereby lessening opioid cravings as well as preventing the effects of opioids.

In a news release published by the NIH, NIDA director Dr. Nora Volkow shared the importance of the study. “When someone is ready to seek treatment for opioid use disorder, it is crucial that they receive it as quickly as possible,” she said. “This study paves the way for more timely care with one of the three medications for opioid use disorder we have available, better supporting people in their ability to choose the treatment option that will work best for them.”

Click here to read the entire release which contains additional information regarding the study.

According to the NIH, more than 107,000 people died of a drug overdose in 2022, with 75% of those deaths involving an opioid. 

 

Posted in: 2024

The CDC Offers Guide to Improve Healthcare Worker Burnout

April 6, 2024 // Southern Medical Association

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s (CDC) National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health recently released an evidence-informed guide to combat burnout and improve the well-being of healthcare workers.  According to the CDC website, the Impact Wellbeing™ Guide: Taking Action to Improve Healthcare Worker Wellbeing, "...provides a step-by-step process for hospitals to start making organizational-level changes that will impact and improve the mental health of their employees." 

Click here to learn more.

 

 

Posted in: 2024

Happy Doctors’ Day!

March 30, 2024 // Southern Medical Association

The Southern Medical Association would like to wish you a wonderful Doctors' Day. Society owes their gratitude to you for your contributions in expanding the field of scientific knowledge and increasing the number of scientific tools, which aid in the fight against disease. Your compassion as a physician is looked upon with the utmost respect and importance.

SMA would like you to know how much your efforts are appreciated today and every day. Thank you for everything you do. 

Doctors’ Day was officially designated “National Doctors’ Day” by signed resolution of President George H. Bush on October 30, 1990. The very idea of Doctors' Day was created by members of the Southern Medical Association Barrow County, GA Alliance in an effort to bring recognition and express thanks to the leaders in their fields of medicine: Physicians.

 

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FDA Approves First Treatment for Patients with Fatty Liver Disease

March 27, 2024 // Southern Medical Association

The US Food & Drug Administration (FDA) recently approved Rezdiffra (resmetirom) for the treatment of adults with noncirrhotic non-alcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH) with moderate to advanced liver scarring, to be used along with exercise and diet. 

According to the press announcement, "NASH is a result of the progression of nonalcoholic fatty liver disease where liver inflammation, over time, can lead to liver scarring and liver dysfunction. NASH is often associated with other health problems such as high blood pressure and type 2 diabetes. By at least one estimate, approximately 6-8 million people in the U.S. have NASH with moderate to advanced liver scarring, with that number expected to increase. Rezdiffra is a partial activator of a thyroid hormone receptor; activation of this receptor by Rezdiffra in the liver reduces liver fat accumulation."

Click here to view the FDA's announcement of Rezdiffra's approval.

Posted in: 2024

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
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