│1 ││5│

1423 Randy LaneJefferson City, MO 65101(573) 634-3415

www.maops.org

Non-ProfitU.S. Postage

PAIDJefferson City, MO

Permit No. 169

As a member-driven organization, MAOPS starts with YOU. Obviously, your membership is essential, but it goes beyond that. As a member of MAOPS, you have

a voice in all we do. How you use that voice is up to you. Some members simply rely on the Board of Trustees to know the issues at hand, develop policy, and act as necessary. Some engage by alerting the Board to problems they are facing. Others take it a step further and volunteer to serve on a committee or even the Board of Trustees. All member engagement is appreciated, but more importantly, it is essential.

My main goal in this column is to remind members that there are ways to engage that seem simple but provide valuable guidance to the organization. One of the Board’s long-standing values is to ensure transparency and opportunity for member voice in all matters of significance, from policy development to opportunities to engage legislators on key issues, to developing our strategic plan.

Following are some current engagement opportunities:First, we are in the process of developing our new strategic plan. In May, I asked members to comment on the MAOPS mission and vision. Those comments were reviewed by leadership, and from that, they have proposed a more succinct mission statement for consideration by members. You can review the proposed mission at MAOPS.org/Strategy and submit comments until September 1.

Second, we have an important policy resolution being considered needing more member input. This deals with the assistant physician license in Missouri. Medical school graduates who do not match to postgraduate training can apply for an assistant physician (AP) license in Missouri and practice in a collaborative arrangement with a licensed physician. The law has been in effect since 2014. Our Ozark Osteopathic District submitted a resolution asking MAOPS to pursue stricter transparency requirements for assistant physicians, a time-limit on the license, and ultimately, repeal of the statute and license.

On the one hand, we are now facing a shortage of postgraduate training slots in the United States with no solution in sight. On the other, our patients now face even greater confusion about their healthcare provider. The Board wants to know how members feel about the AP license before finalizing its decision on this policy. We have extended the comment period for members through August 22. We have also created a forum on our website for you to engage in conversation with your peers. I ask that you engage and use your voice to help the Board make their final decision on this important issue. Members can view the resolution, submit private comments, and/or engage in discussion on the forum at MAOPS.org/Resolutions.

As physicians, we are busier than ever. We are also facing job dissatisfaction at an unprecedented level. I believe one way we can increase our satisfaction with our profession is by feeling more engaged and like we make a difference. Start that process by making a difference with your professional organization. It all starts with you, so engage now at a level that fits your needs.

July/August 2021It Starts with You Chris Wolf, DO, FAAPMR • MAOPS President

│2│

www.maops.org

OfficersPresident: Chris Wolf, DO, FAAPMR

President-Elect: Elisa Vinyard, DO

1st Vice President: Victoria Damba, DO

2nd Vice President: Katie Murray, DO, MS, FACS

Immediate Past President: Michael Brown, DO

ATSU’s Kirksville College of Osteopathic Medicine

awarded ‘Accreditation with Exceptional Outcome’A.T. Still University’s Kirksville College of Osteopathic Medicine (ATSU-KCOM) has been awarded Accreditation with Exceptional Outcome by the American Osteopathic Association’s Commission on Osteopathic College Accreditation (COCA).

This achievement, the highest possible under COCA, grants ATSU-KCOM the maximum accreditation length of 10 years. The School’s next accreditation review will be in the 2030-31 academic year.

Central Office TeamExecutive Director: Brian Bowles • BrianB@maops.orgAssociate Executive Director: Chris Bowles • ChrisB@maops.orgDirector of Education: Jeff Buthod • JeffB@maops.orgDirector of Communications: Gabby Buenger • GabbyK@maops.orgAdministrative Assistant: Sara Stratman • SaraS@maops.org

Central Office Phone Number: 573-634-3415Central Office Fax Number: 573-634-5635CO

NTAC

T

SAVEDATE

THE

Learn More at MAOPS.org/Events

MAOPS is accredited by the American Osteopathic Association (AOA) and by the Accreditation Council for Continuing Medical Education (ACCME) to provide continuing medical education for physicians.

August 21 Simply CME Live Broadcast

October 1-3 Physician Wellness

SeminarCamdenton, MO

November 13 Simply CME Live Broadcast

April 7-10MOAC 2022

Kansas City, MO

SAVE-the Date for MOAC 2022In 2022, the Midwest Osteopathic Annual Convention will have a new name and new partner! For our 125th Anniversary, MAOPS is collaborating with the Kansas Association of Osteopathic Medicine to bring you the MO-KAN Osteopathic Convention – Bridging Medical Education. The event will be held April 7 – 10, 2022, in Kansas City, MO, at Kansas City University and the Marriott – Downtown Kansas City. This is the first convention MAOPS has held in Kansas City in over two decades, the first live event in which we have collaborated with another osteopathic association, and the first to be held on a COM campus! It will also be our first opportunity to meet live as a profession since 2019! Ink the date on your calendar now, ask off work, and plan to attend this unique event! More information, including registration, will be available this fall. Special thanks to the physician volunteers serving on the convention planning committee! (Pictured Above)

REGISTER NOW: Physician Wellness SeminarJoin us October 1 – 3, 2021, in Camdenton, MO, at The Lodge at Old Kinderhook for this year’s Physician Wellness Seminar. This event is completely MAOPS member-designed and implemented. What does this mean? Your peers understand what you need and have incorporated it into the program. From understanding your personality and how to deal with other personalities to being more mindful during every aspect of your life, we are confident you will enjoy this interactive, discussion-based program. A special spouse section is included, and spouses are not only encouraged to attend but to actively engage. In addition to social-educational programs, plenty of social time is scheduled to allow attendees to relax and continue discussions beyond the classroom. Space is limited for this event, so find out more and register now at MAOPS.org/Wellness.

One DayEight AOA & AMA CME CreditsIt’s Nothing Fancy. It’s Simply CMESimplyCME.org

• Earn 8 AOA & AMA CME Credits• All events can be viewed LIVE and/or ON-DEMAND for

at least 45 days post-event!• Members* of any sponsoring state association will enjoy a

discounted rate of $215 when they register before the live event! Post-event and non-member registration is $275.*Membership will be verified

2021

AUGUST 21 & NOVEMBER 132022

JUNE 18

ABMS-Certified DOs: An AOA Opportunity for YOU! Take advantage of the limited-time offer to obtain reciprocal certification from AOA Certifying Board Services without taking initial certification exams or paying initial certification fees. Learn more and submit your application today at certification.osteopathic.org/abms-reciprocity/

Store ALL CME Certificates on Your Member PortalDon’t forget, MAOPS offers our members the ability to store all CME certificates within your member portal which also contains your profile, registration history for MAOPS events, dues and donation invoices and receipts, and more! One section of a member’s profile is “Professional Development,” and this is where MAOPS has placed all of your CME certificates for MAOPS sponsored events. Based on member requests, you now also have the ability to store certificates for any CME event you attend. The process is simple, and you have 24/7 access!

Visit MAOPS.org/Resources for a quick tutorial on how to upload certificates. Feel free to call the MAOPS Central Office if you have any questions about the process, and a team member will be happy to help you get started.

UPCOMING DISTRICT MEETINGSAugust 14: Southwest, Southeast,

Ozark, and Osage Valley

September 11: Kansas City

September 23: St. Louis

Learn more at MAOPS.org/Events

│5│

│2│ │3│ │4│

In May, the American Academy of PAs’ (AAPA) House of Delegates voted to change the physician assistant name to “physician associate.” To many, this seems benign. However, coupled with the AAPA’s 2017 Optimal Team Practice report, it is obvious this is an attempt to further increase the PA scope of practice by eliminating current requirements requiring PAs to practice in collaborative arrangements with licensed physicians. AAPA states this on its website: “the current requirement in nearly all states for a PA to have a specific relationship with a physician doesn’t align with current PA practice.” They go on to call this “specific relationship” (i.e.- collaborative arrangement) a “tether,” and that “when a PA isn’t legally tethered to a physician, PA employers (health systems, hospitals, and group practices) could be more flexible in determining healthcare teams.” Note that it is the PA employers that the AAPA cites as benefiting, not patients.

Will patients be more confused if PAs are now called physician associates? Maybe not, since in common vernacular, they are simply called PAs. But where this may have more impact is at the state and federal legislative and regulatory levels. As the PAs lobby for an increased scope of practice, an “associate” might simply sound more “independent” than an “assistant.” This may sound insignificant, but when a comprehensive understanding of the education and training of a PA versus a physician is lacking (as with most legislators and regulators), it becomes very significant.

AAPA also wants to change who regulates PAs. As in most states, Missouri PAs are regulated by the Board of Healing Arts, the same Board regulating physicians. AAPA wants a separate PA regulatory board like the nurses currently enjoy. MAOPS contends that rather than making more regulatory boards and further siloing healthcare providers, even nurses should be regulated by the highest trained practitioners – physicians. In Missouri, there is an Advisory Commission for Physicians Assistants, which guides, advises, and makes recommendations to the Board of Healing Arts. It is composed of PAs, at least one physician from the Board of Healing Arts and one lay physician. The system works, and MAOPS believes not only PAs but nurses should be held accountable to the same Board that oversees other healthcare providers like anesthesiology assistants, assistant physicians, athletic trainers, audiologists, speech pathologists, and physical therapists.

The AAPA states that their recommended changes are good for patients because “numerous studies show that PAs provide high-quality care and bring value to patients and PA employers.” What the AAPA fails to recognize is that this might possibly be because of the benefits of current requirements for physician collaboration! That’s the crux of the issue – failure to recognize the value of this specific collaboration. Instead, the APRNs and PAs choose to call this collaboration a barrier rather than what it truly is, a patient protection.

Interestingly, the Missouri PAs seem content with their name, the current collaborative arrangement requirements, and being licensed under the Board of Healing Arts. While it remains to be seen how Missouri PAs handle the national organization’s call for a name change, we have not yet seen a strong push in Missouri to adopt 2017’s Optimal Team Practice Report recommendations. It will take years (and lots of money) for this name change to go into effect nationwide, as the AAPA is now faced with changing state and federal laws and regulations to reflect the new name.

Regardless of the outcome, MAOPS will continue to pursue truth-in-advertising legislation that ensures patients understand the type of provider they are seeing and their education and training. You would think this would be an easy lift, but like everything in politics, it is not! Members can do their part by 1) pushing for truth in advertising within their own organizations, 2) talking with PAs and seeing how they feel about the changes their national organization is putting forth, 3) meeting with representatives and senators out-of-session; and in-district, and/or 4) participating in MAOPS D.O.c.-A-Day program. It may seem this is just about a “name change,” but it goes far beyond that. Physician complacency is our enemy, so be proactive and become engaged.

PA Title Change: Not Just a Title ChangeBrian Bowles, MAOPS Executive Director

D.O.c.-A-DayDon’t forget to register to participate in the MAOPS D.O.c-A-Day program, returning after a year and a half of pandemic-related hiatus. Engage with your legislators with the assistance of the MAOPS advocacy team and make a difference in the profession by planning a day to visit the Central Office, State Capitol, and your Representative and Senator. The program begins the first week of February and ends in late April. Visit MAOPS.org/DOCADay for more information and to register.

CMS Increases Payments for COVID-19 Vaccine AdministrationCMS has increased the payment amount for administering in-home COVID-19 vaccinations to Medicare patients who have difficulty leaving their homes or are otherwise hard to reach. Medicare will pay an additional $35 per dose for COVID-19 vaccine administration in a patient’s home, increasing the total payment amount for at-home vaccination from approximately $40 to approximately $75 per vaccine dose. For a two-dose vaccine, this results in a total payment of approximately $150 for the administration of both doses.

Diamond Level ($10,000+) Jeffery Kerr, DO

David Linsenbardt, DO, FACOIJustin Puckett, DO, FOMA, FACOFP, FAAFP

Ruby Level ($5,000 - $9,999)Michael & Victoria Chabot, DOs

Jeffrey Davis, DOJeffrey Dryden, DO, CPE, FACOI

Steven Fern, DO, FACOIRex Lee, DO

Lee Parks, DOHenry Petry, DO, FACOFP

Mark Snell, DODavid Tannehill, DO, FACOI, FACP

Bruce Williams, DO, FACOFP

Emerald Level ($2,500 - $4,999)John Bailey, DO

Jack Bragg, DO, MACOIVictoria and Dwayne Damba, DOs

Stephen Forsythe, DOTim Jennings, DO

Kenneth Jones, DO, FAOCRElaine Joslyn, DO, FACOFP

Carol Kirila, DO, FACOIMark Pelikan, DO, CIMELaura Smith, DO, FACOI

Richard Still III, DO, FACOS Michael Toney, DO

Sapphire Level ($1,000 - $2,499)Steven Abbadessa, DO

Glenda AccardoJoel Blackburn, DO

Steven Brushwood, DOCynthia Byler, DO, MPH

Edward Douglas, DOJoy Gronstedt, DO

Mike Johnston, DO, MACOIAustin Jones, DO

Donna and Toddy McCluskey, DOsPatrick O’Neil, DO, FAAFP

Mark Rose, DOJamesy Smith, DO

James Suchsland, DOMark Tucker, DOElisa Vinyard, DOFred Warren, DO

Gold Level ($500 - $999)Michael Brown, DO

Gina Carter, DOWillard Chamberlin, DO, FAOCA

Suzanne Crandall, DODaniel Meshoto, DO

Jon Roberts, DORoger Schoenfeld, DO

Brian Snyders, DORobert Sparks, DO Peggy Taylor, DO

William Voss, DO, FACOI

MOPAC Level ($250 - $499)Russell Bond, DO, FAAPMR

Raymond Cohen, DOCharles Graham, DOMichelle Helton, DO

Sarah Hon, DODonald James, DO

Michael Knapp, DOMegan McBride, DO, FAAP, FACOP

Michael Stevenson, DOChakradhar Venkata, MD

Ashley Warren, DOWanda Wilson, DO

Michael Young, DO, FACOI

Student & Resident LevelS/D Emily Damba-Cunningham

S/D Paige DoschS/D Paige Johnson

S/D Andrew LangilleJordan Palmer, DO S/D Kalee Woody

*This listing includes only those who made their sustaining donation for 2020.

The sustaining annual donation for MOPAC and Gold level members is $100.

The sustaining donation for Sapphire, Emerald, Ruby, & Diamond level

members is $250 annually.

THANK YOU 2020 MOPAC Capitol Club Members!

MAKE YOUR MOPAC CONTRIBUTION TODAY!

donate online at www.maops.org/MOPAC

Check payable to MOPAC

I would like to make a monthly contribution of $______ to be automatically charged to my credit card.

Card Number: ______-______-______-______ Exp: _____ /_____

3 Digit Security Code: _________ Name on Card: ___________________

Billing Address: ____________________________________________________

Name on Credit Card: _____________________________________________

$250$100 $500 Other________$200

VISA MASTERCARD DISCOVER

Prescription Drug Monitoring in MissouriThe 2021 Missouri General Assembly passed a statute creating a prescription drug monitoring program (PDMP) – making Missouri the last state to do so. For a full discussion of the law and implications, view the video presentation by MAOPS Executive Director Brian Bowles and lobbyist Jay Hahn at MAOPS.org/PDMPUpdate. In the meantime, here are a few key components:

• Dispensers must enter all Schedule II-IV controlled substances dispensed into the PDMP • Dispensation information for an individual can only be maintained for a maximum of three years, then must be deleted.• Dispensation information is protected by HIPAA• Providers and dispensers will have access to the data. The law does not stipulate that the provider check the PDMP before

prescribing a scheduled drug.*• No dispensation information may be used to prevent an individual from owning a firearm• No dispensation information may be used as probable cause to obtain a search or arrest warrant• Once the program is functional, any PDMP in operation before August 28, 2021, shall cease operation within the state (i.e.,

St. Louis PDMP).

*While the new law does not contain provisions requiring prescriber use of the database, the 2018 federal SUPPORT for Patients and Communities Act does require prescriber use for Medicaid patients. Additionally, physicians should monitor employer policies requiring use.

During these times of the COVID-19 pandemic, workplaces have undergone some changes in dynamics that are unique with

the increase of telemedicine, staff roles, and other issues that will be studied for years. Now that there appears to be a shift back to a new form of “normalcy,” how we interact with our coworkers and other personnel may take on new dimensions based on the strains of the changing economy. There are also changes in management styles and reorganizing, workforce reductions, patient expectations in health care, and more. We need to be cognizant of how to listen to our internal dialogue and be able to self-advocate for our own needs in a healthy, sound way that will bring balance to the whole team or clinic.

According to Forbes.com, self-advocacy is teaching people how to treat you. One must remember how to believe in your own abilities. Reflect on the journey that has brought you to the point where you are now and appreciate it. Use gratitude

moments to ponder how you have the abilities to truly assist your patients to the best of your skills. In that, step back mentally and look at the big picture. Observation without judgment of self or others in the situation will give the best perspective to how to know what is most needed in a resolution or provide a proposal.

All of us get caught in cycles of using cognitive distortions like polarized thinking, personalizing, self-blame, emotional reasoning, labeling, and maybe the most destructive in the workplace or in a relationship—mindreading. This is where we assume others are thinking or speaking ill of us without any actual proof of it. It immediately alters our behavior and our internal dialogue about ourselves, which can undermine our effectiveness.

It is essential to know the kind of support you need to best perform to your highest level of capabilities. Be prepared to know how to ask for assistance as well as apply some of these strategies. 1. Instead of putting yourself down, even

internally, in a harsh, condemning

way, talk to yourself in the same compassionate way you would a patient or friend.

2. Instead of blaming yourself for a problem, think of all the many logical factors contributing to the situation. Focus on solving the problem instead of using all your energy blaming yourself.

3. List all the pros & cons of a particular feeling, thought, or behavior. See if it is worth your time and energy.

4. Ask yourself if you are functioning in the Emotional Mind or Logical Mind. We would rather be more Logical.

5. If stuck in polarized thinking, remember that even a partial success IS still a success. 20% is better than zero.

6. And last, have one trusted work companion-not to gossip with, but that will speak truthfully to you and help you realistically see things about yourself.

Remember to make good self-care an ongoing expedition that allows you to seek ways to grow in discovery spiritually, emotionally, physically, and intellectually.

M A O P S

navigating physician wellness

MAOPS is proud to provide the Member Assistance Program (MAP) as an exclusive benefit for our members* and their families. In addition to counseling services offered by licensed professionals,

it provides an opportunity to learn strategies to better communicate with your family, friends, colleagues, employees and employer. Regardless of the issue, the MAOPS MAP can assist you as you navigate your way to better health in all aspects of your life. It is voluntary and completely

confidential. *The MAP is available at no cost to MAOPS practicing members and their families. MAOPS non-practicing and Life

Members can also have access to the MAP for a $150 annual fee.

For information or assistance, please visitwww.MAOPS.org/MAP or call 573-632-5560

Post-Pandemic Self Advocacy in the WorkplaceRhonda Myers, MA, LPC • MAOPS Member Assistance Program

│2│ │3│ │4│

In May, the American Academy of PAs’ (AAPA) House of Delegates voted to change the physician assistant name to “physician associate.” To many, this seems benign. However, coupled with the AAPA’s 2017 Optimal Team Practice report, it is obvious this is an attempt to further increase the PA scope of practice by eliminating current requirements requiring PAs to practice in collaborative arrangements with licensed physicians. AAPA states this on its website: “the current requirement in nearly all states for a PA to have a specific relationship with a physician doesn’t align with current PA practice.” They go on to call this “specific relationship” (i.e.- collaborative arrangement) a “tether,” and that “when a PA isn’t legally tethered to a physician, PA employers (health systems, hospitals, and group practices) could be more flexible in determining healthcare teams.” Note that it is the PA employers that the AAPA cites as benefiting, not patients.

Will patients be more confused if PAs are now called physician associates? Maybe not, since in common vernacular, they are simply called PAs. But where this may have more impact is at the state and federal legislative and regulatory levels. As the PAs lobby for an increased scope of practice, an “associate” might simply sound more “independent” than an “assistant.” This may sound insignificant, but when a comprehensive understanding of the education and training of a PA versus a physician is lacking (as with most legislators and regulators), it becomes very significant.

AAPA also wants to change who regulates PAs. As in most states, Missouri PAs are regulated by the Board of Healing Arts, the same Board regulating physicians. AAPA wants a separate PA regulatory board like the nurses currently enjoy. MAOPS contends that rather than making more regulatory boards and further siloing healthcare providers, even nurses should be regulated by the highest trained practitioners – physicians. In Missouri, there is an Advisory Commission for Physicians Assistants, which guides, advises, and makes recommendations to the Board of Healing Arts. It is composed of PAs, at least one physician from the Board of Healing Arts and one lay physician. The system works, and MAOPS believes not only PAs but nurses should be held accountable to the same Board that oversees other healthcare providers like anesthesiology assistants, assistant physicians, athletic trainers, audiologists, speech pathologists, and physical therapists.

The AAPA states that their recommended changes are good for patients because “numerous studies show that PAs provide high-quality care and bring value to patients and PA employers.” What the AAPA fails to recognize is that this might possibly be because of the benefits of current requirements for physician collaboration! That’s the crux of the issue – failure to recognize the value of this specific collaboration. Instead, the APRNs and PAs choose to call this collaboration a barrier rather than what it truly is, a patient protection.

Interestingly, the Missouri PAs seem content with their name, the current collaborative arrangement requirements, and being licensed under the Board of Healing Arts. While it remains to be seen how Missouri PAs handle the national organization’s call for a name change, we have not yet seen a strong push in Missouri to adopt 2017’s Optimal Team Practice Report recommendations. It will take years (and lots of money) for this name change to go into effect nationwide, as the AAPA is now faced with changing state and federal laws and regulations to reflect the new name.

Regardless of the outcome, MAOPS will continue to pursue truth-in-advertising legislation that ensures patients understand the type of provider they are seeing and their education and training. You would think this would be an easy lift, but like everything in politics, it is not! Members can do their part by 1) pushing for truth in advertising within their own organizations, 2) talking with PAs and seeing how they feel about the changes their national organization is putting forth, 3) meeting with representatives and senators out-of-session; and in-district, and/or 4) participating in MAOPS D.O.c.-A-Day program. It may seem this is just about a “name change,” but it goes far beyond that. Physician complacency is our enemy, so be proactive and become engaged.

PA Title Change: Not Just a Title ChangeBrian Bowles, MAOPS Executive Director

D.O.c.-A-DayDon’t forget to register to participate in the MAOPS D.O.c-A-Day program, returning after a year and a half of pandemic-related hiatus. Engage with your legislators with the assistance of the MAOPS advocacy team and make a difference in the profession by planning a day to visit the Central Office, State Capitol, and your Representative and Senator. The program begins the first week of February and ends in late April. Visit MAOPS.org/DOCADay for more information and to register.

CMS Increases Payments for COVID-19 Vaccine AdministrationCMS has increased the payment amount for administering in-home COVID-19 vaccinations to Medicare patients who have difficulty leaving their homes or are otherwise hard to reach. Medicare will pay an additional $35 per dose for COVID-19 vaccine administration in a patient’s home, increasing the total payment amount for at-home vaccination from approximately $40 to approximately $75 per vaccine dose. For a two-dose vaccine, this results in a total payment of approximately $150 for the administration of both doses.

Diamond Level ($10,000+) Jeffery Kerr, DO

David Linsenbardt, DO, FACOIJustin Puckett, DO, FOMA, FACOFP, FAAFP

Ruby Level ($5,000 - $9,999)Michael & Victoria Chabot, DOs

Jeffrey Davis, DOJeffrey Dryden, DO, CPE, FACOI

Steven Fern, DO, FACOIRex Lee, DO

Lee Parks, DOHenry Petry, DO, FACOFP

Mark Snell, DODavid Tannehill, DO, FACOI, FACP

Bruce Williams, DO, FACOFP

Emerald Level ($2,500 - $4,999)John Bailey, DO

Jack Bragg, DO, MACOIVictoria and Dwayne Damba, DOs

Stephen Forsythe, DOTim Jennings, DO

Kenneth Jones, DO, FAOCRElaine Joslyn, DO, FACOFP

Carol Kirila, DO, FACOIMark Pelikan, DO, CIMELaura Smith, DO, FACOI

Richard Still III, DO, FACOS Michael Toney, DO

Sapphire Level ($1,000 - $2,499)Steven Abbadessa, DO

Glenda AccardoJoel Blackburn, DO

Steven Brushwood, DOCynthia Byler, DO, MPH

Edward Douglas, DOJoy Gronstedt, DO

Mike Johnston, DO, MACOIAustin Jones, DO

Donna and Toddy McCluskey, DOsPatrick O’Neil, DO, FAAFP

Mark Rose, DOJamesy Smith, DO

James Suchsland, DOMark Tucker, DOElisa Vinyard, DOFred Warren, DO

Gold Level ($500 - $999)Michael Brown, DO

Gina Carter, DOWillard Chamberlin, DO, FAOCA

Suzanne Crandall, DODaniel Meshoto, DO

Jon Roberts, DORoger Schoenfeld, DO

Brian Snyders, DORobert Sparks, DO Peggy Taylor, DO

William Voss, DO, FACOI

MOPAC Level ($250 - $499)Russell Bond, DO, FAAPMR

Raymond Cohen, DOCharles Graham, DOMichelle Helton, DO

Sarah Hon, DODonald James, DO

Michael Knapp, DOMegan McBride, DO, FAAP, FACOP

Michael Stevenson, DOChakradhar Venkata, MD

Ashley Warren, DOWanda Wilson, DO

Michael Young, DO, FACOI

Student & Resident LevelS/D Emily Damba-Cunningham

S/D Paige DoschS/D Paige Johnson

S/D Andrew LangilleJordan Palmer, DO S/D Kalee Woody

*This listing includes only those who made their sustaining donation for 2020.

The sustaining annual donation for MOPAC and Gold level members is $100.

The sustaining donation for Sapphire, Emerald, Ruby, & Diamond level

members is $250 annually.

THANK YOU 2020 MOPAC Capitol Club Members!

MAKE YOUR MOPAC CONTRIBUTION TODAY!

donate online at www.maops.org/MOPAC

Check payable to MOPAC

I would like to make a monthly contribution of $______ to be automatically charged to my credit card.

Card Number: ______-______-______-______ Exp: _____ /_____

3 Digit Security Code: _________ Name on Card: ___________________

Billing Address: ____________________________________________________

Name on Credit Card: _____________________________________________

$250$100 $500 Other________$200

VISA MASTERCARD DISCOVER

Prescription Drug Monitoring in MissouriThe 2021 Missouri General Assembly passed a statute creating a prescription drug monitoring program (PDMP) – making Missouri the last state to do so. For a full discussion of the law and implications, view the video presentation by MAOPS Executive Director Brian Bowles and lobbyist Jay Hahn at MAOPS.org/PDMPUpdate. In the meantime, here are a few key components:

• Dispensers must enter all Schedule II-IV controlled substances dispensed into the PDMP • Dispensation information for an individual can only be maintained for a maximum of three years, then must be deleted.• Dispensation information is protected by HIPAA• Providers and dispensers will have access to the data. The law does not stipulate that the provider check the PDMP before

prescribing a scheduled drug.*• No dispensation information may be used to prevent an individual from owning a firearm• No dispensation information may be used as probable cause to obtain a search or arrest warrant• Once the program is functional, any PDMP in operation before August 28, 2021, shall cease operation within the state (i.e.,

St. Louis PDMP).

*While the new law does not contain provisions requiring prescriber use of the database, the 2018 federal SUPPORT for Patients and Communities Act does require prescriber use for Medicaid patients. Additionally, physicians should monitor employer policies requiring use.

During these times of the COVID-19 pandemic, workplaces have undergone some changes in dynamics that are unique with

the increase of telemedicine, staff roles, and other issues that will be studied for years. Now that there appears to be a shift back to a new form of “normalcy,” how we interact with our coworkers and other personnel may take on new dimensions based on the strains of the changing economy. There are also changes in management styles and reorganizing, workforce reductions, patient expectations in health care, and more. We need to be cognizant of how to listen to our internal dialogue and be able to self-advocate for our own needs in a healthy, sound way that will bring balance to the whole team or clinic.

According to Forbes.com, self-advocacy is teaching people how to treat you. One must remember how to believe in your own abilities. Reflect on the journey that has brought you to the point where you are now and appreciate it. Use gratitude

moments to ponder how you have the abilities to truly assist your patients to the best of your skills. In that, step back mentally and look at the big picture. Observation without judgment of self or others in the situation will give the best perspective to how to know what is most needed in a resolution or provide a proposal.

All of us get caught in cycles of using cognitive distortions like polarized thinking, personalizing, self-blame, emotional reasoning, labeling, and maybe the most destructive in the workplace or in a relationship—mindreading. This is where we assume others are thinking or speaking ill of us without any actual proof of it. It immediately alters our behavior and our internal dialogue about ourselves, which can undermine our effectiveness.

It is essential to know the kind of support you need to best perform to your highest level of capabilities. Be prepared to know how to ask for assistance as well as apply some of these strategies. 1. Instead of putting yourself down, even

internally, in a harsh, condemning

way, talk to yourself in the same compassionate way you would a patient or friend.

2. Instead of blaming yourself for a problem, think of all the many logical factors contributing to the situation. Focus on solving the problem instead of using all your energy blaming yourself.

3. List all the pros & cons of a particular feeling, thought, or behavior. See if it is worth your time and energy.

4. Ask yourself if you are functioning in the Emotional Mind or Logical Mind. We would rather be more Logical.

5. If stuck in polarized thinking, remember that even a partial success IS still a success. 20% is better than zero.

6. And last, have one trusted work companion-not to gossip with, but that will speak truthfully to you and help you realistically see things about yourself.

Remember to make good self-care an ongoing expedition that allows you to seek ways to grow in discovery spiritually, emotionally, physically, and intellectually.

M A O P S

navigating physician wellness

MAOPS is proud to provide the Member Assistance Program (MAP) as an exclusive benefit for our members* and their families. In addition to counseling services offered by licensed professionals,

it provides an opportunity to learn strategies to better communicate with your family, friends, colleagues, employees and employer. Regardless of the issue, the MAOPS MAP can assist you as you navigate your way to better health in all aspects of your life. It is voluntary and completely

confidential. *The MAP is available at no cost to MAOPS practicing members and their families. MAOPS non-practicing and Life

Members can also have access to the MAP for a $150 annual fee.

For information or assistance, please visitwww.MAOPS.org/MAP or call 573-632-5560

Post-Pandemic Self Advocacy in the WorkplaceRhonda Myers, MA, LPC • MAOPS Member Assistance Program

│2│ │3│ │4│

In May, the American Academy of PAs’ (AAPA) House of Delegates voted to change the physician assistant name to “physician associate.” To many, this seems benign. However, coupled with the AAPA’s 2017 Optimal Team Practice report, it is obvious this is an attempt to further increase the PA scope of practice by eliminating current requirements requiring PAs to practice in collaborative arrangements with licensed physicians. AAPA states this on its website: “the current requirement in nearly all states for a PA to have a specific relationship with a physician doesn’t align with current PA practice.” They go on to call this “specific relationship” (i.e.- collaborative arrangement) a “tether,” and that “when a PA isn’t legally tethered to a physician, PA employers (health systems, hospitals, and group practices) could be more flexible in determining healthcare teams.” Note that it is the PA employers that the AAPA cites as benefiting, not patients.

Will patients be more confused if PAs are now called physician associates? Maybe not, since in common vernacular, they are simply called PAs. But where this may have more impact is at the state and federal legislative and regulatory levels. As the PAs lobby for an increased scope of practice, an “associate” might simply sound more “independent” than an “assistant.” This may sound insignificant, but when a comprehensive understanding of the education and training of a PA versus a physician is lacking (as with most legislators and regulators), it becomes very significant.

AAPA also wants to change who regulates PAs. As in most states, Missouri PAs are regulated by the Board of Healing Arts, the same Board regulating physicians. AAPA wants a separate PA regulatory board like the nurses currently enjoy. MAOPS contends that rather than making more regulatory boards and further siloing healthcare providers, even nurses should be regulated by the highest trained practitioners – physicians. In Missouri, there is an Advisory Commission for Physicians Assistants, which guides, advises, and makes recommendations to the Board of Healing Arts. It is composed of PAs, at least one physician from the Board of Healing Arts and one lay physician. The system works, and MAOPS believes not only PAs but nurses should be held accountable to the same Board that oversees other healthcare providers like anesthesiology assistants, assistant physicians, athletic trainers, audiologists, speech pathologists, and physical therapists.

The AAPA states that their recommended changes are good for patients because “numerous studies show that PAs provide high-quality care and bring value to patients and PA employers.” What the AAPA fails to recognize is that this might possibly be because of the benefits of current requirements for physician collaboration! That’s the crux of the issue – failure to recognize the value of this specific collaboration. Instead, the APRNs and PAs choose to call this collaboration a barrier rather than what it truly is, a patient protection.

Interestingly, the Missouri PAs seem content with their name, the current collaborative arrangement requirements, and being licensed under the Board of Healing Arts. While it remains to be seen how Missouri PAs handle the national organization’s call for a name change, we have not yet seen a strong push in Missouri to adopt 2017’s Optimal Team Practice Report recommendations. It will take years (and lots of money) for this name change to go into effect nationwide, as the AAPA is now faced with changing state and federal laws and regulations to reflect the new name.

Regardless of the outcome, MAOPS will continue to pursue truth-in-advertising legislation that ensures patients understand the type of provider they are seeing and their education and training. You would think this would be an easy lift, but like everything in politics, it is not! Members can do their part by 1) pushing for truth in advertising within their own organizations, 2) talking with PAs and seeing how they feel about the changes their national organization is putting forth, 3) meeting with representatives and senators out-of-session; and in-district, and/or 4) participating in MAOPS D.O.c.-A-Day program. It may seem this is just about a “name change,” but it goes far beyond that. Physician complacency is our enemy, so be proactive and become engaged.

PA Title Change: Not Just a Title ChangeBrian Bowles, MAOPS Executive Director

D.O.c.-A-DayDon’t forget to register to participate in the MAOPS D.O.c-A-Day program, returning after a year and a half of pandemic-related hiatus. Engage with your legislators with the assistance of the MAOPS advocacy team and make a difference in the profession by planning a day to visit the Central Office, State Capitol, and your Representative and Senator. The program begins the first week of February and ends in late April. Visit MAOPS.org/DOCADay for more information and to register.

CMS Increases Payments for COVID-19 Vaccine AdministrationCMS has increased the payment amount for administering in-home COVID-19 vaccinations to Medicare patients who have difficulty leaving their homes or are otherwise hard to reach. Medicare will pay an additional $35 per dose for COVID-19 vaccine administration in a patient’s home, increasing the total payment amount for at-home vaccination from approximately $40 to approximately $75 per vaccine dose. For a two-dose vaccine, this results in a total payment of approximately $150 for the administration of both doses.

Diamond Level ($10,000+) Jeffery Kerr, DO

David Linsenbardt, DO, FACOIJustin Puckett, DO, FOMA, FACOFP, FAAFP

Ruby Level ($5,000 - $9,999)Michael & Victoria Chabot, DOs

Jeffrey Davis, DOJeffrey Dryden, DO, CPE, FACOI

Steven Fern, DO, FACOIRex Lee, DO

Lee Parks, DOHenry Petry, DO, FACOFP

Mark Snell, DODavid Tannehill, DO, FACOI, FACP

Bruce Williams, DO, FACOFP

Emerald Level ($2,500 - $4,999)John Bailey, DO

Jack Bragg, DO, MACOIVictoria and Dwayne Damba, DOs

Stephen Forsythe, DOTim Jennings, DO

Kenneth Jones, DO, FAOCRElaine Joslyn, DO, FACOFP

Carol Kirila, DO, FACOIMark Pelikan, DO, CIMELaura Smith, DO, FACOI

Richard Still III, DO, FACOS Michael Toney, DO

Sapphire Level ($1,000 - $2,499)Steven Abbadessa, DO

Glenda AccardoJoel Blackburn, DO

Steven Brushwood, DOCynthia Byler, DO, MPH

Edward Douglas, DOJoy Gronstedt, DO

Mike Johnston, DO, MACOIAustin Jones, DO

Donna and Toddy McCluskey, DOsPatrick O’Neil, DO, FAAFP

Mark Rose, DOJamesy Smith, DO

James Suchsland, DOMark Tucker, DOElisa Vinyard, DOFred Warren, DO

Gold Level ($500 - $999)Michael Brown, DO

Gina Carter, DOWillard Chamberlin, DO, FAOCA

Suzanne Crandall, DODaniel Meshoto, DO

Jon Roberts, DORoger Schoenfeld, DO

Brian Snyders, DORobert Sparks, DO Peggy Taylor, DO

William Voss, DO, FACOI

MOPAC Level ($250 - $499)Russell Bond, DO, FAAPMR

Raymond Cohen, DOCharles Graham, DOMichelle Helton, DO

Sarah Hon, DODonald James, DO

Michael Knapp, DOMegan McBride, DO, FAAP, FACOP

Michael Stevenson, DOChakradhar Venkata, MD

Ashley Warren, DOWanda Wilson, DO

Michael Young, DO, FACOI

Student & Resident LevelS/D Emily Damba-Cunningham

S/D Paige DoschS/D Paige Johnson

S/D Andrew LangilleJordan Palmer, DO S/D Kalee Woody

*This listing includes only those who made their sustaining donation for 2020.

The sustaining annual donation for MOPAC and Gold level members is $100.

The sustaining donation for Sapphire, Emerald, Ruby, & Diamond level

members is $250 annually.

THANK YOU 2020 MOPAC Capitol Club Members!

MAKE YOUR MOPAC CONTRIBUTION TODAY!

donate online at www.maops.org/MOPAC

Check payable to MOPAC

I would like to make a monthly contribution of $______ to be automatically charged to my credit card.

Card Number: ______-______-______-______ Exp: _____ /_____

3 Digit Security Code: _________ Name on Card: ___________________

Billing Address: ____________________________________________________

Name on Credit Card: _____________________________________________

$250$100 $500 Other________$200

VISA MASTERCARD DISCOVER

Prescription Drug Monitoring in MissouriThe 2021 Missouri General Assembly passed a statute creating a prescription drug monitoring program (PDMP) – making Missouri the last state to do so. For a full discussion of the law and implications, view the video presentation by MAOPS Executive Director Brian Bowles and lobbyist Jay Hahn at MAOPS.org/PDMPUpdate. In the meantime, here are a few key components:

• Dispensers must enter all Schedule II-IV controlled substances dispensed into the PDMP • Dispensation information for an individual can only be maintained for a maximum of three years, then must be deleted.• Dispensation information is protected by HIPAA• Providers and dispensers will have access to the data. The law does not stipulate that the provider check the PDMP before

prescribing a scheduled drug.*• No dispensation information may be used to prevent an individual from owning a firearm• No dispensation information may be used as probable cause to obtain a search or arrest warrant• Once the program is functional, any PDMP in operation before August 28, 2021, shall cease operation within the state (i.e.,

St. Louis PDMP).

*While the new law does not contain provisions requiring prescriber use of the database, the 2018 federal SUPPORT for Patients and Communities Act does require prescriber use for Medicaid patients. Additionally, physicians should monitor employer policies requiring use.

During these times of the COVID-19 pandemic, workplaces have undergone some changes in dynamics that are unique with

the increase of telemedicine, staff roles, and other issues that will be studied for years. Now that there appears to be a shift back to a new form of “normalcy,” how we interact with our coworkers and other personnel may take on new dimensions based on the strains of the changing economy. There are also changes in management styles and reorganizing, workforce reductions, patient expectations in health care, and more. We need to be cognizant of how to listen to our internal dialogue and be able to self-advocate for our own needs in a healthy, sound way that will bring balance to the whole team or clinic.

According to Forbes.com, self-advocacy is teaching people how to treat you. One must remember how to believe in your own abilities. Reflect on the journey that has brought you to the point where you are now and appreciate it. Use gratitude

moments to ponder how you have the abilities to truly assist your patients to the best of your skills. In that, step back mentally and look at the big picture. Observation without judgment of self or others in the situation will give the best perspective to how to know what is most needed in a resolution or provide a proposal.

All of us get caught in cycles of using cognitive distortions like polarized thinking, personalizing, self-blame, emotional reasoning, labeling, and maybe the most destructive in the workplace or in a relationship—mindreading. This is where we assume others are thinking or speaking ill of us without any actual proof of it. It immediately alters our behavior and our internal dialogue about ourselves, which can undermine our effectiveness.

It is essential to know the kind of support you need to best perform to your highest level of capabilities. Be prepared to know how to ask for assistance as well as apply some of these strategies. 1. Instead of putting yourself down, even

internally, in a harsh, condemning

way, talk to yourself in the same compassionate way you would a patient or friend.

2. Instead of blaming yourself for a problem, think of all the many logical factors contributing to the situation. Focus on solving the problem instead of using all your energy blaming yourself.

3. List all the pros & cons of a particular feeling, thought, or behavior. See if it is worth your time and energy.

4. Ask yourself if you are functioning in the Emotional Mind or Logical Mind. We would rather be more Logical.

5. If stuck in polarized thinking, remember that even a partial success IS still a success. 20% is better than zero.

6. And last, have one trusted work companion-not to gossip with, but that will speak truthfully to you and help you realistically see things about yourself.

Remember to make good self-care an ongoing expedition that allows you to seek ways to grow in discovery spiritually, emotionally, physically, and intellectually.

M A O P S

navigating physician wellness

MAOPS is proud to provide the Member Assistance Program (MAP) as an exclusive benefit for our members* and their families. In addition to counseling services offered by licensed professionals,

it provides an opportunity to learn strategies to better communicate with your family, friends, colleagues, employees and employer. Regardless of the issue, the MAOPS MAP can assist you as you navigate your way to better health in all aspects of your life. It is voluntary and completely

confidential. *The MAP is available at no cost to MAOPS practicing members and their families. MAOPS non-practicing and Life

Members can also have access to the MAP for a $150 annual fee.

For information or assistance, please visitwww.MAOPS.org/MAP or call 573-632-5560

Post-Pandemic Self Advocacy in the WorkplaceRhonda Myers, MA, LPC • MAOPS Member Assistance Program

│1 ││5│

1423 Randy LaneJefferson City, MO 65101(573) 634-3415

www.maops.org

Non-ProfitU.S. Postage

PAIDJefferson City, MO

Permit No. 169

As a member-driven organization, MAOPS starts with YOU. Obviously, your membership is essential, but it goes beyond that. As a member of MAOPS, you have

a voice in all we do. How you use that voice is up to you. Some members simply rely on the Board of Trustees to know the issues at hand, develop policy, and act as necessary. Some engage by alerting the Board to problems they are facing. Others take it a step further and volunteer to serve on a committee or even the Board of Trustees. All member engagement is appreciated, but more importantly, it is essential.

My main goal in this column is to remind members that there are ways to engage that seem simple but provide valuable guidance to the organization. One of the Board’s long-standing values is to ensure transparency and opportunity for member voice in all matters of significance, from policy development to opportunities to engage legislators on key issues, to developing our strategic plan.

Following are some current engagement opportunities:First, we are in the process of developing our new strategic plan. In May, I asked members to comment on the MAOPS mission and vision. Those comments were reviewed by leadership, and from that, they have proposed a more succinct mission statement for consideration by members. You can review the proposed mission at MAOPS.org/Strategy and submit comments until September 1.

Second, we have an important policy resolution being considered needing more member input. This deals with the assistant physician license in Missouri. Medical school graduates who do not match to postgraduate training can apply for an assistant physician (AP) license in Missouri and practice in a collaborative arrangement with a licensed physician. The law has been in effect since 2014. Our Ozark Osteopathic District submitted a resolution asking MAOPS to pursue stricter transparency requirements for assistant physicians, a time-limit on the license, and ultimately, repeal of the statute and license.

On the one hand, we are now facing a shortage of postgraduate training slots in the United States with no solution in sight. On the other, our patients now face even greater confusion about their healthcare provider. The Board wants to know how members feel about the AP license before finalizing its decision on this policy. We have extended the comment period for members through August 22. We have also created a forum on our website for you to engage in conversation with your peers. I ask that you engage and use your voice to help the Board make their final decision on this important issue. Members can view the resolution, submit private comments, and/or engage in discussion on the forum at MAOPS.org/Resolutions.

As physicians, we are busier than ever. We are also facing job dissatisfaction at an unprecedented level. I believe one way we can increase our satisfaction with our profession is by feeling more engaged and like we make a difference. Start that process by making a difference with your professional organization. It all starts with you, so engage now at a level that fits your needs.

July/August 2021It Starts with You Chris Wolf, DO, FAAPMR • MAOPS President

│2│

www.maops.org

OfficersPresident: Chris Wolf, DO, FAAPMR

President-Elect: Elisa Vinyard, DO

1st Vice President: Victoria Damba, DO

2nd Vice President: Katie Murray, DO, MS, FACS

Immediate Past President: Michael Brown, DO

ATSU’s Kirksville College of Osteopathic Medicine

awarded ‘Accreditation with Exceptional Outcome’A.T. Still University’s Kirksville College of Osteopathic Medicine (ATSU-KCOM) has been awarded Accreditation with Exceptional Outcome by the American Osteopathic Association’s Commission on Osteopathic College Accreditation (COCA).

This achievement, the highest possible under COCA, grants ATSU-KCOM the maximum accreditation length of 10 years. The School’s next accreditation review will be in the 2030-31 academic year.

Central Office TeamExecutive Director: Brian Bowles • BrianB@maops.orgAssociate Executive Director: Chris Bowles • ChrisB@maops.orgDirector of Education: Jeff Buthod • JeffB@maops.orgDirector of Communications: Gabby Buenger • GabbyK@maops.orgAdministrative Assistant: Sara Stratman • SaraS@maops.org

Central Office Phone Number: 573-634-3415Central Office Fax Number: 573-634-5635CO

NTAC

T

SAVEDATE

THE

Learn More at MAOPS.org/Events

MAOPS is accredited by the American Osteopathic Association (AOA) and by the Accreditation Council for Continuing Medical Education (ACCME) to provide continuing medical education for physicians.

August 21 Simply CME Live Broadcast

October 1-3 Physician Wellness

SeminarCamdenton, MO

November 13 Simply CME Live Broadcast

April 7-10MOAC 2022

Kansas City, MO

SAVE-the Date for MOAC 2022In 2022, the Midwest Osteopathic Annual Convention will have a new name and new partner! For our 125th Anniversary, MAOPS is collaborating with the Kansas Association of Osteopathic Medicine to bring you the MO-KAN Osteopathic Convention – Bridging Medical Education. The event will be held April 7 – 10, 2022, in Kansas City, MO, at Kansas City University and the Marriott – Downtown Kansas City. This is the first convention MAOPS has held in Kansas City in over two decades, the first live event in which we have collaborated with another osteopathic association, and the first to be held on a COM campus! It will also be our first opportunity to meet live as a profession since 2019! Ink the date on your calendar now, ask off work, and plan to attend this unique event! More information, including registration, will be available this fall. Special thanks to the physician volunteers serving on the convention planning committee! (Pictured Above)

REGISTER NOW: Physician Wellness SeminarJoin us October 1 – 3, 2021, in Camdenton, MO, at The Lodge at Old Kinderhook for this year’s Physician Wellness Seminar. This event is completely MAOPS member-designed and implemented. What does this mean? Your peers understand what you need and have incorporated it into the program. From understanding your personality and how to deal with other personalities to being more mindful during every aspect of your life, we are confident you will enjoy this interactive, discussion-based program. A special spouse section is included, and spouses are not only encouraged to attend but to actively engage. In addition to social-educational programs, plenty of social time is scheduled to allow attendees to relax and continue discussions beyond the classroom. Space is limited for this event, so find out more and register now at MAOPS.org/Wellness.

One DayEight AOA & AMA CME CreditsIt’s Nothing Fancy. It’s Simply CMESimplyCME.org

• Earn 8 AOA & AMA CME Credits• All events can be viewed LIVE and/or ON-DEMAND for

at least 45 days post-event!• Members* of any sponsoring state association will enjoy a

discounted rate of $215 when they register before the live event! Post-event and non-member registration is $275.*Membership will be verified

2021

AUGUST 21 & NOVEMBER 132022

JUNE 18

ABMS-Certified DOs: An AOA Opportunity for YOU! Take advantage of the limited-time offer to obtain reciprocal certification from AOA Certifying Board Services without taking initial certification exams or paying initial certification fees. Learn more and submit your application today at certification.osteopathic.org/abms-reciprocity/

Store ALL CME Certificates on Your Member PortalDon’t forget, MAOPS offers our members the ability to store all CME certificates within your member portal which also contains your profile, registration history for MAOPS events, dues and donation invoices and receipts, and more! One section of a member’s profile is “Professional Development,” and this is where MAOPS has placed all of your CME certificates for MAOPS sponsored events. Based on member requests, you now also have the ability to store certificates for any CME event you attend. The process is simple, and you have 24/7 access!

Visit MAOPS.org/Resources for a quick tutorial on how to upload certificates. Feel free to call the MAOPS Central Office if you have any questions about the process, and a team member will be happy to help you get started.

UPCOMING DISTRICT MEETINGSAugust 14: Southwest, Southeast,

Ozark, and Osage Valley

September 11: Kansas City

September 23: St. Louis

Learn more at MAOPS.org/Events

│5│

│1 ││5│

1423 Randy LaneJefferson City, MO 65101(573) 634-3415

www.maops.org

Non-ProfitU.S. Postage

PAIDJefferson City, MO

Permit No. 169

As a member-driven organization, MAOPS starts with YOU. Obviously, your membership is essential, but it goes beyond that. As a member of MAOPS, you have

a voice in all we do. How you use that voice is up to you. Some members simply rely on the Board of Trustees to know the issues at hand, develop policy, and act as necessary. Some engage by alerting the Board to problems they are facing. Others take it a step further and volunteer to serve on a committee or even the Board of Trustees. All member engagement is appreciated, but more importantly, it is essential.

My main goal in this column is to remind members that there are ways to engage that seem simple but provide valuable guidance to the organization. One of the Board’s long-standing values is to ensure transparency and opportunity for member voice in all matters of significance, from policy development to opportunities to engage legislators on key issues, to developing our strategic plan.

Following are some current engagement opportunities:First, we are in the process of developing our new strategic plan. In May, I asked members to comment on the MAOPS mission and vision. Those comments were reviewed by leadership, and from that, they have proposed a more succinct mission statement for consideration by members. You can review the proposed mission at MAOPS.org/Strategy and submit comments until September 1.

Second, we have an important policy resolution being considered needing more member input. This deals with the assistant physician license in Missouri. Medical school graduates who do not match to postgraduate training can apply for an assistant physician (AP) license in Missouri and practice in a collaborative arrangement with a licensed physician. The law has been in effect since 2014. Our Ozark Osteopathic District submitted a resolution asking MAOPS to pursue stricter transparency requirements for assistant physicians, a time-limit on the license, and ultimately, repeal of the statute and license.

On the one hand, we are now facing a shortage of postgraduate training slots in the United States with no solution in sight. On the other, our patients now face even greater confusion about their healthcare provider. The Board wants to know how members feel about the AP license before finalizing its decision on this policy. We have extended the comment period for members through August 22. We have also created a forum on our website for you to engage in conversation with your peers. I ask that you engage and use your voice to help the Board make their final decision on this important issue. Members can view the resolution, submit private comments, and/or engage in discussion on the forum at MAOPS.org/Resolutions.

As physicians, we are busier than ever. We are also facing job dissatisfaction at an unprecedented level. I believe one way we can increase our satisfaction with our profession is by feeling more engaged and like we make a difference. Start that process by making a difference with your professional organization. It all starts with you, so engage now at a level that fits your needs.

July/August 2021It Starts with You Chris Wolf, DO, FAAPMR • MAOPS President

│2│

www.maops.org

OfficersPresident: Chris Wolf, DO, FAAPMR

President-Elect: Elisa Vinyard, DO

1st Vice President: Victoria Damba, DO

2nd Vice President: Katie Murray, DO, MS, FACS

Immediate Past President: Michael Brown, DO

ATSU’s Kirksville College of Osteopathic Medicine

awarded ‘Accreditation with Exceptional Outcome’A.T. Still University’s Kirksville College of Osteopathic Medicine (ATSU-KCOM) has been awarded Accreditation with Exceptional Outcome by the American Osteopathic Association’s Commission on Osteopathic College Accreditation (COCA).

This achievement, the highest possible under COCA, grants ATSU-KCOM the maximum accreditation length of 10 years. The School’s next accreditation review will be in the 2030-31 academic year.

Central Office TeamExecutive Director: Brian Bowles • BrianB@maops.orgAssociate Executive Director: Chris Bowles • ChrisB@maops.orgDirector of Education: Jeff Buthod • JeffB@maops.orgDirector of Communications: Gabby Buenger • GabbyK@maops.orgAdministrative Assistant: Sara Stratman • SaraS@maops.org

Central Office Phone Number: 573-634-3415Central Office Fax Number: 573-634-5635CO

NTAC

T

SAVEDATE

THE

Learn More at MAOPS.org/Events

MAOPS is accredited by the American Osteopathic Association (AOA) and by the Accreditation Council for Continuing Medical Education (ACCME) to provide continuing medical education for physicians.

August 21 Simply CME Live Broadcast

October 1-3 Physician Wellness

SeminarCamdenton, MO

November 13 Simply CME Live Broadcast

April 7-10MOAC 2022

Kansas City, MO

SAVE-the Date for MOAC 2022In 2022, the Midwest Osteopathic Annual Convention will have a new name and new partner! For our 125th Anniversary, MAOPS is collaborating with the Kansas Association of Osteopathic Medicine to bring you the MO-KAN Osteopathic Convention – Bridging Medical Education. The event will be held April 7 – 10, 2022, in Kansas City, MO, at Kansas City University and the Marriott – Downtown Kansas City. This is the first convention MAOPS has held in Kansas City in over two decades, the first live event in which we have collaborated with another osteopathic association, and the first to be held on a COM campus! It will also be our first opportunity to meet live as a profession since 2019! Ink the date on your calendar now, ask off work, and plan to attend this unique event! More information, including registration, will be available this fall. Special thanks to the physician volunteers serving on the convention planning committee! (Pictured Above)

REGISTER NOW: Physician Wellness SeminarJoin us October 1 – 3, 2021, in Camdenton, MO, at The Lodge at Old Kinderhook for this year’s Physician Wellness Seminar. This event is completely MAOPS member-designed and implemented. What does this mean? Your peers understand what you need and have incorporated it into the program. From understanding your personality and how to deal with other personalities to being more mindful during every aspect of your life, we are confident you will enjoy this interactive, discussion-based program. A special spouse section is included, and spouses are not only encouraged to attend but to actively engage. In addition to social-educational programs, plenty of social time is scheduled to allow attendees to relax and continue discussions beyond the classroom. Space is limited for this event, so find out more and register now at MAOPS.org/Wellness.

One DayEight AOA & AMA CME CreditsIt’s Nothing Fancy. It’s Simply CMESimplyCME.org

• Earn 8 AOA & AMA CME Credits• All events can be viewed LIVE and/or ON-DEMAND for

at least 45 days post-event!• Members* of any sponsoring state association will enjoy a

discounted rate of $215 when they register before the live event! Post-event and non-member registration is $275.*Membership will be verified

2021

AUGUST 21 & NOVEMBER 132022

JUNE 18

ABMS-Certified DOs: An AOA Opportunity for YOU! Take advantage of the limited-time offer to obtain reciprocal certification from AOA Certifying Board Services without taking initial certification exams or paying initial certification fees. Learn more and submit your application today at certification.osteopathic.org/abms-reciprocity/

Store ALL CME Certificates on Your Member PortalDon’t forget, MAOPS offers our members the ability to store all CME certificates within your member portal which also contains your profile, registration history for MAOPS events, dues and donation invoices and receipts, and more! One section of a member’s profile is “Professional Development,” and this is where MAOPS has placed all of your CME certificates for MAOPS sponsored events. Based on member requests, you now also have the ability to store certificates for any CME event you attend. The process is simple, and you have 24/7 access!

Visit MAOPS.org/Resources for a quick tutorial on how to upload certificates. Feel free to call the MAOPS Central Office if you have any questions about the process, and a team member will be happy to help you get started.

UPCOMING DISTRICT MEETINGSAugust 14: Southwest, Southeast,

Ozark, and Osage Valley

September 11: Kansas City

September 23: St. Louis

Learn more at MAOPS.org/Events

│5│