PRESIDENT’S MESSAGE Summer 2015.pdf · Har-Tru courts, a comprehensive pro shop with the latest fashions and equipment, USPTA/USPTR certified professional instruction, clinics,

THE FLORIDA OPHTHALMOLOGIST - SUMMER 2015 | PAGE 1

For my final newsletter article, I need to start with a confession….

I have been in practice after completing five post medical doctor (MD) years of ophthalmology training for nearly 20 years. During my residency, fellowship and most of the first decade of my life as an ophthalmologist, I was metaphorically living in a silo. The focus of my silo living was maximizing my surgical and patient care skills to preserve and restore the vision of the patients whom would obtain care from me. I also allowed the “diffusion of responsibility” social phenomenon to shelter me from doing my share of the other aspects of maintaining my profession. Now, after becoming fully involved in the other processes of maintaining my profession, I have seen that constant action is required of ophthalmologists to maintain patient care and safety. Most of our educational actions with policy makers do not have a visible effect, but inaction results in steady erosion of our professional and patient care standards. My participation in the American Academy of Ophthalmology (AAO) Congressional Advocacy Day at this year’s Mid-Year Forum in Washington, DC, demonstrated to me the importance and need for the legislative policy makers to receive constant education regarding the practice of medicine.

I am happy to report that Florida was well represented by a group of ophthalmologists, including five ophthalmology residents that the FSO sponsored, at this year’s Congressional Advocacy Day on Thursday, April 16. During our visits on Capitol Hill, we met with the staff of Senators Marco Rubio and Bill Nelson, Congress members Ander Crenshaw,

Corrine Brown, Gus Bilirakis, Vern Buchanan, and several of the members of Congress met with our groups personally. What was clear to me during all our meetings is how overwhelming the demands of all special needs and interests of the United States are to our national legislators. Also clear during our meetings is that our national policy makers truly want to do what is best for their constituents. Thus, ophthalmologists’ participation in the legislative advocacy process is critical. Our requests may never reach any degree of action, but the fact the legislators have been educated about the vital work of ophthalmologists is extremely important. Nothing is more dangerous than inaction. A mantra of our group and many other lobbying groups is “if you don’t come and sit at the table to discuss what is important, you end up getting eaten.” The fact that so many ophthalmologists and residents were “at the table” discussing issues, is a step in the right direction of our main goal of protecting our patients. On our visits around Capitol Hill, we had the opportunity to extend our thanks and gratitude for their efforts in ending (finally) Medicare’s

PRESIDENT’S MESSAGE

Rick E. Bendel, MD

SUMMER 2015

IN THIS ISSUE:

ADVOCACY Page 6 - 12

OUTREACHPage 12

MEMBER CONNECTIONPage 8, 14 - 18

Continues on the next page...

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I have seen that constant action is required of ophthalmologists to maintain patient care and safety.

PAGE 2 | THE FLORIDA OPHTHALMOLOGIST - SUMMER 2015

PRESIDENT’S MESSAGE continued from page 1...Sustainable Growth Rate (SGR) to our legislators who supported its repeal. We met with Representative Vern Buchanan and presented him an award for his personal efforts in protecting access to eyelid and eyebrow surgery.

Other great news from our trip to DC was that the AAO honored the FSO with the Platinum Award for our leadership with the Advocacy Ambassador Program. The FSO received this prestigious award because of our efforts and support in getting Florida ophthalmology residents involved in the “outside the silo” activities of our profession. The five residents that attended this year’s Congressional Advocacy Day added great energy to the process of meeting with our national legislators and left realizing the importance of this aspect of their professional life. In fact, several of the Congressmen commented on how great it was to see the young ophthalmology members being active in DC. I personally place great value on the ophthalmology residents who are involved in protecting our profession. It took me a lot longer to get involved always hoping someone else would protect my patients and profession. Now I realize it is my responsibility, as it is all of ours.

Representative Vern Buchanan and FSO members after he receives award for his efforts in protecting access to eyelid and eyebrow surgery.



*Adult Guest ticket-$80/guestIncludes admission to the exhibit hall on Friday and Saturday, and admission to the Saturday evening reception.

*Children’s Guest ticket-$40/guestIncludes admission to the exhibit hall on Friday and Saturday, and admission to the Saturday evening reception. (Children ages 0-18 will require a badge to access the exhibit hall and Saturday evening reception.)

To purchase adult and children guest tickets visit www.ophmasters.com

MASTERS IN OPHTHALMOLOGY 2015 SOCIAL EVENTS

Welcome Reception with exhibitors*Friday, June 26 | 6:15–7:45 PmJoin your fellow colleagues and the exhibitors for an opening reception on Friday evening in the exhibit hall. Wines will be available for tasting as well as hors d’oeuvres and a chance to visit with over 50 exhibiting companies.

*This reception is included in the attendee registration fee.

Leadership LuncheonSaturday, June 27 | 12:20-1:30 PmLocation: Mediterranean BallroomThe Leadership Luncheon has been organized by the Florida Society of Ophthalmology (FSO) and designed to update FSO members on current events and politics related specifically to the state of Florida. The luncheon is included in the meeting registration for members; however all attendees and guests are welcome to attend. FSO members must RSVP when registering for the meeting.

Tickets for non-members and guests are $100/person and may be purchased when registering for the meeting. All proceeds go to the FSO Political Committee, FOCUS.

exhibitor Dessert Reception*Saturday, June 27 | 1:35-2:15 PmConclude your lunch the right way…with dessert! Join our exhibitors in the Exhibit Hall for your final opportunity to learn about their company and products while enjoying a delicious dessert reception. An array of sweet delights will surely please the palate. The exhibitor passport drawing will take place at the end of the dessert reception.

Saturday evening Beach Club Reception*Saturday, June 27 | 6:30–7:30 Pm Location: the Breakers Beach ClubAfter the program concludes on Saturday, join your fellow friends and colleagues for a cocktail reception at the Breakers Beach Club. Take a breather, enjoy the ocean breeze, drinks and lite bites by the pool.

This reception is included in the attendee registration fee, but you MUST RSVP to attend this event.


MASTERS IN OPHTHALMOLOGY 2015 HOTEL AMENITIES

the Breakers Golf CoursesWith two championship courses, The Breakers is the destination of choice for avid golfers, as well as vacationers who enjoy the game. Call the pro shop at (561) 659-8440 and mention you are part of the Masters in Ophthalmology group. Green fees are reduced at 50% off the published 2015 rates or prevailing summer specials (whichever is less).

tennisThe Breakers tennis facility offers guests 10 beautifully groomed Har-Tru courts, a comprehensive pro shop with the latest fashions and equipment, USPTA/USPTR certified professional instruction, clinics, and private court time. For reservations or information on court times, rates, and lessons, please call (561) 659-8407.

the Spa at the BreakersThe Spa at the Breakers brings you oceans of calming possibilities. Relax, rejuvenate, and reawaken your senses. To schedule an appointment or for information on services or rates, call (561) 653-6656.

Family ActivitiesThe Family Entertainment Center is equipped with an arcade, camp room toddlers’ playroom, video games, outdoor sports court, and playground. Here, guests may also reserve tours, bicycle rentals, childcare services, and more.


Legislative UpdateADVOCACY

For the first time, the Florida Legislature adjourned sine die in a historic way. Due to a bitter impasse between House Republicans and the Senate over Medicaid expansion, the House packed up their bags and went home, three days before the official May 1st adjournment. This was an unprecedented and historic end to a contentious session. As a result of the surprise shut-down, every piece of legislation relating to health care failed with the exception of passage of the Florida Society of Ophthalmology (FSO) Resolution calling for August 2015 to be designated as Amblyopia Awareness month. The FSO public relations team will be working with FSO leadership and other affiliated organizations to establish an effective educational campaign promoting preschool vision screenings leading up to the beginning of the school year in August 2015. (See Senate Resolution (SR) 844 for full text of the resolution). We worked hard on many issues over the last six months including prohibition against balance billing, prohibition on retroactive denials, step therapy provisions, telemedicine and many others. A Special Session has now been called to deal with the failed budget negotiations and other related matters convening on June 1st and tentative adjournment on June 20th.

More specifically, these are the bills that ALL failed to pass, with the exception of SR 844, that the FSO worked on throughout Session. Stay tuned for activity when we are back in Session this June!

Senate Bill 478 by BeanTELEHEALTHGeneral Telehealth; Providing certain practice standards for telehealth providers; authorizing telehealth providers to use telehealth to prescribe controlled substances, with an exception; prohibiting the use of telehealth or specified computer-controlled devices to prescribe optical devices, etc. Effective Date: 7/1/2015

House Bill 545 by CummingsTELEHEALTHGeneral Telehealth: Defines “telehealth” & “telehealth provider”; provides for certain practice standards for telehealth providers; authorizes telehealth providers to use telehealth to prescribe certain controlled substances; provides recordkeeping requirements & standards; excludes telehealth products from definition of “discount medical plan”. Effective Date: 7/1/2015

Senate Bill 532 by Grimsley ARNP PRESCRIBING AUTHORITYGeneral Health Care Services; Directing the Department of Veterans’ Affairs to contract for a study to determine the need and location for additional state veterans’ nursing homes; revising the authority of a licensed physician assistant to order medication under the direction of a supervisory physician for a specified patient; specifying that a direct primary care agreement does not constitute insurance and is not subject to the Florida Insurance Code; authorizing a licensed practitioner to authorize a licensed physician assistant or advanced registered nurse practitioner to order controlled substances for a specified patient under certain circumstances, etc. Effective Date: 7/1/2015

House Bill 281 by PigmanARNP PRESCRIBING AUTHORITYGeneral Drug Prescription by Advanced Registered Nurse Practitioners & Physician Assistants: Expands categories of persons who may prescribe brand drugs under prescription drug program when medically necessary; exempts controlled substances prescribed by ARNP or physician assistant from disqualifications for certification or licensure as deputy or state pilot; applies certain existing penalties to ARNP; requires advanced registered nurse practitioners & physician assistants who prescribe controlled substances to make certain designation, comply with registration requirements, & follow specified standards of practice; redefines term “practitioner” to include ARNPs & physician assistants under Florida Comprehensive Drug Abuse Prevention & Control Act. Effective Date: 7/1/2015

Senate Bill 614 by GrimsleyARNP – APRN AUTHORIZATIONGeneral Health Care; Expanding the categories of persons who may prescribe brand drugs under the prescription drug program when medically necessary; exempting controlled substances prescribed by an advanced registered nurse practitioner or a physician assistant from the disqualifications for certification or licensure, and for continued certification or licensure, as a deputy pilot or state pilot; applying existing penalties for violations relating to the prescribing or dispensing of controlled substances to an advanced registered nurse practitioner, etc. Effective Date: Except as

Amy J. Young, Legislative Consultant

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otherwise expressly provided in this act, this act shall take effect upon becoming a law

House Bill 547 by PigmanARNP – APRN AUTHORIZATIONGeneral Scope of Practice of Advanced Registered Practice Nurses & Physician Assistants: Redesignates ARNPs as Advanced Practice Registered Nurses (APRNs); provides for independent APRNs (IAPRNs) to practice advanced or specialized nursing; exempts IAPRNs & physician assistants (PAs) from requirement that certain medical acts be supervised by physician; revises APRN certification requirements; authorizes APRNs & PAs to administer, dispense, & prescribe medicinal drugs pursuant to protocol; provides for registration of IAPRNs who meet certain requirements; specifies acts that IAPRNs & physician assistants are authorized to perform without physician supervision or protocol; provides for eligibility of IAPRNs for clinical privileges; requires IAPRNs to maintain medical malpractice insurance or provide proof of financial responsibility. Effective Date: 7/1/2015

Senate Bill 1518 by GarciaCHILDREN’S EYE HEALTH General Public Health Notices Regarding Children’s Eye Health; Requiring the Department of Health and the Department of Children and Families to post a certain notice on their respective websites, etc. Effective Date: 7/1/2015

Senate Bill 856 by LatvalaVISION INSURANCEGeneral Vision Care Plans; Providing that a health insurer, a prepaid limited health service organization, and a health maintenance organization, respectively, may not require a licensed ophthalmologist or optometrist to join a network solely for the purpose of credentialing the licensee for another vision network; providing that such insurers and organizations are not prevented by the act from entering into a contract with another vision care plan; providing that such insurers and organizations may not restrict or limit a licensed ophthalmologist, optometrist, or optician to specific suppliers of materials or optical laboratories, etc. Effective Date: 7/1/2015

House Bill 769 by PetersVISION INSURANCEGeneral Health Provider Contracts: Prohibits insurer, prepaid limited health service organization, & HMO, & third-party administrator thereof, from requiring licensed ophthalmologist & optometrist to provide vision care services under specified circumstances; prohibits such entities, & third-party administrators thereof, from requiring licensed ophthalmologist, optometrist, & optician to purchase certain materials & services; specifies that violation of section constitutes specified unfair insurance trade practice & unfair or deceptive act or

LEGISLATIVE UPDATE continued from page 6...


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LEGISLATIVE UPDATE continued from page 7...

practice subject to specified civil & administrative actions. Effective Date: 7/1/2015

Senate Bill 1400 by LeeCONTACT LENS PRICINGGeneral Contact Lens Pricing Practices; Prohibiting certain acts by manufacturers of prescription contact lenses relating to the retail sale, advertising, pricing, and distribution of contact lenses; prohibiting the use of a contact lens distributor for certain purposes; providing for enforcement under the Florida Deceptive and Unfair Trade Practices Act, etc. Effective Date: 7/1/2015

House Bill 1119 by EisnaugleCONTACT LENS PRICING General Contact Lens Pricing Practices: Prohibits certain acts by manufacturers of prescription contact lenses relating to retail sale, advertising, pricing, & distribution of contact lenses; prohibits use of contact lens distributor for certain purposes; provides for enforcement under Florida Deceptive & Unfair Trade Practices Act. Effective Date: 7/1/2015

Senate Resolution 844 by GrimsleyAMBYLIOPIA AWARENESS MONTH Resolution Amblyopia Awareness Month; Recognizing August 2015

as “Amblyopia Awareness Month” in Florida, etc.

FSO Receives AAO’s Platinum Participation AwardThe Florida Society of Ophthalmology (FSO) was one of two societies to receive the American Academy of Ophthalmology’s (AAO) 2015 Platinum Participation Award on Thursday April 16, 2015 at the AAO 2015 Mid-Year Forum for our efforts in supporting the Advocacy Ambassador Program. The AAO honored the FSO for helping bring young ophthalmologists to the annual spring event in Washington, D.C. Through the Advocacy Ambassador Program, ophthalmology societies, training programs and the Academy collaborate to bring residents and fellows to the Mid-Year Forum and Congressional Advocacy Day. This year, the FSO sponsored five residents to travel to Washington, D.C. to meet national legislators.


FSO Thanks the Supporters of the 2015 Masters in Ophthalmology

Commercial Supporters(as of May 2015)Alcon Laboratories, Inc.Bausch + LombOphthalmic Mutual Insurance CompanyRegeneron Pharmaceuticals, Inc.

Exhibitors (as of May 2015)Abbott Medical OpticsAlcon Laboratories, Inc. AllerganAlimera Sciences Inc.Akorn, Inc.APS PharmacyBausch + LombBio-Tissue, Inc.Carl Zeiss Meditec, Inc.Danna-Gracey Inc.Diopsys, Inc.Ellex, Inc.

EyeMD EMR Healthcare Systems, Inc.Florida Ocular Prosthetics, Inc.For Eye Care Foundation, Inc.Fortec MedicalGenentech, Inc.Glaukos CorporationHeidelberg Engineering, Inc.Impact MDInternational Sight Restoration, Inc.Iridex CorporationJCAHPO Lions Eye Institute for Transplant and ResearchLumenis Inc.Marco OphthalmicMayo Clinic Referring Physician OfficeMicrosurgical TechnologiesModernizing Medicine, Inc.Neomedix CorporationNew World Medical, Inc.Notal VisionNova Bay Pharmaceuticals, Inc.

Oasis MedicalOmeros CorporationOphthalmic Mutual Insurance CompanyOphthalmology Dispensing ServiceOptosOptovue, Inc.Parallax Medical Systems, LLCPharm-EZ Medical, LLCPRN-Physician Recommended NutraceuticalsQuantel Medical Rayner Intraocular Lenses, Ltd.Regeneron Pharmaceuticals, Inc.ScienceBased HealthTearScienceTop Con Medical Systems, Inc.

Sponsors(as of May 2015)Allergan, Inc.Ellex, Inc. EyeMD EMR Healthcare Fortec Genentech, Inc. Neomedix Ophthalmic Mutual Insurance CompanyOptovue, Inc.

MEMBER CONNECTION

The FSO would like to extend a special thank you to all of the exhibitors and supporters who will be joining us for the Masters in Ophthalmology 2015 meeting at The Breakers in Palm Beach, June 26-28. It is not too late to register if you are interested in attending. Go to the official Masters in Ophthalmology 2015 website at www.ophmasters.com to register today!

Congressman Patrick Murphy: Keynote Speaker for FSO Leadership Luncheon

Congressman Patrick Murphy will be the keynote speaker at the Leadership Luncheon that will be held on Saturday, June 27 in conjunction

with the Master’s in Ophthalmology 2015 meeting. The Congressman will be speaking about important healthcare issues facing physicians and patients

today, including the repeal of the sustainable growth rate (SGR), Medicare related regulations, and providing care for Florida’s aging population.

Congressman Murphy represents Florida’s 18th Congressional district, which includes northern Palm Beach, Martin, and St. Lucie counties. Congressman Murphy was born and raised in Florida. He earned his B.S. in business administration, graduating with dual degrees in accounting and

finance, and went on to work as a Certified Public Accountant (CPA) before being elected to the United States House of Representatives.

To register for the meeting visit: www.ophmasters.com. The luncheon is included in the meeting registration fee for all FSO members. Non-members are welcome to attend for a fee of $100/person.

ADVOCACY


Make Sure Your Contact Information is Up-to-Date for the 2015-2016 Membership DirectoryThe annual FSO membership directory will be made available to members after the Masters in Ophthalmology 2015 meeting. Please take a moment to verify that your contact information that will be listed in the directory is current. You can view your information online at: https://www.mdeye.org/patients. If you need to update any of your contact information, please email the FSO Membership Manager, Britney Caldwell, at [email protected].

only FSo members that are in good standing, will receive access to the annual membership directory. If you have not yet paid your 2015 annual membership dues, please do so as soon as possible. You can easily pay online at https://www.mdeye.org/dues.

MEMBER CONNECTION

AAO Advocacy Ambassador DayOmar Shakir, MD, 2nd Year Resident, University of Florida Department of Ophthalmology

The American Academy of Ophthalmology (AAO) has a beautiful tradition of engaging resident physicians to participate in advocacy on Capitol Hill. Thanks to the sponsorship of the Florida Society of Ophthalmology (FSO), residents from Florida ophthalmology programs, like myself, can have that

opportunity. I would say it is a once-in-a-lifetime experience, except that now I envision this experience as the beginning of a lifetime of advocacy for me.

As a student of the sciences in college, medical school and residency, I have focused on skills built upon the scientific method. This is the major tool we are given to take care of our patients. The real value of formal advocacy, such as the AAO Advocacy Ambassador Day, is a momentary detachment from the clinical setting. In doing so, one gains a greater insight into what we really want as ophthalmologists, which is the best care possible for our patients.

Those goals are simple, yet centric to our professional lives. We work hard at maximizing these goals by continuing education, scientific conferences, reading journals and magazines (EyeNet of course). But little attention is paid to the entire process of delivering great care. At least for me, that was the case.

The Advocacy Ambassador Day provided the perfect backdrop for me to realize that my vocation requires (ad)vocation. If I truly care for my patients, then issues like access to care, government research funding, truth/transparency in advertising, etc., should all matter to me as much as clinical guidelines. The mentorship of Janet Betchkal, MD and Rick Bendel, MD was invaluable in appreciating this reality. Speakers like Russ Van Gelder, MD and Paul Sternberg, Jr., MD, and the participation of

400 ophthalmologists and over 150 residents and fellows, added to the emphatic message that being a physician is synonymous with patient advocacy.

Going forward, I plan to expand my role as an ophthalmologist in the community. While that may not include being a senator and still performing cataract surgeries during a recess (thank you Senator Rand Paul, MD for raising the bar), it certainly and realistically can involve political involvement in my practice. As all good politics does, I think it starts at the most local level. Once again, I thank the Florida Society of Ophthalmology for always making residents a priority. We pledge to pay it forward by making a difference in every way we can with participation and giving back continually.

FSO delegation at the Hill in DC on Thursday, April 16, 2015.


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CMS BLOG By Shantanu Agrawal, M.D., CMS deputy administrator for program integrity

open Payments: Data review and dispute underway for physicians – log in today In its second year, the Open Payments program continues to promote transparency and accountability in health care by providing consumers with information about financial relationships between drug and medical device manufacturers and physicians and teaching hospitals. The data posted has been viewed nearly 6 million times and we’re pleased with the continuing engagement of stakeholders on this important transparency initiative. All data for payments made in 2014 has been submitted by the drug and medical device manufacturers who are reporting the information. CMS is encouraging physicians and representatives of teaching hospitals to register in Open Payments now. Instructions and quick tips for registration are available at: http://www.cms.gov/openPayments/Program-Participants/Physicians-and-teaching-Hospitals/Registration.html While companies that are submitting payment records to CMS attest to the accuracy of the data, the continued success of the program relies on voluntary participation by physicians and teaching hospitals. This is the only opportunity for doctors and teaching hospitals to review the data submitted by manufacturers and group purchasing organizations (GPOs) before it is included in the public database on June 30, 2015.

CMS acknowledges the benefits of collaboration among physicians, teaching hospitals and drug and device manufacturers in the design and delivery of many life-saving drugs and devices. Open Payments has given patients a tool to become more involved and informed health care consumers by discussing these relationships with their physicians. Last year, 26,000 physicians registered in the system and lodged over 12,500 disputes. In contrast, we published information about 4.45 million payments made to at least 366,000 physicians or teaching hospitals that were valued at $3.7 billion. I expect that the data reported this year will be on scale with the number and value of payments reported last year. For physicians, the only way for each of you to confirm that the data reported about you is correct is to register and review your payments before the review period ends. To learn more about the program, visit cms.gov/openpayments today. Follow the CMS blog at: http://blog.cms.gov/2015/04/24/open-payments-data-review-and-dispute-underway-for-physicians-log-in-today/

ADVOCACY

OUTREACH

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Florida Senate Sees Pediatric Vision Screening a PriorityOn Wednesday, April 1, at the urging of the Florida Society of Ophthalmology (FSO) and other health organizations, the Florida Senate designated August 2015 as “Amblyopia Awareness month” to educate Florida parents on the importance of vision screening at an early age. The resolution was sponsored by Senator Denise Grimsley (R-Sebring) and passed the Senate unanimously.

The FSO public relations team will be launching a public relations campaign to promote to parents the importance of pediatric vision screenings during the ages of 3-5 years old.

If you are interested in hosting a screening event in your area or if you are interested in getting involved in this project, please contact the FSO office at 904-998-0819. See page 9 to read the resolution.


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FSO 2015-2016 Nominating Committee RecommendationsThe FSO Nominating Committee, chaired by Rick Bendel, MD, recommends the following slate of officer and At-Large member positions for the 2015-2016 term. The membership will vote on this slate during the Annual Business Meeting to be held on Saturday, June 27, 2015 in conjunction with the Masters in Ophthalmology 2015 Annual Meeting.

President-elect: Adam Katz, MD Vice President of Advocacy: Krishna Kishor, MD Vice President of education: David Eichenbaum, MD Vice President of outreach: Stacey Kruger, MD Secretary-treasurer: Darby Miller, MD

Note: Brad Oren, MD will assume the position of President, Rick Bendel, MD, will assume the position of Immediate Past-President along with Jaime Membreno, MD.

Advocacy Legislative Chair: Mark Michels, MD (1-year) ethics Chair: Lisa Gamell, MD (2-year) FmA Delegates: Bradley Fouraker, MD (1-year) James Rowsey, MD (1-year) Darby Miller, MD (1-year) FmA SSS Rep: Krishna Kishor, MD (2-year) At-Large member: Janet Betchkal, MD (3-year) At-Large member: Brian Madow, MD (1-year)

EducationAnnual meeting Program Chair: Clifford Salinger, MD (2-year)

Outreach third Party Chair: Neal Freeman, MD (3-year) For eye Care Foundation Chair: David Cano, MD (2-year) membership/Regional Rep Chair: William Mallon, MD (2-year) Public Relations Chair: Jasmine Mohadjer, MD (3-year)

MEMBER CONNECTION

EVENTS

FRiDAy, June 26, 2015masters in ophthalmology 2015Coding and Reimbursement update 2015 The Breakers Palm Beach, FL www.ophmasters.com

June 26-June 28, 2015Florida Society of ophthalmology Annual meetingmasters in ophthalmology 2015 The BreakersPalm Beach, FLwww.ophmasters.com

ReCoGnizeD ReGionAL SoCietytHuRSDAy, JuLy 16, 2015Palm Beach County ophthalmology SocietyLocation TBDwww.pbcos.org

JuLy 31-AuGuSt 2, 2015 Florida medical Association 2015 Annual meeting Disney’s Yacht and Beach Club Orlando, FL www.celebratemedicine.com/events

AuGuSt 6-9, 20152015 Women in ophthalmology Summer SymposiumMontelucia Omni Resort & SpaScottsdale, AZwww.wioonline.org/index.php/meetings/2015-summer-symposium

oCtoBeR 2-4, 2015maine Society of eye Physicians and Surgeons14th Annual Downeast ophthalmology SymposiumHarborside Hotel & MarinaBar Harbor, MEwww.maineeyemds.com/meetings/24-meetings/27-dos

noVemBeR 14-17, 2015AAo Annual meeting 2015Sands Expo/VenetianLas Vegas, NVhttp://aao.org/annual-meeting

Be on the lookout for more regional society events in your area! more information here: www.mdeye.org/community/events


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The Florida Society of Ophthalmology communicates with our members by land mail, fax, our website, and social media. However, for getting important information in front of you quickly, nothing beats good old email. In today’s noisy internet environment, filled with SPAM and other unwanted conversations, we might be getting lost in your Inbox, or you may even have accidentally unsubscribed yourself, in your hurry to get rid of the clutter. Please take a moment to check your email settings. Make sure @mdeye.org is added to your email whitelist or allowed senders lists. Check your SPAM folders regularly to insure you are not missing anything and if you find us there, be sure to click the “Not SPAM” or “Allow Sender” options.

And if you don’t see us in any of those places, either because you’ve previously unsubscribed or we don’t have your email address, please visit www.mdeye.org/subscribe to sign up.

Recruit New FSO Members and Save $100 or more on Your Annual Dues!

MEMBER CONNECTION

As a Florida Society of Ophthalmology (FSO) member, you already know the value that membership brings to you, your career and your patients. From top-notch educational programs to legislative advocacy in Florida’s capitol, membership in the FSO provides you with access to lifelong learning and professional integrity in order to provide the best possible patient care.

As a member, you are the best advocate we have to recruit new FSO members. With nearly 1,400 board-certified ophthalmologists in Florida, there is a lot of room for growth in our society. As you know…there is strength in numbers. When more ophthalmologists come together and speak with a unified voice, we can achieve great things, both on a state and national level.

In order to help recruitment efforts, we are offering a $100 discount to you on your FSO annual membership dues for every new member that joins based on youR referral. Recruiting a few new members could bring significant savings to you on the value that FSO membership brings.

How It Works… it’s simple Contact your fellow ophthalmologists whom you may know or are located in your area. We can assist you with contact information if needed. Share with them the benefits of FSO membership and encourage them to join to help further the profession and strengthen their own career development. If they choose to join, simply have them fill out an online application at https://www.mdeye.org/join and where it says “Recommending Member” have them fill in your name and we will take care of the rest! Also, please remind prospective members that if they join before the annual meeting in June, they can attend the Masters in Ophthalmology 2015 scientific sessions FRee!

If you have questions regarding the recruit a member program, please contact FSO Membership Manager, Britney Caldwell, at [email protected].

Stay Connected with Your FSO

www.facebook.com/FloridaOphthalmology @EyeOnFL


MEMBER CONNECTION

FSO Member Discount Benefit Programs

20% Discount

Up to 10% Discount

15% Discount

ADP totalSource - 15% DiscountIn an arrangement between the Florida Society of Ophthalmology and ADP TotalSource, FSO members utilizing ADP will be provided with the freedom of outsourced human resources. Each FSO member new to utilizing ADP services will receive a 15% reduction from the standard administrative fees for the initial term of their services agreement. Additionally, for each full-time employee enrolled in ADP’s services, FSO receives between $50.00 and $100.00 annually.

LifeLock - 20% DiscountLifeLock is a comprehensive identity theft protection company that protects against more than just credit fraud. Their advanced protection system has broader coverage for both credit and non-credit-related identity threats. FSO members will receive a 20% discount on identity theft protection services with LifeLock. To enroll, visit www.lifelock.com, click Enroll Now, in PromoCode Section, change PromoCode to FSOFLA20, then click APPLY.

ophthalmic mutual insurance Group (omiC) - up to 10% DiscountOMIC insured’s can earn a risk management premium discount by registering for the annual FSO meeting and attending this cosponsored program. Participants must also turn in an attendance form at the OMIC seminar along with their email address. Participants no longer have to complete the online part after the meeting as OMIC has concluded that they can contact them to survey and determine the effectiveness of the risk management education. OMIC insured’s who are current FSO members can receive a 10% discount for attending live OMIC course at the Masters in Ophthalmology meeting. Non-FSO members earn a 5% discount. These insurance premium discounts are applied upon renewal with OMIC. For further information call (800) 562-6642.

New FSO Member Benefit – EyeVisionThe Florida Society of Ophthalmology (FSO) recently partnered with WellView365, to offer our members an exclusive new benefit-eyeVision. Currently, only a handful of FSO members are taking advantage of this great, new benefit. EyeVision is a unique system that allows ophthalmologists to transform their patient waiting room into an engaging, educational atmosphere, designed to enhance your practice.

With the EyeVision system, FSO members to have access to a simple, FREE, viewing system, where they can have complete control over the content shown on their waiting room TV screens. FSO members will be provided with an LED flat screen TV (up to 50”) that will be installed in their offices FRee oF CHARGe. FSO members will also get the small technology box installed behind the TV and will have access to webinar training, live and email support, as well as access to an ophthalmology-

specific library of videos and materials that can be used to create an individualized play list. There are no upfront or recurring monthly charges for FSO members interested in taking advantage of this benefit. Unlike other TV systems, EyeVision has no pre-set screen format or loop programming so all content shown is approved and most importantly relevant to your patient audience. EyeVision does not repeat over and over. Content can be created and/or upload and modified using point and click Cloud-based software. Specific information can be scheduled to play on the screen during different hours of the day, or days of the week.

If you are interested in this opportunity, please contact Britney Caldwell, FSO Membership Manager at [email protected], to get an enrollment form.


FSO 2015 Membership DuesBy now, all Florida Society of Ophthalmology (FSO) members should have received their annual membership renewal forms in the mail. Membership in the FSO runs from January 1 – December 31 and dues are $850. Dues should be paid by January 31 in order to remain a current and active member. Your membership dues allow the FSO to remain a strong Advocate on your behalf, provide excellent education

opportunities, and assist with outreach throughout the state of Florida. Please take a moment and renew your dues TODAY! You can pay via mail, fax or easily online (recommended) at www.mdeye.org/dues. If you have questions regarding this, please reach out to FSO Membership Manager, Britney Caldwell, at [email protected].

Professional Development• Discounted • Masters in Ophthalmology meeting registrationAdvocacy in Tallahassee through FOCUS to protect the • profession of ophthalmology and patients in FloridaAdvocacy on reimbursement policy issues• Annual membership directory• Subscription to the quarterly newsletter – • The Florida Ophthalmologist

Discounts on programs that benefit your practice:• • ADP TotalSource - human resource services • Holland and Knight - legal services • OMIC - medical malpractice insurance • EyeVision - FREE state of the art TV system for your

waiting room

Stay Active to Retain Your Great Member Benefits:

MEMBER CONNECTION

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Contribution Pledge CardThe number one goal of the Florida Society of Ophthalmology (FSO) is to protect our patients and our profession. We have established programs that enable the FSO leadership to educate the Florida Legislature on major issues affecting our profession and to help deter legislative encroachment by unqualified personnel. FOCUS is the FSO political committee (PC). In order to be successful in our legislative efforts, FOCUS needs support by way of financial contributions. If we are not working to elect candidates who are friendly to the profession of ophthalmology, someone else will support candidates who may not be interested in protecting the integrity of our medical license.

Please consider making a one-time donation or sign up for an automatic monthly deduction on your credit card. All contributions to FOCUS are used to further the legislative agenda of the FSO. Please complete the form below to make your contribution today. Without support from the PC, the ophthalmology profession is at risk in Florida.

ContaCt InformatIon

First ___________________________________Last ___________________________________ Degree ____________________________

Address _____________________________________________________________________________________________________________

State ___________________________________Zip _____________________________________ Country ____________________________

Phone __________________________________ Fax

Occupation _____________________________Email ______________________________________________________________________

one-tIme ContrIbutIon amount

$365 ($1/day) $500 $1,000 Other $___________________

monthly ContrIbutIon amount*

$84/month for 12 months $167/month for 12 months Other monthly amount $ ________________/month

*You will be contacted regarding a monthly renewal.

Payment Information

Visa masterCard AmeX Check (Please make checks payable to: FOCUS)

Name on Card _______________________________________________________________________________________________________

Card Number ____________________________________________________________________ Exp. Date___________________________

Security Code ___________________________

Refund Policy: Contributions made to FOCUS are non-refundable.Every member of the FSO is encouraged to make a contribution to FOCUS each year to solidify and strengthen our overall political strategy.

Contributions are voluntary. A contribution at any level is welcome. Contributions to PCs are not deductible for federal income tax purposes.


Florida Society of ophthalmology6816 Southpoint Parkway, Suite 1000Jacksonville, FL 32216

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Documents

PRESIDENT’S MESSAGE Summer 2015.pdf · Har-Tru courts, a comprehensive pro shop with the latest fashions and equipment, USPTA/USPTR certified professional instruction, clinics,