AOMA Digest Summer 2014

Volume 29, No. 2

The Journal of theArizona OsteopathicMedical Association

Summer 2014

INSIDE ■ New AOMA Leadership

■ 92nd Annual Convention Review

■ Practice Management Articles

AOMA Digest Summer 20141

2014-2015 Board of TrusteesPresident

Adam Nally, D.O.

President Elect

Kristin Nelson, D.O.

Immediate Past President

Craig Phelps, D.O.

Vice President

Jonathon Kirsch, D.O.

Secretary/Treasurer

Shannon Scott, D.O.

Executive Director/Editor

Pete Wertheim

Trustees

Craig Cassidy, D.O.

Donald Curran, D.O.

Angela DeRosa, D.O., MBA, CPE

William Devine, D.O.

David England, D.O.

Michelle Eyler, D.O.

Charles Finch, D.O.

Patrick Hogan, D.O.

Christopher Labban, D.O.

Julie Morrison, D.O.

Laurel Mueller, D.O.

George Parides, D.O.

Wendell Phillips, D.O.

Bunnie Richie, D.O.

Resident Trustee

Mansoor Jatoi, D.O.

Student Trustees

Ryan Martin, AZCOM

Joshua Nead, SOMA

Speaker of the House of Delegates

Jeffrey Morgan, D.O., MA

Vice Speaker of the House

Scott Welle, D.O.

AOMA Staff ListingDirector of Education & Managing Editor

Janet Weigel

Member Service Manager

Sharon Daggett

Executive Assistant

Teresa Roland

Contents Volume 29 No. 2

SUMMER 2014

COLUMNS 2 President’s Message

4 From the Desk of the Executive Director

5 What We Have Done For You Lately

6 Just D.O. It!

FEATURES 8 Thank You — Some Milestones to Remember

10 Health Care Transformation: Practical Solutions for Provider from One

Statewide Organization

12 10 Tips to Reduce Office Liabilities

13 Top 10 Categories to Determine the Cultural Fit of

Prospective New Providers — PART 2

15 Critical Changes to CSPMP Access

18 AOMA Business Partners

22 Welcome New AOMA Members

25 92nd Annual Convention Review

26 Student Clinical Case and Poster Forum Results

OSTEOPATHIC COMMUNITY NEWS 37 Arizona Society of the American College of Osteopathic Family

Physicians (AzACOFP) President’s Message

38 Midwestern University / Arizona College of Osteopathic Medicine

(AZCOM)

42 A.T. Still University / School of Osteopathic Medicine Arizona (SOMA)

45 Tucson Osteopathic Medical Foundation

47 Advertisers Index

Opinions expressed in the AOMA Digest are those of the authors and do not necessarily reflect viewpoints of the editors or official policy of the AOMA, or the institutions with which the authors are affiliated, unless explicitly specified. AOMA Digest does not hold itself responsible for statements made by any contributor. We reserve the right to edit articles on the basis of content or length.

Although all advertising is expected to conform to ethical medical standards, acceptance does not imply endorsement by this magazine. The appearance of advertising in the AOMA Digest is not an AOMA guarantee or endorsement of the product, service or claims made for the product or service by the advertiser.

Copyright 2014

AOMA Digest Summer 2014 2

President’s Report Summer 2014

It is a great honor to

serve as the President

of this distinguished

organization, and to work

with those who served as

my parents’ and family’s

physicians, served as my

mentors, and have blessed

my family with their skills

and wisdom. I am honored

to work alongside men and

women of such tremendous

caliber. To be frank, each

of you in the osteopathic

profession has directly or

indirectly influenced me or

my family in some way over

the last 25 years. May I begin my presidency by saying “Thank

You” for being who you are today.

Having had the privilege of serving with this profession’s finest

on the AOMA Executive Committee and Board of Directors

over the last few years, I have found myself thinking about the

underlying principles behind the formation of significant, respected,

or esteemed organizations.

In the words of Ralph Waldo Emerson, “As to methods, there

may be a million and then some, but principles are few. The man who

grasps principles can successfully select his own methods. The man

who tries methods, ignoring principles, is sure to have trouble.”

With this in mind, I have found myself studying the core

virtues of “manhood” and the fundamental organization of

people and groups. I have been captivated by the simple fact that

Andrew Taylor Still identified some basic principles that created

an organization spanning the centuries. I have been fascinated

by the Samurai of the Orient, Patriarchal tribes of Abraham, The

Ancient Israelites, the modern Navy Seal, the Cowboy of the Old

West and the Pioneer. I’ve found myself asking the question:

“What principles did these individuals or groups have in common

that made them successful? And, how does this relate to the

Osteopathic Physician?”

The practice of osteopathic medicine is not science in and of

itself, but the rational application of science, observation, and the

human touch on behalf of another seeking bodily help, safety

or healing. We each understand the four tenets or principles of

Osteopathic Medicine:

1. The body is a unit, the person is a unit of body, mind and spirit

2. The body is capable of self-regulating, self-healing, and health

maintenance

3. Structure and function are reciprocally interrelated

4. Rational treatment is based upon the understanding of

the basic principles of body unity, self-regulation, and the

interrelationship of structure and function

The basic unit of society has historically been the family.

However, when a family or individual is threatened or placed in a

harsh environment with any chance of injury, illness, or violence,

man bands together to improve chances of survival. Protectors arise

within these groups: warriors & shaman, soldiers & healers. The

way of human kind leads to the way of the “gang,” “posse,” “tribe,”

or “platoon.”

The individual or basic family may struggle without some

societal support. Our civilizations, therefore, much like the body

itself, form organized units also comprised of bodies, minds, and

spirits giving the individual or family additional capacities for

growth, protection, and healing. The Arizona Osteopathic Medical

Association is one of those units (capable of self-regulation, self-

healing, and maintenance). The AOMA’s success as a body or unit

is really dependent upon our understanding of the basic principles

that govern structure and function. These principles could be called

the Practical or Applied Virtues. These basic Applied Virtues exist in

any group or organization. They can be seen in the most basic of

gangs and tribes to the more complex military, clergy, and medical

societies of today. The Applied Virtues are:

1. Strength

2. Courage

3. Mastery

4. Honor

I would ask our society to look closely at and spend the next year

strengthening the foundation of these basic Applied Virtues:

First, Strength – This is defined as power, ability to stand, ability to handle stress.

Strength comes from the individual and from the organization. As

physicians, we understand that our lifestyles and physical health

dramatically affect our strength, ability to “stand” and to handle

stress. Dr. Craig Phelps, immediate past President of the AOMA,

has already begun solidifying this principle with his Healthy Living

& Lifestyle Campaign. I would encourage our organization to

continue this campaign.

I invite you to challenge your individual strength in some way

this year. Do something that challenges you that you haven’t

Adam Nally, D.O.2014 – 2015 AOMA President

Applied Virtues


Osteopathic Community News

done previously. For example, run a 5K, marathon, or triathlon or

work up to doing 1000 pushups. Challenge your mental strength

through your study this year, learn a language, or master that skill

or procedure you have been thinking about. Then let us know

of your successes. Doing this actually brings both individual and

organizational strength psychologically.

Second, Courage –Courage is defined as the spirit, will or discipline to employ your

strength when tempted to shrink, run or hide (more profound

definitions of courage do exist, but in this case, we are just speaking

of the basic willingness to face risk or danger). John Wayne said,

“Courage is being scared to death, but saddling up anyway.” What

better way to exhibit courage, then to face the oncoming ACGME

changes with optimistic courage. Many of us will be involved with

these changes. It takes great courage to hold fast to the principles or

tenets of osteopathy, and still move forward in a spirit of cooperation

with our allopathic colleges to make medical training better for the

individuals and families of this great country. The highly decorated

Naval Admiral William (Bull) Halsey, Jr. said, “There are no

extraordinary men...just extraordinary circumstances that ordinary

men are forced to deal with.”

I invite you to post the Osteopathic Oath in a visible place in your

office – then have the courage to live by it. I invite you to become

more involved as an advocate in defending rights of Life, Liberty

and Pursuit of Happiness. Have the courage to voice your feelings

and advocate a little more this year for yourself, your family, and your

patients. One way you can accomplish this task is to contribute to the

AOMA political action committee (PAC) or to the AOA PAC.

Third, Mastery – Mastery is the skill and adeptness in the use of techniques that save

lives and provide for the individual and/or the group. William

Durant said, “We are what we repeatedly do. Excellence, then is

not an act but a habit.” And, Tyron Edwards noted, “The great end

of education is to discipline rather than to furnish the mind; to

train it to the use of its own powers, rather than to fill it with the

accumulation of others.”

The AOMA brings the skills of mastery through continuing

medical education (CME). What additional skill will you really

master this month, . . . this year? I invite you to look at your skills

and commit to mastering one that may be lacking. Remember,

“If you know anything thoroughly, teach it to others.” In this way,

we strengthen the individual and the organization. I invite you to

notify our CME committee or our Executive Director about topics

that will help you in your pursuit of mastery.

Fourth, Honor – Traditional Honor is NOT the same as integrity (living up to

your own standards). Integrity is paramount, but, in speaking

of Honor we are implying a reputation for strength, courage, and

mastery as judged by other men (or your peers). Honorable men and

women care that each individual’s prowess in the Applied Virtues

contributes to the strength and reputation of the “platoon,”

“gang” or organization the same way structure and function are

interrelated.

One of the functions of an organization is its ability to bestow

Honor. At our upcoming conferences, I invite you to look at the

awards that are given to see how individuals exhibited virtues of

Strength, Courage, and/or Mastery. As an osteopath, you can see

how these acts of honor being awarded actually strengthen us and

our families within the community.

I further invite you to observe your peers throughout the year

so that we might identify noble or honorable demonstrations of

Strength, Courage, and Mastery and personally commend them.

Then call, e-mail, text, or tweet one of us on the Board or Executive

Committee so that we can do the same. One of the greatest joys

I have is witnessing a member of my osteopathic family acting

honorably.

Norman Shidle said, “A group becomes a team when each

member is sure enough of himself and his contributions to praise

the skills of the others.” Why strengthen the foundation? It builds

Honor & Trust. Trust opens the door to change and improvement.

These Applied Virtues can be found in any successful

organization. This is the way of the sentinel, the shaman, and the

warrior. These Applied Virtues build trust and unity within the

osteopathic family. More importantly, they are the vehicle whereby

the organization itself can live the tenets of osteopathy.

“There a re no extraordina ry men... just extraordina ry circumstances that ordina ry men a re forced to deal with.”

— Naval Admiral William (Bull) Halsey, Jr.


From the Desk of the Executive Director

It is a tremendous honor to be your new executive director. For

me this is a culmination of more than 13 years as an advocate

for healthcare. I look forward to meeting you and working

closely together.

The farewell to Amanda “Mandy” Weaver was bittersweet.

Mandy retired in June after 19 years as the director of AOMA.

For many in the healthcare community, Mandy is synonymous

with osteopathic medicine and her legacy will endure long into the

future.

The expression “big shoes to fill” has been mentioned often

since my arrival. While that is certainly the case, Mandy spent

many hours training me to make sure AOMA will continue to be

successful. Thank you Mandy for doing a great job and enjoy your

much deserved retirement.

My charge is to work with all of you to make certain AOMA

is ahead of the curve in providing the highest quality education,

advocacy, and membership programs.

A major cornerstone and prominent measurement of success

for every association is the strength of its advocacy. A united and

engaged AOMA membership has enormous potential to shape

many of the policies that impact the osteopathic profession.

This is such a critical time for healthcare and I strongly

encourage everyone to get involved in healthcare advocacy. It is

sometimes frightening to think about the fact that every facet

of your livelihood can be directly impacted by elected officials.

Consider that, in a typical session, the Arizona State Legislature

will set policies that affect a myriad of issues impacting osteopathic

physicians.

Some examples of these policies include:

• availability of insurance and the cost of healthcare;

• mandates on physicians, sometimes unfunded;

• adequacy and level of physician reimbursement paid by

government programs such as Medicaid;

• scope of practice for non-physician healthcare providers;

• accessibility and

affordability of

healthcare education

and graduate medical

education;

• regulation of osteopathic

physicians including

cost of licensure,

unprofessional conduct,

and standards of care;

• liability of healthcare

providers – patient rights

and safety;

• public health –

prevention and/or

treatment of chronic

diseases;

• implementation of technological advances such as electronic

medical records and prescribing.

The good news is that, while advocacy does take time from

your busy schedule, it only takes a small investment of time to be

effective. It can mean a visit to the legislature to testify, hosting a

fundraiser or as simple as putting a call to action on your Facebook

page or sending a periodic e-mail to a legislator you met. Advocacy

is scalable and every effort makes a difference.

One of my goals as executive director is to provide you with

effective advocacy training and tools to make it easier for you to

get involved. Policy makers’ decisions must be accountable and we

need to provide them with incentives to make the right choices.

Physician advocates can be most effective when they become peers

of legislators; trusted confidants who provide them well-reasoned,

honest advice, and information to help them succeed.

AOMA is here to help you so collectively our efforts will make

a difference.

Charting the Course through Advocacy

Pete WertheimAOMA Executive Director


What We Have Done For You Lately

Advocacy/Government Relations— Participated in the Health Care Leaders Roundtable hosted by

the Chancellor, Maricopa County Community College District

— Provided support for the State of Arizona’s grant application to

CMS for the State Innovation Models: Round 2 of Funding for

Test Assurance

— The 51st Arizona Legislative Second Regular Session ended April

24, 2014. Update of proposed legislation monitored by AOMA

on your behalf

OpposedSB1045 – Insurance; equivalent cost sharing requirements and

striker bill SB1052: HELD IN COMMITTEE

SB1362 – Optometrist, pharmaceutical agents and striker bill

HB2380: signed by Gov. Brewer 4/30/2014

HB2234 – Hospital assessment repeal: HELD IN COMMITTEE

SupportedHB2101 – Vaccines Study Committee: HELD IN SENATE

HB2491 – Newborn screening program: Signed by Gov. Brewer

4/22/2014

HB2550 – Health care providers civil actions: HELD IN

COMMITTEE

HB2561 – Private certification; occupations: HELD IN RULES

SB1124 – Controlled substances monitoring: Signed by Gov. Brewer

4/22/2014

SB1135 – Immunity for non-profit clinics: Signed by Gov. Brewer

4/24/2014

SB1345 – Board of Physician Assistants: Signed by Gov. Brewer

4/22/14

SB1157 – Midwives scope of practice (limiting it): HELD IN

RULES

SB1361 – Health insurance prescriptions prior authorization (to be

electronic): HELD IN COMMITTEE

SB1379 – Volunteer health services registration: Signed by Gov.

Brewer 4/30/2014

SB1404 – Direct care plans; insurance exemption: Signed by Gov.

Brewer 4/23/2014

Neutral HB2078 – Cancer Treatment Meds; Cost-sharing: Signed by Gov.

Brewer 4/30/2014

HB2087 – Health Regulatory Boards; Training Requirements:

Signed by Gov. Brewer 4/23/2014

HB2221 – Workers’ Comp; Controlled Substances: Signed by Gov.

Brewer 4/16/2014

SB1043 – Naturopaths; Prescription Authority; Pharmacy Board:


SB1050 – Telemedicine; Naturopaths: Signed by Gov. Brewer

4/17/2014

SB1124 – Controlled Substances Prescription Monitoring Program:


SB1154 – Physical Therapists; Dry Needling: Signed by Gov. Brewer

4/24/2014

SB1276 – HIV-Related Testing; Consent; Confidentiality;

Exceptions: Signed by Gov. Brewer 4/24/2014

SB1337 – Foreign Prescription Orders: Signed by Gov. Brewer

4/23/2014

SB1339 – Physicians; Prescriptions; Required patient examinations:


American Osteopathic Association (AOA)Attended the Unified ACGME Accreditation Meeting for State

Leadership

Business of Medicine Courses— “Dealing with Problem Patients”

— “Insurance After the Affordable Care Act”

Continuing Medical Education — Provided 35.5 hours of category 1 – A Continuing Medical

Education (CME) at the 2014 AOMA Annual Convention

— Provided 5 hours of category 1-A CME credit for Clinician-

Performed Emergency Ultrasound

— New Director of Education Janet Weigel joined AOMA in May

Community Service — Recruited physicians to supervise students for the TOPS Sports

Screenings

— Arizona Osteopathic Charities awarded $6,000 to Camp Paz,

DOCare and TOPS

Member Services— Board of Trustees updated the 2013-2016 Strategic Plan for the

Association

Public Health— Continue to partner with community organizations to promote

immunizations and healthy outcomes

Students – the future of the osteopathic profession — Awarded a total of $2,500 in scholarships to osteopathic medical

student physicians

— Conducted the Annual Clinical Case and Poster Competition,

awarding $1,500 for the winning contributors

Succession Planning— New Executive Director Pete Wertheim selected and joined

AOMA on June 2, 2014

What We Have Done For You LatelyThis regular feature of the AOMA Digest provides members with a recent update of the Association’s activities. We are

representing the profession as a healthcare stakeholder and are the voice of osteopathic medicine in Arizona. This report

covers the four months from March 1, 2014 to June 30, 2014.


Just D.O. It

Just D.O. It!Amanda L. Weaver, D.H.L., MBA

Editor’s note: “Just D.O. It” is a continuing series in the AOMA Digest. Each column highlights an AOMA member and his or her community involvement. We hope the column provides recognition to some of our hard-working D.O.s and at the same time, provides readers with inspiration to get involved in community service.

After 19 years as Executive Director of the Arizona Osteopathic

Medical Association, Amanda “Mandy” Weaver has

retired. In recognition of her dedication and passion for the

Association, its members, and the osteopathic medical profession,

A.T. Still University conferred upon Mandy an honorary degree

of Doctor of Human Letters. During her hooding ceremony

on June 12, 2014, Mandy shared her thoughts on the difference

osteopathic physicians make in our world.

“Serving as your ambassador and advocate has been a labor

of love and one of the best experiences in my life, as well as my

marriage. It has been exciting to witness the increased recognition

of D.O.s and respect for the profession. When I started with the

Arizona Osteopathic Medical Association or AOMA in 1995, the

question to answer was ‘What is a D.O.?’ As we achieved more

visibility and parity with the Allopathic Profession, the question

became ‘What is the Difference between D.O.s and M.D.s?’

“When I tell them that all Osteopathic medical students

receive extra training in the musculoskeletal and lymphatic systems

incorporating manual medicine, they ask ‘Why don’t more D.O.s

incorporate this into their practice?’

“I have come to the conclusion that the D.O. Difference is the

Power of Touch. As a medical student in clinic where you are

taught Osteopathic Manipulative Medicine, the procedures require

putting your hands on the patient, which in this case could be a

fellow student, faculty member, or standardized patient. This can

be intimidating for all health professions’ students. In my perfect

world, ALL D.O.s would use OMM in their practice because it is

an effective diagnostic and treatment tool.

“Sadly, this is not reality. However, this knowledge that you

have learned and experience and comfort level with this can be

applied in so many other ways. When you walk into an exam room,

introduce yourself and shake their hand. When you examine your

patient, use your palpatory

skills. When your patient has

difficulty getting off the exam

table, help them. The Power

of Touch, use it. That’s what

makes you special.

“You are showing that

you care and are touching

their lives, as all of you have

profoundly touched my life

and heart. You have given

me purpose and a wonderful

osteopathic family. Thank you.”

In retirement, Mandy

plans to travel extensively

with her husband, George

Cohen. Trips are already

scheduled for Colorado,

California, and the Jersey

shore. She will remain active

on the board of the Arizona

Osteopathic Charities and

the Emeritus Board of the

Sojourner Center. Kay Kalousek, D.O., Dean of A.T. Still University School of Medicine in Arizona; Amanda L. Weaver, D.H.L.;

and Craig Phelps, D.O., President of A.T. Still University after Mandy received her honorary doctorate degree.


Features

The Arizona Osteopathic Medical Association (AOMA)

Search Committee made an excellent choice with Pete Wertheim

who brings a vast network of strategic relationships and years of

experience in healthcare in Arizona. Pete

has strong advocacy, communications and

public relations background. The elected

leadership, Pete and the AOMA Team

will build and grow the profession to new

heights. Thanks to our AOMA Team for

their outstanding work – Sharon Daggett,

Teresa Roland and Janet Weigel.

Over the years, there have been some

major events that have affected osteopathic

medicine throughout the United States and

in Arizona. The Arizona Osteopathic Medical Association had a

big part in some way in addressing and creating solutions

OMT CPT Codes Acceptance1995 – D.O.s finally received separate Current Procedural

Terminology (CPT) codes for Osteopathic Manipulation

Treatment (OMT) in 1994. One CPT code for manual

manipulation was being shared by D.O.s, chiropractors and other

professions. The utilization stats were skewed for the different

professions. The Industrial Commission of Arizona (ICA) did

not include the codes in the Physicians’ Fee Schedule. One of my

first projects in 1995 was to convince the ICA that the OMT

codes should be included with the appropriate unit values which

determine reimbursement. We were successful over the next

few years to oppose chiropractors using the five OMT codes

98925 – 98929 for chiropractic manipulation. Four chiropractic

manipulation CPT codes eventually were developed.

OMT ReimbursementThe AOMA provided training and support to D.O.s on the use

of the five OMT codes which were specific to body regions, and

the appropriate ICD-9 diagnosis codes to get reimbursement. The

Evaluation and Management (E&M) or office visit codes required

the use of the modifier -25. This modifier identifies that there is a

significant and separately identifiable evaluation and management

service by the same physician on the same day of service.

Many of the plans were paying either the office visit or the

OMT code, but not both. AOMA held a training for the medical

directors of the health plans with a demonstration of OMT to

educate them. The AOMA education with the plans is ongoing,

and includes providing materials that OMT is not a Physical

Therapy procedure, which typically has a limit on the number of

visits. The OMM specialists have a continuing battle with the

plans because their treatment is more extensive.

First College of Osteopathic (COM) Medicine The Arizona College of Osteopathic Medicine (AZCOM) was

established in 1995 in Glendale, Arizona by Midwestern University

which also owned the Chicago College of Osteopathic Medicine

(CCOM). Kirksville College of Osteopathic Medicine (KCOM)

had a presence in Arizona with many of their third and fourth

year students doing rotations in Arizona many years prior to this.

Additionally, the Arizona School of Health Sciences affiliated with

KCOM was established at Grand Canyon University in 1995.

Thank You Some Milestones to Remember

Arizona Osteopathic CharitiesThere had been no AOMA Auxiliary for years when I joined the AOMA. We made a good faith effort to revive, but it became

clear that we needed to do something else. In 1997, we formed the Arizona Osteopathic Charities.

The Board of Directors includes members of the osteopathic family from the colleges of osteopathic

medicine, students, D.O. spouses, and interested individuals. The Charities mission is to educate and

promote safe and healthy living for children, students, and families. They raise funds to provide student

scholarships, and to donate to three charities: Camp Paz with Stepping Stones of Hope – a grief camp

for children and outreach programs founded by Chip Finch, D.O.; Docare, International for osteopathic

medical missions to underserved areas; and Team of Physicians for Students (TOPS) – free sports

screenings with ECGs and ECHOs founded by Paul Steingard, D.O.

Amanda L. Weaver, D.H.L., MBA

I have enjoyed serving as AOMA’s Executive Director

and it has been my privilege and honor to represent D.O.s

and osteopathic medical students. My commitment to and

passion for the osteopathic medical profession will continue.

This is a family with caring, intelligent, and appreciative

members. Thank you.

—Amanda L. Weaver, D.H.L., MBA


Features

Arizona D.O.s loyalties were divided so the AOMA formed the

Council of Excellence in Education to facilitate communication

for the elected leadership and deans, and provide opportunities to

develop programs sponsored by the three entities.

Hospital Closures and Loss of Residency ProgramsIn the late 1990s and in some cases earlier, national for-profit

chains such as Summit, OrNda, Tenet and Iasis were buying

community hospitals to increase their market share. The osteopathic

hospitals were established by osteopathic physicians who could not

get staff privileges at hospitals and were non-profit. It became even

more important for D.O.s to be connected with each other because

there was no doctor’s lounge where they shared meals, developed

referrals and friendships, and discussed best practices. Osteopathic

internship and residency programs were lost. It was important that

AOMA provide that connection.

1997 – Phoenix General Hospital merges with John C. Lincoln

Healthcare

2000 – Tucson General Hospital closes; residency program

terminates midyear and residents relocated to other programs

2008 – Mesa General Hospital closes: residency program

terminated in 2006

Both Scottsdale Community Hospital and Community

Hospital of Phoenix closed several years ago. The sale of the

hospitals created foundations such as the Tucson Osteopathic

Medical Foundation (TOMF) that have increased visibility of the

profession. TOMF provides educational scholarships and services

for osteopathic medical students.

D.O. Discrimination In the 1990’s there was discrimination against D.O.s being

accepted on panels for managed care plans. This is no longer

the case, with the exception of the neuromuscular medicine and

osteopathic manipulation specialists. The advocacy for these

specialties is ongoing.

There were many D.O. trailblazers who sued hospitals to get

hospital privileges over the years. The discrimination remained and

was a problem in the 1990s and early 2000s. Hospitals did not

accept D.O. specialists’ osteopathic training, and board certifications

for the credentialing necessary for hospital privileges. At two

different points in time, the AOMA leadership had extensive

meetings with senior management and medical staff of both the

Desert Samaritan and Thunderbird Samaritan Hospitals (now part

of the Banner system) to provide information on the education,

training, and board certification of osteopathic specialist physicians.

The terminology was different and confusing. The effort was

successful and both hospitals opened their staff privileges to D.O.

trained specialists.

Surprisingly in late 2013, a department in a hospital denied

privileges to a surgeon with osteopathic training. AOMA worked

with AOA and the surgeon for a successful outcome and he now

has staff privileges.

Second College of Osteopathic MedicineA.T. Still University’s School of Osteopathic Medicine Arizona

(SOMA) in Mesa was established in 2006. The visibility of the

profession was increasing with AOMA’s efforts, AZCOM’s

presence and now SOMA. The public is becoming increasingly

aware of the quality of osteopathic medical education and the

school’s graduates. Both the Arizona College of Osteopathic

Medicine (AZCOM) and School of Osteopathic Medicine

Arizona (SOMA) have been successful in setting up new residency

programs and their executive leaders being recognized as resources

for information and Graduate Medical Education (GME) and

physician workforce experts.

Development of Strategic Relationships AOMA increased its presence on Boards and in advocacy and

stakeholder meetings. The Executive Director was a member of

the Arizona Health-e Connection Steering Committee in 2005

and was an officer of the Arizona Health-e Connection (AzHEC).

AOMA is one of six organizations that has a permanent seat on

the AzHEC board. There have been numerous task forces with

the State and St. Luke’s Health Initiatives on which AOMA has

represented the profession

Increase in Legislative Advocacy Ef fortsJoe Abate, AOMA’s lobbyist for 25 years is excellent and well

respected. Over the last 15 years, AOMA’s Executive Director’s

involvement in advocacy played a significant part in expansion

of scope of practice legislation and strategies, and healthcare

legislation. New Executive Director Pete Wertheim will take this to

a new level.

What is a D.O.?This question is being asked less often which is a sign of increased

public awareness for the profession. We know that is a matter of

education. The AOMA Public Awareness Committee developed a

tool so that the message is consistent for D.O.s, members of their

families, and office staff A poster was distributed at the convention

and has been mailed electronically. Print it and post it in your

reception area.

“Doctors of Osteopathic Medicine (D.O.s) are fully trained

and licensed physicians, and are able to practice in all specialties of

medicine and surgery. D.O.s have specialized training in how the

body’s nerves, muscles, bones and organs work together to influence

overall health, and they utilize a systematic, hands-on approach to

whole person healthcare. Osteopathic physicians empower and

encourage their patients to develop healthy attitudes and lifestyles

that not only help fight disease, but prevent it.”

Osteopathic medicine’s founder, A.T. Still said it best, . . .

“The role of the Physician is to find health. Anyone can find disease.”


Features

Health care is experiencing true transformation today. It is

a transformation driven both by recent advancements in

health information technology (health IT) and the changing

market trends and influences rooted in that technology. This

transformation is being driven by a few essential changes in the

health care landscape:

Electronic health records have become the norm.Approximately 80% of Arizona providers are using an electronic

health record (EHR) today, due in large part to the Arizona

Regional Extension Center (REC) and Medicare and Medicaid

EHR Incentive Programs that have brought more than $400

million to eligible Arizona providers and hospitals as of April 2014.

More importantly, this change has been more than a shift from

paper to electronic records; it has transformed health care delivery

and practice.

The secure exchange of health information has begun and is growing.Providers are securely exchanging patient health information in

a variety of ways to better coordinate patient care, from secure

texting to direct exchange to more robust secure sharing in a

private or public health information exchange. Arizona Health-e

Connection (AzHeC) successfully introduced Direct Exchange

– or secure email – in an initiative last year, and our statewide

health information organization (HINAz – now called simply The

Network) has grown to include over 35 health care organizations

and health plans which represent about half the licensed beds and

covered lives in the state.

Technology is enabling a market shift from individual treatment to population health care.Advancements in health IT have ushered in a shift from episodic

treatment of individuals to management of groups or populations in

value-based reimbursement arrangements such as accountable care

organizations and patient centered medical homes. Increasingly,

major health care payers are challenging the provider community to

accept higher levels of financial risk for their beneficiaries based on

better outcomes and improved health status as opposed to volume-

based reimbursement. To be successful in this new environment,

providers will need health information exchange (HIE) capabilities

that can improve care

coordination and deliver

timely and appropriate data

to support the management

of groups or populations.

This technology-driven

transformation was a key

reason behind an effort this

past year led by AzHeC

to review and update a

statewide strategic plan

for health IT in Arizona.

Through multi-stakeholder

workshops, a community

survey and information

sessions involving more than

300 stakeholders representing

over 70 organizations, an

update to the original 2006

health IT roadmap was

developed – Arizona’s Health IT Roadmap 2.0.* This Roadmap is

focused on the Triple Aim of better care, better outcomes and lower

costs and includes 19 specific and actionable initiatives.

Another development spurred by health care transformation

discussions was a strong consensus that there be one organization

for Arizona providers to come to for all of their HIT/HIE

needs. In February, AzHeC and HINAz (The Network) formally

affiliated under the AzHeC umbrella and became one operational

organization. With the formal affiliation of the two organizations, a

detailed business plan for 2014-2015 was developed that was cross-

walked to each of the Roadmap 2.0 initiatives.

Several Roadmap 2.0 initiatives are aimed at understanding

the emerging needs of providers and facilitating community

collaboration to address these needs. For example, while we

continue to connect new participants to The Network, we also

are developing second generation services for The Network such

as alerts of hospital admissions-discharges-transfers. These alerts

can help hospitals address the population-based goal of reducing

readmission rates and can assist practices in scheduling critical and

even more highly-reimbursed follow-up care.

As the one consolidated organization that serves all the

Health Care Transformation: Practical Solutions for Providers from One Statewide OrganizationBy Melissa Kotrys, Chief Executive Officer, Arizona Health-e Connection (AzHeC) Health Information Network of Arizona (HINAz or The Network)

Melissa KotrysChief Executive Officer

Arizona Health-e Connection (AzHeC)

Health Information Network of Arizona (HINAz or The Network)


Features

health IT and HIE needs of Arizona providers, the one constant

connection with our past is our commitment to understanding

and meeting the practical workflow needs of the stakeholders we

serve. We are committed to providing practical solutions to the

new challenges faced by Arizona providers to improve health care

quality and efficiency through health IT.

*Arizona’s Health IT Roadmap 2.0 is available at www.azhec.org

under the Programs tab.

Physicians have been under a greater pressure to perform. They

are seeing greater numbers of patients for less reimbursement.

Further, many physicians, in order to survive, have sold their

practices to larger insurance or hospital physician groups. With

greater bottom-line orientation, these larger organizations have

often limited the ability of physicians to teach medical students

and residents. This shortsighted thinking, on the part of large

corporations, will lead to decreased availability of well-trained

physicians in the future. The osteopathic colleges in the state

need to participate in faculty development programs that help

osteopathic physicians, who would like to teach, learn how to do

it in a way that is efficient, and that does not adversely impact

productivity.

One of the more difficult issues is the prevailing culture in our

state. Hospital administrators and physician leaders commonly

don’t want to be bothered with GME. Whereas in states such as

New York, and Massachusetts, hospitals compete with each other

to procure new GME programs, in Arizona there is little patience

for a system that “some other hospital should be taking care of.”

Thankfully, that thinking is not prevailing in all hospitals here. An

example of a forward-thinking hospital is Mountain Vista Medical

Center, a for-profit hospital owned by IASIS. Mountain Vista has

applied for residencies in internal medicine, family medicine, and

general surgery and it plans to start recruitment for residents to

begin in July 2013. Other strong established osteopathic programs

in Arizona are in the rural communities of Kingman, Cottonwood,

and Sierra Vista. The Osteopathic profession will continue to grow

in the state of Arizona because of these wonderful partners and the

D.O.s and M.D.s on their staffs who continue to train osteopathic

residents in their GME programs.

So, what can we do as osteopathic physicians in Arizona to

increase the availability of GME training in the state of Arizona?

We can try to think out of the box to determine new ways to

fund GME programs. We can continue to provide outstanding

medical care to our patients and let it be known that we can offer

something more in terms of treatment. We can be politically

connected enough so that our elected officials recognize that there

are more osteopathic medical students than there are allopathic

medical students in the state and that the future of Arizona

medical care will be strongly osteopathic. We can also continue

to train medical students and residents and change the culture to

one that is more academic, while our schools work with hospitals

one by one to develop new programs so we can keep our graduates

here practicing in Arizona. I hope you can each join me in your

own way to create a brighter tomorrow for the patients in the

state of Arizona.


Features

Experience has shown many lawsuits are preventable and the cost of claims reduced through the

incorporation of risk management strategies in the physician’s daily routine. These strategies not only

prevent suits, but also contribute to quality patient care and can help assure appropriate reimbursement.

10TIPS TO REDUCE

OFFICE LIABILITIESBy Judy Avery, RN, BSN, Education Coordinator, RMS, MICA

1. Careful listening to patients can lead to a

more timely and accurate diagnosis and a

more satisfied patient.

2. Establish systems that target key areas

in the out-patient setting including

diagnostic results, referrals, co-

management of patients, no-shows and

cancellations, important follow-up visits,

medication management, and telephone

calls.

3. Systems should be simple and

meticulously maintained. Complex systems

are more likely to fail and more difficult

to maintain.

4. Diagnostic results or consultation reports

should not be filed until they are reviewed,

dated and authenticated by initialing

or with an electronic signature of the

physician or other appropriate level

healthcare clinician.

5. Document clearly and precisely, creating

a “snap-shot” of the patient and all

care provided so other healthcare team

members can assume care safely without

interruption or risk for the patient.

6. Document what is important to patient

care, including phone calls with patients

when advice is provided, appropriate

conversations with family members, and

objective information after an adverse event.

7. Avoid any appearance of an altered record

by correcting all charting errors appropriately

and never add an addendum after litigation

is filed or a case is suspected.

8. Be careful when using templates, whether

part of a traditional paper or electronic

record, giving special attention to fields

that might automatically populate or be

marked as assessed when they were not.

Without specific patient details, templates

may appear too generic.

9. Use a consent form in addition to progress

notes to best document informed consent

discussions, always remembering not to

imply or guarantee treatment will be

complication free.

10. Remember to advocate for your patient

and avoid the appearance that economic

considerations override sound medical

judgment.


Features

Workplace EnvironmentWhat one aspect of a workplace is the most important to you?

Describe the type of work environment in which you are the most

productive?

What did you like most about your past practice(s) and why?

What would you have changed in your past practice(s) and why?

CollaborationTell me about a time when collaboration (in your organization, in

your department) was critical to resolve an issue or accomplish a

goal.

What key contribution did you make to the team or what role did

you play?

Is there anything that, if done differently, would have produced a

more effective outcome?

MotivationDo you prefer autonomy to identified team goals and objectives?

What motivates you to achieve?

How do you motivate others?

Conflict ResolutionDescribe a conflict you recently encountered with senior leadership,

a colleague or staff member.

How did you handle it?

What was the outcome?

Anything you would do differently the next time?

Leadership StylesHow would you describe your leadership style?

What traits do you find important for senior leadership to have in

order to successfully lead an organization?

Adapting to ChangeHow do you adapt to change?

Give me an example of how you used your leadership skills to

implement a change in your work environment.

How did you handle naysayers?

Patient InteractionTell me about a typical patient visit and the steps you take to ensure

the patient’s needs are met while still keeping your schedule on

track.

How do you handle a disgruntled patient that has been kept waiting?

Patient ConflictTell me about a conflict you have with a patient or family member.

How did you handle the situation?

What did you learn from the encounter?

Constructive CriticismWhat constructive criticism have you been given that has impacted

the way you practice?

Tell me about a time when you gave constructed criticism to a

colleague or team member.

How did you approach the situation?

What was their response and ultimate outcome?

Lifestyle BalanceHow do you handle personal stress?

How do you find a healthy balance between work and lifestyle?

The premise behind behavioral interviewing is the best predictor

of future performance is past performance. During the interview,

listen for compassion, contribution, assertiveness, collaborative

mindset, emotional stability, time management and leadership traits

or other characteristics you feel are critical to the culture of your

organization. The good news is that cultural fit does not have to be

perfect. While a particularly bad match can be detrimental, a slight

mismatch can be addressed through mentoring and training. The

key is to achieve as close a fit a possible.

If you need additional information regarding behavioral

interviewing or recruitment of physician and advanced practice

providers, please contact us.

Top 10 Categories to Determine the Cultural Fit of Prospective New Providers – PART 2By Joan Pearson, President, Catalina Medical Recruiters [email protected]

Our recent article “10 Steps to Hiring Healthcare Providers for Cultural Fit – Part 1” (Published in the AOMA Digest Spring 2014) provided

easy steps to identify your organizational culture. Now that you have identified what makes your environment work and what types of

individuals and traits will fit with your culture, let’s look at 10 key behavioral interviewing topics to ensure candidates are a good cultural

match. These are probing questions and can be tweaked to reflect your individual organization and team mission, values, and culture.


Features


Features

The Controlled Substances Prescription Monitoring Program

(CSPMP) changed vendors to Optimum Technologies

December 21, 2013. Notice of this change was sent via email

to all current users. Your original PIN number is needed to reset

your password in order to gain access to the CSPMP database.

Your user name (which the previous vendor called Login ID)

remains the same. If you do not have your original PIN number,

or are unable to access the system, please email Cindy Hunter

at [email protected] from the email address associated

to your account. If you email address has changed we will need

your user name and the last four digits of your SSN to verify your

registration.

On March 24, 2014, Governor Brewer signed Senate Bill

1124, an Act amending Sections 36-2604 and 36-2608, Arizona

Revised Statutes, relating to the Controlled Substances Prescription

Monitoring Program. The law became effective July 24, 2014.

The Bill made changes to A.R.S. 36-2604 that affect Arizona

Prescribers and Dispensers. Subsection C of A.R.S. 36-2604 is

changed to allow “a delegate who is authorized by the prescriber or

dispenser.” A.R.S. 36-2604 is further changed by adding Subsection

E that defines “Delegate.” A delegate “means a licensed health

care professional who is employed in the office of or in a hospital

with the prescriber or dispenser or an unlicensed medical records

technician, medical assistant or office manager who is employed

in the office of or in a hospital with the prescriber and who has

received training regarding both the Health Insurance Portability

and Accountability Act privacy standards, 45 Code of Federal

Regulations Part 164, subpart E, and security standards, 45 Code of

Federal Regulations Part 164, subpart C.”

Implementation of the software enhancements necessary to

allow delegate access accounts will be available in late August or

early September 2014.

If you have questions about the changes, contact Dean Wright,

PMP Director at 602-771-2744 or email at dwright@azpharmacy.

gov or Cindi Hunter, PMP Program Manager at 602-771-2732 or

email at [email protected].

It’s the LawA.R.S. § 36-2606 requires each medical practitioner who is licensed

under Title 32 and who possesses a DEA license to register with the

CSPMP. Each DEA license should have an associated registration.

There is NO fee to the practitioner for this registration. This

registration includes: MD, DO, DDS, DMD, DPM, HMD, PA,

NP, ND, OD, and DVM. Residents may register using the hospital

DEA number and appropriate suffix.

Accessing the Data The Arizona State Board of Pharmacy CSPMP grants system

access to accounts to practitioners and pharmacists so that they may

directly look up, view, and print controlled substance dispensing

information on specific patients. Access is granted to individuals

only – not to clinics, hospitals, pharmacies, or any other health

care facility. Prescribers must register for access to the database.

To register go to: https://www.azrxregistration.com/Login.

aspx?ReturnUrl=%2f

Medical marijuana card information was uploaded to the new

CSPMP system this past spring.

The CSPMP is a program developed to promote public health and

welfare by detecting diversion, abuse, and misuse of prescription

medications classified as controlled substances under the Arizona

Uniform Controled Substances Act. To learn more about Arizona’s

Controlled Substances Prescription Monitoring Program history

visit https://pharmacypmp.az.gov/.

Currently only 6,300 – or 27.9% – of all licensed Arizona

prescribers are registered in the CSPMP. If you are not currently

registered to access the database please take the time to do so and

encourage your colleagues to do the same.

Critical Changes to CSPMP AccessBy Dean Wright, R.Ph., CSPMP Director, Arizona State Board of Pharmacy


Features




Business Partner Listings

AOMA Business PartnersProvide Services for a Health Practice and your Finance

USE YOUR MEMBER DISCOUNT

ACCOUNTING

McGladreyJason Bernstein, CPA

501 N. 44th St., Ste. 300

Phoenix, AZ 85008

(602)760-2798

[email protected]

McGladrey is a leading provider of tax planning and compliance

(individual and practice), assurance and consulting services to

physicians, physician groups and health care companies. AOMA

members will receive a 20% discount off regular fees.

BANKING

Bankers TrustKeith Kormos, Senior Vice President

2325 E. Camelback Rd., Ste. 100

Phoenix, AZ 85016

(602)224-2023

www.bankerstrust.com

[email protected]

Bankers Trust provides core banking services, mortgages, treasury

services and trust accounts. To AOMA members (private banking

clients) will receive: free checking, free printed checks, free

electronic statements and free mobile banking.

BANK CARD PROCESSING

AffinipayVisit the AOMA website, Member Services Business Partner

Listings or call (800) 644-9060 Ext. 6974

AOMA members are entitled to a very special processing package

from Affinipay. Their on-line reporting lets you quickly see your

deposit and payment information.

BILLING & COLLECTIONS

Delivery Financial Services, LLC.Dean Grandlienard – Sales Manager

(602) 490-3956 Direct Line

www.deliveryfinancial.com

[email protected]

A technologically superior medical collection agency. They provide

cutting-edge services like real-time online performance results.

Delivery Financial Services maintains an excellent record for ethical

and professional standards with its clients with an outstanding A+

rating. All AOMA members will receive a significant discounted fee.

J.R. Brothers Financial, Inc.Robert Antenucci – President

(602) 371-1001

www.jrbfinancial.com

[email protected]

J.R. Brothers Financial, Inc. ( JRB) is a medical collection agency

since 1986. AOMA members are offered a lower collection fee with

exceptional service and recovery. Clients can access the status of

their accounts online through the JRB Client View Program.

XOLMed Revenue Cycle Management Corp.J. Patrick Laux

(602) 396-5900 x101

www.xolmedrcm.com

[email protected]

We provide exceptional billing, coding, and collection services for

physician practices. We offer AOMA members a comprehensive

billing and chart preview at no charge to determine how we can

increase practice revenue, and shorten collection cycles.

CAR RENTAL

Avis & HertzDiscount coupons available through the AOMA Office, call (602)

266-6699 or our toll free number (888) 266-6699. You may also

request coupons by emailing [email protected], or go to the

AOMA website www.az-osteo.org and under Member Services,

select Business Partner Services.



FINANCIAL

Mosaic Financial AssociatesAnthony C. Williams, President

4650 E. Cotton Center Blvd. #130

Phoenix, AZ 85040

480-776-5920

Fax: 480-776-5925

[email protected]

Mosaic Financial Associates provides a holistic approach to wealth

management. They believe your financial advisor should provide

a pathway to the financial goals you dream of and work hard to

achieve, while taking into account all aspects of your life and

building a long-term relationship based on trust and top-notch

service.

HEALTH INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY

Information Strategy Design (ISD)Michele Liebau

(480) 970-2255 x107

[email protected]

Information Strategy Design (ISD), a leading healthcare

technology solutions provider with its central office in Mesa.

ISD has been providing network design and implementation to

Heathcare Practices in the South West since 1996. ISD’s focus is on

medical practices to allow them to provide cost-effective computer

networking, telephony, off-site backup and remote monitoring.

ISD’s value offering to AOMA members allows for one time and

ongoing discounts based on using two or more ISD services.

Insurance

AFLACKaren Jones, Independent Agent

16211 N Scottsdale Rd., Ste. A6A 614

Scottsdale, AZ 85254

(602) 229-1970 x213

No Deductible, No Copay, No Preauthorization. AFLAC

supplemental insurance policies are available at special Association

Rates for AOMA members and their families.

Mutual Insurance Company of Arizona (MICA)(602) 956-5276

(800) 352-0402

www.mica-insurance.com

Each medical practice is unique with individual risk management

needs based on specialty and practice characteristics. Their

experienced Risk Management Consultants can assist you in

assessing and providing service designed to reduce your risk of a

malpractice claim or suit. MICA is owned by all of the physicians it

covers and provides educational grants to AOMA.

LEGAL – DISABILITY INSURANCE CLAIMS AND HEALTHCARELITIGATION

Comitz | BeetheEdward O. Comitz, Esq.

Scottsdale Spectrum

6720 N. Scottsdale Rd., Ste. 150

Scottsdale, AZ 85253

(480) 998-7800

Fax (480) 219-5599

[email protected]

www.disabilitycounsel.net

Mr. Comitz has extensive experience in disability insurance and

healthcare litigation, representing physicians in reversing the denial

or termination of their disability insurance benefits. Mr. Comitz has

earned a national reputation for prosecuting claims based on fraud

and unfair practices in the insurance industry. A free consultation is

provided to AOMA members.

MEDICAL RECORD SCANNING & MANAGEMENT

ASDD Document DestructionRyan Shinn

(480) 730-4233

[email protected]

www.assuredsecurityaz.com

ASDD Company is an offsite and onsite “AAA” certified document

shredding, electronic media and x-ray destruction. We are HIPPA

and FACTA compliant. We offer AOMA members discounts on

offsite and onsite services.

PAYROLL PROCESSING

Human Capital StrategiesNick.Mawrenko

(480)577-2552

[email protected]

www.hcscando.com

Human Capital Strategies is a national provider of Professional

Employer Organizations (PEO) Services, Administrative Services,

Organizations (ASO) Services, and Payroll Services. Managing

every aspect of payroll, human resources, taxes, employee benefits,

401(k) plans and workers’ compensation management is what

makes Human Capital Strategies “the next best thing to no

employees!” Human Capital Strategies offers a 10% discount and

$0 setup fees for AOMA Members.



Payroll Strategies GroupNick Mawrenko

(480)577-2552

[email protected]

Payroll Strategies Group is a local payroll service that is designed

for the small medical practice. If you have one employee and don’t

want to do your own payroll, call Nick. Our custom service enables

us to reduce overhead and pass the savings on to you. Call Nick to

see if our approach will fit your practice. Payroll Strategies Group

offers AOMA members a $0 setup fee.

PRACTICE MANAGEMENT

Wolfe Consulting Group Patrick Hayden, Consultant

(602) 324-0410

[email protected]

AOMA members will receive a free initial problem definition

meeting and also receive a discount on a wide array of business

consulting services. Services, from Improving Income to Practice

Sale for Retirement, will serve as the basis for the free initial

consultation. A listing of these services can be reviewed at www.

wolfeconsultinggroup.com. Real Estate services from Office

Leasing to Building Purchase are also available through a wholly

owned subsidiary of Wolfe Consulting Group, Ltd., Healthcare

Realty Advisors, Inc., at no direct cost to AOMA’s members.

REAL ESTATE

RE/MAX ExcaliburKevin Weil, Realtor

(602) 793-7492

[email protected]

Kevin Weil of RE/Max Excalibur is one of the top realtors in the

valley and specializes in serving the needs of physicians. AOMA

members are entitled to video previewing of homes of interest and

other services uniquely designed to save the time of, and maximize

the interests of AOMA members. Kevin and RE/Max Excalibur

have selected Arizona Osteopathic Charities as the charity to

receive a donation based upon member participation.


Welcome New Members

Welcome New AOMA Members________ First Year in Practice ________

John Thomas Zaharopoulos, III, D.O.Child & Adolescent Psychiatry

Phoenix, AZ

Kirk Bowden, D.O.Anesthesiology – Board Certified

Pain Management – Board CertifiedMesa, AZ

(480) 257-2677

______ Second Year in Practice ______

Rebecca Lynne Zaner, D.O.Internal Medicine – Board Certified

Glendale, AZ (480) 607-3800

_____________________________ Full Membership _____________________________

Christopher Jon LeSueur, D.O.Internal Medicine – Board Certified

Payson, AZ(928) 472-3478

Azmi N. Nasser, D.O.Physical Medicine & Rehabilitation –

Board CertifiedPhoenix, AZ

(602) 265-8800

Gary Milton RandallFamily Practice – Board Certified

Gilbert, AZ(480) 840-3075

Namir Shaba, D.O.Urological Surgery – Board Certified

Scottsdale, AZ(480) 924-7333

Richard Patrick Shaughnessy, D.O.Internal Medicine – Board Certified Gastroenterology – Board Certified

Phoenix, AZ(602) 254-6686

David A. Terry, D.O.General Surgery Vascular Surgery

Sun City West, AZ(623) 512-4326

Jonathan James Wiggenhorn, D.O.Otolaryngology – Boad Certified

Goodyear, AZ(623) 535-8770

Jerome Guanciale, D.O.General Sugery – Board Certified

Ft. Mohave, AZ(928) 768-1616

Jeff Bushman, D.O. Family Practice – Board Certified

Willcox, AZ(520) 384-4291

Ryan Wood, D.O.Internal Medicine – Board Certified

Anthem, AZ(623) 504-4479

Kevin W. Hubbard, D.O.Emergency Medicine

Mesa, AZ(480) 358-6300

Brent A. Nedella, D.O.Family Medicine – Board Certified

Litchfield Park, AZ(623) 935-9600

Nicole E. Nedella, D.O. Family Medicine – Board Certified

Litchfield Park, AZ(623) 935-9600

Candace Reid, D.O.Family Practice – Board Certified

Prescott, AZ(928) 778-9603

Amy Archer Ryn, D.O. Family Practice/OMT – Board Certified

Prescott Valley, AZ(928) 583-1236

Clyde A. Cabot, D.O. Anesthesiology – Board Certified

Tucson, AZ(520) 885-6081

Linda Landino, D.O. Family Practice – Board Certified

Phoenix, AZ(480) 728-4000

Edward McDonagh, D.O.Family Practice – Board Certified

Scottsdale, AZ(480) 905-1800

Sharon K. Steingard, D.O.Psychiatry – Board Certified

Phoenix, AZ(602) 336-1966

____________ Out of State ____________

M. Jamie McAllisterFamily Practice – Board Certified

Bend, OR(541) 330-9110

Barry Berger, D.O. Internal MedicineLake Zurich, AZ(847) 438-2454

In MemoriamWe are all diminished when one of our number leaves us.

We will miss them and strive on for the betterment

of our profession in their memory.

Mitch Kasovac, D.O. Leonard Staff, D.O.


Welcome New Members

Recruit a new member,get a $100 AOMA credit!

Do you know someone who isn’t a member of the Arizona Osteopathic Medical Association. . . and should be? Recruit a New Member and both the

New Member and you receive a $100 Credit

towards membership dues or Continuing

Medical Education fees!

As a member, you understand the value of AOMA’s

membership. Share that knowledge firsthand with your

colleagues in the medical field. A growing and healthy

AOMA means greater recognition for the profession, more

resources to support member programs, more representation

with healthcare leaders, and a stronger voice when advocating

issues with state and national legislative members.

Recruiting new AOMA members is simple: • Review your network of colleagues. You may be surprised

who is not a member.

• Check their membership status using the online member

directory or by calling the AOMA office at (602) 266-6699.

• Ask them to join! Express how membership has benefited you.

For all the details on how to recruit a new member and receive

your credit, visit the AOMA website at www.az-osteo.org

under the Members tab or contact Sharon Daggett, Member

Services Manager, at [email protected]

New AOMA

Website and Database

In late May, the new Arizona

Osteopathic Medical Association

website and database launched. The

mobile device-enhanced webpages

bring a fresh look to AOMA.

You could win a

$100 VISA gift card.

Please take the time to visit the new

website and login to update your

professional profile information for

the 2014-2015 AOMA Directory.

Deadline to be included in the new

directory and entered into the gift

card drawing is September 1, 2014.

Over the next few months we will

be rolling out some new features

for AOMA members, so check

back frequently.


Ninety-second Annual Convention

The AOMA 92nd Annual Convention was held April 9 to 13, 2014 at the

Hilton Scottsdale Resort and Villas. Twenty-nine separate continuing medical

education programs offered the opportunity for osteopathic physicians to earn

up to 35.5 Category 1-A CME Credits. More than 550 attended the 5-day long

event participating in continuing medical education activities, the AOMA House

of Delegates meeting, the Osteopathic Family Party, the Case Study and Poster

Competition, the Exhibit Hall.

The 2014-2015 AOMA Executive Committee and AOMA Board of Trustees

were installed during the Convention. Beginning their one-year terms on the

Executive Committee are:

Adam Nally, D.O., President

Craig Phelps, D.O., Immediate Past President

Kristin Nelson, D.O., President Elect

Jonathon Kirsch, D.O., Vice President

Shannon Scott, D.O., Secretary/Treasurer

New American Osteopathic Association Executive Director and CEO

Adrienne White-Faines, MPA, addressed the Convention audience during

the General Session luncheon on Thursday, April 10, 2014. Art Mollen, D.O.,

delivered the Keynote on Healthonomics: How to Balance Your Physical,

Emotional, and Financial Health.

The Arizona Osteopathic Charities held its annual Silent Auction. Thirty

donated items, with the highest valued at $2,350, along with 20 sports

memorabilia treasures from Charity Benefits Unlimited were available for

bidding. The hottest items were resort packages, skincare products, spa

treatments, wine baskets, wine tasting packages, and a framed osteopathic stamp

collection. Combined with the Charities raffle, the profit was nearly $4,800.

Thank you to the dedication of the Charities Board. Special recognition to

Charlene Adrian and the students/residents who helped staff the tables and

processed payments.

The Arizona Osteopathic Political Action Committee raised $7,850 to support

political advocacy for the profession.

Thank you to our exhibitors and sponsors who contributions are a huge part

of the success of the annual convention. We truly couldn’t do it without your

support!

Save the date for the AOMA 93rd Annual Convention May 6 to 10, 2015 at

the Arizona Grand Resort and Spa in Phoenix, Arizona.

2014-2015 AOMA Executive Committee

(left to right) Past President Craig Phelps, D.O.,

President Adam Nally, D.O., President Elect

Kristen Nelson, D.O., and Secretary/Treasurer

Shannon Scott, D.O. Not pictured: Vice

President Jonathon Kirsch, D.O.



2014 Clinical Case and Poster ForumAOMA hosted the annual Clinical Case and Poster Forum during the AOMA 92nd Annual Convention. The submissions for this

year’s contest were superb and the judges had some very difficult decisions to make.

Clinical Case ForumStudents from Arizona Osteopathic Medical Schools submitted case summaries to the AOMA

Professional Education Committee in February. The Committee reviewed all of the cases and selected

the top three cases to be presented during the Convention. The top three cases were:

• Kabuki Syndrome: It Pays to be n-ITP-icky – Anthony Ceraulo, AZCOM OMS III,

• West Nile Encephalitis Presenting as Altered Mental Status – James John, AZCOM OMS III

• A clinical Review of Spitz Nevi – Robert Rampton, AZCOM OMS III

The students presented their cases and the Convention audience selected the winner of the forum

Anthony Ceraulo’s case of “Kabuki Syndrome: It Pays to be n-ITP-icky.” Mr. Ceraulo was

presented with a plaque and a $500 award, courtesy of the Arizona Osteopathic Charities, during the

Osteopathic Family Party on Friday evening.

Poster ForumA total of 27 posters were submitted into the Forum this year, an all-time high. Posters were

submitted in two categories: case and research. These were displayed and presented to the

Convention audience during the lunch hour on Saturday, April 12, 2014.

Anthony Ceraulo accepts the $500 prize

for the 2014 Clinical Case Forum.

Case Study Poster Winners1st Place – In vitro model system to investigate drug resistance

mechanisms: Eric Romney, Whitney Wilson, Bernardo Chavira,

Dr. Vinay J. Nagaraj, AZCOM

2nd Place – Development and in vitro evaluation of non-

emulsified genistein as topical adjuvant therapy for skin cancers:

Christina Hoang, Jimmy Pham, William Brownlow, Tamer

Elbayoumi, AZCOM

3rd Place – Development of a Novel Centrifugal-Optical

Diagnostic Device for Alzheimer’s Disease: Albert Hsia, Christa

Procopio, Michelle Perkins, Jon Valla, AZCOM

Research Poster Winners1st Place – Asymptomatic Peripheral Lymphadenopathy; Early

Detection of Follicular Lymphoma: Dominic Derenge, Benjamin

Kitt, Shannon Scott, D.O., AZCOM

2nd Place – Elephantiasis in Arizona?: Jeffrey Collins; Michelle

Duff; Jason Barr; D.O., Richard L. Averritte Jr., M.D.; Christine C.

Lin, M.D., AZCOM

3rd Place – A Case of Multisystemic Langerhans Cell

Histiocytosis in a Middle-aged Male: Shahrzad Akbary, Tracy

Middleton, D.O., Joseph Machuzak, D.O., AZCOM

Albert Hsia proudly displays his Case Study Poster. Christina Hoang represents her co-authors in the Case Study Poster

Competition.

Winning posters and case studies may be viewed on the AOMA website at www.az-osteo.org under the CME tab. Entries for the 2015 competition are due in February.



• Puanani Hopson, AZCOM OMS V: Treatment of CommonFibular (Peroned) Nerve Palsy with Osteopathic ManipulativeMedicine

• Kuzma V. Kovzun, AZCOM: Morphological changes inpancreatic cancer cells transfected with a synthetic ATP bindingprotein

• Dedrick Lane, AZCOM: ATPATP-depletion in Breast Cancercells: A New Approach to Cancer Therapy

• Leslie Tamura AZCOM OMS III: A tale of two fetuses and anacute abdomen

• Miho Yoshida, D.O., AZCOM NMM+1: Managementof Levator Ani Syndrome with Osteopathic ManipulativeTreatment: A Case Study

• Levi Filler, AZCOM OMS III: A Cardiac Manifestation ofSystemic Lupus Erythemetosus

• Sonia Hasbun, AZCOM OMS III: The Importance ofSurveillance - A case of renal cell carcinoma metastases to thepancreas 12 years after initial diagnosis

• Emily Washek, AZCOM OMS III : Clinical predictors of earlydry eye: objective vs subjective comparison

• Andrew Bach, AZCOM OMS III: Approach to a new nodularlung mass in a patient with a history of sarcoidosis and abnormallung radiographs

• Jesse Tran, AZCOM OS III and Geoffrey Nelson, AZCOMOMS III: Prophylactic Rasburicase for RUQ Pain? Tumor LysisSyndrome in patient withSitus Inversus Totalis

• Michael Schild, AZCOMOMS III: PrimaryPulmonary HodgkinsLymphoma: A case Reportand Review of ModernLiterature

• Katherine Cotangco, AZCOM OMS II: Disparate IntracellularSignaling Pathways Mediate Genistein and estradiol-stimulatedincreases in restoring intestinal chloride secretion

• J.J. Mosley, University of Utah School of Medicine: GeneExpression Changes in Fibromyalgia and Chronic FatigueSyndrome Patients After Exercise

• Sean Cunningham, AZCOM OMS III: Treatment ofMesenteric Lymphadentis Using Osteopathic ManipulativeTherapy

• Dana Ferrari, ATSU SOMA OMS III: Suspected AmnioticFluid Embolism in a late-term Pregnancy

• Diane Bejerano, AZCOM OMS III: Insulin Signaling andobesity: Role of Ceramide in Adipocyte Insulin Resistance

• Whitney Wilson, AZCOM: Sanguinarine-mediatedsensitization of SiHa cells to TRAIL for cervical cancer therapy

• J. Frischknecht, AZCOM: The effects of TNF-� and Ceramideduring Insulin Signaling in C2C12 Myocytes

• Mark McPherson, AZCOM OMS III: An UncommonPresentation of Common Bile Duct Stones

• Jimmy Tam Huy Pham, AZCOM OMS III: PosturalOrthostatic Tachycardia Syndrome: A Case Report

Other posters presented were:

Shahrzad Akbary’s research poster earned her 3rd Place in the

competition. 1st Place Case Study Poster

Winner Eric Romney, explains

his process to an interested

Convention attendee.

Jeffrey Collins, presents his Research Poster to one of the judges.

Research Poster Competition winners Benjamin Kitt and Dominic

Derenge discuss their findings with members of the judging panel.



Arizona Osteopathic Charities’ Student Scholarship Winners“How do you plan to contribute to the future of osteopathic medicine?” This was the question that 19 osteopathic medical students enrolled in Arizona schools answered in hopes of receiving a 2014 Arizona Osteopathic Charities Student Scholarship. Annually, the Board of Arizona Osteopathic Charities selects two students – one from Midwestern University Arizona College of Osteopathic Medicine (AZCOM) and one from A.T. Still University School of Osteopathic Medicine in Arizona (SOMA) – to receive a $500 scholarship. Winners are chosen based upon their 500-word essay submission, financial need, and good academic standing. This year’s winners were Ken Hirschi, SOMA OMS III and David Larsen, AZCOM OMS III. Congratulations.

Ken Hirschi – SOMA OMS III

In the two years I have spent here at A.T. Still University SOMA, I have gained a passion for the philosophy of medical practice that osteopathic medicine encourages; and I feel that most students around the nation would agree. But this passion seems to be extinguished as we advance in our medical education. Having to

worry about such stressors as whether to take the USMLE boards in addition to our own, due to the relatively larger number and more widespread geographical distribution of ACGME residencies, as compared to OGME. Furthermore, as we begin working in clinic settings and see that the difference between the practice philosophy of D.O.s and M.D.s are negligible. This is why I feel that D.O. students start to put less energy into trying to incorporate the osteopathic philosophy and OMM training and just go with the flow.

While applying to schools of osteopathic medicine I had peers and family say, “what is a D.O.?” Although most had been seen by primary and specialty doctors who were D.O.s, they didn’t know it because in the non-medical world, both D.O.s and M.D.s are known only as doctor. I believe the future of osteopathic medicine lies within the hands of the students and their practice philosophy. No matter what specialty a doctor of osteopathic medicine chooses, I feel that the osteopathic philosophies instilled within us should be incorporated

into our practice, so the patient knows when they see a D.O they will receive some exposure to “osteopathic” medicine. Whether through osteopathic techniques used to aid in their treatment or diagnosis, or through patient education on how their health is an inter-related system consisting of body, mind and spirit and to achieve full heath all aspects must be in alignment.

My plan to contribute to the future of osteopathic medicine is three-fold: First, political activism – lobby for an increase in OGME residencies. If a medical graduate attends a residency where osteopathic principles and practice are encouraged, that graduate is more likely to incorporate that philosophy into their own practice. Second, practice what I preach. As a future healthcare provider I will treat my patients by utilizing the tools available through modern pharmacology and diagnostic imaging and techniques, while at the same time I will use the time tested and proven methods of osteopathy. Patients will know they will be exposed to the osteopathic philosophy of medical practice when they come to see me. And lastly, I plan to play an active role in graduate osteopathic medical education. By encouraging medical students to rotate with me and see first-hand how a D.O. should practice medicine, I will seek the opportunity to be directly involved with medical students while in school or during residency.

I believe that osteopathic medicine not only has a bright future ahead, but it is the future. Especially if we, the next generation of D.O.s, maintain the passion for the osteopathic philosophy we had when we first began our medical education.

David Larsen – ATSU OMS III

Little known fact: a single beehive houses over 50,000 bees and produces 100 pounds of honey annually. The secret to these impressive structures, however, lies in the tiny honeycomb cell, an elegant hexagonal structure that repeats over and over in an effectively simple pattern.

The power is in the pattern, both for the honeycomb and my contributions to the future of osteopathic medicine. Instead of waiting to perform one single, grand act somewhere in the distant future, I contribute to the future now by creating a pattern I can follow for the rest of my life.

The pattern begins with service. They say the best way to lead is by example, and as osteopaths serve in communities and clinics, we spread the tenants of osteopathy and help people understand our holistic vision of medicine. I have already made service a priority in my life: last year alone I volunteered over 70 hours to the community, and the circle of influence will only expand as my clinical skills improve. I look forward to volunteering in community clinics, working with the underserved, and even offering care in areas hit by natural disasters. Over a lifetime, these small acts of service will lead to great changes.

Research is the next component of my pattern. Much about medicine is still unknown, and I think DOs contribute so much to research

because of our unique perspective that individual body systems work together to create a healthier whole. I am always curious, and I enjoy research most when it holds personal meaning. For example, my brother-in-law has cystic fibrosis, so I spent last summer researching how diet, drugs, and gender impact patients with CF. I will continue my pattern of asking and researching as I conduct research throughout residency and ultimately work in a research-based hospital.

The final element of my pattern is lobbying for positive change. Medicine is at a definitive crossroads right now, and some say that a single voice cannot affect the outcome. I strongly disagree. In 2013, I attended DO Day on the Hill in Washington, DC, and lobbied members of congress about public healthy policies. More recently, I wrote a state representative about legislature that could negatively impact DOs. In today’s world, I firmly believe that the pen (or keyboard) is mightier than the sword, and I will use my voice to lobby officials, stay informed, and help shape policies that will help osteopaths now and in the future.

The power is in the pattern. On its own, a honeycomb cell is just a quarter-inch structure. Repeat the pattern, however, and the honeycomb reaches its full potential, becoming part of a complex ecosystem that houses bees and produces honey. Similarly, no single act of service, research day, or letter will create noticeable change, but as I set a consistent pattern of service, research, and public involvement, I will contribute to a better, stronger, and more unified osteopathic community.



1st Providers Choice

A.T. Still University School of Osteopathic Medicine Arizona

Aegis Sciences Corporation

Amarin Pharma

American College of Osteopathic Family Physicians

AZ Army National Guard

AZ Osteopathic Charities

Bankers Trust

BlueCross BlueShield of Arizona

Brokerage Professionals, Inc.

Cancer Treatment Centers of America

Comitz Beethe

Cuningham Group

Extreme Weight Loss Program

Grace Hospice of Arizona

Healthy Habits

Humana, Inc.

IASIS Healthcare/Arizona Markets

IPC – The Hospitalist Company

Maricopa Co. Department of Public Health of

Tobacco and Chronic Disease Prevention

MICA

Midwestern University

Nomax Inc.

Pfizer, Inc,

Phoenix Children’s Hospital

Reckitt Benckiser Pharmaceuticals

Select Specialty Hospitals of Arizona

Sigma Tau

Sonora Quest

St. Joseph’s Hospital

The Arizona Partnership for Immunization (TAPI)

United Allergy Services

United States Navy Reserves/

Navy Recruiting District Phoenix

Vivus, Inc.

Women’s International Pharmacy

XolMed

2014 AOMA Convention Exhibitors

PLATINUM

Mutual Insurance Company of Arizona (MICA)

SILVER

BlueCross BlueShield of Arizona

Midwestern University Arizona College of

Osteopathic Medicine

Tucson Osteopathic Medical Foundation

Thank You to these organizations and individuals for their support as part of this year’s 92nd AOMA Annual Convention

Thank You to our 92nd AOMA Annual Convention Sponsors

and Exhibitors

The Arizona Osteopathic Medical Association hosts Annual Awards Presentation at the

Ninety-second Annual Convention in Scottsdale



1. Incoming AOMA President Adam Nally, D.O. and Outgoing AOMA President Craig Phelps, D.O. share a moment with Amanda Weaver during her final convention as AOMA Executive Director.

2. William Elliott, D.O. accepts the Excellence in Osteopathic Medical Education Award from Craig Phelps, D.O.

3. AOMA Executive Director (retired) Amanda Weaver congratulates Physician of the Year Award recipient Art Mollen, D.O.

4. SOMA Student Distinguished Service Award was presented to Leigh Ann Constanza.

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5. AOMA President Craig Phelps, D.O. congratulates GreggZankman, D.O. on his Humanitarian Award.

6. Charlene Adrian received the AZCOM Student DistinguishedService Award.

7. AOMA President Craig Phelps, D.O., presents Karen Nichols, D.O. with the AOMA Lifetime Achievement Award.

8. Lori Kemper, D.O. accepts the Outstanding Mentor of the YearAward from Craig Phelps, D.O.

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LIFETIME ACHIEVEMENT AWARDKaren J. Nichols, D.O., MACOI — This award is presented to long-

time members who have advanced the osteopathic medical profession

in Arizona with unwavering commitment to quality patient care.

Previous recipients are Leonard Staff, D.O., Paul Steingard, D.O. and

Mitch Kasovac, D.O.

Karen J. Nichols, D.O., MACOI is much too young to receive

a Lifetime Achievement Award but deserves it for her impact on

osteopathic medical associations in the United States. Her

commitment to and passion for osteopathic medicine and the

profession has never wavered. She was the first female President

of both the Arizona Osteopathic Medical Association (AOMA)

and the American Osteopathic Association (AOA). She has been a

member of the AOMA for twenty-nine years and the recipient of

several AOMA awards: Physician of the Year, Distinguished Service

Award in honor to Ted Podleski, President’s Award, and Outstanding

Mentor Award. Dr. Nichols is Dean of the Chicago College of

Osteopathic Medicine at Midwestern University but her permanent

residence is in Mesa, Arizona. She is a graduate of the Kansas City

University of Medicine and Biosciences College of Osteopathic

Medicine.

PHYSICIAN OF THE YEAR AWARDArthur J. Mollen, D.O. — The Physician of the Year Award is the

highest honor for a member who: Provides his/her community with

compassionate, comprehensive and caring medical services on a

continuing basis; is directly and effectively involved in community

affairs; and supports his/her community, state, professional associations

and humanitarian program.

Arthur J. Mollen, D.O. is an osteopathic family physician and

nationally recognized as a health, fitness, and preventive medicine

expert. His contributions have greatly raised the public’s awareness

of the osteopathic medical profession. Dr. Mollen has been a

loyal member of the AOMA for over 40 years and is a graduate of

Philadelphia College of Osteopathic Medicine.

PRESIDENT’S AWARDNeal Galan, D.O. — Honors a member who has contributed significantly

to the AOMA via the Board of Trustees, House of Delegates, and/or

Committees. Neal Galen, D.O., was selected for his years of service as

Chair of the AOMA Constitutional and Bylaws Committee.

EXCELLENCE IN OSTEOPATHIC MEDICAL EDUCATION AWARDWilliam G. Elliott, D.O. — Honors a physician or non-physician who

has contributed significantly to the advancement of osteopathic medical

education in Arizona.

William G. Elliot, D.O., is the Residency Program Director at

Sierra Vista Regional Health Center (SVRHC). His leadership in

establishing the residency program at SVRHC and his efforts in

continuing to expand the program with the goal of retaining physicians

in the community are improving health care for the residents of Sierra

Vista and Cochise County. A graduate of Michigan State University

College of Osteopathic Medicine, Dr. Elliot is board certified in

Internal Medicine and Cardiology.

OUTSTANDING MENTOR AWARDLori Kemper, D.O., M.S., FACOFP — Honors a physician who

has volunteered her time to students or physicians as a mentor and is

known as “one who makes a difference” in that person’s life.

As Dean of the Arizona College of Osteopathic Medicine at

Midwestern University in Glendale, Arizona, Lori Kemper, D.O., is

an advocate for the osteopathic medical profession and a mentor to all

students, faculty, and colleagues. Her influence on practitioners, future

practitioners, and the profession as a whole is exemplary.

HUMANITARIAN AWARDGregg Zankman, D.O. — Honors a socially responsible AOMA

member who has donated his/her time and/or efforts to improve mankind.

Gregg Zankman, D.O, is recognized for his work with H.O.M.E. –

Health Outreach through Medical Education – a community-based

program delivering much-needed medical care and preventive education

at two homeless shelters in Maricopa County. Dr. Zankman, Chair of

the Department of Pediatrics at Midwestern University Arizona College

of Osteopathic Medicine (AZCOM), works with osteopathic medical

students and students from other MWU programs to provide the free

services. The H.O.M.E. program was established in 1999.

VOLUNTEER OF THE YEAR AWARDJohn Manfredonia, D.O. FACOFP, FAAHPM — Honors those who

have volunteered their time and provided significant contributions and

services to the community and/or the Association.

John Manfredonia, D.O., a long-time AOMA member, is

recognized for his 18-year tenure as Speaker of the House of the

Arizona Osteopathic Medical Association House of Delegates. A

Past President of the AOMA, Dr. Manfredonia’s contributions to the

osteopathic medical profession are countless. He is a role model for all

osteopathic physicians – past, present, and future.

STUDENT DISTINGUISHED SERVICE AWARDHonors a student currently enrolled in an osteopathic medical school

who has provided significant contributions and service to the school,

community, and AOMA. Nominees are recommended by the AOMA

and selected by the Dean of their respective college of osteopathic

medicine.

AZCOM – Charlene Adrian

SOMA – Leigh Ann Costanzo

DISTINGUISHED SERVICE AWARDCongressman Matt Salmon — Honors healthcare leaders

who have significantly contributed to improving the healthcare

community and promoting osteopathic medicine.

Congressman Matt Salmon (R), District 5, has long represented

the City of Mesa and the State of Arizona in the State Legislature

and in Congress. AOMA thanks him for his service and leadership.

2014 AOMA Award Winners



Previous Recipients of AOMA Special Recognition AwardsPhysician of the Year Award1995 Karen J. Nichols, D.O.1996 Stanley Brysacz, Jr., D.O.1997 F. Timm McCarty, III, D.O.1998 William Inboden, D.O.1999 Joseph J. Lovett, D.O.2000 Nicholas Pazzi, D.O.2001 John F. Manfredonia, D.O.

2002 David Bryman, D.O.2003 Steven Pitt, D.O.2004 Paul M. Steingard, D.O.2005 Craig E. Hoffbauer, D.O.2006 Lori A. Kemper, D.O.2007 Kelli M. Ward, D.O., M.P.H.2008 Carrol E. Wheat, D.O.

2009 James Dearing, D.O. 2010 Jan D. Zieren, D.O., M.P.H.2011 Charles A. Finch, D.O.2012 Scott Steingard, D.O. 2013 Jeffrey W. Morgan, D.O., MA

Distinguished Service Award1995 Jerry Colangelo1996 Ted Podleski1997 Mutual Insurance Company of Arizona1998 Robert Bohm1999 Paul M. Steingard, D.O.2000 U.S. Senator Jon Kyl2001 State Senator Susan Gerard

2002 Karen J. Nichols, D.O.2003 Shirley Carpenter2004 Marge Croushore2005 Ross Kosinski, Ph.D.2006 Senator Robert Cannell, M.D.2007 Lew Riggs, Ed.D.2008 Bradford Croft, D.O., M.B.A.

2009 Arizona Medical Association2010 Senator Carolyn S. Allen2011 James Carland, M.D. – MICA2012 Gary Cloud, PH.D, MBA2013 Leland L. Fairbanks, M.D., MPH

President’s Award1996 John F. Manfredonia, D.O.1997 Harmon L. Myers, D.O.1998 Leonard Staff, Jr., D.O.1999 Craig E. Hoffbauer, D.O.2000 Lori A. Kemper, D.O.2001 Karen J. Nichols, D.O.

2002 Lawrence K. Sands, D.O.2003 Nicholas C. Pazzi, D.O.2004 Deborah M. Heath, D.O.2005 Jeffrey W. Morgan, D.O.2006 Jan Zieren, D.O., M.P.H. 2007 Bradford Croft, D.O., M.B.A.

2008 Sanford Moretsky, D.O., FACOO2009 Thomas McWilliams, D.O.2010 Michael Altamura Jr., D.O.2011 Craig Hoffbauer, D.O.2012 Craig Cassidy, D.O. 2013 Shannon Scott, D.O.

Excellence in Osteopathic Medical Education1996 Jack Kinsinger, Ph.D. 1997 Mitchell Kasovac, D.O.1998 John F. Manfredonia, D.O.1999 Craig M. Phelps, D.O.2000 Wilbur V. Cole, III, D.O.2001 Richard Dobrusin, D.O.

2002 Dean James Cole, D.O.2003 Kathleen Goeppinger, Ph.D.2004 Thomas McWilliams, D.O.2005 William H. Devine, D.O.2006 Susan Gerard, M.B. A.2007 Ross Kosinski, Ph.D.

2008 Dana Sue Devine, D.O.2009 Harmon Myers, D.O.2010 Lori A. Kemper, D.O., M.S.2011 Fred Schwartz, D.O.2012 Howard Shulman, D.O. 2013 Katherine Worden, D.O.

Humanitarian Award1999 Kenneth E. Root, D.O.2000 Lawrence R. LeBeau, D.O 2002 Thomas W. Eyler, D.O. and

Charles (Chip) Finch, D.O.2003 Thomas B. Bennett, D.O.

2004 James W. Cole, D.O.2005 L. Markham McHenry, D.O.2006 Robert Tognacci, D.O.2007 Michael Ward, D.O.2008 Kevin M. McCabe, D.O.

2009 Richard Reilly, D.O. 2010 Alan Schalscha, D.O.2011 Bradley Downing, D.O.2012 Harry Watters, D.O. 2013 Thomas C. Edwards, D.O.

Student Distinguished Service Award1999 Suzanne Frasca, AZCOM2000 Helene Labonte-Carroll, AZCOM2001 Christine Estrada, AZCOM2002 Melody Rodarte, AZCOM2003 Jessica Jewart, AZCOM2004 Kara Beasley, AZCOM2005 Anne Yost, AZCOM2006 Rebeccah Rodriguez, KCOM &

B. J. Ho, AZCOM

2007 Amy Adams, AZCOM2008 Tomas Chavez, SOMA;

Ben Wilde AZCOM; Stacie Gooch, KCOM

2009 Brian Liem, AZCOM; Eugene Bukham, KCOM; Danielle Barnett, SOMA

2010 Melissa Blessing, SOMA; Cory Maughan, AZCOM; Michael Paddock, KCOM

2011 Brandon Abbott, MPH, SOMA; Joshua Behlmann, KCOM; Maxwell Braverman, AZCOM

2012 Mansoor Ali Jatoi, OMS IV, AZCOM; Amanda Saraf, KCOM; Gillian Wackowski, SOMA

2013 Isaac Theerman, AZCOM; Kelly Isbell, KCOM; Shaun Garff, SOMA

Outstanding Mentor Award2004 Ben Field, D.O.2005 Scott Steingard, D.O.2006 Karen J. Nichols, D.O.2007 Jordan Ross, D.O.

2008 Tracy O. Middleton, D.O.2009 Mitchell Kasovac, D.O.2010 Thomas E. McWilliams, D.O.2011 David Parrack, D.O.

2012 Dana Sue Devine, D.O. 2013 Angela DeRosa, D.O., MBA, CPE

Volunteer of the Year2006 Betty Toothman2007 Leonard Staff, Jr., D.O.2008 Deborah Hudak, D.O.

2009 Rev. Dick Stafford with Team of Physicians for Students (TOPS)

2010 William J. Rappoport, M.D.

2011 James W. Cole, D.O., FAODME2012 Christine Morgan, Ed.D2013 Milissa A. Cooper, D.O



It’s all about family!

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1. Betty Toothman is escorted into the party by Bucky, the A.T. Still University mascot.

2. Marti Finch, Amanda Weaver, Jeff Morgan, D.O., and Chris Morgan, Ph.D. enjoy each other’s company at the party.

3. Good food...

4. ...cool drinks!

5. Bunnie Richie, D.O., Teresa Roland, Amanda Weaver, Carlton Richie, D.O., and George Cohen say “cheese”.



2014 Osteopathic Family Party

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6. Bunnie Richie, D.O. and Shannon Scott, D.O. masquerade as Amanda Weaver and her husband, George Cohen.

7. Fun for all.

8. Balloons...

9. ...dancing and...

10. ...face painting!

11. Bucky gets a hug!



The year 2014 is well underway and there is plenty to do. We osteopathic family

physicians are struggling to meet the demands of numerous government programs

such as Meaningful Use, PQRS, and ACO quality measures. We are trying to

transition to ICD-10 and meet new requirements for Commercial Driver’s License

physicals and are bracing for changes to our board certification process and changes to

residency programs.

Change, by itself, is not always good or bad but has the potential to be either. The

danger is that change will occur without input from the people it affects, namely, us.

The changes mentioned above have started to drive many physicians away from small

self-owned practices into larger integrated delivery networks, hospital-owned physician

networks or large physician owned networks. This change provides some of the tools

necessary to meet the growing governmental and regulatory requirements. However

there exists the danger that when a strong, independent osteopathic family physician

moves from independent practice to an employed position. The danger is feeling that

along with being relieved of the responsibilities of hiring and firing, contract negotiation

and EHR maintenance, that they feel they no longer have to participate in their local

societies, associations and hospital staffs.

I want to combat this feeling by growing an association that is inclusive, open and

has meaningful discussions about the threats to osteopathic family medicine. I invite

you to our meetings, invite you to call or write me over the coming year. I invite you to

complain to me so that your voice can heard and we can effect change.

We have something special to offer as osteopathic family physicians and we do not

want to lose that. Let me know how I can help.

Aaron B. Boor, D.O.

President, AzACOFP

Arizona Society of ACOFP President’s PerspectiveAaron B. Boor, D.O.President, Arizona Society of the American College of Osteopathic Family Physicians

Aaron B. Boor, D.O.

President 2014-2015



Pending FAA approval, there could be 7,500 drones in US

airspace by 2018 – and none of us are very worried according

to researchers at Texas A&M University.

In an article in the June 2014 Smithsonian, those researchers

speculate we evolved to look for ground predators, so we aren’t

pre-programmed to fear flying things. Our rational brains force us

to wrestle with drone/privacy concerns, but the actual flying robots

don’t trigger primal response. Usually the shock of the new is more

unsettling.

Nothing’s staticIn the wink it took you to read that, you exhaled, the temperature

went up a degree and the last of sprinkled water evaporated off the

dirt by the shrubs. In that same wink, someone probably just had

an idea that will make the internet, cell phones and PCs – and all

the other “indispensable” things we had never used before 1992 –

obsolete, and, yet, we all claim to hate change.

This is a long-winded way of acknowledging the turn-over at

AOMA.

Someone once told me the best way to pay tribute to someone

is to find the key word that defines them and start from there.

Finding the right word to define Mandy Weaver is impossible. Lots

of words come to mind – patient, kind, smiling, effective, tough,

resilient, knowledgeable, optimistic, inventive – but she is a sum of

those rather than defined by one.

Mandy Weaver has been part of my professional life since the

beginning. Over that time, she has been readily available and

unrelentingly considerate. Each time I spoke with her, I was (or felt

I was) the most important person in her universe. Mandy brought

osteopathic physicians to the table in every major fight and issue

over the last two decades and acquitted herself well. She is a rare

person of accomplishment, of whom no one has a bad thing to say.

It is HARD to say goodbye and good luck.

This milestone would be harder to take if I had not known Pete

Wertheim (at least from many telephone calls) when he worked

at the Arizona Hospital and Healthcare Association. There, he

proved to be an astute observer of people and trends as well as

an informative, truthful and accurate source. I look forward to

working with him again.

A year ago, the Tucson Osteopathic Medical Foundation went

through its own turnover.

Lew Riggs, its director for exactly 25 years, retired. His

accomplishments are legendary, not the least of which is for MDs

in Tucson to start almost every conversation with, “You know, DOs

got it right when it comes to patient care.” Invariably, whatever

comes next was part of some

campaign Dr. Riggs planned

and executed.

I have a large desk chair

to occupy. Fortunately,

TOMF has a strong and open

Board of Trustees who have

guided me through the initial

thickets. We will report some

of the exciting things we plan

to undertake in future issues.

In the meantime, for those

who don’t know me, here’s

a thumbnail. I am a native

Arizonan, educated in Tucson

schools. My undergraduate

degree was in journalism

and history at Northern

Arizona University. I earned my law degree from the University of

Nebraska, and spent 27 years at the Pima County Medical Society,

22 years as its Executive Director. My mom and sisters are RNs.

My dad was a neurosurgeon -- who wrote the recommendation

in 1970 for the medical society in Tucson to accept osteopathic

physicians as members. That passed and in 1971, Pima County

Medical Society became the first county society west of the

Mississippi to welcome DO members.

The Tohono O’odham, a local Native American Tribe in

Southern Arizona, refer to this part of the year as First Summer.

They are eagerly awaiting Second Summer, with Rain Time ( July),

Short Time for Planting (August) and Dry Grass (September).

Their seasons remind us of one thing: change is often for the good.

Steve NashExecutive Director Tucson Osteopathic Medical Association

Change is Often for the Good



The Commission on Osteopathic College

Accreditation (COCA) conducted a

comprehensive site visit at the Arizona College

of Osteopathic Medicine (AZCOM) in January

and reaffirmed the College’s accreditation status for

another seven-year term.

Additionally, COCA issued four commendations

for the University and AZCOM leadership for their

financial planning and reinvestment; the College’s

“stellar and tranquil learning environment;” the

University’s comprehensive support services and

open-door policies; and for the Health Outreach

through Medicine and Education (H.O.M.E.)

Program, which was called “a model for other

healthcare educational institutions.”

AZCOM faculty and staff spent a year

preparing for the site survey to provide the proper

documentation to the Commission. “I could not be more pleased with the effort expended

and the dedication shown by everyone at AZCOM and MWU to prepare for this visit,”

said Lori Kemper, D.O., Dean, AZCOM. “The results are a testament to the quality of

people and resources we enjoy as members of the Midwestern University community.”

Midwestern University/Arizona College of Osteopathic Medicine

AZCOM, MWU Earn Commendations Following Accreditation Site Visit

NEWS andUPDATESAPPOINTMENTS, AWARDS &

GRANTS

Layla Al-Nakkash, Ph.D. (AZCOM),

Professor, Physiology, received a 2014 Frontiers

in Physiology Professional Development

Fellowship from the American Physiological

Society (APS) in April.

Dominic Derenge, MS-IV (AZCOM),

Ben Kitt, MS-IV (AZCOM), and Shannon

Scott, D.O., FACOFP, Clinical Associate

Professor, AZCOM, won first prize for

“Asymptomatic Peripheral Lymphadenopathy;

Early Detection of Follicular Lymphoma”

in the Student Case Study Research Poster

Competition at the American College of

Osteopathic Family Physicians (ACOFP)

Annual Convention in March.

Amber Hull, D.O. (AZCOM 2014) was

elected to the AOA Board of Trustees as a

student delegate in July 2013. She is serving a

one-year term.

Karen D. Johnson, Ph.D., Vice President,

University Relations, received the prestigious

Dorothy Willey Award from the YWCA

Maricopa County. Dr. Johnson was one of

10 outstanding community and civic leaders

named as honorees in the YWCA’s Tribute to

Women Awards. The annual awards recognize

women whose lives and accomplishments

reflect the YWCA’s mission to empower

women and eliminate racism.

David Larsen, MS-II (AZCOM), was

the inaugural recipient of the Pritham Khalsa

Legacy Scholarship in February.

Paavan Patel, MS-II (AZCOM), Puja

Patel, MS-II (AZCOM), and Catherine

Vanier, MS-II (AZCOM), were named 2014

OMM Scholarship recipients in February.

Shannon Scott, D.O., FACOFP,

Clinical Associate Professor, AZCOM, was

named a Fellow of the American College of

Osteopathic Family Physicians (ACOFP) in

March.

AZCOM Hosts Over 200 Pre-Med Students at Pre-SOMA Conference

In March, the Arizona College of Osteopathic Medicine co-hosted the Pre-SOMA

Medical Conference with ATSU-SOMA to inform pre-medical high school and college

students about opportunities in osteopathic medicine.

Medical school deans from both Colleges of Osteopathic Medicine, as well as faculty

from the basic sciences, clinical faculty, and admissions officers from across the nation, joined

current osteopathic medical students to provide over 200 aspiring pre-medical students with

opportunities to learn about careers as Doctors of Osteopathic Medicine and best practices

for applications and pre-graduate coursework.

The keynote speaker at the MWU session was Adrienne White-Faines, M.P.A., Executive

Director and CEO of the American Osteopathic Association. Other featured speakers

included Robert Orenstein, D.O., Division Chair of Infectious Disease for Mayo Clinic

Scottsdale and Editor-in-Chief for the Journal of the American Osteopathic Association;

Connie Mariano, M.D., former physician to three sitting U.S. Presidents and President/

CEO of the Center for Executive Medicine; and Arizona State Senator Kelli Ward, D.O.,

family physician.

The event was presented by the Student Osteopathic Medical Association.



AZCOM Commencement 2014Commencement for AZCOM took place on May 28th in Midwestern University’s

Auditorium. 240 D.O. graduates received their degrees.

Ryan Stopher-Mitchell, D.O., class valedictorian, addressed the graduates during

the ceremony, noting, “We will aim to make huge differences in the lives of those in

need. We will inspire, teach, and learn from each other and our patients.”

“All of you have made some important life decisions to do a residency, to go out and

spread your wings and see what you can do in medicine,” said Kathleen Goeppinger,

Ph.D., President and CEO of

Midwestern University, at the close of

the ceremony. “My hope is that you do

it with dedication and passion. I hope

that you leave us with strength and

courage to make wise decisions. You

have blessed this University by coming

to Midwestern.”

Congratulations to the Class of 2014!

Midwestern University Expands Leadership Team

In January, Midwestern University announced an expansion of the

senior management of the University as it continues with carefully

planned growth and ever-expanding graduate

healthcare programs.

Theresa Welch Fossum, D.V.M.,

M.S., Ph.D., DACVS, has assumed a new

position as the Vice President of Research

and Strategic Initiatives, and Kathleen N.

Player, Ed.D., M.S.N., M.B.A., MS-C,

has accepted the position as Vice President,

Chief Academic Officer, College of Health

Sciences.

Dr. Fossum holds doctoral degrees from

Washington State University (D.V.M.) and

Texas A&M University (Ph.D., Veterinary

Microbiology), and has been an educator

for over 30 years. Most recently, she served

at Texas A&M as Vice Chancellor for

Global and Corporate Partnerships. She

was also the founder and former director

of its Institute for Preclinical Studies, and

served as the Director of Clinical Programs,

Cardiothoracic Surgery and Biomedical

Devices, at the Michael E. DeBakey

Institute. While Dr. Fossum’s administrative duties will be directed

to Midwestern University at large, her extensive experience

in veterinary medicine and surgery, research, and innovative

development will make her an invaluable consulting resource for the

leaders of the new College of Veterinary Medicine on the Glendale

Campus. Dr. Fossum is the author of the veterinary textbook “Small

Animal Surgery,” considered to be a definitive resource on the topic.

Named one of the 50 Most Influential Women in Arizona Business

in 2012, Dr. Player began her career in healthcare as a psychiatric

nurse and mental health counselor and most recently served as

President, Chief Academic Officer, and Provost for Grand Canyon

University. Dr. Player was instrumental in shepherding the rapid,

sustained growth GCU has experienced, and in overseeing successful

accreditation bids for several programs. Dr. Player has a long history

of community service and healthcare advocacy. She is also a member

of several boards and associations including the Board of Directors of

Scottsdale Healthcare, and was appointed by Governor Jan Brewer to

Chair Arizona’s Commission for Post-Secondary Education. Dr. Player

received her Ed.D. from Argosy University in Sarasota, Florida, and

her M.S.N. and M.B.A. from GCU.

Additionally, Thomas K. Graves, D.V.M.,

Ph.D., DACVIM, was named Associate Dean

for Clinical Education, College of Veterinary

Medicine (CVM), and Mitchell Emerson,

Ph.D., assumed the role of Dean, College

of Pharmacy-Glendale (CPG) in February.

Staci Glass was also appointed Director of

Development and Alumni Relations.

Theresa Welch Fossum, D.V.M.,

M.S., Ph.D., DACVS

Kathleen N. Player, Ed.D., M.S.N., M.B.A., MS-C Staci Glass

Upcoming MWU Events:

Mark Your Calendars

BRIGHT LIGHTS, SHINING STARS GA LA

On October 18, 2014, Midwestern

University will hold its annual

Bright Lights, Shining Stars gala.

The black-tie-optional gala is an

opportunity for the University

and community leaders to come

together to recognize and honor

individuals for their commitment

to helping others, with proceeds

benefiting Midwestern University

student scholarships. The event

features a silent auction, dinner

and dancing under the stars, and

the presentation of the prestigious

COMET and Shooting Star

awards. For more information and

to purchase tickets, visit http://

www.midwestern.edu/blss.html.



Decorated U.S. Navy SEAL Marcus Luttrell, the subject of the New York Times bestseller and Hollywood blockbuster movie Lone Survivor,

visited Midwestern University’s Glendale campus on April 2nd to share

his perspectives on the human-animal bond. The event was co-sponsored by the

National Veterinary Cancer Registry.

A standing-room-only crowd of nearly 600 people, including veterinary experts

from around the Valley of the Sun, heard not only Mr. Luttrell’s incredible story

of survival, but also of the relationship he shares with his service animal, a white

Labrador named Mr. Rigby with whom he was paired as part of the “Paws for

Patriots” program at Florida’s Southeastern Guide Dogs.

Kathleen H. Goeppinger, Ph.D., Midwestern University President and Chief

Executive Officer, introduced the presentation, emphasizing that “all of our lives are

affected by animals, whether that be through feed animals or diseases that animals

transmit, or for many of us, the psychological bond of our dog or cat that is a real

support as we go forward in our lives.”

Mr. Luttrell’s talk highlighting the positive effects animals have on human

health complements Midwestern University’s recognition of One Health, an

initiative dedicated to improving the lives of all species through the integration of

human medicine, veterinary medicine, and environmental science.

Midwestern University’s Glendale campus is fortunate enough to have its own

service dog, Gracie, as part of its Student Services department. Gracie participates

in therapies such as those for couples and students who experience social anxiety.

The talk was also timely for the Glendale Campus as the new College of Veterinary

Medicine, Arizona’s first veterinary college, will welcome its first class this fall. Faculty

and staff from the College were in attendance to hear Mr. Luttrell’s remarks.

“Lone Survivor” Visits MWU to Speak on Human-Animal Bond

Cuts for Kids Celebrates 15th Anniversary on Glendale Campus

On March 10, 2014, Midwestern University’s Glendale Campus raised over $5,000 for the March of Dimes and obtained donated hair for kids with cancer via the 15th-annual Cuts for Kids program.

The campus was opened to the public for haircuts from professional stylists to benefit children with special health and social needs. The event featured a fun carnival-style atmosphere, complete with live music, inflatables, face painting, balloon animals, fresh popcorn, cotton candy, and snow cones. Community booths with healthy living information and screenings for blood pressure, body mass index, height and weight, and more were also available.

Attendees who donated ten or more inches of hair received their haircuts free of charge, and their hair was donated to “Locks of Love”– a charity that makes wigs from donated hair for children suffering from medical hair loss. Over 240 ponytails totaling 2,700 inches of hair were collected at the event.

All funds raised from Cuts for Kids benefitted the March of Dimes’ March for Babies program. March for Babies is a walking event which supports community programs and research that encourage healthy pregnancies and newborns.

Celebrating its 15th year, Cuts for Kids is organized by the Midwestern University Pediatrics Club.

MWU Hosts Arizona Regional Brain BeeOn Wednesday, February 12, Midwestern University welcomed some of Arizona’s top high school students for the annual Arizona Regional Brain Bee, an educational competition similar to a spelling bee that focuses on neuroscience. The 2014 Arizona Regional Brain Bee at Midwestern University was presented in partnership with the BHHS Legacy Foundation.

One hundred forty-eight students from 15 Arizona high schools, some of whom came to the Brain Bee from as far away as Kingman, converged on the University’s Glendale Campus to test their knowledge of the human brain, how it governs human behavior, and the science that helps medical professionals understand brain function. It was the largest turnout for the Brain Bee since Midwestern University began hosting it in 1999.

The top three Brain Bee finishers, in order, were Jaeyoung Kang and Vijeeth Guggilla from BASIS Chandler and Anisha Ariff from BASIS Peoria. All participants received certificates of participation as well as Brain Bee pins.

For his performance in the Brain Bee, Mr. Kang won a $2,000 scholarship towards tuition in any Midwestern University program at either the University’s Glendale Campus or the campus in Downers Grove, Illinois, as well as travel expenses to help him as he competed at the National Brain Bee in Washington, D.C.



ATSU-SOMA, ASDOH celebrate commencement ceremonies

A.T. Still University’s School of Osteopathic Medicine in

Arizona (ATSU-SOMA) and Arizona School of Dentistry

& Oral Health (ATSU-ASDOH) celebrated the 2014

graduating classes at the JW Marriott Phoenix Desert Ridge

Resort in Phoenix on Friday, June 6.

One hundred doctors of osteopathic medicine graduated

marking the fourth graduating class for ATSU-SOMA. Among

the 2014 graduating class were 13 military graduates. Keynote

speaker, Clement Bezold, PhD, spoke about the upcoming

forces affecting the future of healthcare. He encouraged

graduates to take joy and satisfaction in the work they will be

doing and to recognize their role as healers in primary care.

Dr. Bezold is chairman and senior futurist at the Institute of

Alternative Future (IAF), which he and others founded in 1977.

Dr. Bezold has done futures work with the American Cancer

Society, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, the

Health Resources and Services Administration, the National

Institutes of Health, and the World Health Organization.

Additionally, ATSU-SOMA presented Amanda Weaver,

former executive director of the Arizona Osteopathic Medical

Association, with a doctor of humane letters during the

ceremony. Ms. Weaver has been an integral advocate to ATSU

and the osteopathic profession.

Seventy-two ATSU-ASDOH students crossed the stage

receiving their Doctor of Dental Medicine degree, 23 of whom

received a Master in Public Health through ATSU’s School

of Health Management. The class also included four military

graduates. Harold C. Slavkin, DDS, professor of dentistry in the

Division of Biomedical Sciences and Center for Craniofacial

Molecular Biology at the Herman Ostrow School of Dentistry

at USC, was the keynote speaker. He was also the recipient of a

doctor of humane letters during the ceremony.

MILITARY GRADUATES TAKE OATH OF OFFICE

Nineteen graduates of A.T. Still University’s (ATSU)

School of Osteopathic Medicine, Arizona School of

Dentistry & Oral Health, and Arizona School of Health Sci-

ences (ATSU-ASHS) took their Oath of Office at a military

commissioning ceremony luncheon held on the ATSU Arizo-

na campus on Wednesday, June 4, 2014. Families, faculty and

friends joined in the celebration of students who represented

the United States Air Force, the United States Army, and the

United States Navy.

ATSU-ASHS Dean Randy Danielsen, LtCol., US Army

(Ret) served as Master of Ceremonies for the event. The

keynote speaker, Brig. Gen.-

Select Kerry L. Muehlenbeck,

director of the Joint Staff, Joint

Forces Headquarters, Arizona

National Guard, advised students

to always remember to be kind

to everyone they encounter and

to remember their life values

as they begin their journey as

healthcare professionals and in

service to their country.



A.T. Still University’s School of Osteopathic Medicine in Arizona

(ATSU-SOMA) has reason to be proud these days. Two of ATSU-

SOMA students were recently named to prestigious positions with

the American Osteopathic Association (AOA) and the American

Association of the Colleges of Osteopathic Medicine (AACOM).

Alice Chen, OMS IV and pre-doctoral osteopathic teaching

fellow, was selected to serve as the next student representative on

the AOA Board of Trustees. There is one student and one resident

position on the Board. She will be representing all U.S. osteopathic

medical students. Her term begins July 2014.

“This is a huge honor,” said Chen. “I look forward to accurately

and intelligently representing the student voice, especially amidst the

current changes that are taking place in our osteopathic profession.

While I will be working on multiple fronts, I am eager to join the

discussion on the recent decision to pursue a unified accreditation

system. In this role, I hope to express all student opinions in the

decision-making process.”

Tim Lemaire, OMS II, ATSU-SOMA, was selected as first vice

chair for 2014-15, AACOM Counsel

of Osteopathic Student Government

Presidents (COSGP). The COSGP

comprises a general counsel of the Student

Government Association presidents from

each osteopathic school across the country

and serves as the officially-sanctioned

representing voice of all 20,000 osteopathic

medical students to AACOM and the

AOA.

“I am very excited to be elected,”

said Lemaire. “I will be working closely

with Alice Chen, the incoming student

representative to the AOA Board of

Trustees on the AOA Counsel of Interns

and Residents, as well as serving as the

student representative to various bureaus,

counsels and committees. I realize that

this is an exciting time for our profession

and will be reaching out for feedback

and opinions. Thank you for all of your

encouragement and trust.”

ATSU-SOMA students named to positions in AOA and AACOM

Alice Chen, OMS IV

Tim Lemaire, OMS II

An interprofessional team of students represented A.T. Still

University (ATSU) at the 2014 Clarion Competition, an

annual national event sponsored by the University of Minnesota.

Clarion is a University

of Minnesota student

organization dedicated

to improving healthcare

through interprofessional

collaboration. The

competition requires

interprofessional teams of

four students to conduct

a root-cause analysis of a

sentinel health event.

Rachel Allgor, AuD ’17,

Bethany Galbraith, OT ’16,

Lindsey Jader, OMS II, and

Ben Meyer, OMS II (School

of Osteopathic Medicine in

Arizona), represented ATSU

in Minneapolis. The team focused on improving care of patients

with heart failure.

Elton Bordenave, MEd, CHC, assistant professor, Arizona

School of Health Sciences, William Wightkin, PharmD, MS,

assistant professor, ATSU-SOMA, and Barbara Maxwell, PT,

DPT, MSc, Cert THE, FNAP, professor and ATSU director of

interprofessional education and collaboration, assisted the student

interdisciplinary team in

their preparations.

Although the team did

not place, students believed

that it was an incredible

learning experience.

“Participating in

extracurricular opportunities

such as the Clarion

Case Competition has

tremendously increased the

breadth of my education,

allowing me to gain a

more holistic picture of

the healthcare field,” said

Galbraith. “As for the team,

we were able to pool our

collective knowledge and creatively apply what we have learned and

researched to a realistic case. ATSU has a large number of talented

and passionate students, and we were excited to represent such a

great university at a national level.”

Interprofessional team representsATSU at Clarion Competition



It was a monumental day for

A.T. Still University of Health

Sciences (ATSU) and the osteopathic

profession at the Missouri State

Capitol in Jefferson City on April 16,

2014. Andrew Taylor Still, DO, was

inducted into the Hall of Famous

Missourians, the first ever induction

by popular vote.

The ceremony was led by House

Speaker Timothy Jones. Remarks

were given by state Rep. Nate

Walker; Henry Petry, DO, Missouri

Association of Osteopathic Physicians

and Surgeons; and Adrienne White-

Faines, executive director and CEO,

American Osteopathic Association.

Special guests included ATSU

President Craig Phelps, DO, ’84; Jason

Haxton, MA, director, Museum of

Osteopathic Medicine(SM); and other

leaders in the profession, as well as

several members of the Still family.

The bronze bust of Dr. Still was

unveiled by Jones and the sculptor,

Brandon Crandall of Kirksville, Mo.

The bust was placed on the third floor

of the Missouri Capitol rotunda,

forever a symbol of Dr. Still’s legacy.

YouTube link:

http://youtu.be/MG-yzbGdB-U

Honoring a Legend: Andrew Taylor Still, M.D., D.O.


Meeting Dates & Locations

October 25-29, 2014

AOA Medical Conference &

Exposition (OMED)

Seattle, WA

November 14, 2014

AOMA Board of Trustees – 7:00 p.m.

Hilton El Conquistador Resort

November 15, 2014

AOMA House of Delegates – 3:00 p.m.


November 15-16, 2014

AOMA 34th Annual Fall Seminar


10000 North Oracle Road

Tucson, AZ 85704

(520) 544-5000

January 31, 2015

AOMA Board of Trustees – 9:00 a.m.

Midwestern University

May 6, 2015

AOMA Board of Trustees – 7:00 p.m.

Arizona Grand Resort

May 6-10, 2015 (Wednesday – Sunday)

AOMA 93rd Annual Convention


8000 Arizona Grand Parkway

Phoenix, AZ 85044

(602) 438-9000

May 7, 2015

AOMA House of Delegates – 4:00 p.m.

PAC Reception – 6:00 p.m.


2014-2015 Calendar of Events / D.O. News / Advertisers Index

Advertisers’ Index MICA ................................................................Inside Front Cover

Comitz & Beethe .................................................................. Page 7

Catalina Medical Recruiters ................................................. Page 20

CMS ................................................................................... Page 34

Pro Assurance ..................................................................... Page 43

Cox Business .......................................................Inside Back Cover

AOMA Career Center .................................................. Back Cover

Sheldon Wagman, D.O.,

Scottsdale, A rizona, has

received the American Psychiatric

Association Distinguished

Lifetime Fellow award. Most

notably, Dr. Wagman was the only

member of the 2014 class of

fellows who is from A rizona and

the only osteopathic physician.

Arizona Health Leaders Honor 43 Physician

Practices with Quality Improvement Award

Health Services Advisory Group, Inc. (HSAG), the Medicare

Quality Improvement Organization (QIO) for Arizona, in

conjunction with the Arizona Medical Association (ArMA)

and the Arizona Osteopathic Medical Association (AOMA),

announced that 43 physician practices throughout the

state have earned the 2014 Arizona Quality Improvement

Recognition Award.

Practices receiving this award demonstrate excellence

in promoting the most effective prevention and treatment

practices for the leading causes of mortality. These practices

have met, or are on track to meet, national goals for specific

measures, including aspirin use, blood pressure control,

cholesterol management, and smoking cessation.

Award recipients were honored at AOMA’s 92nd Annual

Convention during a special award ceremony on April 10, 2014

at the Hilton Scottsdale Resort & Villas.

D.O. News

5150 N. 16th Street, Suite A-122Phoenix, AZ 85016

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Documents

AOMA Digest Summer 2014