Fraser Cobbe

Orange County Medical Society

Seminole County Medical Society

When you consider the speed of change and advance of technology it is probably more important than ever to surround yourself with young vibrant leaders. We have made a concerted effort to seek out and encourage emerging physician leaders to engage in our efforts to advance medicine and our physician community. In recent weeks we have experienced several notable instances where that investment in enthusiasm is starting to pay dividends.

Last week the OCMS and SCMS hosted another networking opportunity for the Women in Medicine. OCMS President, Dr. Brian Nobie, was proud to accept an invitation to stop by and participate in the most recent chapter of their development. To say he came away impressed is an understatement. Dr. Leena Anderson deserves a significant amount of credit for galvanizing this group of professionals that derive such great pleasure from sharing common interests and experiences. The participation continues to grow and they are busy planning events for this summer and fall. As we read more stories about physician burnout and the need to find ways for physicians to return joy to the practice of medicine, it is comforting to see close friendships forged around the profession.

On the business side of medicine, our lobbying team had the pleasure of welcoming Dr. Bradd Burkhart and Dr. Andrew Cooke to Tallahassee to participate in the 2017 Legislative Session as physician advocates. Their enthusiasm was notable and the impact they had on members of the Orange County Legislative Delegation was considerable. We discussed major health care initiatives moving through the legislative process such as retroactive denials, workers compensation reform, PIP repeal and replace, maintenance of certification, and opioid prescribing restrictions. They both spoke passionately about the practice of medicine, the sanctity of the physician-patient relationship, and the need to protect those most vulnerable in our community.

These are just a couple of examples of the difference that our members are making throughout the region. Over the coming months we have additional opportunities for more physician leaders to make an impression upon our community. Regardless of your passion we hope you will take a moment to reach out and express an interest in getting involved. We have so much to gain from each other.