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In this episode of POMA DOes…, Tyler Burke, POMA Senior Director of Government Affairs, recaps POMA's first-ever Advocacy Day on October 6 and provides an update on Pennsylvania's evolving legislative landscape. He discusses the proposed Pennsylvania False Claims Act, its potential impact on physicians and medical practices, and what the upcoming November 3 general election could mean for healthcare policy. The episode also explores POMA's legislative priorities and the importance of continued physician engagement in shaping the future of osteopathic medicine in Pennsylvania.   Key Takeaways: Physician advocacy makes a difference. POMA's inaugural Advocacy Day brought osteopathic physicians and medical students to Harrisburg to connect with lawmakers, share their experiences, and advocate for patients and the profession. The legislative landscape can change quickly. The proposed Pennsylvania False Claims Act raises concerns about potential legal and financial burdens on medical practices, highlighting the importance of POMA's continued advocacy. Elections shape the future of healthcare policy. Pennsylvania's November 3 general election will help determine the makeup of the next General Assembly and influence legislative priorities affecting physicians and patients.   Interested in getting involved in POMA advocacy? Contact Tyler Burke at [email protected] to learn more about advocacy opportunities and how you can help advance osteopathic medicine in Pennsylvania.   Find Us: Online: https://www.poma.org/ Email: [email protected] Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/POMADOs Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/pomados/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/pennsylvania-osteopathic-medical-association/ X: http://www.x.com/POMA_DOs  YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@pomados

In this episode of POMA DOes…, POMA Past President and Foundation Chair John J. Kalata, DO, speaks with Margaret Mary McMurtry, DO, dermatology resident at ATSU-KCOM in Kirksville, Missouri, about protecting your skin from sun damage and reducing the risk of skin cancer. They discuss why sun protection is important year-round, the differences between UVA and UVB radiation, and common misconceptions about tanning and skin cancer risk. The conversation also covers sunscreen and protective clothing, what to do after a sunburn, and how to recognize changes in the skin that should be evaluated by a physician. Dr. McMurtry shares practical advice for making sun protection part of your everyday routine.   Key Takeaways: Sun safety is important year-round. UV exposure can occur on cloudy days and throughout every season, and sun damage accumulates over time. Everyone, regardless of skin type, can benefit from protecting their skin. The best sun protection is the protection you'll use. Choose a broad-spectrum sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher and reapply regularly when outdoors. Protective clothing, wide-brimmed hats, and shade provide additional ways to reduce UV exposure. Know your skin and watch for changes. Regularly check your skin and remember the ABCDEs—Asymmetry, Border, Color, Diameter, and Evolution. A spot that changes or looks different from others should be evaluated by a healthcare professional.   Find Us: Online: https://www.poma.org/ Email: [email protected] Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/POMADOs Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/pomados/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/pennsylvania-osteopathic-medical-association/ X: http://www.x.com/POMA_DOs  YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@pomados

Originally Aired: September 30, 2022 Episode Introduction: In recognition of National Suicide Prevention Month this September, POMA DOes… is revisiting an important conversation from our archives on physician mental health, wellness, and suicide prevention. The rates of physician and medical student burnout, depression, and suicide have been on the rise for many years. The pressures start early and only continue throughout the professional journey. Tune in to learn more about the importance of taking care of your full self (mind, body, and spirit), mentors and peer-to-peer support, advocating for systemic changes, and reducing the stigma around mental health and treatment. Episode Summary: In this episode of POMA DOes…, then-second-year medical student Bailey Reale sits down with emergency medicine physician Chadd Kraus, DO, and psychiatrist Elizabeth Ramsey, DO, to discuss physician suicide. They explore the culture of medicine and its impact on physician wellness, coping strategies, and ways to reduce the stigma around mental health. Key Takeaways: You need to take care of yourself (mind, body, and spirit) to take the best care of your patients. Physicians who receive mental health treatment can successfully practice medicine. The stigma of mental health and behavioral health is real, and we must be part of the change. Everyone can help prevent physician suicide: learn the signs, be open and willing to have a conversation, understand the barriers, and share resources that can help those in distress. Resources for Physicians: 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline: Call or text 988 for free, confidential crisis support available 24/7. Physician Support Line: Free and confidential peer support provided by volunteer psychiatrists for physicians and medical students. Call 1-888-409-0141. AOA Physician & Medical Student Wellness Toolkit: Resources designed to support osteopathic physicians and medical students, including information on wellness, burnout, depression, suicidal ideation, and finding support. Find Us: Online: https://www.poma.org/ Email: [email protected] Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/POMADOs Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/pomados/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/pennsylvania-osteopathic-medical-association/ X: http://www.x.com/POMA_DOs  YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@pomados

In this episode of POMA DOes…, Kathryn Graham, DO, speaks with Nicole Chinnici, DHSc, laboratory director of the Dr. Jane Huffman Wildlife Genetics Institute, home of the Pennsylvania Tick Research Lab at East Stroudsburg University, about ticks and tick-borne diseases in Pennsylvania. They discuss the types of ticks commonly found across the state, why tick exposure has become a year-round concern, and illnesses beyond Lyme disease that physicians and the public should recognize. The conversation also covers symptoms to watch for following a tick bite, proper tick removal, and how Pennsylvania residents can have ticks tested for common pathogens.   Key Takeaways:   Ticks are a year-round concern. While activity peaks from March through December, ticks can remain active whenever temperatures rise above freezing, making awareness and prevention important throughout the year.   Know what to watch for after a tick bite. Lyme disease remains a major concern in Pennsylvania, but ticks can carry other illnesses as well. Symptoms such as fatigue, brain fog, fever, chills, and headache should be monitored and discussed with a physician.   Remove and save the tick. Use fine-point tweezers to grasp the tick as close to the skin as possible and pull straight up and out. Consider saving it in a bag. Pennsylvania residents can submit ticks for free testing through the Pennsylvania Tick Research Lab to identify the tick and test for common pathogens.   Interested in learning more or having a tick tested? Pennsylvania residents can visit the Pennsylvania Tick Research Lab at TickLab.org for information on tick identification and free tick testing.   Resources for Physicians: For current guidance on Lyme disease, review the AAN/ACR/IDSA Guidelines for the Prevention, Diagnosis and Treatment of Lyme Disease or visit the Infectious Diseases Society of America (IDSA) for additional clinical resources.   Find Us: Online: https://www.poma.org/ Email: [email protected] Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/POMADOs Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/pomados/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/pennsylvania-osteopathic-medical-association/ X: http://www.x.com/POMA_DOs  YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@pomados

In this episode of POMA DOes…, Angelo Ratini, DO, POMA District 14 Alternate Trustee, is joined by Beth B. DuPree, MD, FACS, ABOIM, board-certified in surgery and integrative/holistic medicine, and Ann Shivas, MT, D.O.M. P. - Canada, to discuss bioelectric medicine and Ion Cyclotron Resonance (ICR) technology. They explain the principles behind ICR, how the technology is being used internationally, and their experiences incorporating it into wellness and patient care. The conversation also explores its potential applications in areas such as pain and stress management and how the technology may complement existing approaches to care. The ICR devices discussed in the episode are not FDA-cleared or approved medical devices in the United States.   Key Takeaways:   ICR is an emerging area of bioelectric technology. Ion Cyclotron Resonance involves the application of electromagnetic fields at specific frequencies.   The approach is intended to complement existing care. ICR is presented as an adjunct to, rather than a replacement for, the care physicians and other healthcare professionals already provide.   ICR is still an evolving area. The episode explores patient experiences, potential applications, and how the technology is currently being used. The ICR devices discussed are not FDA-cleared or approved medical devices in the United States.   Find Us: Online: https://www.poma.org/ Email: [email protected] Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/POMADOs Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/pomados/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/pennsylvania-osteopathic-medical-association/ X: http://www.x.com/POMA_DOs  YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@pomados

In this episode of POMA DOes…, Tyler Burke, POMA Senior Director of Government Affairs, provides an update on Pennsylvania's recently enacted state budget and what lies ahead for osteopathic physicians. He discusses key healthcare-related investments included in the budget, upcoming legislative priorities, and why POMA's advocacy efforts remain essential as lawmakers return to Harrisburg. The episode also previews POMA's first-ever Advocacy Day on Tuesday, October 6, and explains how physician engagement helps ensure the osteopathic profession has a strong voice in shaping healthcare policy across the Commonwealth.   Key Takeaways:   Advocacy doesn't end when the budget passes. While the 2026–2027 Pennsylvania budget included investments in education, behavioral health, and workforce development, important physician issues remain on the legislative agenda.   POMA's voice matters. From scope of practice to physician reimbursement and healthcare policy, POMA works to ensure osteopathic physicians have a seat at the table and a voice in legislative discussions that impact patient care.   Get involved and make an impact. Physicians are encouraged to build relationships with their legislators and attend POMA's first-ever Advocacy Day on Tuesday, October 6, to help educate policymakers about the osteopathic profession and advocate for patients.   Interested in getting involved in POMA advocacy? Contact Tyler Burke at [email protected] to learn more about Advocacy Day on Tuesday, October 6, and other opportunities to help advance the osteopathic profession in Pennsylvania.   Find Us: Online: https://www.poma.org/ Email: [email protected] Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/POMADOs Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/pomados/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/pennsylvania-osteopathic-medical-association/ X: http://www.x.com/POMA_DOs  YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@pomados

In this episode of POMA DOes…, POMA Past President and Foundation Chair John J. Kalata, DO, speaks with Nicholas Pennings, DO, a board-certified family physician and obesity medicine specialist, about the evolving landscape of obesity treatment. They discuss how GLP-1 medications have transformed conversations around weight management while emphasizing that medication is just one component of comprehensive obesity care. The conversation explores the importance of individualized treatment plans, nutrition, physical activity, behavioral support, and the physician's role in helping patients safely navigate the growing number of treatment options. Dr. Pennings also discusses emerging therapies, the importance of physician oversight, and the risks associated with unapproved and compounded weight loss products as obesity care continues to evolve.   Key Takeaways:   Medication is only one part of successful obesity treatment. The best outcomes come from combining evidence-based medications with nutrition, physical activity, behavioral support, and long-term lifestyle changes.   Work with a trusted physician. As more patients seek weight-loss medications online, physician oversight is essential to ensure that treatments are safe, effective, and tailored to each patient's needs.   Obesity care continues to evolve. New therapies are expanding treatment options, but individualized care remains the key to helping patients achieve safe, sustainable, and lasting results.   Interested in learning more? Visit the American Board of Obesity Medicine or the Obesity Medicine Association for physician resources and the latest evidence-based information on obesity treatment.   Find Us: Online: https://www.poma.org/ Email: [email protected] Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/POMADOs Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/pomados/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/pennsylvania-osteopathic-medical-association/ X: http://www.x.com/POMA_DOs  YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@pomados

In this episode of POMA DOes…, POMA President-Elect, District 9 Chair, and Trustee Valeri L. Roth, DO, speaks with Darlene Dunay, DO, of District 4; Sarah Breon, DO, of District 7; and Jessica Masser, DO, of District 8, about the important role POMA districts play in strengthening the osteopathic profession across Pennsylvania. As leaders of districts that have earned POMA's coveted District Competition Trophy, they share how districts foster connection through CME, social events, wellness activities, community service, and leadership opportunities. The conversation highlights why districts are the foundation of POMA and how getting involved at the local level can lead to lasting professional relationships and meaningful service to the profession.   Key Takeaways:   Districts are the foundation of POMA. They provide opportunities for members to connect, volunteer, develop leadership skills, and elect District Trustees who represent their region on the POMA Board of Trustees and help shape the future of osteopathic medicine across Pennsylvania.   There is something for everyone. From CME and networking to wellness activities, community service projects, sporting events, and student and resident programs, districts offer meaningful ways to engage at every stage of a physician's career.   Getting involved starts locally. Attending a district event is an easy first step that can lead to lifelong connections, leadership opportunities, and a stronger voice within POMA.   Interested in getting involved with your district? Visit www.poma.org/poma-districts or contact us at [email protected] to learn more about your local district, upcoming events, leadership opportunities, and ways to get more involved with POMA.   Find Us: Online: https://www.poma.org/ Email: [email protected] Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/POMADOs Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/pomados/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/pennsylvania-osteopathic-medical-association/ X: http://www.x.com/POMA_DOs  YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@pomados

In this episode of POMA DOes…, newly installed POMA President Angela Zawisza, DO, speaks with POMA Past President Joseph Zawisza, DO, about her vision for the year ahead. She shares her journey in organized medicine, discusses her presidential theme—Honoring the Past while Preparing for the Future—and explains how POMA is working to support osteopathic physicians at every stage of their careers. The conversation highlights priorities including physician advocacy, membership growth, student engagement, and volunteer involvement, as well as upcoming initiatives such as updates to POMA's website, branding, and communications. Dr. Zawisza shares her commitment to ensuring the organization remains responsive to the needs of its members and the profession.   Key Takeaways:   Building on a strong foundation. Dr. Zawisza's presidential theme focuses on supporting experienced physicians while engaging the next generation of osteopathic leaders.   POMA is focused on its members. Advocacy, communication, volunteer engagement, and committee involvement remain central to the association's efforts to support osteopathic physicians across Pennsylvania.   Every member can make a difference. Physicians, residents, and students are encouraged to get involved through committees, volunteer opportunities, and leadership roles.   Interested in getting involved with POMA or contacting President Zawisza? Reach out to [email protected] to share ideas, learn about committee service, and explore volunteer opportunities.   Find Us: Online: https://www.poma.org/ Email: [email protected] Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/POMADOs Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/pomados/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/pennsylvania-osteopathic-medical-association/ X: http://www.x.com/POMA_DOs  YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@pomados

In this episode of POMA DOes…, Tyler Burke, POMA Senior Director of Government Affairs, speaks with Sean Neal, Vice President of Advocacy and Political Affairs for the American Osteopathic Association (AOA), about the importance of physician advocacy and how osteopathic physicians, residents, and students can get involved. They highlight several current healthcare policy issues affecting the profession, including Medicare physician payment reform, prior authorization reform, administrative burden reduction, healthcare affordability, and physician workforce challenges. The conversation focuses on how physicians can get involved in advocacy through the AOA's Osteopath Advocacy Network and help shape healthcare policy at the state and federal levels.   Key Takeaways:   Many important healthcare policy issues are impacting physicians today. Topics like reimbursement instability, prior authorization reform, workforce shortages, and administrative burden continue to affect physician practices and patient access to care.   Physician voices matter in advocacy. Lawmakers rely on real-world insight from physicians caring for patients when considering healthcare policy decisions.   Getting involved is easier than many realize. Through the AOA's Osteopathic Advocacy Network and events like DO Day on Capitol Hill, physicians, residents, and students can directly engage lawmakers and participate in grassroots advocacy efforts.   Interested in getting involved? Visit the AOA's Osteopathic Advocacy Network webpage to learn more about grassroots advocacy efforts, connect with lawmakers, and participate in advocacy campaigns and DO Day on Capitol Hill. Physicians, residents, and students interested in advocacy opportunities through POMA can also contact Tyler Burke at [email protected].   Find Us: Online: https://www.poma.org/ Email: [email protected] Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/POMADOs Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/pomados/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/pennsylvania-osteopathic-medical-association/ X: http://www.x.com/POMA_DOs  YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@pomados

In this episode of POMA DOes…, Cathleen S. McGonigle, DO, faculty member and Director of the Osteopathic Principles and Practice Courses at LECOM at Seton Hill campus and POMA District 8 Trustee, speaks with three osteopathic medical students who took nontraditional paths to medicine. Aaron Vanderberg, a former Army physician assistant and current second-year student at LECOM Seton Hill; Derek DiAngelis, a former orthopedic physician assistant and fourth-year student at LECOM Seton Hill; and Kevin Hauns, a third-year student at PCOM with a background in military leadership and vaccine research, share their paths to osteopathic medicine. Together, they discuss the challenges of returning to school, balancing family responsibilities and the demands of medical school, and how prior careers shaped their approach to patient care, resilience, and leadership. Their stories offer encouragement and practical advice for anyone considering a nontraditional path into osteopathic medicine. Key Takeaways:   There's no single path to becoming a physician. Nontraditional students bring valuable life experience, perspective, and resilience that can strengthen both medical education and patient care.   Prior experience can be a major advantage. Whether through military service, clinical practice, research, or leadership, real-world experience builds discipline, confidence, and a deeper understanding of patient care.   If you're considering the leap, go for it. The panel encourages aspiring nontraditional students to trust their abilities, ask for help when needed, and move forward with intention and hard work.   Find Us: Online: https://www.poma.org/ Email: [email protected] Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/POMADOs Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/pomados/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/pennsylvania-osteopathic-medical-association/ X: http://www.x.com/POMA_DOs  YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@pomados

In this episode of POMA DOes…, John J. Kalata, DO, POMA Foundation Chair and Past President, highlights the impact of two POMA Foundation grant programs: Community Enhancing Grants and Resident Wellness Grants. He is joined by Becca Swick, LC, MPA, LPN, BSW, of The Sight Center of Northwest PA, and POMA Past President Frank M. Tursi, DO, who shares his experience participating in the National Diabetes Prevention Program in collaboration with Becca's team. Together, they discuss how the program improves patient outcomes through education, screening, and community outreach. The conversation also features Sierra Lovisone, DO, PGY-1, Indiana Regional Medical Center Rural Family Medicine Residency Program, who received a Resident Wellness Grant for her program and shares how a simple team-based activity helped strengthen morale and connection during residency. Together, the episode showcases how POMA Foundation grants are making a meaningful impact on both community health and physician well-being. Key Takeaways:   Community grants drive meaningful impact. Programs like the National Diabetes Prevention Program help identify at-risk patients, improve health literacy, and deliver resources that benefit physicians, patients, and their communities.   Physicians don't have to do it alone. Community-based programs provide structured, no-cost support that extends care beyond the office and helps patients stay engaged in lifestyle change.   Wellness matters at every level. Resident Wellness Grants create opportunities for connection, stress relief, and improved morale, helping combat burnout and strengthen care teams.   Interested in learning more about diabetes prevention or getting involved? To connect with The Sight Center of Northwest PA, contact Becca Swick at [email protected] or 814-455-0995 x110 to schedule an educational session for your practice. To learn more about the National Diabetes Prevention Program, visit the CDC's National Diabetes Prevention Program webpage.   Find Us: Online: https://www.poma.org/ Email: [email protected] Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/POMADOs Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/pomados/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/pennsylvania-osteopathic-medical-association/ X: http://www.x.com/POMA_DOs  YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@pomados

In this episode of POMA DOes…, Anthony DiMarco, DO, Clinical Assembly Convention Chair and Education Program Vice Chair, is joined by Michael Venditto, DO, Clinical Assembly Education Program Chair, and David Kuo, DO, Clinical Assembly Convention Vice Chair, to preview the 2026 POMA Clinical Assembly. They discuss the education program, including up to 34 CME credits available for license renewal. The conversation also covers flexible attendance options—in person, live simulcast, or on-demand—and key sessions, speakers, and hands-on opportunities. From high-quality education to networking and the unique Kalahari experience, this episode outlines why the Clinical Assembly remains a must-attend event for osteopathic physicians. Key Takeaways:   Earn the credits you need, your way. Up to 34 CME credits are available, including 10 required credits—2 in child abuse recognition, 2 in opioid education, and 6 in patient safety—with options to attend in person, via live simulcast, or on-demand.   High-quality, affordable education designed by DOs, for DOs. The program features expert speakers, timely clinical topics, and hands-on sessions focused on practical, relevant learning.   More than a conference. The Clinical Assembly offers networking, exhibitor engagement, and a unique experience at Kalahari, home to the largest indoor waterpark in Pennsylvania, making it both educational and fun for the whole family.   Find Us: Online: https://www.poma.org/ Email: [email protected] Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/POMADOs Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/pomados/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/pennsylvania-osteopathic-medical-association/ X: http://www.x.com/POMA_DOs  YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@pomados

In this episode of POMA DOes…, Sayed Arian, DO, speaks with Michelle Thompson, DO, about the growing role of artificial intelligence in clinical practice. They discuss how AI tools help physicians improve documentation, access information more efficiently, and spend more meaningful time with patients. The conversation also explores the responsibility clinicians hold when using AI, how it is shaping medical education, and why these tools are enhancing, not replacing, the art of medicine. They discuss how thoughtful use of AI can improve patient care, physician efficiency, and overall well-being. Key Takeaways:   AI is improving efficiency and documentation. Tools like AI scribes can significantly reduce time spent on notes, improve accuracy, and allow physicians to focus more on patient care.   Clinicians remain responsible. Physicians must review, verify, and take ownership of AI-generated content, ensuring accuracy, transparency, and patient trust.   AI supports, not replaces, the art of medicine. While AI enhances access to information and streamlines workflows, clinical judgment, communication, and human connection remain essential.   Find Us: Online: https://www.poma.org/ Email: [email protected] Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/POMADOs Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/pomados/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/pennsylvania-osteopathic-medical-association/ X: http://www.x.com/POMA_DOs  YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@pomados

In this episode of POMA DOes…, POMA President George J. Wolters, DO, speaks with POMA Speaker of the House Jeffery J. Dunkelberger, DO, about the important role of the House of Delegates (HOD) within the Pennsylvania Osteopathic Medical Association. They discuss how the HOD serves as POMA's legislative body—debating policy, electing leadership, approving the organization's budget, and helping guide the future of osteopathic medicine in Pennsylvania. The conversation also highlights why volunteer delegates are essential to the process and how members can step forward to represent their district and have their voice heard. Key Takeaways:   The House of Delegates is POMA's legislative body. It debates policy, elects leadership, approves the annual budget, and helps shape the direction of osteopathic medicine in Pennsylvania.   Delegates represent physicians across the state. Each district selects delegates based on membership, bringing diverse perspectives together to debate issues and move the profession forward.   Getting involved starts locally. Members interested in serving as delegates should contact their district chair—or the POMA office—to learn how to participate and represent their district at the House of Delegates.   Find Us: Online: https://www.poma.org/ Email: [email protected] Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/POMADOs Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/pomados/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/pennsylvania-osteopathic-medical-association/ X: http://www.x.com/POMA_DOs  YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@pomados