by: John Kalata, DO

Ordinary Heroes

"There goes my hero. (S)he’s ordinary....,” Dave Grohl, lead singer of the Foo Fighters, declared in their 1998 alt rock hit “My Hero.” This classic song celebrates ordinary people doing heroic things. Not superstars mugging for the camera, but everyday people making a difference.

It seems that every day we celebrate someone. There is a website called “National Day Calendar” (I looked it up!) March 22 is World Mime Day. April 25 is National Hug a Plumber Day. March 4 is National Marching Band Day. Not to take anything away from tuba players, plumbers, or mimes, but I think it’s time that we celebrate ourselves.
On March 30th we celebrate National Doctor’s Day. National Osteopathic Medicine Week is April 15-21. We should pause to celebrate the work we do as osteopathic physicians throughout the year.

Travelling around Pennsylvania – virtually and in person – has given me the privilege to spend time with extraordinary colleagues doing heroic work. Whether it is a clinical preceptor teaching at the bedside, an internist coming back to the hospital late to see that new admission, the family doctor rolling up her sleeves to manage that recalcitrant diabetic, or the subspecialist drawing pictures on the exam table to make sure the patient understands tomorrow’s procedure, each of you is making a difference in our patients’ (and our trainees’) lives every day.

The Foo’s song continues: “Don’t the best of them bleed it out, while the rest of them peter out?” Tireless effort, giving our blood, sweat, and tears, for our patients and our profession, is what we do. Not people who merely “punch the clock.” Not “providers.” Osteopathic Physicians. Heroes. Extraordinary. That’s each of you.

Happy Doctors Day!!!

by: Diana Ewert

“Clear eyes, full hearts, can't lose.” 
- Friday Night Lights

How many of you anticipated a quote that was football related given that the Kansas Chiefs ran it back for a third Super Bowl win? I debated whether to go for football or Valentine's Day and football won. Not that I don’t appreciate Valentine's Day. I have distinct memories – nightmares really – of my years in floral design over the three weeks leading up to the day. Then, as I played the Kansas City Super Bowl parade online, I was pulled back to earth by another mass shooting. The thread running through these disparate issues is red. Red symbolizes passion, heart, and love. Red symbolizes my hometown team. Red is the rosy symbol of Valentine's Day. Red is the color of violence. My heart hurts for my hometown.

You may be asking what this has to do with the osteopathic profession. How it relates is how individuals in Kansas City responded to the chaos. Players were comforting children and providing safe spaces. People there were protecting each other and holding onto perpetrators. When you see a situation, you respond – thinking not of yourself but of the person needing support. Just as you did when we were in Bedford Springs when a cry for help was heard. Just as you did when a person was having problems at the Knob on Groundhog Day. Just as you did at the NY City Marathon. Just as you do, with each patient, every day. You don’t run from, you run to.

I realize this is a departure from my general tongue-in-cheek article that I usually write. I could have gone down the path of flaunting the KC win to the staunch Eagles and Steelers fans that I work with every day (which could still happen… just saying), but I couldn’t. Not right now. So, thank you for indulging me this month. And thank you for all that you DO!

by: Andy Sandusky

POMA Provides Testimony at Legislative Hearing

The House Professional Licensure Committee and the House Health Committee jointly held a hearing at the Capitol last week on “Improving Access to Care.” POMA’s testimonial provided the great story Osteopathic Medicine is doing in the Commonwealth with its strong COMs and its number three ranking of practicing Osteopathic physicians in the Nation. Osteopathic medicine is doing its fair share to create access to physician care in the Commonwealth.

Unfortunately, this was not the focal point of the hearing. The hearing questions revolved around how granting non-physician providers the ability to practice medicine would create access to care. Hans Zuckerman, DO, POMA Board of Trustees member and Government Affairs Committee Chair, was tapped by POMA President, John Kalata, DO to provide POMA’s testimony. Dr. Zuckerman did a masterful job answering questions on a factual basis, not visceral responses to appeal to emotions.

The CRNPs testified that they should have independent practice because that the collaborative agreement is “nothing more than a piece of paper” and that it is “not uncommon” for a physician to not see a patient, nor the CRNP in-person “for over two years.” They also shared their reasons for reneging on their word to support the 6-year pilot program, which included there was no oversite and no metrics to evaluate the pilot program. Both points are patently false and anyone who actually reads the bill can see. House Bill 100 of 2019, oversite provisions start on page 30, line 4 and evaluation metrics start on page 33, line 7.

The psychologists want to prescribe mental health pharmaceuticals because primary care physicians communicate with them and rely on them when prescribing. This is not objectionable and tells a great story of collaboration from POMA’s perspective. But only the primary care physician is trained to understand the both the mental and physical health side of the patients, including reading the patient’s medical records and interpret testing so they no not prescribe something for the mental health of the patient that is contraindicated from the physical side.

We will provide a longer analysis in the April edition of Under the DOme. If you want to watch the hearing and POMA’s testimony, please use this weblink on YouTube.

POMA has the credits you need for license renewal!
Get ahead of the game and register today!
Prices increase April 1st

- View the tentative schedule!
- Register and save with early-bird pricing!
- Book your room at Kalahari before the block fills up!

POMA is a Community. We are all osteopathic physicians. We treat our patients and educate our communities under the tenets of osteopathic medicine. POMA itself, is more than education, more than advocacy, more than leadership and governance. We are all encompassing. We have something for everyone, and strive to provide diverse options and opportunities to offer a complete experience.

The POMA Clinical Assembly is a perfect example of how we are meeting your needs. The Clinical Assembly offers top notch educational content that rivals any conference in the country. With 34 credit hours offered in-person or virtually (including patient safety, mandated reporting, and opioid credits), POMA provides access to the content in the way you want and need.

The in-person experience offers receptions, alumni gatherings, advocacy events, and governance opportunities in both formal and informal settings. You can dress to the 9’s or come in scrubs, however you are comfortable.

The in-person conference also has wellness and networking opportunities to bond with your colleagues and meet people who are as committed to our profession as you. There are daily group walks, district meals, an extensive exhibit hall, and hands-on experiences. There are also a few surprises in store. (Think Derby Day and puppies!)

And of course, all of this is offered at Kalahari, the largest indoor waterpark in Pennsylvania, that houses an expansive arcade, mini-golf course, bumper cars, and indoor theater. Your family and friends can have great times together making memories racing down water slides, tubing down the lazy river, or, battling for the highest score on skee ball.

POMA is all encompassing community. We provide something for everyone. I can’t wait to make some memories with you in May! Explore all that we are offering at POMA24! Prices increase April 1! - No Fooling! - Register today for the POMA Clinical Assembly.

- Lisa Witherite-Rieg, DO
Education Pillar Champion
Immediate Past President

District Dish

District 2

District 2 members enjoyed a taste of Italy with an evening out at Teca Newtown Square where they met to discuss POMA business over delicious Italian delights. During the Feb. 28th meeting, district and POMA leadership shared updates on topics including government affairs, wellness, CME and upcoming events, including POMA24. Members also deliberated on the current challenges facing the profession and discussed the future ahead. Elections were held for delegates to represent the district at the POMA House of Delegates.

Plans are in the works for the next District 2 meeting so watch your email for details!

District 4

On February 16, District 4 members, friends, and family gathered at Arcaro & Genell to socialize, play games, and enjoy delicious Old Forge pizza in the "Pizza Capital of the World!" Attendees played cornhole, giant jenga, checkers, and more! Attendees also brought donations to support the NEPA Youth Shelter which helps homeless teenagers. The number of items donated was incredible!

District 4 also gathered on March 14th in Old Forge and enjoyed great discussion, fellowship and food. Attendees share updates from POMA, including upcoming spring and summer events. They also heard a product theater presentation on kidney stones. Thanks to everyone who joined us!

District 7

District 7 members and guests gathered in Erie at McGarrey's Oakwood Cafe on Thursday, February 22nd to network, discuss POMA business, and elect members to attend the POMA House of Delegates meeting in May. District Chair, Sarah Breon, DO, kicked off the meeting by welcoming attendees, including POMA President John Kalata, DO.  Dr. Kalata provided updates on topics ranging from government affairs and POMA's new strategic plan, to volunteer opportunities and the POMA Does Podcast. Leadership also encouraged everyone to register for the 2024 POMA Clinical Assembly taking place May 1-4, 2024, at Kalahari Resorts in the Poconos.

Special thanks to everyone that attended - we hope to see you at Kalahari in May!

District 10

District 10 members enjoyed an evening out at Panache Wood Fire Grill on Thursday, February 29 where they met to discuss POMA business and attend a CME lecture on Melanoma presented by District 10 member David Kasper, DO. During the meeting, District Chair, Carol Bowes-Lawlor, DO and POMA President John Kalata, DO, shared updates on topics including government affairs, wellness, and upcoming events. POMA Vice President George Wolters, Jr., DO provided an update on foundation activities, highlighting recent accomplishments. The group also elected delegates to represent District 10 at the POMA House of Delegates in May.

Mark your calendar and plan to join us at our next event on Friday, April 5th at the Blue Bell Inn. RSVP to Dr. Bowes-Lawlor, [email protected].

District 11

Hibachi was a hit! District 11 members gathered at Tokyo Hibachi and Bar in Wyomissing on Wednesday. February 28th for food and fun. The social gathering allowed members to network and unwind from their day. The district selected their representation to the POMA House of Delegates and received an updated from local POMA leadership. The focus of the evening was comradery and fun.

The next District 11 event will be on Wednesday, March 20th at Willoughby's on Park at 6:00pm. RSVP to Jeff Gold, DO, District 11 Chair, [email protected], or James Eirkson, [email protected].

District 12

District 12 members gathered at Luigi's Ristorante in DuBois on Tuesday, February 20th to discuss POMA business and attend a CME lecture on Breast Health given by Kelley Smith, DO. District Chair, Kathryn Graham, DO, kicked off the meeting by welcoming POMA President John Kalata, DO. He spoke of the ongoing initiatives of POMA, the new strategic plan, and highlighted the importance of becoming active members of POMA. Elections were also held for delegates and alternates to serve as representatives for the district to the POMA House of Delegates in May.

Mark your calendars and plan to bring your families to the upcoming swim socials! March 23rd will be at the Brookville YMCA and April 20th will be at the Clarion County YMCA. RSVP for these free family events to Lisa Witherite-Rieg, DO, [email protected]. We're looking forward to splashing with you soon!

District 14

POMA District 14 members and guests gathered at Piccolo Trattoria on Wednesday, February 21st to discuss POMA business and attend a CME lecture on Congestive Heart Failure presented by Ronald Emmi, DO. District Chair, Richard Purse, DO, welcomed everyone and District Trustee Jonathan Oline, DO, shared updates from POMA. Pamela Goldman, DO, POMA Foundation Chair, provided an update on foundation activities, highlighting recent accomplishments.

Members gathered again on March 14th in Langhorne for fellowship and osteopathic comradery. They discussed the latest happenings with POMA, the legislative arena, and upcoming events.

Mark your calendars and plan to join us at our next event on Wednesday, April 10th at Harvest Grill in Newtown. RSVP to Dr. Purse at [email protected]. 

Virtual Charity Event

POMA's Wellness Committee and Districts 4, 7, 8, 9 and 14 are hosting STEPS 4 ALL 2024 to get you outside and moving! Every step you take will raise money for a charity of your choice, without even opening your wallet!

This is a FREE virtual event for all POMA members and their families, friends and colleagues which will run the entire month of April.

Last year, POMA steppers logged almost 5,000 miles and raised over $1,200 for various charities. 

Be inspired to welcome spring by getting out to walk, run, bike or hike and break free from the winter blues.

Click here for information on how to join POMA's Team!

Addressing Vaccine Hesitancy with Your Patients

RSV and Influenza continue to be prevalent throughout March. It's important to take steps to protect yourself and your family to stay healthy. Be sure to share these tips with your patients:

• A flu vaccine is recommended for everyone 6 months of age and older, per the CDC.
• The RSV vaccine is recommended for pregnant patients and adults 60 years and older, per the CDC.
• Prevent the spread of germs by washing your hands frequently.
• Don't get too run down; get 8-10 hours of sleep every night.
• Eating fruits and vegetables, and staying hydrated boosts your immune system to naturally fight off infection.

Get the latest information on RSV and Influenza by tuning into the latest episodes of the POMA DOes... podcast series. Episode 51 focuses on adults and immunocompromised patients. Episode 53 focuses on pediatric patients and pregnant mothers. These episodes  feature expert speakers and offer a combined total of 1 Category 1B CME credit!

Need more resources? Check out the AOA's RSV Toolkit and Influenza Prevention Toolkit.

View the
newsletter online!

Table of Contents...

1. President's Perspective
2. Executive Opinion
3. Policy Points
4. Register Today for the 2024 POMA Clinical Assembly
5. Community Collaborative
6. District Dish
7. Steps 4 All 2024 is Here!
8. DO Your Part to Protect against RSV and Influenza
9. PCOM Still Technique Course
10. Upcoming District Events
11. POMA Service Award
12. Member Appreciation Giveaway
13. Welcome New Members
14. Military Appreciation
15. District Competition
16. Classified Ads
17. Check Out the POMA DOes... Podcast
18. APOMA Call for Baskets
19. POMPAC

Welcome New Members!

The following physicians have applied for membership in the POMA. According to Article VI, Section 2 of the POMA bylaws, if no written objection is received within 30 days after publication, the following will be accepted for membership.

Katelyn V. Brendel, DO
5501 Old York Road
Philadelphia, PA 19141
Active Member – District 1

Christine Chiao, DO
11104 Burywood Lane
Reston, VA 20194
Out-of-State Member

Cheyenne R. Cortez-Faupel, DO
Wellspan Medical Group
175 Martin Avenue, Suite 125
Ephrata, PA 17522
Active Member – District 5

Sean T. Duffy, DO
Feasterville Family Practice
83 Buck Road
Holland, PA 18966
Active Member – District 14

Lucille Folino, DO
Wellspan Urgent Care
1000 Norland Avenue
Chambersburg, PA 17201
Active Member – District 5

Derek Liang, DO
Wellspan York
13515 Wolfe Road, Suite D
New Freedom, PA 17349
Active Member – District 5

Davina R. Perera, DO
1601 McDaniel Drive, Suite 50
West Chester, PA 19380
Active Member – District 2

Nicole M. Polashenski, DO
72 Glenmaura National Boulevard, 2nd Floor
Moosic, PA 18507
Active Member – District 4

Paulinder S. Rai, DO
234 Orinoco Drive
Brightwaters, NY 11746
Out-of-State Member

Karina Helene Rovnan, DO
USACS
1301 Carlisle Street
Natrona Heights, PA 15065
Active Member – District 8

Joshua C. Taylor, DO
3250 West Lake Road, Suite 2
Erie, PA 16505
Active Member – District 7

Jacob A. Turnbull, DO
College of Osteopathic Medicine Duquesne University
600 Forbes Avenue
Pittsburgh, PA 15282
Active Member – District 8

POMA wants to support and honor our military members!

Whether you are active duty, reservist or retired; Army, Navy, Air Force; POMA wants to hear from you! Click here to share your military history with us or email [email protected]. 

District Competition

The third annual POMA District Competition is running from April 1, 2023 – March 30, 2024. Districts receive points based on holding events; survey participation; writing in publications (POMA and external); membership retention; and more.  Click here for a complete list of challenges.

The winning District receives a hefty traveling trophy, special recognition at the POMA Clinical Assembly, and bragging rights.  Contact your District Leadership for more details.

Current Standings as of March 15th:
   1^st Place – District 8   
2^nd Place – District 4
3^rd Place – District 1
4th Place  – District 12

Want to help earn your district some points? Submit an article to the newsletter or participate in a POMA survey.

Find out additional ways by contacting your district leadership.

CLASSIFIED ADVERTISEMENTS

MEDICAL PRACTICE OPPORTUNITIES. Well established independent, osteopathic family medicine practice located in Western Pennsylvania in a college based community and accessible to good schools, adventurous outdoor activities, and major US cities. Fantastic growth potential for a new physician to take over for soon to be retiring physicians. Current physicians are willing to stay on for a period of time. Contact John Brooks, DO or Timothy Brooks, DO at (814) 226-7651 or (814) 744-8525.

PRACTICES WANTED, SELL OR LEASE. Retiring physician, fully furnished 3600 sq ft with exam and procedure rooms. Hanover/York. 717-476-9055.

PRN Medical Space — Ready exam rooms for Drs on the go! Five locations in Philadelphia and Bristol. Call 215-669-4001 or visit prnmedical.space.

PRACTICES WANTED —
Retiring physicians, part-time or full-time practices, call 215-669-4001.

CLASSIFIED AD
RATES
— Per insertion —

Member Ads*: $10 for the first 20 words, $.25 for each additional word. $2 each for special services: all caps or all bold type.

Non-member Ads: (Payment must be received in advance.) $50 for the first 20 words, .50 each additional word. $5 for each special service (listed above).

*Please Note: Member ad rate to be used only by POMA members and only for their medicine- or practice-related ads. Charges for other types of members’ ads will be calculated using the non-member ad rate.

POMA does not take a position of endorsing any organizations, individuals or services whose classified advertisements appear in this publication. The POMA Newsletter reserves the right to select and edit all advertisements submitted.

POMA DOes...Podcast

Have you tuned into the POMA DOes... podcast series? We have released 53 episodes, which are available on YouTube and everywhere you listen to podcasts. Our most recent episodes focus on "RSV and Influenza in Pediatric Patients and Pregnant Mothers" and "Committee Service."

Have an episode idea? Let us know! New episodes for POMA DOes... are released on the second and fourth Fridays of the month. Subscribe so you never miss an episode!

APOMA Opening Meeting and Call for Officers

POMPAC is the collective
voice of the osteopathic profession in Pennsylvania.

Send your personal check to POMPAC c/o POMA, 1330 Eisenhower Blvd., Harrisburg, PA 17111, or charge your contribution to your credit card!

PAC contributions are not tax-deductible.

Pennsylvania Osteopathic Medical Association | 1330 Eisenhower Blvd., Harrisburg, PA 17111
www.poma.org | [email protected] | (717) 939-9318