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
AOMA Digest Summer 20143
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.
AOMA Digest Summer 2014 4
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
AOMA Digest Summer 20145
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:
Signed by Gov. Brewer 4/22/2014
SB1050 – Telemedicine; Naturopaths: Signed by Gov. Brewer
4/17/2014
SB1124 – Controlled Substances Prescription Monitoring Program:
Signed by Gov. Brewer 4/22/2014
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:
Signed by Gov. Brewer 4/22/2014
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.
AOMA Digest Summer 2014 6
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.
AOMA Digest Summer 2014 8
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
AOMA Digest Summer 20149
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.”
AOMA Digest Summer 2014 10
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)
AOMA Digest Summer 201411
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.
AOMA Digest Summer 2014 12
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.
AOMA Digest Summer 201413
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.
AOMA Digest Summer 2014 14
Features
AOMA Digest Summer 201415
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
AOMA Digest Summer 2014 16
Features
AOMA Digest Summer 201417
Osteopathic Community News
AOMA Digest Summer 2014 18
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
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
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
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
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
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.
AOMA Digest Summer 201419
Business Partner Listings
FINANCIAL
Mosaic Financial AssociatesAnthony C. Williams, President
4650 E. Cotton Center Blvd. #130
Phoenix, AZ 85040
480-776-5920
Fax: 480-776-5925
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
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
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
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
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.
AOMA Digest Summer 2014 20
Business Partner Listings
Payroll Strategies GroupNick Mawrenko
(480)577-2552
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
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
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.
AOMA Digest Summer 201421
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.
AOMA Digest Summer 2014 22
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.
AOMA Digest Summer 201423
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.
AOMA Digest Summer 2014 24
Ninety-second Annual Convention
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.
AOMA Digest Summer 201425
Ninety-second Annual Convention
• 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.
AOMA Digest Summer 2014 26
Ninety-second Annual Convention
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.
AOMA Digest Summer 201427
Ninety-second Annual Convention
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
AOMA Digest Summer 2014 28
Ninety-second Annual Convention
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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AOMA Digest Summer 201429
Ninety-second Annual Convention
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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AOMA Digest Summer 2014 30
Ninety-second Annual Convention
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
AOMA Digest Summer 201431
Ninety-second Annual Convention
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
AOMA Digest Summer 2014 32
Ninety-second Annual Convention
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”.
AOMA Digest Summer 201433
Ninety-second Annual Convention
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!
AOMA Digest Summer 201435
Osteopathic Community News
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
AOMA Digest Summer 2014 36
Osteopathic Community News
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
AOMA Digest Summer 201437
Osteopathic Community News
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.
AOMA Digest Summer 2014 38
Osteopathic Community News
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.
AOMA Digest Summer 201439
Osteopathic Community News
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.
AOMA Digest Summer 2014 40
Osteopathic Community News
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.
AOMA Digest Summer 201441
Osteopathic Community News
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
AOMA Digest Summer 2014 42
Osteopathic Community News
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.
AOMA Digest Summer 2014 44
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.
Hilton El Conquistador Resort
November 15-16, 2014
AOMA 34th Annual Fall Seminar
Hilton El Conquistador Resort
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
Arizona Grand Resort
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.
Arizona Grand Resort
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
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