The Texas Medical Association is accredited by the
Accreditation Council for Continuing Medical Education (ACCME) to provide
continuing medical education for physicians. Unless otherwise stated, each session listed has been approved for 0.75 AMA PRA Category 1 Credits™. Full CME and accreditation details.
TEXMED 2022
Complete Conference Details
CME SESSION TOPICS
Please note, schedule is updated as additional sessions are approved.
Emerging Specialty Trends
Friday, April 29 8-8:45 am
Cataract Surgery 2022 - Progress & Challenges
Douglas D. Koch, MD
Presented by the Texas Ophthalmological Association
While cataracts are one of the most common causes of vision loss, especially with age, they are treatable with cataract surgery. By age 80, more than half of all Americans either have a cataract or have had cataract surgery. Since most cataracts are part of the normal aging process, they cannot be reversed. There are no medications or eye drops that will make cataracts go away—surgery is the only treatment. Upon completion of this activity, participants will be able to: (1) contrast current surgical methods with new techniques on the horizon, and (2) explain how new lenses may enhance surgical outcomes.
Friday, April 29 8-8:45 am
Acupuncture and Osteopathic Manipulation for Spine Conditions
Yonghoon Lee, DO
Presented by the Texas Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation Society
Acupuncture and osteopathic manipulative treatment (OMT) have been utilized to treat various musculoskeletal conditions. This presentation will suggest effective treatment protocols for treating the myofascial aspect of the neck, lower back, gluteal area pain based on actual cases. Billing examples of combining CPT codes for acupuncture and OMT will also be addressed. Upon completion of this activity, participants will be able to: (1) review basic acupuncture and OMT protocols for treating common spine conditions, and (2) summarize basic billing processes of acupuncture and OMT sessions.
Friday, April 29 9-9:45 am
Ocular Gene Therapy in 2022: Seeing Into the Future
John Hullman, PhD
Presented by the Texas Ophthalmological Association
Gene therapy is a technique that modifies a person’s genes to treat or cure disease. There are many ongoing studies of gene therapies for inherited and other retinal degenerative diseases. Gene and cell therapies have the potential to prevent, halt, or reverse diseases of the retina in patients with currently incurable blinding conditions. Upon completion of this activity, participants will be able to describe methods by which gene therapy can aid in the treatment of diseases now and in the future.
Friday, April 29 10:15-11 am
GEDA: Implications for Geriatrics and Elder Mistreatment Victims (ETHICS)
Jason Burnett, PhD; Charles Maddow, MD
Presented by the Texas Geriatrics Society
The Geriatric Emergency Department Accreditation (GEDA) is part of building an age-friendly health system. Memorial Hermann Hospital Emergency Department became the first emergency department in Houston and the second in the state of Texas to achieve GEDA. This has important implications for emergency department care received by older adults and a project to address elder mistreatment within the emergency department setting was instrumental in receiving GEDA. Upon completion of this activity, participants will be able to: (1) describe the state of elder mistreatment screening and response in emergency departments; (2) describe a nationally implemented and evidence-based approach to increasing elder mistreatment screening and response in the emergency department; and (3) identify ways in which this protocol may be used in non-emergency department inpatient and outpatient settings.
Friday, April 29 10:15-11 am
Intracranial Pressure and the Eye
Timothy McCulley, MD
Presented by the Texas Ophthalmological Association
This session will explore the potential relationship between intracranial pressure and glaucoma, as well as the correlation between bony changes and altered intracranial pressure. Upon completion of this activity, participants will be able to: (1) explain the potential relationship between intracranial pressure and glaucoma; (2) describe the correlation between bony changes and altered intracranial pressure; and (3) recognize enophthalmos as a consequence of over shunting of cerebrospinal fluid pressure.
Friday, April 29 11:15 am-Noon
Recent Advances in Uveal Melanoma and Retinoblastoma
J. William Harbour, MD
Presented by the Texas Ophthalmological Association
Explore the most common (and hard-to-treat) tumors found in adults and in children. Uveal melanoma is the most common primary intraocular tumor in adults over 50 years of age. Retinoblastoma is a cancer that starts in the retina; it is the most common type of eye cancer in children. Upon completion of this activity, participants will be able to: (1) manage patients with uveal melanoma with precision medicine, and (2) explain the range of therapeutic options for retinoblastoma and their optimal uses.
Friday, April 29 11:15 am-Noon
The Impact of Social Phone Calls on Older Adults
Jason Burnett, PhD; Gabrielle Hoyumpa, BS
Presented by the Texas Geriatrics Society
A study was done assessing the impact that social phone calls had on the psychosocial factors of depression, anxiety, loneliness, isolation, and self-rated health in isolated and lonely elder mistreatment victims. Qualitative data regarding the content of the social phone calls and a medical humanities narrative-medicine debriefing session were also recorded. Encouraging results indicating lowered depression and loneliness scores after only six calls were found. The model used is innovative and easily replicable and provides a potential way to address loneliness and depression in community-dwelling older adults while building a more aging-compassionate health professional workforce.
Upon completion of this activity, participants will be able to (1) describe the medical student-led social phone calls program; (2) illustrate the program’s benefits to older adults’ social and mental health well-being; and (3) summarize the impact of the program on medical students’ awareness of aging-related issues.
Friday, April 29 1:15-2:00 pm
Hamstring Injuries and Treatment Advances Among Active Patients
Angela Cortez, MD
This session is to prepare the physician for the quick identification of hamstring injuries on the field, in the clinic, and best practices on assessing those at risk, newest treatments in the clinic, appropriate rehabilitation, and most effective treatment to get the athlete or active patient back to higher level activities. Upon completion of this activity, participants will be able to: (1) describe best practices for hamstring injuries among athletes and active patients, including counseling for risk factors, prevention, and treatment; and (2) distinguish a hamstring injury from the similar presentation of lumbar radiculopathy.
Friday, April 29 1:15-2:15 pm
OMIC: Lessons Learned from Cataract Surgery (ETHICS)
Jane Mock, CPHRM
Presented by the Texas Ophthalmological Association
Cataract surgery is the most frequently performed ophthalmic procedure in the United States, and thus the source of the majority of the medical malpractice claims reported to malpractice carriers. While the surgeons make it look deceptively simple, cataract surgery, like any other surgery, is not risk free. Lack of informed consent and aggressive advertising are examples of risk management pitfalls and can potentially mislead patients into consenting to surgery without fully understanding or appreciating the consequences and alternatives. This course will recommend risk management best practices to reduce the likelihood of claims and increase defensibility, while also providing better patient care and expectations. Upon completion of this activity, participants will be able to: (1) identify patient safety risks as they pertain to cataract surgery; (2) list risk management recommendations on how to mitigate those risks; and (3) reduce liability exposure.
Friday, April 29 1:15-2:00 pm
Opioids – Other Options: Interventional Pain Procedures
Brian Bruel, MD
Presented by the Texas Pain Society
This lecture will cover a introduction to the many interventional pain procedures that are available today in lieu of prescribing opioids. Upon completion of this activity, participants will be able to: (1) identify new interventional pain procedures available; (2) review benefits of interventional pain procedures; and (3) discuss patient eligibility.
Saturday, April 30 8:30-9:15 am
Genomic Identification of Defective Immunity Toward Infections
Ivan Chinn, MD
Presented by the Texas Allergy, Asthma and Immunology Society
Primary immunodeficiency disorders (PID) represent a group of over 400 distinct disorders caused by defects in immune system development and/or function. Many of these disorders carry an increased susceptibility to infection as the presenting clinical manifestation. To help guide clinicians, resources such as the Jeffrey Modell Foundation, 10 warnings signs of primary immunodeficiency have been created to drive public awareness. Additional efforts have begun to detect patients with PID via newborn screening and through computational methods. Practitioners will be taught in this session how newborn screening, genetic testing and computational methods are being utilized to identify an expanding number of PIDs in patients with chronic, atypical and recurrent infections. Upon completion of this activity, participants will be able to: (1) discuss the difference between genetic testing modalities; (2) evaluate patients with chronic, atypical, and recurrent infections through interpretation of newborn screening results and genetic testing; and (3) describe novel methods for diagnosis of PID and immunodysregulation syndromes.
Saturday, April 30 8:30-9:15 am
TEAM-FACN: An Innovative Statewide Model for Capacity Assessments (ETHICS)
Jason Burnett, PhD; John Halphen, MD
Presented by the Texas Geriatrics Society
TEAM Institute Forensic Assessment Center Network - Adult Division is the first and only program of its kind in the US implemented to meet the capacity assessment needs of Texas Adult Protective Services and their clients. This program began in June 2017 and continues to conduct over 500 videophone-based APS client capacity assessments each year throughout Texas. This innovative model for Geriatric Care has been published in the Journal of the American Geriatrics Society in both 2018 and 2021 and in the Journal of Elder Abuse and Neglect in 2019. Upon completion of this activity, participants will be able to: (1) differentiate capacity from competency; (2) describe the TEAM-FACN capacity assessment model; and (3) state the legal, ethical, and practical considerations of the TEAM-FACN model.
Saturday, April 30 8:30-9:15 am
The Barry Uhr, MD Prize in Comprehensive Ophthalmology
Karen Brown, MD; Sara Fard, MD; David Fell, MD; Ardalan Sharifi, MD; and David Szynkarski, MD, MBA
Presented by the Texas Ophthalmological Association
The Barry Uhr, MD, Memorial Prize in Comprehensive Ophthalmology was established by the TOA Foundation to memorialize former TOA President Barry Uhr, MD, of Dallas. Before his passing in 2010, Dr. Uhr practiced comprehensive ophthalmology in Dallas for almost 40 years, but his care for patients extended far beyond direct patient care. This is an excellent opportunity for residents to present new research to practicing ophthalmologists. Upon completion of this activity, participants will be able to explain new and emerging therapies and new research as presented by the top ophthalmology residents in Texas.
Saturday, April 30 9:30-10:15 am
Advising Patients on Prevention and Treatment of Food Allergy
Aikaterini Anagnostou, MD, PhD
Presented by the Texas Allergy, Asthma and Immunology Society
Recent studies have shown early introduction of foods in infants can prevent food allergy, there is an FDA approved oral immunotherapy treatment for peanut allergy, oral immunotherapy to food is becoming more widespread and biologics can alter reactivity of patients with food allergy. There are several new strategies clinicians can utilize to help patients navigate the new landscape to prevent and manage food allergic disease. This session will discuss the upcoming trends in the management of food allergic disease and how practitioners can facilitate the prevention of food allergy and allergic reactions to food. Upon completion of this activity, participants will be able to: (1) explain strategies to prevent food allergies in children; (2) review FDA approved treatment through oral immunotherapy; and (3) describe how biologics decrease the threshold of reactivity to allergenic food.
Saturday, April 30 9:30-10:15 am
Non-Surgical Treatment of Periocular Skin Cancer
Bita Esmaeli, MD
Presented by the Texas Ophthalmological Association
The periocular region sees high rates of cancer compared to the rest of the body and can be affected by several unique tumors. Basal cell carcinoma (BCC) is the most common malignancy affecting this region and should be excised promptly. Melanoma is less common but more deadly, with relatively high rates of metastasis and death. Our expert speaker will explain new treatments and drug therapies. Upon completion of this activity, participants will be able to list new drugs that may improve management of locally advanced or metastatic cancers of the eyelid, orbit, and ocular adnexa.
Saturday, April 30 9:30-10:15 am
Sports Medicine Care of Athletes with Disabilities
Stephanie Tow, MD
Presented by the Texas Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation Society
The Paralympic movement and other similar sports movements continue to inspire more individuals with disabilities to get involved in sports, recreation, and physical activity. As the population of athletes with disabilities (i.e. "Para athletes" or "adaptive athletes") has grown, the need for comprehensive sports medicine support for Para athletes has evolved. This presentation will provide an overview of the role of adaptive sports in individuals with disabilities and sports medicine care of these athletes. Upon completion of this activity, participants will be able to: (1) identify adaptive sports resources available to athletes with disabilities in the Texas region and nationally; (2) describe the benefits of adaptive sports for individuals with disabilities; and (3) recognize clinical signs and symptoms of sports-related injuries or illnesses in athletes with disabilities and how they may differ from athletes without disabilities, and assess when to refer a patient to an adaptive/Para sports medicine specialist.
Saturday, April 30 10:45-11:30 am
Texas Workers' Compensation in 2022
Amy Rich, Texas Department of Insurance
Presented by the Texas College of Occupational and Environmental Medicine
This session will give health care providers an overview of workers' compensation in Texas, including what's new, relative to health care providers. The session will provide summary information regarding telemedicine and COVID-19 workers' compensation claim data. The attendees will also receive information on a health care provider's vital role and responsibilities in returning injured employees back to work after an injury or illness. Upon completion of this activity, participants will be able to: (1) recall the basics of Texas workers' compensation; (2) identify what is new in Texas workers' compensation, including 2022 professional reimbursement rates; and (3) discuss the data the Division of Workers' Compensation has collected on telemedicine and COVID-19 workers' compensation claims.
Saturday, April 30 11:45-12:30 pm
Amphetamines The Next Epidemic: What History Has Not Taught Us (ETHICS)
Helene Alphonso, DO
Amphetamines are riding the wave of the Opiate Epidemic and creating new challenges to health care providers. This presentation outlines the history of previous stimulant epidemics, and how pharmaceutical companies today are using the Opioid playbook to boost sales of ADHD treatments. It also examines the Neurochemical basis of addiction and how stimulants create unique addiction sequelae. Upon completion of this activity, participants will be able to: (1) examine the history of Stimulant use disorder and Opiate use disorder; (2) identify trends and similarities in these epidemics and their iatrogenic components; and (3) compare prescribing trends to ADHD treatment standards.
Saturday, April 30 11:45 am-12:30 pm
Teprotumumab and its Use in Thyroid Eye Disease
Raymond Douglas, MD, PhD
Presented by the Texas Ophthalmological Association
Thyroid eye disease (TED) is a rare but debilitating, disfiguring, and potentially blinding periocular condition for which in the past, no Food and Drug Administration–approved medical therapy was available. Upon completion of this activity, participants will be able to describe emerging medications for the treatment of thyroid eye disease and discuss alternatives to surgery.
Saturday, April 30 11:45 am-12:30 pm
What is New in Eosinophilic Gastrointestinal Disease
Eric H. Chiou, MD
Presented by the Texas Allergy, Asthma and Immunology Society
The diagnosis and treatment of eosinophilic gastrointestinal disease (EGID) has significantly expanded recently with the understanding that proton pump inhibitors and biologic therapies alter the disease state. The evidence suggests that proton pump inhibitors are better classified as a treatment for esophageal eosinophilia that may be due to EoE than as a diagnostic criterion, an updated consensus criteria for EoE that reflect this change will be discussed. This session will equip practitioners with the most current information on the diagnosis and management of EGID. Upon completion of this activity, participants will be able to: (1) cite the current diagnostic criteria for eosinophilic gastrointestinal disease; (2) evaluate allergic disease in eosinophilic gastrointestinal disease patients; and (3) describe the state of the art management strategies for eosinophilic gastrointestinal disease.
Saturday, April 30 2:45-3:30 pm
DDx of Shortness of Breath Using Point-of-Care Ultrasound
Vietvuong Vo, MD
This session will be a case-based PowerPoint presentation discussing the use of point-of-care ultrasound in differentiating common and emergent causes of acute shortness of breath including pulmonary edema, pleural effusion, pneumonia, cardiac tamponade, pneumothorax. Following this session is a separate CME session, "Hands-on Point-of-Care Ultrasound Skills Lab." Upon completion of this activity, participants will be able to: (1) recognize indications and limitations of point-of-care ultrasound for shortness of breath; (2) identify signs of pathology on ultrasound consistent with pleural effusion, pulmonary edema, pneumothorax, pneumonia, cardiac tamponade; and (3) describe the appropriate image acquisition techniques for each entity being assessed.
Saturday, April 30 2:45-3:30 pm
EPR-4: Focused Update to the Asthma Management Guidelines
Meera R. Gupta, MD
Presented by the Texas Allergy, Asthma and Immunology Society
New asthma management guidelines were published in the last year which had updated recommendations for the use of intermittent inhaled corticosteroids, the use of long-acting muscarinic antagonists, the role of mitigation of indoor allergens and new tests to diagnose and manage asthma. This session will discuss the new asthma guidelines and how to implement them into practice. For any provider who treats asthma, this is a must attend session for a recent update regarding the management of asthma trends and current evidence. The role of immunotherapy and bronchial thermoplasty will also be addressed in asthma. Upon completion of this activity, participants will be able to: (1) utilize appropriate intermittent inhaled corticosteroid therapy in asthma; (2) recommend a multicomponent allergen-specific mitigation intervention to help patients with asthma; and (3) describe new treatments being utilized in asthma.
Saturday, April 30 2:45-3:30 pm
Multimodal Opioid-Sparing Strategies For Acute Pain Management
Girish Joshi, MD
Adequate perioperative pain management is imperative for enhanced recovery after surgery. This presentation will discuss the current evidence-based best practices for perioperative pain management. Upon completion of this activity, participants will be able to: (1) discuss the need for and barriers of optimal postoperative pain management; (2) emphasize need for multidisciplinary approach to optimal postoperative pain management; (3) explain the importance of patient education; (4) identify patients at high risk of postoperative pain; (5) discuss the current controversies surrounding the therapeutic concepts of multimodal analgesia; and (6) describe optimal multimodal analgesia techniques: choice of analgesic techniques, appropriate combinations, role of analgesic adjuncts, timing of analgesic administration.
Saturday, April 30 3:45-4:30 pm
Hands-on Point-of-Care Ultrasound Skills Lab
Steven Field, DO; Jodi Jones, MD; Mandy M. Pascual, MD; Vietvuong Vo, MD
This session will be an opportunity for attendees to practice core ultrasound skills at six point of care ultrasound machines, with one point-of-care ultrasound emergency medicine faculty or fellow at each station to provide hands-on instruction. The focus will be on the ultrasound techniques discussed in related presentations. (See the CME session titled "DDx of Shortness of Breath Using Point-of-Care Ultrasound," and the on-demand sessions on cardiac, pediatric, and renal point-of-care ultrasound.) Upon completion of this activity, participants will be able to (1) recognize the indications and limitations of point-of-care ultrasound; (2) identify how to recognize and assess normal versus pathology on ultrasound; and (3) practice the appropriate image acquisition techniques for each entity being assessed.
Saturday, April 30 3:45-4:30 pm
How to Use Biologics in Allergic Diseases
Carla M. Davis, MD
Presented by the Texas Allergy, Asthma and Immunology Society
Biologic therapies like omalizumab, dupilumab, benralizumab, and mepolizumab are powerful mediators of allergic responses. They are being approved for more and more diseases and can be a powerful tool in the treatment of severe disease. This session will help practitioners understand why a specific biologic is utilized for each patient by the specialist. Upon completion of this activity, participants will be able to: (1) describe the current evidence for biologics used in asthma; (2) distinguish between the function of biologics in atopic dermatitis; and (3) identify the adverse events which may occur during biologic therapy.
On Demand
Cardiac Point-of-Care Ultrasound
Steven Field, DO
This session discusses the use of point-of-care ultrasound in assessing the heart including left ventricular function, pericardial effusion, right heart strain. Upon completion of this activity, participants will be able to: (1) recognize the indications and limitations of point-of-care ultrasound for the heart; (2) identify how to assess left ventricular function, pericardial effusion, right heart strain using ultrasound; and (3) describe the appropriate image acquisition techniques for each entity being assessed.
(to be released)
On Demand
Making SoMe, SoYou: Media Dos and Don'ts (ETHICS)
Sara Andrabi, MD
Due to the COVID pandemic and media attention on physicians,
many have been asked to give media interviews on behalf of their institutions,
practices, or as individuals. There is a growing sense of obligation to engage
people on social media to help dispel misinformation. As social media has
increased, a lot of health care professionals are now using platforms such as
Twitter or Instagram for communicating with the masses. In this talk, we will
discuss the best practices for using these platforms while complying with rules
and regulations. Upon completion of this activity, participants will be able to: (1) appraise literature pertaining to social media in medicine; (2) review real-life healthcare-related social media cases and lessons learned from these situations; and (3) employ best practices for using social media and how to communicate with patients through social media.
(to be released)
On DemandPediatric Point-of-Care UltrasoundJodi Jones, MD
This session discusses the use of point-of-care ultrasound in assessing common pediatric complaints. Upon completion of this activity, participants will be able to: (1) recognize the indications and limitations of point-of-care ultrasound for the pediatric patient; (2) identify signs of pathology on ultrasound consistent with pneumonia, appendicitis, pyloric stenosis, intussusception, and hip effusion; and (3) describe the appropriate image acquisition techniques for each entity being assessed.
(to be released)On Demand
Renal Point-of-Care Ultrasound
Mandy M. Pascual, MD
This session discusses the use of point-of-care ultrasound in assessing the urinary track system including the kidneys and bladder. Upon completion of this activity, participants will be able to: (1) recognize the indications and limitations of point-of-care ultrasound for the urinary tract system; (2) review how to use ultrasound to assess hydronephrosis and recognize nephrolithiasis and ureterolithiasis; and (3) describe the appropriate image acquisition techniques for each entity being assessed.
(to be released)
Top of page
Physician Health and Wellness
Friday, April 29 10:15-11 am
The Intersection of Quality and Professional Wellbeing
Alicia Kowalski, MD
This presentation will highlight the intersection of quality and professional wellbeing. The impacts of burnout on patients, physicians, and organizations will be covered. With that, the specific impact on quality of care will be highlighted. In order to provide participants with insightful and high-level applications, the concept of a resilient organization will be presented. This aspect will allow emphasis on the importance of key components for achieving a resilient organization to support professional wellbeing and high quality of care. Upon completion of this activity, participants will be able to: (1) explain the impacts of burnout on patients, physicians, and organizations; (2) identify the impacts on quality of care; and (3) characterize the qualities of a resilient organization and the benefits therein.
Friday, April 29 11:15 am-Noon
Managing Your Federal Student LoansJulie Gilbert
Presented by the Association of American Medical Colleges
During this presentation, attendees will obtain information about current repayment plans, postponing repayment, and refinancing or consolidating their federal student loans. Additionally, participants will learn about the resources available through the Association of American Medical Colleges to increase financial education skills and develop a successful loan repayment strategy. Upon completion of this activity, participants will be able to (1) review the various federal loan repayment plans; (2) evaluate if postponing repayment during residency is a wise option; and (3) discuss consolidating and refinancing student loans.
Saturday, April 30 10:45-11:30 am
Wellness Tips on How to Enjoy Practice Again
Anil Nanda, MD
Presented by the Texas Allergy, Asthma and Immunology Society
Providers deal with many everyday stresses, including electronic health records, office politics, insurance and billing issues, dissatisfied patients, and their own personal and family issues. Approximately half of all physicians suffer from burnout, and the rate of burnout among physicians of all specialties is increasing. First steps in dealing with burnout are recognition and seeking assistance. Upon completion of this activity, participants will be able to: (1) categorize the multiple causes of provider burnout and stress; (2) identify their own risk of burnout and causes of stress; and (3) implement specific strategies to mitigate burnout and stress and utilize resources available to them to decrease burnout.
On Demand
Overcoming Distress in Medicine (ETHICS)
Cheryl Hurd, MD
Presented by the TMA Committee on Physician Health and Wellness
What is your organization’s or institution’s integral approach to overcoming its clinicians’ and learners’ emotional and moral distress? Marginalizing distress in any form can erode communication and affect patient outcomes. Physicians, medical students, and their organizations can help diffuse distress by recognizing its sources and adopting resources and strategies – both personal and institutional – that help distressed individuals cope. Upon completion of this course, participants should be able to: (1) identify factors that lead to compassion fatigue and personal distress; (2) highlight components that facilitate compassion, discussion, and reflection to overcome emotional exhaustion; and (3) classify resources and coping strategies for students, residents, and physicians related to stressful events.
Recorded May 1, 2021. Released August 1, 2021. Expires January 1, 2023.
On Demand
Physician Wellness: Considerations for Navigating Change
Debra Atkisson, MD; Ken Hopper, MD; and Collin O'Hara, MD
Since the Covid-19 pandemic, stress amongst physicians has increased. This session will identify steps that a physician can take to evaluate and manage stressors along with best practices for active reduction of stress. The physician will learn simple communication techniques to lower the anxiety that occurs in today’s charged healthcare environment. Upon completion of this course, participants should be able to: (1) identify stressors and practices to reduce stress and improve wellness; (2) assess how to make time for yourself; and (3) generate approaches for crucial win-win conversations in healthcare environments.
(to be released)
On Demand
Break the Silence: Physician Suicide (ETHICS)
Sejal Mehta, MD
Presented by the TMA Committee on Physician Health and Wellness
Physicians have easy ways to commit suicide and the knowledge to carry it out successfully. Each year, 300 to 400 physicians take their own lives, resulting in loss to patients, families, and the medical community. This presentation explains risk factors and warning signs in potentially suicidal physicians. With this knowledge, you could save a colleague’s life, or maybe even your own. Upon completion of this activity, participants will be able to (1) cite the number of physicians, residents, and medical students lost to suicide annually; (2) describe the characteristics of major depressive disorder; (3) identify risk factors for suicide and formulate suicidal behavior in terms of interactions between long- and short-term behavioral mechanisms; (4) apply current knowledge about mechanisms underlying suicidal behavior to practical clinical situations; (5) identify people at risk and explain the warning signs of a physician, resident, and/or medical student who is suicidal; (6) develop preventive strategies balancing pharmacological, social, and health-related interventions; and (7) recognize the ethical consequences of suicide.
(To be released April 28, 2022) Expires April 17, 2023
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Population Health
Friday, April 29, 8-8:45 amCOVID Convalescence Program: A VA Model of Care
Jennifer Gomez, RN, BSN; Eric Powell, PhD; Hanh Trinh, MD
The COVID-19 pandemic has led to worldwide devastation, including 51.7 million cases in the US, of which 4.4 million cases were diagnosed in Texas. Persistent symptoms following recovery of COVID-19, also known as “Long COVID Syndrome”, have impacted about 50% of survivors, with some presenting symptoms beyond six months. This occurrence has led to the creation of an interdisciplinary COVID Convalescence Program which coordinates with other specialty services to help manage the broad array of sequelae observed in this patient population. This presentation will outline challenges to treating patients who have recovered from COVID-19 and provide clinicians with additional insight on post-COVID recovery. Upon completion of this activity, participants will be able to: (1) identify common COVID-19 illness related health sequelae; (2) explore the role of underlying mental health comorbidities in post COVID patients; and (3) describe the South Texas Veterans Health Care System (STVHCS) COVID Convalescence Program.
Friday, April 29 9-9:45 am
Help Patients Stop the Progression from Prediabetes to Type 2 Diabetes
Paola Bayona; Mirna Puesan, MD, MPH
People with prediabetes are at higher risk for type 2 diabetes, which can lead to chronic conditions like heart disease, vision loss, and kidney disease, resulting in unhealthier populations and higher healthcare costs. In this session, learn how you can help prevent the development of type 2 diabetes among your patients and help them make improved lifestyle changes. Upon completion of this activity, participants will be able to: (1) identify and manage symptoms for prediabetes among patients; (2) discuss prevention strategies for type 2 diabetes; and (3) describe how the National Diabetes Prevention Program can support clinicians in managing complex, high need patients.
Friday, April 29 9-9:45 am
When Does Acute Pain Become Chronic Pain in Common Injuries?
Allen Dennis, MD
Presented by the Texas Pain Society
In this lecture the audience will learn the medical and legal differences between acute and chronic pain, how to treat both for common injuries such as back and knee pain, and when a referral for chronic pain becomes necessary. Upon completion of this activity, participants will be able to: (1) recognize differences between acute and chronic pain; (2) demonstrate how to treat both acute and chronic pain; and (3) determine when to refer a patient for chronic pain.
Friday, April 29 10:15-11 am
GEDA: Implications for Geriatrics and Elder Mistreatment Victims (ETHICS)
Presented by the Texas Geriatrics Society
The Geriatric Emergency Department Accreditation (GEDA) is part of building an age-friendly health system. Memorial Hermann Hospital Emergency Department became the first emergency department in Houston and the second in the state of Texas to achieve GEDA. This has important implications for emergency department care received by older adults and a project to address elder mistreatment within the emergency department setting was instrumental in receiving GEDA. Upon completion of this activity, participants will be able to: (1) describe the state of elder mistreatment screening and response in emergency departments; (2) describe a nationally implemented and evidence-based approach to increasing elder mistreatment screening and response in the emergency department; and (3) identify ways in which this protocol may be used in non-emergency department inpatient and outpatient settings.
Friday, April 29 11:15 am-Noon
The Opioid and Cannabinoid Connection
Kenneth Finn, MD
Presented by the Texas Pain Society
This lecture will cover the most current medical research and literature regarding the medical use of cannabis and will update attendees about the prospective benefits and dangers of patients using medical cannabis. Upon completion of this activity, participants will be able to: (1) review history of medical cannabis; (2) summarize current medical use and prescribing across the country of medical cannabis; and (3) examine pros and cons of medical cannabis.
Friday, April 29 12:15-1 pm
Practical Application of Dietary Strategies to Promote Health
Heather Leidy, PhD
Sponsored by the Texas Beef Council
This session will provide medical providers with current, evidence-based information and dietary strategies that will assist in patient education to promote health and well-being with emphasis on dietary protein, timing of consumption, and personalized nutrition. Upon completion of this activity, participants will be able to: (1) describe the current state of the standard American diet across the life stages including specific points where improvements are needed; (2) identify plant-based and animal-based food components within dietary patterns to understand their relationship with health outcomes; and (3) incorporate evidence-based nutrition strategies into patient education with emphasis on dietary protein, timing of consumption, and personalized nutrition.
Friday, April 29 2:15-3 pm
Board Rules on Opioids and Pain Management (ETHICS)
Samer Shobassy, JD, Texas Medical Board
Join the Assistant General Counsel for the Texas Medical Board, as he reviews the current statutes and rules on pain management, and gives an overview of the TMB enforcement process. Don't miss this session, where you'll have an opportunity to ask questions and get answers direct from the TMB. Upon completion of this activity, participants will be able to: (1) identify statutes and rules on pain management; (2) describe the enforcement process; and (3) recognize the focus of the Texas Medical Board related to pain prescribing.
Friday, April 29 2:15-3 pm
State-based Occupational Health Surveillance in Texas
Ketki Patel, MD, PhD
Presented by the Texas College of Occupational and Environmental Medicine
The Occupational Health Surveillance (OHS) program at the Texas Department of State Health Services conducts state-based occupational health surveillance, including for reportable conditions – elevated blood lead levels in adults, acute occupational pesticide poisonings, silicosis and asbestosis. For reportable conditions, the OHS program relies on cases reported by health care providers. This presentation will further discuss the reporting requirements under the Texas Administrative Code, Title 25, Rule 99.1 Occupational Diseases, as well as key emerging, current and re-emerging issues in Occupational Health in Texas and nationally. Upon completion of this activity, participants will be able to: (1) identify Texas state statues on reportable occupational conditions and how to report them; (2) discuss Texas Department of State Health Services’ State-based Occupational Health Surveillance, including challenges and opportunities to improve surveillance and prevention of occupational conditions; and (3) discuss emerging, current and re-emerging issues in Occupational Health.
Saturday, April 30 8:30-9:15 am
Culturally Sensitive Care for Transgender Patients
Presented by the TMA LGBTQ Health Section
With research citing significant health care disparities among LGBTQ populations, physicians must do all they can to ensure a safe, welcoming care environment for patients and staff. This session will provide an overview of simple, yet important changes you can make in your practice to ensure that all patients and staff feel secure and receive the health care they need. Upon completion of this activity, participants will be able to: (1) define basic terminology associated with the LGBTQ population focusing on the Transgender community; (2) describe the significant healthcare disparities facing transgender patients; and (3) identify resources and strategies for creating a welcoming and gender-affirming environment for both patients and staff.
Saturday, April 30 8:30-9:15 am
Psychiatry and Mass Shootings: Forensic & Clinical Issues (ETHICS)
William H. Reid, MD, MPH
The author, a forensic psychiatrist with substantial experience in criminal and civil psychiatric aspects of US mass shootings, describes related violence risk assessment, post-event evaluation procedures, forensic psychiatry roles, and standard-of-care (malpractice) issues for clinicians and institutions. Upon completion of this activity, participants will be able to: (1) discuss the phenomenon of mass shootings as relevant to clinical and forensic practice; (2) identify some of the differences between clinical and forensic work; and (3) describe selected issues in risk assessment for serious violence.
Saturday, April 30 8:30-9:15 am
TEAM-FACN: An Innovative Statewide Model for Capacity Assessments (ETHICS)
Presented by the Texas Geriatrics Society
TEAM Institute Forensic Assessment Center Network - Adult Division is the first and only program of its kind in the US implemented to meet the capacity assessment needs of Texas Adult Protective Services and their clients. This program began in June 2017 and continues to conduct over 500 videophone-based APS client capacity assessments each year throughout Texas. This innovative model for Geriatric Care has been published in the Journal of the American Geriatrics Society in both 2018 and 2021 and in the Journal of Elder Abuse and Neglect in 2019. Upon conclusion of this activity, participants will be able to: (1) differentiate capacity from competency; (2) describe the TEAM-FACN capacity assessment model; and (3) state the legal, ethical, and practical considerations of the TEAM-FACN model.
Saturday, April 30 9:30-10:15 am
Sports Medicine Care of Athletes with Disabilities
Stephanie Tow, MD
Presented by the Texas Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation Society
The Paralympic movement and other similar sports movements continue to inspire more individuals with disabilities to get involved in sports, recreation, and physical activity. As the population of athletes with disabilities (i.e. "Para athletes" or "adaptive athletes") has grown, the need for comprehensive sports medicine support for Para athletes has evolved. This presentation will provide an overview of the role of adaptive sports in individuals with disabilities and sports medicine care of these athletes. Upon completion of this activity, participants will be able to: (1) identify adaptive sports resources available to athletes with disabilities in the Texas region and nationally; (2) describe the benefits of adaptive sports for individuals with disabilities; and (3) recognize clinical signs and symptoms of sports-related injuries or illnesses in athletes with disabilities and how they may differ from athletes without disabilities, and assess when to refer a patient to an adaptive/Para sports medicine specialist.
Saturday, April 30 10:45-11:30 am
Addiction in Chronic Pain Patients: How To Know And What To Do (ETHICS)
Michael Sprintz, DO
Presented by the Texas Pain Society
This lecture will cover how to identify substance use disorders in pain patients and discuss the basics of safe management for the patient and your practice. Upon completion of this activity, participants will be able to: (1) review what addiction is; (2) identify warning signs of addiction; and (3) discuss ways to treat addiction to appropriately manage chronic pain patients with addiction.
Saturday, April 30 10:45-11:30 am
Texas Workers' Compensation in 2022
Amy Rich, Texas Department of Insurance
Presented by the Texas College of Occupational and Environmental Medicine
This session will give health care providers an overview of workers' compensation in Texas, including what's new, relative to health care providers. The session will provide summary information regarding telemedicine and COVID-19 workers' compensation claim data. The attendees will also receive information on a health care provider's vital role and responsibilities in returning injured employees back to work after an injury or illness. Upon completion of this activity, participants will be able to: (1) recall the basics of Texas workers' compensation; (2) identify what is new in Texas workers' compensation, including 2022 professional reimbursement rates; and (3) discuss the data the Division of Workers' Compensation has collected on telemedicine and COVID-19 workers' compensation claims.
Saturday, April 30 11:45-12:30 pmAmphetamines The Next Epidemic: What History Has Not Taught Us (ETHICS)
Helene Alphonso, DO
Amphetamines are riding the wave of the Opiate Epidemic and creating new challenges to health care providers. This presentation outlines the history of previous stimulant epidemics, and how pharmaceutical companies today are using the Opioid playbook to boost sales of ADHD treatments. It also examines the Neurochemical basis of addiction and how stimulants create unique addiction sequelae. Upon completion of this activity, participants will be able to: (1) examine the history of Stimulant use disorder and Opiate use disorder; (2) identify trends and similarities in these epidemics and their iatrogenic components; and (3) compare prescribing trends to ADHD treatment standards.
Saturday, April 30 1:30-2:30 pm - Closing Keynote
Health Assurance in 2030: From COVID-19 to Consumerism (ETHICS)
Stephen Klasko, MD
Closing keynote session sponsored by the TMA Foundation Louis J. Goodman Lectureship on Leadership in Medicine Fund
We are witnessing healthcare’s “Amazon moment.” If you are a provider and think you’re going back to a business model solely based on hospital revenue and not relevant to people who want care at home, you will be out of business. If you are an insurer and think you can just be the middle man between the hospital and the patient, you’ll be irrelevant. If hospitals believe that innovation can just be this cute little thing that they do in the background, but the real business is getting “heads in beds” they will never recover from the losses of the COVID-19 pandemic. Upon completion of this activity, participants will be able to: (1) compare and contrast new creative partnerships between community partners, health systems and payors as we move from “sick care” to “health assurance;” (2) discuss how the combination of increased data gathering and artificial intelligence will make society more resilient to disease spread; (3) review the impact of how providers handle data on patient trust in the future; (4) examine how technology can be strategically applied to address health disparities; (5) develop empathy, communication and self-awareness skills for the digital age; and (6) review how population health, predictive analytics and social determinants are moving from philosophy to the mainstream of clinical care, payment models and medical education.
Participants in this activity may claim up to 1.0
AMA PRA Category 1 Credit™ and 1.0 ETHICS credit.
Saturday, April 30 2:45-3:30 pm
Beryllium Sensitization vs. Chronic Beryllium Disease
Jamie Stalker, MD, MRO
Presented by the Texas College of Occupational and Environmental Medicine
This session will provide an overview of beryllium and pathology associated with this metal (sensitization versus CBD), and what we have learned about disease incidence and progression in the DOE complex in both the active and former work populations. We will review the description of the DOE former worker programs and service, how we screen and further test for these conditions, and what test results means for current and former workers with regards to work and compensation, and how community physicians and specialists can help. Upon completion of this activity, participants will be able to: (1) identify beryllium as a hazard that can cause pulmonary disease; (2) describe the difference between beryllium sensitization and Chronic beryllium disease; and (3) recall resources available for further evaluation of these conditions and what it means for active beryllium workers, and the compensation available for former workers.
Saturday, April 30 3:45-4:30 pmAdding Advance Care Planning to Your Clinical WorkflowDesh Mohan, MD
Advance Care Planning (ACP) helps ensure that patients receive care that they actually value. However, only approximately 7% of patients report having these dedicated conversations with their physicians. COVID-19 has dramatically increased the number of patients at risk, and helping patients proactively navigate this process is critical. Through this presentation you will learn how to easily add these conversations in your current practice of care, and how to bill and document for these services. Upon completion of this activity, participants will be able to: (1) explain the importance of ACP; (2) apply these conversations to current practice of care; and (3) demonstrate how to bill and document for these services.
Saturday, April 30 3:45-4:30 pm
An Expanded Focus for Occupational Safety and Health
George Delclos, MD, PhD
Presented by the Texas College of Occupational and Environmental Medicine
The changing nature of work and employment arrangements, as well as workforce demographics and workplace types, is having a significant impact on worker well-being and business productivity. A more systems-thinking approach is needed to better integrate traditional work factors and nonwork factors, not just within one job but across the working life continuum as well. As part of this session, we will present an overview of this expanded focus on occupational health, how it is being addressed, and what gaps and needs still exist. Upon completion of this activity, participants will be able to: (1) describe how individual level factors are incorporated into the expanded focus for OSH paradigm shift; (2) describe how the working life continuum is incorporated into the expanded focus for OSH paradigm shift; and (3) discuss the relationship between upcoming changes in the nature of work (or employment) and its impact on worker health, that is amenable to the development of a workplace intervention and a broader approach to the professional practice of occupational health.
On Demand
Addressing Fertility Concerns in Patients With Cancer
Terri L. Woodard, MD
Presented by the TMA Committee on Cancer
Infertility is a significant cause of emotional distress for many cancer survivors, and it can last for years after a person has been cured. Many cancer patients are unaware of the risk of infertility or their options for fertility preservation (FP) that can help improve chances of having a biological child after cancer. The goal of this presentation is to raise awareness about cancer-related infertility, and to provide practical information about how physicians can link patients with oncofertility counseling and treatment. Upon completion of this activity, participants will be able to: (1) explain the importance of addressing fertility concerns of people at risk for cancer-related infertility and review national guidelines on fertility preservation; (2) describe options for fertility preservation and identify key clinical decision-making points and effective means of communication with patients; and (3) demonstrate awareness of medical ethics and/or professional responsibility in addressing fertility issues with patients undergoing cancer treatment.
(to be released)
On Demand
The Complexities of Health Deserts (ETHICS)
Viki Chancellor, MD
Presented by the TMA Committee on Physician Health and Wellness
At least one Texas rural hospital has closed each year since 2011. The endemic disadvantages in underserved communities affect not only the citizens but also the lone physician. Reducing health disparities in these communities includes comprehensive support for the rural physician and its community members. Upon completion of this course, participants should be able to: (1) describe the challenges of working in rural communities and list recommendations to prepare trainees for practicing in health deserts; (2) assess the effects of distress, fatigue, and the mental/emotional/physical quality of life for the physician and their patients due to the inadequate number of physicians and workforce in a rural setting; (3) discuss the projected physician shortage and the overall impact; (4) evaluate mentorship programs that help medical students explore career paths in rural settings; and (5) list the existing rural immersion programs that serve as gateways to practice in health deserts and the opportunities for growth in those areas.
Recorded May 1, 2021. Released August 1, 2021. Expires August 17, 2023.
On Demand
Sticky Wellness Trends: Cannabidiol and Hemp (ETHICS)
Debra Osterman, MD
Presented by the TMA Committee on Physician Health and Wellness
Why spend precious time learning about cannabidiol (CBD) when physicians must worry about medical emergencies such as cardiac arrests, sepsis, pulmonary embolisms, opioid overdoses, alcohol withdrawal, and the ubiquitous coronavirus? With the rise in the availability of CBD products, the medical community must be prepared to advise patients about their use, assess related ethical dilemmas, and prevent discrepancies at the intersection of health and public policy. Upon completion of this course, participants should be able to: (1) define cannabidiol, hemp, and their derivatives; (2) list the consumable and non-consumable items made with cannabidiol (CBD); and distinguish them from other cannabis products; (3) characterize the effects of consumable CBD goods has on patient care; (4) describe the most common conditions that are improved with pharmaceutical grade cannabidiol and the most common side effects of cannabidiol use; (5) outline the legal status and quality of hemp and CBD; (6) recognize ethical dilemmas associated with cannabidiol use to promote community safety; (7) assess cannabidiol education in medical training and the preparedness of physicians-in-training; and (8) explain when it would be ethically appropriate to recommend patient use of pharmaceutical grade cannabidiol products.
Recorded May 1, 2021. Released August 1, 2021. Expires August 17, 2023.
On DemandValue Based Care Success and Thriving in PracticeKim Yu, MD
With growing value-based care contracts, more physicians are
taking the leap into the world of value-based care, but not all are succeeding.
The complexities of managing changing benchmarks, different payer
relationships, and decreasing fee-for-service revenue is straining primary care
physicians who have seen anywhere from a 10% to 30% decrease in revenue because
of the COVID-19 pandemic. In this practical session, physicians will learn the
tools they need to succeed and thrive this year. Upon completion of this
course, participants should be able to (1) consider the basics of value-based
care, what metrics matter, and how to thrive in independent primary care; (2)
evaluate their practice and workflows, and share ideas to improve outcomes for
patients; (3) identify barriers and blockers that hinder advancing in
value-based care; and (4) develop a concrete action plan to adopt in their
practice.
(to be released)
Top of page
Practice Help
Friday, April 29 8-8:45 am
Acupuncture and Osteopathic Manipulation for Spine Conditions
Yonghoon Lee, DO
Presented by the Texas Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation Society
Acupuncture and osteopathic manipulative treatment (OMT) have been utilized to treat various musculoskeletal conditions. This presentation will suggest effective treatment protocols for treating the myofascial aspect of the neck, lower back, gluteal area pain based on actual cases. Billing examples of combining CPT codes for acupuncture and OMT will also be addressed. Upon completion of this activity, participants will be able to: (1) review basic acupuncture and OMT protocols for treating common spine conditions, and (2) summarize basic billing processes of acupuncture and OMT sessions.
Friday, April 29 8-8:45 am
Navigating COVID-19 Vaccine Conversations (ETHICS)
Alan Howell, MD; Martha Howell, EdD; and Tresa McNeal, MD
Effective communication is at the core of that patient-physician relationship and can aid in assuaging concerns regarding the COVID-19 vaccine as well as other vaccines. With a plethora of misinformation regarding vaccines on social media and other outlets, these conversations with patients can be anxiety inducing or at the very least a source of frustration for physicians. This session introduces communication skills to navigate these discussions and reduce frustration for all involved. Upon completion of this activity, participants will be able to: (1) discuss common COVID-19 vaccine concerns and myths, and (2) apply evidence based communication skills to navigate vaccine hesitancy discussions with patients.
Friday, April 29 9-9:45 am
Physicians in Employed Settings
Mark Casanova, MD; Mike Kreager, JD, LLM; Eddie Patton Jr., MD, MBA; Donald P. "Rocky" Wilcox, JD
Presented by the TMA Council on Health Service Organizations
A panel discussion led by a moderator on the topic of physicians in employed settings. The panel members will discuss relevant issues and share best practices. Upon completion of this activity, participants will be able to: (1) recognize key aspects of a physician employment contract; (2) appraise the pros and cons of different compensation models; and (3) discuss options regarding post-employment noncompete restrictions.
Friday, April 29 10:15-11 amCreating and Retaining a High Functioning Team (ETHICS)Teri Deabler, CMPE, COE
Presented by the TMA Council on Practice Management Services
Have your days in clinic turned into a chaotic run from patient to patient without knowing what to expect next and feeling like you are alone even though you have a team? It may be time to evaluate your strategy when it comes to creating and retaining a winning team. This session will give you tips and real life examples of how you can recruit, create and retain a high functioning team where compassionate care can also be efficient and enjoyable! Upon completion of this activity, participants will be able to: (1) implement best practices for recruiting, hiring, and retaining staff, and (2) develop and utilize performance evaluations to form and maintain a team that best serves the busy medical practice.
Friday, April 29 2:15-3 pm
Ask the Expert: Building the Best Online Reputation
Elise Cardenas; Slade Cutter, JD; Reid Wittliff, JD
This session will discuss practical tips for managing and protecting a physician’s online presence and using social media in their medical practice. Upon completion of this activity, participants will be able to: (1) utilize social media effectively to promote a physician’s online presence; (2) establish appropriate patient-physician boundaries; and (3) apply compliance measures to protect patient information.
Friday, April 29 2:25-3:25 pm
Avoiding the Risk of Wrongful Employment Practices (ETHICS)
Linda C. Schoonmaker, JD
Presented by the Texas Ophthalmological Association
Hosted by the experts at Texas Medical Liability Trust, this session will aim
to educate physicians about current employment laws regarding discrimination, harassment, and retaliation
in the workplace. Upon completion of this activity, participants will be able
to (1) identify major federal civil rights laws; (2) recognize and distinguish
liability for discrimination, harassment, and retaliation in the workplace; (3)
recall company policies and processes with regard to discrimination, harassment,
and retaliation; (4) recognize the steps that can be taken to prevent workplace
discrimination, harassment, and retaliation; and (5) illustrate that awareness
of potential discrimination, harassment, and retaliation obliges one to act.
Saturday, April 30 9:30-10:15 am
Medical Practice and the Transition to Retail Health Care Delivery
David Mackey, MD
This presentation will examine the rapid U.S. healthcare system transition to a competitive retail healthcare delivery environment, where there will be winners and there will be losers. It will review the commoditization of certain elements of healthcare delivery, the benefits of direct contracting with businesses for healthcare delivery, the preeminent financial impact of procedural care delivery, the impact of price, access, and marketing on market share, and the vulnerability of "traditional" academic institutions. It will use the Surgery Center of Oklahoma as an example of how patients and their physicians can benefit from novel approaches to retail care delivery. Upon completion of this activity, participants will be able to: (1) assess the impact of price and access on healthcare market share, the adverse impact of insurance companies and pharmacy benefit managers on healthcare delivery costs, and the advantages of direct contracting with businesses for healthcare delivery; (2) optimize the impact of marketing modalities, especially through social media; and (3) manage the financial risks of "traditional" academic healthcare institutions in the rapidly-evolving U.S. healthcare system.
Saturday, April 30 3:45-4:30 pm
Adding Advance Care Planning to Your Clinical Workflow
Desh Mohan, MD
Advance Care Planning (ACP) helps ensure that patients receive care that they actually value. However, only approximately 7% of patients report having these dedicated conversations with their physicians. COVID-19 has dramatically increased the number of patients at risk, and helping patients proactively navigate this process is critical. Through this presentation you will learn how to easily add these conversations in your current practice of care, and how to bill and document for these services. Upon completion of this activity, participants will be able to: (1) explain the importance of ACP; (2) apply these conversations to current practice of care; and (3) demonstrate how to bill and document for these services.
On Demand
Texas Medical Board Update (ETHICS)
Samer Shobassy, JD, Texas Medical Board
Upon completion of this activity, participants will be able to (1) discuss recent changes to legislation affecting the medical community; (2) identify common types of violations and how to avoid them; and (3) describe the Texas Medical Board’s licensure, registration, and enforcement processes and key areas of regulation.
(to be released)
On DemandMaking SoMe, SoYou: Media Dos and Don'ts (ETHICS)Sara Andrabi, MD
Due to the COVID pandemic and media attention on physicians, many have been asked to give media interviews on behalf of their institutions, practices, or as individuals. There is a growing sense of obligation to engage people on social media to help dispel misinformation. As social media has increased, a lot of health care professionals are now using platforms such as Twitter or Instagram for communicating with the masses. In this talk, we will discuss the best practices for using these platforms while complying with rules and regulations. Upon completion of this activity, participants will be able to: (1) appraise literature pertaining to social media in medicine; (2) review real-life healthcare-related social media cases and lessons learned from these situations; and (3) employ best practices for using social media and how to communicate with patients through social media.
(to be released)
On Demand
TMB Update (ETHICS)
Samer Shobassy, JD
This session will provide an overview of the current Texas Medical Board licensure, registration, and enforcement processes. You'll also review key areas of regulation, including recent changes to legislation affecting the medical community, and common types of violations and how to avoid them. Upon completion of this activity, participants will be able to: (1) discuss recent changes to legislature affecting the medical community; (2) describe the TMB's Licensure, Registration, and Enforcement Processes and key areas of regulation; and (3) identify common types of violations and how to avoid them.
(to be released)
On DemandValue Based Care Success and Thriving in PracticeKim Yu, MD
With growing value-based care contracts, more physicians are taking the leap into the world of value-based care, but not all are succeeding. The complexities of managing changing benchmarks, different payer relationships, and decreasing fee-for-service revenue is straining primary care physicians who have seen anywhere from a 10% to 30% decrease in revenue because of the COVID-19 pandemic. In this practical session, physicians will learn the tools they need to succeed and thrive this year. Upon completion of this course, participants should be able to (1) consider the basics of value-based care, what metrics matter, and how to thrive in independent primary care; (2) evaluate their practice and workflows, and share ideas to improve outcomes for patients; (3) identify barriers and blockers that hinder advancing in value-based care; and (4) develop a concrete action plan to adopt in their practice.
(to be released) On Demand
What's New with Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF)?
Julie Gilbert
Presented by the Association of American Medical Colleges
During this presentation, attendees will obtain information about the current landscape of the PSLF program as well as the limited PSLF waiver. Due to the COVID-19 national emergency, and the changes announced with the PSLF waiver, borrowers could possibly receive credit for previous payments that did not originally count as qualifying payments. Upon completion of this activity, participants will be able to: (1) discover options for loan forgiveness through PSLF; and (2) outline the new PSLF waiver and steps to take to qualify for PSLF.
(to be released)
Top of page
Professional and Leadership Development
Friday, April 29 8-8:45 amNavigating COVID-19 Vaccine Conversations (ETHICS)Alan Howell, MD; Martha Howell, EdD; and Tresa McNeal, MD
Effective communication is at the core of that patient-physician relationship and can aid in assuaging concerns regarding the COVID-19 vaccine as well as other vaccines. With a plethora of misinformation regarding vaccines on social media and other outlets, these conversations with patients can be anxiety inducing or at the very least a source of frustration for physicians. This session introduces communication skills to navigate these discussions and reduce frustration for all involved. Upon completion of this activity, participants will be able to: (1) discuss common COVID-19 vaccine concerns and myths, and (2) apply evidence based communication skills to navigate vaccine hesitancy discussions with patients.
Friday, April 29 10:15-11 am
Lead From Where You Are
Kim Becking
Presented by the TMA Special Interest Sections
Titles don’t define a leader, actions do. You have the ability through your action and your attitude to lead right from where you are, regardless of your title, role or position. This interactive session will outline strategies to "Lead From Where You Are" and discuss those qualities that create an epic leader. Upon completion of this activity, participants will be able to: (1) apply tactics for successfully connecting, communicating and collaborating with others; (2) discuss how failures are critical to success; and (3) identify steps to become a champion of change, and cultivate the attitude and positivity that will determine your success as a leader.
Friday, April 29 11:15 am-Noon and Saturday, April 30 12:30-1:30 pm
Take Charge of Your Career: Harness the Power of Negotiation
Sara Laschever
Presented by the TMA Women Physicians Section
Everyone knows they need to negotiate but not everyone knows where and how to begin. In this talk, learn how to set the right goals for your negotiations, assess and strengthen your bargaining power, and employ negotiating strategies that maximize your chances of success. Upon completion of this activity, participants will be able to: (1) identify concrete goals for negotiations; (2) describe key concepts that strengthen bargaining power; and (3) practice employing negotiating strategies that maximize chances of success.
Participants in the Saturday session may claim up to 1.0 AMA PRA Category 1 Credit™.
Friday, April 29 2:15-3 pm
Ask the Expert: Building the Best Online Reputation
Elise Cardenas; Slade Cutter, JD; Reid Wittliff, JD
This session will discuss practical tips for managing and protecting a physician’s online presence and using social media in their medical practice. Upon completion of this activity, participants will be able to: (1) utilize social media effectively to promote a physician’s online presence; (2) establish appropriate patient-physician boundaries; and (3) apply compliance measures to protect patient information.
Friday, April 29 4-5 pm - Opening KeynoteAddressing Racism in Health Care (ETHICS)Kerry-Ann Mitchell, MD, PhD; Arghavan Salles, MD, PhD
Sponsored by Texas Medical Liability TrustThe opening keynote session will shed light on the lack of Black physicians, and how this inequity in the workforce contributes to persistent disparities in health outcomes for Black patients. Everyone in medicine has an obligation to strive for change and improve the learning environment for trainees and colleagues. Although change cannot be expected to occur quickly, it is certain that meaningful change will not occur without concerted effort. Every physician and health care professional has the power to advocate and achieve the needed and long-overdue changes. Upon completion of this activity, participants will be able to (1) identify racial inequities in medicine; (2) discuss how individuals can support the careers of Black colleagues; and (3) discuss the importance of diversifying the health care workforce to improve the quality of care.
Saturday, April 30 8:30-9:15 am
Culturally Sensitive Care for Transgender Patients
Leslie McMurray
Presented by the TMA Special Interest Sections
With research citing significant health care disparities among LGBTQ populations, physicians must do all they can to ensure a safe, welcoming care environment for patients and staff. This session will provide an overview of simple, yet important changes you can make in your practice to ensure that all patients and staff feel secure and receive the health care they need. Upon completion of this activity, participants will be able to: (1) define basic terminology associated with the LGBTQ population focusing on the Transgender community; (2) describe the significant healthcare disparities facing transgender patients; and (3) identify resources and strategies for creating a welcoming and gender-affirming environment for both patients and staff.
Saturday, April 30 9:45-10:30 am
Educator as Parent (ETHICS)
Preston H. Blomquist, MD
Presented by the Texas Ophthalmological Association
Teaching well is extremely important and extremely difficult. We teachers have sufficient love and commitment, but few have been taught how to teach. This can be disastrous in our current environment where residents openly reject traditional teaching methods. We want both our children and our residents to develop to their full potential. We want them to be more successful, more skilled, more compassionate, and more innovative than the previous generation. These parenting skills are invaluable to teaching new skills and critical thinking, to incentivizing professional behavior, and to grooming individuals to function successfully as a part of a team in complex systems. Upon completion of this activity, participants will be able to: (1) explain how active parenting techniques can be applied in medical education; (2) build confidence in learners when teaching new skills and avoid behaviors that discourage; (3) promote responsibility in learners and explain the difference between natural and logical consequences; and (4) facilitate cooperation among learners.
Saturday, April 30 10:45-11:30 am
The Professionalism Platform Diving into Professionalism (ETHICS)
Imelda Tjia, MD; Alicia Kowalski, MD
Professionalism, a universally acknowledged keystone of medical practice, traditionally relied on rolemodeling for education. Today, however, a more formal, comprehensive approach is needed. The Professionalism Platform is a curriculum to teach all members of the health care community a succinct method for clear, consistent communication about professionalism, positively influencing individual behaviors and organizational success. Content of the Platform is based on principles derived from the current peer reviewed literature and is organized using an innovative visual model. The adoption of this framework adds clarity to broad concepts and identifies three key behaviors necessary for professionalism. Upon completion of this activity, participants will be able to: (1) examine the connection between professionalism and establishment of trust and respect among patients and members of the healthcare team, and (2) apply behaviors outlined in the Professionalism Platform and incorporate them into the development of one’s professional identity.
Saturday, April 30 Noon-1 pm
Recognizing and Interrupting Implicit Bias in the Workplace (ETHICS)
Binta Brown, EdD, LPC-S
Presented by the TMA International Medical Graduate Section
Workplace bias is not a new phenomenon. We all have biases.
When influenced by implicit or unconscious bias, decisions made at work can significantly
impact every aspect of our organizations, from whom we hire and promote to how
we deliver health care and patient care. Biases threaten our organizational
culture, diversity, overall health, and performance. Upon completion of this
activity, participants will be able to (1) describe implicit bias; (2) discuss
its impact on the practice of medicine; (3) recognize common triggers of
implicit bias; and (4) identify and apply actionable steps to recognize and interrupt
these biases.
This session has a limited capacity and is not available in the virtual event.
Participants in this activity may claim up to 1.0 AMA PRA Category 1 Credit™ and 1.0 ETHICS credit.
On Demand
Making SoMe, SoYou: Media Dos and Don'ts (ETHICS)
Sara Andrabi, MD
Due to the COVID pandemic and media attention on physicians, many have been asked to give media interviews on behalf of their institutions, practices, or as individuals. There is a growing sense of obligation to engage people on social media to help dispel misinformation. As social media has increased, a lot of health care professionals are now using platforms such as Twitter or Instagram for communicating with the masses. In this talk, we will discuss the best practices for using these platforms while complying with rules and regulations. Upon completion of this activity, participants will be able to: (1) appraise literature pertaining to social media in medicine; (2) review real-life healthcare-related social media cases and lessons learned from these situations; and (3) employ best practices for using social media and how to communicate with patients through social media.
(to be released)
Top of page
Quality Improvement
Friday, April 29 10:15-11 am
GEDA: Implications for Geriatrics and Elder Mistreatment Victims (ETHICS)
Presented by the Texas Geriatrics Society
The Geriatric Emergency Department Accreditation (GEDA) is part of building an age-friendly health system. Memorial Hermann Hospital Emergency Department became the first emergency department in Houston and the second in the state of Texas to achieve GEDA. This has important implications for emergency department care received by older adults and a project to address elder mistreatment within the emergency department setting was instrumental in receiving GEDA. Upon completion of this activity, participants will be able to: (1) describe the state of elder mistreatment screening and response in emergency departments; (2) describe a nationally implemented and evidence-based approach to increasing elder mistreatment screening and response in the emergency department; and (3) identify ways in which this protocol may be used in non-emergency department inpatient and outpatient settings.
Friday, April 29 11:15 am-Noon
Promoting Patient Safety During Procedural Care (ETHICS)
Richard Dutton, MD, MBA
Millions of Texans undergo medical procedures each year, ranging from simple diagnostic procedures to complex surgery. Safe facilitation of procedural care is the primary responsibility of the facility’s Director of Anesthesia Services and of the anesthesia clinicians caring for the individual patient. This session will review how data are gathered from every patient, centrally analyzed, and used to provide feedback and education. Upon completion of this activity, participants will be able to: (1) identify relevant metrics for assessing quality in patient care; (2) employ methods to analyze and mitigate serious adverse events; and (3) discuss the importance and improvability of patient satisfaction.
Friday, April 29 1:15-2 pm
Addressing Communication Barriers in a Controversial Environment (ETHICS)
Alisa M. Berger, MD, moderator; Ogechika Alozie, MD, MPH; Kimberly Avila Edwards, MD; Kevin McKinney, MD; Jason Morrow, MD, PhD; Valerie Borum Smith, MD, MPH
Presented by the TMA Board of Councilors
This year's George R. Hugman, III, MD, Ethics Forum will discuss some of today's common controversial communication blocks between physicians and patients, including vaccine misinformation, socioeconomic healthcare disparities and barriers, and race relations in healthcare. The panelists will provide information on identifying and improving those barriers to provide better patient care. Upon completion of this activity, participants will be able to: (1) recognize common communication barriers that could hinder the patient-physician relationship; (2) identify those common communication barriers in the physician's own patients and community; and (3) apply best practices to overcome those barriers to improve patient care.
Saturday, April 30 11:45 am-12:30 pm
Leveraging Quality through Population Health and Value Based Care (ETHICS)
April Hodges, RN,BSN; Charlonda Thrower, LMSW, MBA-HCM
Primary Care Physicians are now experiencing the burden of how to improve medical cost containment while improving revenue and quality care outcomes. In this session we will discuss how imperative it is that physicians are able to recognize healthcare disparities and the impact this plays in overall health care outcomes. Participants will identify key takeaways to improve healthcare disparities, and how to lean into partnerships with community resources to overcome barriers and improve overall quality. Upon completion of this activity, participants will be able to: (1) identify the goals of an Accountable Care Organization and describe how quality is fundamental to Population Health Management (PHM) and Value-Based Care (VBC); (2) recognize and expose implicit bias as the foundational cause of physician/patient strain, healthcare disparities, and structural disadvantages and cite pivotal factors in improving healthcare disparities; and (3) identify common barriers that impact the quality of care delivered in a population health management model and strategies used to effectively mitigate these common barriers.
Saturday, April 30 3:45-4:30 pm
Adding Advance Care Planning to Your Clinical WorkflowDesh Mohan, MD
Advance Care Planning (ACP) helps ensure that patients receive care that they actually value. However, only approximately 7% of patients report having these dedicated conversations with their physicians. COVID-19 has dramatically increased the number of patients at risk, and helping patients proactively navigate this process is critical. Through this presentation you will learn how to easily add these conversations in your current practice of care, and how to bill and document for these services. Upon completion of this activity, participants will be able to: (1) explain the importance of ACP; (2) apply these conversations to current practice of care; and (3) demonstrate how to bill and document for these services.
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Complete CME and Accreditation Details
The Texas Medical Association is accredited by the Accreditation Council for Continuing Medical Education (ACCME) to provide continuing medical education for physicians.
The Texas Medical Association designates this other activity (live and enduring materials) for a maximum of 50 AMA PRA Category 1 Credits™. Physicians should claim only the credit commensurate with the extent of their participation in the activity.
Unless otherwise stated, each presentation listed has been approved for 0.75 AMA PRA Category 1 Credits™. Sessions with (ETHICS) after the title also meet the requirement for ethics/professional responsibility. Please note that session information will be updated as additional sessions are approved. Credit hours are subject to change.
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CME Reporting Form and Resources