The Kansas City Medical Society

Letter from the President 2026

Thu, 18 Dec 2025 20:09:34 GMT

A Letter from the President

As we finish 2025, I am humbled and honored to be your incoming Kansas City Medical Society president. I want to thank Dr. Sarah Hon for her leadership and mentorship over the past year, and our executive director, Micah Flint, for his administrative support.

Our medical society began with the Jackson County Medical Society in 1881, later merging with Wyandotte and Johnson County Medical Societies to become the bi-state Kansas City Medical Society in 2018. We have led health initiatives including Tobacco 21 legislation, Medicaid expansion, the COVID-19 pandemic, the opioid crisis, and physician wellness. Our society is currently advocating for a speaker’s bureau, promoting suicide awareness at our local hospitals each fall, and leading vaccine education efforts in our community.

As we move into 2026, our healthcare environment continues to change rapidly. With new medications and procedures, hospital mergers, EMRs, AI, scope-of-practice changes, hospitalists, and the rise of employed physicians, there are many challenges but also opportunities to lead in our healthcare communities. We must support one another to thrive and flourish.

I ask that you stay involved and active in our organization as we plan networking and CME activities for 2026. Continue reaching out to colleagues as we learn from one another.

Here’s to an exciting 2026 in Kansas City Medicine!

Brad Garstang MD

Family Physician, Liberty Hospital

Letter from the President 2025

Mon, 06 Jan 2025 17:15:48 GMT

A Letter from the President

I consider it a sincere honor to serve as president of the Kansas City Medical Society this year. As we look forward to this new year, we celebrate our previous accomplishments and look for new ways to meet the challenges of our ever-changing healthcare environment. As we recognize our recent successes, I want to take the opportunity to thank Dr. Greg Unruh, our immediate past president, for his excellent leadership, and I look forward to his continued partnership, providing much-needed wisdom and experience to our board of directors as well as a leadership council. I am also deeply appreciative of Micah Flint, our executive director, now in his third year with the Society.

As a board, we are prioritizing key areas where we believe the Society can make a difference for physicians and the communities we serve. With this in mind, we will continue our focus on wellness, advocacy, and expand our opportunities for in person social and educational gatherings. Our journal connects us in a variety of valuable ways, and we will continue its publication and expand its distribution. Under the directorship of Karole Bradford, the Society’s Foundation continues to do invaluable work. We celebrate those accomplishments and the charitable care they provide to our community’s vulnerable population.

We are grateful for our individual members and corporate sponsors and welcome your suggestions of how the Society can best serve physicians and our community.

Please mark your calendar for the Society’s upcoming events and consider inviting physician colleagues to join you as we gather to learn and support one another.

With gratitude,

Sarah J. Hon, DO, MBA, FAAN

2024 Physician Suicide Awareness Campaign

Wed, 18 Sep 2024 22:39:03 GMT

Kansas City area hospitals turn out for Physician Suicide Awareness Day: September 17th, 2024

In a showing of honor and support for spreading awareness around the issue of Physician Suicide, hospitals around the Kansas City metro participated through both education and a Moment of Silence honoring their fellow coworkers and families affected by suicide. Brian Mieczkowski, MD of Research Medical Center led an informative session that educated fellow staff members of the staggering numbers of suicide in the US medical profession every year. He offered resources and support for those who are struggling with burnout and depression. For more information on the affects of Physician Suicide and further resources, visit our Physician Suicide Resource Page .

KCMS had the honor of interviewing two local physicians who offered their expertise and advice on the topics of burnout, depression, and suicide in the medical industry:

Pictured left to right: Brian Mieczkowski, MD; Anthony Harrington, MD

Anthony Harrington, MD
Neurologist, Research Medical Center and KCMS Leader

Dr. Anthony Harrington is a neurologist with Blue Sky Neurology at Research Medical Center. He grew up in Overland Park, Kansas, and after serving in the Marine Corps, he attended the University of Colorado for college. He completed medical school at the University of Kansas, followed by residency in Colorado and a stroke fellowship at the University of Michigan.

Passion for being a Physician:

"I have a strong calling to medicine, much like I did in the military. Neurology, in particular, fascinates me due to the connection between the brain and the body through electrical pathways, which has always intrigued me."

Challenges of being a Physician:

"One challenge is navigating the emotional toll of being with patients and families during their darkest moments, especially when life-and-death decisions are at stake. Physicians often struggle with asking for help, feeling the need to shoulder burdens alone, which can be overwhelming."

What are some available resources for struggling physicians?

"While some resources exist, such as connections with psychiatric groups and online options, I feel there is a need for more dedicated mental health support for physicians, particularly in community hospitals. I believe provider wellness programs and mental health counselors are essential during challenging times."

Why do you believe there are higher suicide rates among Physicians than in other industries?

"I attribute the higher suicide rates among physicians to high stress, heavy workloads, and the stigma surrounding mental health. The reluctance to seek help, whether through therapy or medication, exacerbates the problem."

Final thoughts:

"We need to bring issues like depression, mental health, and substance abuse out of the shadows. I believe the only way to address these challenges is for physicians to support one another and work together to create change."

Pictured left to right: Brian Mieczkowski, MD; Anthony Harrington, MD

Joanne Loethen, MD
Primary Care Physician, UH-KC and KCMS Leader

Dr. Joanne Loethen is a primary care physician practicing both internal medicine and pediatrics. Her day-to-day involves seeing a wide range of patients, from children to adults. She loves the challenges that come with her job but, above all, enjoys helping patients live their healthiest lives.

Tell us about your passion for medicine

"I am driven by my connection with patients. I find it rewarding to help them overcome health challenges and improve their quality of life. However, barriers such as financial, social, and transportation issues can make it difficult to provide patients with the care they need, which is particularly frustrating."

In your opinion, what challenges lead to Physician burnout and suicide?

"Many physicians enter the field due to a calling to help others, but ongoing barriers and frustrations—such as not being able to provide the level of care they envisioned—take an emotional toll. These constant daily struggles, combined with unanticipated challenges in practice, contribute to burnout, moral injury, and physician suicide."

What are some coping strategies that help you?

"You can’t over emphasize the importance of maintaining clear boundaries between work and personal life. I prioritize self-care through exercise and health maintenance, but more importantly, I aim to separate my personal time from work worries, even though it’s hard not to carry patient concerns home."

The importance of personal connections:

"I find the most fulfillment when I can step away from administrative tasks and make personal connections with my patients and healthcare team. The most rewarding days are those where I engage deeply with people and not just complete tasks."

The need for teamwork and support:

"It is important to build strong, connected teams in healthcare. Creating a sense of belonging and ensuring that every team member feels valued is essential. Fostering a supportive workplace environment, rather than simply offering wellness programs, is key to improving both patient care and physician well-being."

Tell us about your personal experience with Physician suicide:

Dr. Loethen reflects on the loss of a medical school classmate to suicide, which has had a lasting impact on her. She emphasizes that no physician is immune to these struggles and that building meaningful connections within the healthcare team is essential for combating feelings of isolation.

Dr. Able Speaks on Physician Burnout

Thu, 15 Aug 2024 16:08:17 GMT

By Dr. Kelsey L. Able

The first time I heard about burnout, I was a senior internal medicine resident and we were required to attend a lecture about resilience/wellness at 7am. I was post-call and had been up all-night caring for ICU patients. From what I remember, we were instructed about the benefits of meditation, yoga and provided with free counseling service information. I could not comprehend when this would fit into my hectic schedule. After the information was presented, we were then required to fill out a survey for the associated quality improvement project. I’m certain my feedback was vicious. I felt that this presentation was the opposite of wellness for the rotation that I was on. It was a bad look. I did not think much more about wellness until much later. I was focused on my path to fellowship.

In my first year after finishing GI fellowship, I went to a conference with a few of my closest residency friends. We are all in different subspecialties following being Internal Medicine residents together at the University of Kansas. One of my former attendings created something completely different- a conference for women physicians focusing on wellness. While there, I had the opportunity to share ideas and learn from those who were at the end of their careers and quite a few physicians that had stepped away from clinical medicine mostly due to burnout.

For the last decade, training programs have been talking about burnout. It’s imperative to appreciate that burnout can lead to anxiety, depression, substance and alcohol abuse, decreased quality of care for patients (errors), and physicians leaving medicine or worse, dying by suicide. I was determined to build better habits, work on efficiency and take a keen interest in my own mental health and wellness. I heard about how therapy should be part of every physician’s armamentarium. I learned about physician coaches. The benefit of coaching has even been published in JAMA in 2019 and 2022 with the benefits of reducing burnout, imposter syndrome and increasing self-compassion. (1, 2) In 2021, Cleveland Clinic saved $133 million in physician retention due to an internal coaching program they implemented. Some of the presenters shared that they were coaching other physicians on efficiency (ie no more charting at home!) It changed my perspective. It was unlike any other conference I had attended before.

“Our inability to say no, our avoidance and our hiding, often lead us to feelings of immense failure, inauthenticity, and burnout.”

– Sasha Shillcutt, MD

Since starting in private practice Gastroenterology, I’ve made a choice to receive much of my continuing medical education (CME) from conferences that focus on wellness and leadership. I’ve chosen to fill my cup first. What I have learned has made me a better doctor, partner and parent. When we care for ourselves, we stay in practice longer and provide the best care possible for our patients. Medicine is a calling, but it’s also a job. We cannot continually sacrifice ourselves and leave nothing for our families and friends. I’ve learned that I cannot continue to pour into cups that don’t pour into mine.

Many of my colleagues know that I strive to be authentic. Depending on when you catch me in the hall on rounds, I will give you the truth about my day. Transparency with regards to the difficulties we encounter while practicing clinical medicine is something that unites us. Spending time with my colleagues in the physician’s lunchroom and listening to the stories of the day, as well as the challenges, can be a bright spot. This is my way of receiving energy as I’m an extroverted introvert. Sometimes this socialization even saves me a few phone calls because we can coordinate care in complex cases. Often, I seek advice from my more senior colleagues and practice partners. Venting to one another is also quite therapeutic.

In the past 5 years, it has become more challenging to get coverage for my patient’s much needed medications. Medicine is now governed by insurance authorizations, protocols and administrators. Our autonomy as clinicians can feel like it is being constantly undermined. I have found myself being less eloquent when I write letters to insurance companies about why my critically ill IBD patients need guideline-directed therapy. I will often tell my rotating KCU medical students (OMS3, 4s) that the moment I stop being a passionate advocate for my patients is the day I should announce my retirement.

While everyone has their own personal keys to success to avoid burnout and focus on their wellness, I’m happy to share mine. Brief explanations will follow.

Say no.
Set boundaries.
Find your work best friends.
Leave work at work (see #2).
Know your worth.
Find your passion in practice.
Take your vacation days.

What does it mean to say no? I had been told throughout medical education to always say yes to any opportunity. “Build your CV!” When you say no, your yes means more. Many of the committees or boards you serve on don’t add anything financially. If you aren’t in academics, it also will not contribute to tenure. I’ve decided to follow my heart when asked to take on new leadership roles. If my initial reaction is no, I sleep on it and report my decision the following day. If spread too-thin, I’m not as effective as a leader.

Set boundaries with your patients, administrators and colleagues. Technology has made us too available. When you are off duty, make it known and protect that time. I received lots of patient-related texts while I was on vacation this past week from my nurses and physician colleagues. Everyone was so supportive when I responded that I was hiking in the mountains and would get back with them when I was in the office. It can wait.

My endoscopy team is phenomenal. We are a close-knit group (ie work family) and I enjoy spending time with them while taking care of patients. You are allowed to have fun, be professional and take excellent care of patients. Our practice currently spends a lot of time in hospital performing consultations and urgent procedures. I interact with general surgeons, hospitalists and oncologists frequently. Some of the friendships I’ve made are extremely strong and meaningful to me. I never have the “Sunday scaries” because I love the people who I work with, and I love my job.

Don’t chart at home. Please. It’s dysfunctional and is one of the top reasons that physicians burn out. I break my own rule only when I’m coming back after a long vacation. I will log-in the night before to clear my inbox so that I don’t have to get up 2+ hours earlier to get to the office the next day. I trust my partners to address urgent issues when I’m out and will return the favor when they’re on vacation as well.

The path to becoming a practicing physician requires considerable effort, planning and investment put forth. Understand the current market for your practice. Keep up to date regarding reimbursement changes in your field. Appreciate that you are an expert and know your worth. Invest in yourself. Get a therapist and/or a coach. I have a few catch-phrases in clinic but one I’ve said a lot lately is “I have a therapist and you should too.” Brain-gut axis disorders are extremely common.

If you find yourself gravitating towards certain cases, and patient populations, lean into it! Patients appreciate it when we are empathetic and truly invested in their care.

Use your vacation days. Don’t keep rolling them over to the next year. Physicians who took more than three weeks of vacation a year had lower rates of burnout than those who took less. (3). Vacation time is linked to well-being and job satisfaction according to Sinsky, et al.

Don’t pour from an empty cup. Find your pain points in your practice or day-to-day. Focus on what you can control, or delegate. Say no. I’ve been told that “no” is a full sentence by some very brilliant leaders. Leave positions or committees that you aren’t passionate about. Don’t let medicine be your entire persona. Care for yourself the way that you care for your patients. In my opinion, there is no such thing as work-life balance. It will never be balanced. You have the opportunity to choose yourself first. Care for your body and your brain. You matter.

1 Dyrbye LN, Shanafelt TD, Gill PR, Satele DV, West CP. Effect of a Professional Coaching Intervention on the Well-being and Distress of Physicians: A Pilot Randomized Clinical Trial. JAMA Intern Med. 2019;179(10):1406–1414. doi:10.1001/jamainternmed.2019.2425

2 Fainstad T, Mann A, Suresh K, et al. Effect of a Novel Online Group-Coaching Program to Reduce Burnout in Female Resident Physicians: A Randomized Clinical Trial. JAMA Netw Open. 2022;5(5):e2210752. doi:10.1001/jamanetworkopen.2022.10752

3 Sinsky CA, Trockel MT, Dyrbye LN, et al. Vacation Days Taken, Work During Vacation, and Burnout Among US Physicians. JAMA Netw Open. 2024;7(1):e2351635. doi:10.1001/jamanetworkopen.2023.51635

Image 1 and Table 4: Burnout in Gastrointestinal Providers

Lacy, Brian E.; Cangemi, David J.; Burke, Carol A.

The American Journal of Gastroenterology. 119(7):1218-1221, July 2024.

Other resources:

Self Compassion, Kristen Neff PhD

Between Grit and Grace, Sasha K. Shillcutt, MD

Burnout, The secret to unlocking the stress cycle by Emily

and Amelia Nagoski

https://www.womenphysicianswellness.com/

Dr. Kelsey L. Able

Dr. Able was born in Kansas City, Missouri and was raised in Leawood, Kansas. She attended Kansas State University for undergraduate studies. She then attended Kansas City University for her masters in biomedical sciences and doctorate of osteopathy.

She went to the University of Kansas for internal medicine residency and the University of Oklahoma in Oklahoma City for gastroenterology fellowship. She currently serves as the CIG (consultants in gastroenterology) board president. Dr. Able is honored to serve as the medical ethics committee chair at North Kansas City Hospital. When she isn't scoping and talking to patients about the brain-gut axis, she is spending time attending activities for her two sons, 9 and 6 and enjoying her husband's cooking.

No Half Measures

Thu, 01 Aug 2024 15:57:19 GMT

By Anthony M. Harrington, M.D.

I was an alcoholic long before I took my first drink.

For as long as I can remember, I’ve always felt apart from everyone else. I realize that isn’t exactly a unique way for a kid to feel, but all I know is that I’ve felt a tension inside of me that was never satisfied, never released, and never at ease. I was always pretending to be something I wasn’t or finding that life around me was unacceptable in some way.

Growing up, I was raised by my grandmother. I never met my father and my mother also had this disease and it landed her in jail during most of my upbringing and eventually led to her death. Some studies quote that a person is four times as likely to be an alcoholic if a close relative is one - maybe that’s part of what happened to me, maybe not.

Luckily for me, my grandma stepped in to save me from foster care and gave me a secure and safe childhood in the suburbs of Kansas City. Despite feeling safe and rescued from an unknown fate, I had this restlessness inside of me - like I absolutely had to be somewhere at a particular time, but I couldn’t figure out when or where it was.

When I was 14, I had my first drink of alcohol. From the beginning, it felt like I was exhaling for the first time. As soon as I finished the first drink, I was immediately thinking about the next one. That’s something that never changed throughout my drinking career, alcohol triggered something within me that craved the next drink before I could even put the first one down. Not only did I not want to stop once I started, I also couldn’t wait for the next time I would have access to it. The feeling of ease of comfort made it seem like alcohol was the solution to all my problems - it made me feel part of the world around me or at least put me in a state of mind that allowed me to not care if I belonged or not.

Consequences came early from excessive use. I would do something embarrassing or get into arguments with friends, or even to the point that police would have to intervene. I didn’t take any of this seriously at the time, even though I could see it as a warning that I might end up like my mother. I rationalized it all though, I was young and young people do dumb things. When I was sober, I would feel like I had the worst luck in the world and that everyone was against me. No matter what trouble or conflict I would get into, I would soon talk myself into drinking again. I would say to myself, “well, tonight I’ll just have a few” or “it’ll be different next time”.

I eventually found myself graduated from high school with no prospects on the horizon. There was one thing that I knew I didn’t want to happen; I refused to end up like my mother. So, while drinking with a friend who just got back from basic training, I decided to enlist myself in the United States Marine Corps.

The forced sobriety that came during the 13 weeks of basic training and 4 weeks of combat training felt like a fresh start. That feeling of apartness was back, but I was always too tired to think much about it. Unfortunately, this was short-lived once I was out of training and afforded a little bit of liberty. As soon as I was able, I was drinking again to make up for lost time. So began a pattern of my disease that would last the next eleven years: work hard and play harder. Consequences seemed to meet me at every turn, but I was smart and a hard worker and managed to complete active duty with an honorable discharge and a ranking of Corporal.

Thanks to the GI Bill, I was accepted into the University of Colorado. There the story continued: drink hard, make mistakes, study hard to make up for lost time, and manage to come out on the other side. It was in undergrad that I developed a passion for neurosciences and becoming a professional actually seemed like a possibility. I never presumed that being a physician was in the cards for me, but I was determined that if I could push myself to the limit, I could make it and prove everyone wrong that doubted me. That’s exactly what I did. Despite my best efforts to sabotage myself with daily binge drinking, physical injuries, and everything else, I made it into medical school at the University of Kansas.

Things changed at the beginning of my fourth year of medical school, I met my wife. This would become the first time I had a relationship of any significant meaning. Sure, there were relationships before and they felt meaningful in the moment, but soon enough I would push them away - either intentionally or unintentionally. When my wife and I started dating, I knew it was different from the beginning and I was doing my best not to screw things up.

It’s easy to hide your true self until you start to live with other people. She and her son moved with me to Colorado for neurology residency and that was when I started to circle the drain into the bottom of my alcoholism. My new cycle would involve starting off with a few drinks, going over a predetermined amount, fighting with the love of my life, drinking for oblivion, waking up full of regret and shame…and repeat.

Pleas were made to cut down, to ask for help, but I would always say that I couldn’t. I couldn’t ask for help with addiction, because I’m a resident. Because I’m a doctor. What will people say? What would it do for my chances of getting a good position after training? I had seen what happened to those who got in trouble for alcohol or drug use, their careers were torched even when it happened outside of their profession. No way. Not after I’ve worked so hard to get here.

I tried therapy with a counselor on campus - but I knew all the right things to say and which things not to say. Hard to help someone when they’re only giving half truths. The real truth was that I didn’t actually want to stop, I just wanted people off my back so I could drink in peace. I didn’t think I was hurting anyone but myself, so why should anyone else care what I did outside of work? Nevermind the pain I caused to everyone that loved me.

Then a night came that would end up being my bottom and my jumping off point. This started off with the typical cycle of overdrinking, fighting, and taking everything too far. This was it. I woke up in the shame of what I had become…I had become my mother. Someone that would completely tear their family apart for a drink, someone that would destroy their lives out of their own selfishness. I didn’t know what to do. I knew I couldn’t go through life sober and that if I continued drinking it would kill me or get me to the point where I would wish I was dead.

Out of fear of losing my family and career, a plan was made to monitor me closely without having to go into an inpatient rehabilitation stay. Staying sober without real outside help is called white-knuckle sobriety for a reason. It was miserable. Life around me was getting a little better, anything was better than how it was going, but I certainly wasn’t. I was just waiting for the heat to die down so that I could once again feel that ease and comfort.

During this time, I would go to online programs of recovery once a week. The meetings were fine, but there was no way their program would work for a person like me. I was unique, I was different. About four months away from my last drink, I brought up the possibility of trying to moderate my alcohol use again to my spouse. This, of course, led to an argument and so I went to one of these meetings online afterwards with a head full of anger.

Somehow, despite all the noise in my head, a message got through. A man shared about the last time he tried to go back to drinking with the aim of moderation, and how terrible it went. He talked about the same things I was thinking and the same things I was feeling. He described my nonsense justifications right down to the exact phrasing. For whatever reason, I knew the same thing would happen to me and something clicked in my brain. I couldn’t do this alone . At the time, I didn’t agree with the majority of the things these people talked about, but I couldn’t do it alone anymore. I was giving up.

If I was truly going to do this, I had to do it all the way. I knew that I couldn’t skip anything and that I couldn’t do it halfway. I didn’t drink with reservations, so I had to approach the solution the same way. Don’t get me wrong, I fought and doubted everything that was told to me in the beginning, but I still took the actions that were suggested.

The thing that really helped me early on was doing my own research. Being the nerd that I am, I looked up the evidence behind 12-step facilitation programs compared to other methods of recovery. I came across a Cochrane review that had just been released that compared it to cognitive behavioral therapy and other professional therapies. 12-step facilitation programs were more effective with statistical significance compared to other methods. For me, that was enough to completely buy-in to the message that was being offered. It was a higher power that I could get behind.

Through the process of recovering, I had to clear away my past and straighten myself out spiritually in order to heal mentally and physically. This was about much more than an addiction to alcohol, it was about the underlying feeling of dis-ease. Recovering didn’t happen all at once, it was a slow process that has had many mistakes and an endless amount of hope and inspiration. Now, I can be a part of rather than apart from everyone else. I can look anyone in the eyes without shame or fear - it is a freedom that I never thought would be possible. I continue to work on this program and improve myself everyday. I will never be perfect at it, I don’t even want to be, I just want to be better than the day before.

My life at home began to improve significantly after going all into my recovery. Over time, trust was built and a family has grown. In addition to a great relationship with my spouse and stepson, we’ve also been lucky enough to bring two babies into this world.

As for medicine, I made it through residency and fellowship without having to divulge everything about myself. I’m fortunate enough now to be in a position where I can be open about recovery and lend out a hand to those who might need it. I know what it's like to be afraid of being found out, of carrying this disease while trying to take care of patients and maintaining a personal life.

We’ve all met countless people that have had their lives destroyed by alcohol and drug use, including our colleagues in healthcare. Yet, we still allow it to be stigmatized in a profession that prides itself on helping others. Why is that? Would we feel the same fear about asking for help if we had an alternative diagnosis that would affect our personal and professional lives? Why, for example, is it okay for licensing to ask personal health questions even when they haven’t affected your patient care? I feel that we must speak out against this in order for people to get the help they need. The problem will exist whether we try to ignore it or not, the difference is that we could give someone a chance of recovering before they ruin their lives or hurt someone else.

The archaic notion that alcoholism and drug addiction comes down to willpower and moral standing needs to be smashed, just like my old ideas that I was unique or could control my drinking on my own. Studies have shown that about 10% of the general population has the disease of alcoholism or other substance use disorder - that percentage has shown to be higher amongst physicians and healthcare professionals. The mission of helping others also means helping each other. If you find that you’re struggling like I was, ask for help. If you see someone struggling, don’t be afraid to say something - you could be saving their lives.

There is a way out. We just have to be honest, open, and willing.

Anthony M. Harrington, M.D.

Dr. Harrington grew up in Overland Park, KS and served for four years on active duty in the United States Marine Corps after high school. Undergraduate degree at the University of Colorado where he discovered his passion for medicine and neurosciences.

Next, he went to medical school at the U of Kansas, neurology residency at the U of Colorado, and fellowship at the U of Michigan. He is now back home in Kansas City, fulfilling his dream of being a Neurohospitalist.

KCMS Opioid Crisis and Narcan™ Education Program

Wed, 01 May 2024 09:49:17 GMT

KCMS and KCMSF received a grant from AHEI for Narcan™ training kits to support the KCMS Opioid Crisis and Narcan™ Education Program.

The Kansas City Medical Society Foundation Wellness and Prevention Committee has received financial support from the Alliance Health Education Initiative for the Opioid Crisis and Narcan™ Education Program. This initiative aims to address the local opioid crisis by implementing a train-the-trainer program for key personnel in middle and high schools within the broader Kansas City area.

The KCMSF train-the-trainer education model provides each participant with a comprehensive kit, didactic lectures, and hands-on training with Narcan™ practice sprays. Dr. Steve Salanski has already presented this material at a local nursing school.

The grant funds from the Alliance Health Education Initiative will financially support the production of the train-the-trainer kits. Each kit is equipped with access codes for evidence-based educational PowerPoint presentations, informative public-facing posters, and convenient Narcan™ pocket and algorithm instructions.

To inquire about teaching a course, please get in touch with Micah via email at micah@kcmedicine.org .

Letter from the President 2024

Mon, 22 Jan 2024 14:17:31 GMT

A Letter from the President

To Members of the Kansas City Medical Society:

Greetings,

My name is Greg Unruh , and I am honored to be the President of the Society for 2024. By way of a short introduction, I practice anesthesiology at the University of Kansas Medical Center. I have been involved in and have held leadership positions in local, state, and national societies of organized medicine throughout the years, both in anesthesiology and non-anesthesiology societies. I was an officer in the Wy-Jo Medical Society when we merged with the Kansas City Medical Society and have remained on the Board throughout all of the reorganization. I am very proud of how far we have come, It has put us in position to speak for physicians on both sides of the state line. We have expanded our Leadership Council, and we have passionate members of our Board of Directors.

I want to commend our Immediate Past President, Dr. Carole Freiberger for her leadership in 2023. She provided us with an optimistic, can-do Presidency that advanced the Society and the practice of medicine in the KC area, so thank you Carole! In addition, we have welcomed the steady leadership of our executive director, Mr. Micah Flint. We appreciate him keeping us on track and organizing our many activities.

Several of the things I mention will be dealt with in more detail throughout this communication, but I wanted to highlight some the several areas the Board has chosen for our work this coming year:

Advocacy
We want to advocate on both sides of the state line working with both the Missouri State Medical and Kansas Medical Societies (MMSA and KMS) on behalf of physicians. On the Kansas side, the legislature is working on many issues that affect us including scope of practice, vaccinations, Medicaid reimbursement and Medicaid expansion. We are working with KMS to provide testimony and influence our legislative representatives.

Support for our Foundation
We want to support our crown jewel whole heartedly, the Kansas City Medical Society Foundation which continues to be a model for advocacy and education, as well as our charitable care program which provides immense benefits for our uninsured or under insured patients. The Foundation supported expansion of Medicaid on the Missouri side and is advocating tirelessly for expansion on the Kansas side. Ms. Karole Bradford is our Executive Director.

Opioid abuse
We have been working to help stem the tide of opioid abuse through education and visibility. We are in the process of putting together TikTok videos about the dangers of opioid abuse produced by local high school students and targeted at high school students at their level and their preferred communication platform. We also have activities targeted to school district officials and several of our Board members and members provide advice around opioid use disorder and school policies.

Wellness and Suicide Prevention
Our focus has been on removing the stigma that sometimes attaches to physicians help-seeking. We have been advocating for health systems and hospitals to remove credentialing language that could impede a physician from seeking help. Several systems are reviewing their language and are now trying to focus on current, not historical, mental health issues or substance use that could affect safe practice. We are also working to participate in Physician Suicide Awareness Day in September.

Welcoming New Members
If you are a current member, thank you! I hope you have found our activities to be meaningful for you and your practice. Please consider asking your colleagues to join our collective voices. If you are not a member, please consider joining-we’d love to have you!

In conclusion, I’m excited about the year to come and look forward to hearing any and all thoughts and ideas for the Society moving forward.

Thanks, and best regards,

Greg

2023 KCMS Medical Student Scholarship Recipient

Wed, 29 Nov 2023 20:33:44 GMT

Congratulations to our 2023 Kansas City Medical Society Medical Student Scholarship Recipient

Carson Gates

University of Missouri School of Medicine – Columbia

As a medical student with aspirations to specialize in orthopedic surgery, I am keenly aware of the highly competitive nature of residency programs. To bolster my chances of securing a position, I have devoted myself wholeheartedly to academic excellence and research endeavors. In just one year, I have excelled in the classroom and made remarkable progress, which will result in three published papers and two presentations.

Receiving this scholarship would alleviate the burden of financial worries, enabling me to focus more on my career pursuits and the well-being of future patients. It would afford me the opportunity to invest my time and energy in delivering the highest quality of care without the concern of monetary constraints.

2023 Annual Event

Mon, 06 Nov 2023 20:17:33 GMT

2023 Annual Meeting: An Amazing Event!

Thank you for joining us at the 2023 KCMS End-Of-Year Celebration at The Bauer KC on November 02, 2023.

It was a great opportunity to celebrate the 2023 KCMS accomplishments, award winners, and an opportunity to reflect on the presentation provided by Gary Morsch, MD, MPH founder of Global Care Force .

Walk with a Doc

Tue, 18 Jul 2023 03:02:06 GMT

Walk With a Doc

Walking has many health benefits including improving cardiovascular health, increasing energy levels, decreasing body fat, and strengthening bones and joints. The Kansas City Medical Society Foundation and Johnson County Health Department are excited to be adding an additional health benefit to walking: a conversation with a volunteer physician who is ready to discuss health related topics through the Walk with a Doc program. Walk with the doc is also an opportunity for people to ask questions to a physician in a more casual setting than the office, in addition to the exercise.

The Kansas City Medical Society Foundation has partnered with the Johnson County Health department to establish an official Walk with a Doc chapter, #20199 based out of Johnson County, KS.

Walk with a Doc partners with local community organizations to host events in which local physicians visit communities to provide information on healthy lifestyle practices. A local physician will be at Shawanoe Elementary School (11230 W 75th St, Shawnee KS, 66214) from 9:30-11:00 a.m. each third Saturday June-October, to walk and talk about a specific health topic with attendees.

The event dates and topics/themes are as follows:

Walk With a Doc Upcoming Dates:

July 15: Heart Health
August 19: Family Wellness
September 16: Hispanic Heritage
October 21: Diabetes Prevention

If you are a physician or medical professional who would like to volunteer for a Walk with a Doc event you can reach out to Kealy Houlahan ( khoulahan@kcmedicine.org ).

Letter from the President Summer 2023

Tue, 18 Jul 2023 02:55:42 GMT

A Letter from the President

As we enjoy the last month of summer and the vacations, family and time by the water, I am reflecting on the first half of 2023, and looking forward to the things to come for the Kansas City community and their physicians. Our Leadership Council continues to work on the opioid crisis, and ways of developing effective education for the Kansas City metro. We are exploring several avenues such as an education curriculum for Narcan for area middle and high schools and video shorts created by teens for teens with physician guidance. Our Walk with a Doc program is underway with the Retired Physician organization. We are set up to help with the Rockhurst Nursing program’s health fair this fall.

Advocacy remains a priority for KCMS. From the national level (see Dr. Loethen’s update on the AMA’s annual meeting in June) and support for MSMA, we continue to elevate the physician voice. Our collaboration with the KCMS Foundation and their mission and the Wellness Committee remains robust and effective. We recently formed a chapter of the Walk with a Doc program in May, with events on both sided of the state line.

We could not do the work we do without the support of the professional medical community. We appreciate our partnerships, with North Kansas City Hospital, University Health, Anesthesia Associates of KC and Olathe Medical Center. The benefits of these partnerships are many – the sharing of ideas and experiences, networking, mentorship – all of which help to combat physician burnout. We will be meeting with leadership from areas hospitals over the next few months.

As we move forward to the second half of 2023, I am pleased with the progress of KCMS. It is truly a place for physicians to nurture their careers and be a part of their community from medical school through retirement. We are grateful for your support. Look for information about representing your hospital or practice as a part of the Leadership Council, our upcoming happy hour networking and social event, leadership and mentorship training opportunities, and information on ways to serve.

Yours truly,

Carole Freiberger-O’Keefe, DO

St. Luke’s Hospital

Critical Care Medicine

President, KCMS

KCMS Foundation's Initiative Aims to Eliminate Disparities in Cancer Treatment

Tue, 04 Jul 2023 03:17:31 GMT

KCMS Foundation's Initiative Aims to Eliminate Disparities in Cancer Treatment

The Foundation’s approach is rooted in systems change theory. A select group of diverse stakeholders will assess and address barriers to cancer care. This community-based collaborative will identify solutions to cancer treatment disparities, engaging with community partners to realize this mission.

Medical Society Foundation’s Initiative Aims to Eliminate Disparities in Cancer Treatment

Through the Cancer Care Access Initiative, the Kansas City Medical Society Foundation is dedicated to achieving equitable care for all people in our community, irrespective of their insurance coverage, immigration status, or other barriers they may face in accessing treatment. The Foundation’s approach is rooted in systems change theory. A select group of diverse stakeholders will assess and address barriers to cancer care. This community-based collaborative will identify solutions to cancer treatment disparities, engaging with community partners to realize this mission.

Breaking Down Barriers

The Kansas City Medical Society Foundation recognized barriers to seeking cancer care that must be addressed. Many individuals delay or forego seeking medical attention due to:

Lack of insurance coverage
Financial constraints
Insufficient income
Immigration status concerns

Recent data shows us that the uninsured rate in Missouri is 8.9% and in Kansas is 10.2%. Based on total population of both states, it is estimated that there are tens of thousands of uninsured individuals in the Kansas City Metro area. These numbers only include legal residents, which means there are many more.

The Kansas City Medical Society Foundation is taking a significant and proactive step towards achieving equitable cancer care through its initiative. The completed groundwork represents the commencement of crucial conversations that shed light on the diverse challenges individuals encounter when seeking cancer treatment. The Cancer Care Access Initiative will address these challenges with practical and achievable solutions.

As this initiative progresses, it is important to remember that equitable cancer care is a collective responsibility. It requires the efforts of the medical community and the public to create an inclusive healthcare system. We must work together to eliminate disparities in cancer care and ensure that everyone has access to treatment.

If you, or someone from your organization, is interested in discussing this initiative, please contact Kristi Neff, Director of Health Access with the Kansas City Medical Society Foundation at 913-907-7271 or by email at KNeff@kcmedicine.org .

Annual Meeting of the American Medical Association (AMA)

Tue, 20 Jun 2023 03:10:53 GMT

Annual Meeting of the American Medical Association (AMA)

Kansas City Physicians Dr. Amanda Bell, Dr. Betty Drees, Dr. Joanne Loethen, Dr. Mark Meyer, Dr. Luke Selby, Dr. Art Snow, Dr. Benjamin Stone, Dr. Kimberly Templeton, and Dr. Charles VanWay attended the Annual Meeting of the American Medical Association (AMA).

The meeting was held June 9-14, 2023 in Chicago, Illinois. Additional representatives from Kansas City included medical students Charles Adams (Kansas City University), Tanvi Karmarkar (UMKC), and Maddy Mash (University of Kansas). Drees, Loethen, VanWay, and Adams serve on the Missouri Delegation to the AMA House of Delegates. Snow and Stone serve on the Kansas Delegation. Karmarkar and Mash serve as Regional Medical Student Delegates. The AMA is the largest group of organized medicine consisting of and medical students physicians.

North Kansas City Hospital | Donate Life

Fri, 07 Apr 2023 01:13:05 GMT

North Kansas City Hospital | Donate Life

North Kansas City Hospital kicked off the month with t-shirt sales (pictured below). The proceeds will go to fund several causes to include memorial plaques to honor organ & tissue donors at the hospital Donate Life memorial garden, to send rose vials in honor of all of the hospital organ, tissue, and eye donors from the previous year for the Donate Life float in the Rose Parade, and to fund two scholarships for graduating high school seniors who have written an essay about the importance of donation and created a poster to be displayed at their school.

Flag raising - St. Luke's Hospital Flag Raising Ceremony to kick off Donate Life Month (April). Andrew Schlachter, MD (former recipient of the Rising Star Award), myself and members of the SLH Donor Advisory Council, Jani Johnson, CEO SLH; Jane Peck, COO SLH; Jason Purcell, CNO SLH; John Dickerson, Director of Transplant Services, Dana Bush, System Educator, Pam Jackson, Nurse Manager for Trauma, Susan Roberts, Director of Spiritual Wellness; Kimberly Morris, Hospital services Coordinator for Midwest transplant Network.

Dr. Tracy Stevens, cardiologist with her patient, Steve Klemenic, a heart transplant recipient (09') and his wife Betty.

University Health Symposium on organ donation called Winning the Game of Life Together.

165th MSMA Convention

Sun, 02 Apr 2023 23:40:01 GMT

165th MSMA Convention

The 165th MSMA convention was held in KC this year on March 31- April 1st. KCMS’s past president, Lancer Gates,DO was elected this year’s MSMA president.

Top: Rep. Jon Patterson, MD getting an award at MSMA for his service to medicine in the legislature;

Bottom left: District 7 Council members-Fariha Shafi, MD (UH), Betty Drees, MD, Joni Loethen, MD (UH), Sarah Florio, MD from SLE; Bottom Right: MSMA - Fariha Shafi, MD, Rachel Kyllo, MD - derm in St. Louis, Joni Loethen, MD and Carol Freiberger, DO

New Executive Director Announcement

Wed, 08 Mar 2023 00:00:34 GMT

New Executive Director Announcement

KCMS is excited to announce that Micah Flint and his team at evos consulting firm began administrative and organizational support in January 2023. Our 2023 goals for KCMS are to strengthen our organization by focusing on implementing and assuring we meet member society organizational standards, increase membership engagement, and promote membership growth. The following is a brief biography of Micah and his team.

Membership Portal

The KCMS website and membership platform have been upgraded. This upgrade provides a new cost-effective and user-friendly experience for our members and community. An email was sent to every member to activate their profile in the new membership platform. When activating your profile you will need to update your contact and credit card information. If you have already paid 2023 dues, your credit card will not be charged until the end of December for 2024. Instructions and FAQs about the new member portal may be found on the Membership FAQ Page >

Letter from the President

Fri, 03 Feb 2023 23:54:26 GMT

A Letter from the President

I am honored to be the President of KCMS for the year 2023. I’m inspired to follow in the footsteps of the leaders who have come before me. I started with the Society in 2012 as a board member representing St. Luke’s Hospital. The past decade has taught me so much about leadership and service to my community. I have seen the Society grow to include both sides of the state line with a thriving and effective Leadership Council representing all corners of the Metro area. It is exciting to be a part of making Kansas City a better place for its residents. I’m proud of the Kansas City Medical Society Foundation and its ability to unify healthcare to the underserved in our community.

With our new Executive Director, Micah Flint, we are looking towards a bright future. Our leadership Council, led by Dr. Greg Unruh, began the year with plans to combat the Opioid crisis. Our physician Wellness committee, run in conjunction with the KCMS Foundation, has a new chair, Dr. Anjalee Carlson. Along with Dr. Lancer Gates (MSMA president), Dr. Fariha Shafi, Dr. Steven Salanski , have three main initiatives. The first is to combat substance abuse and the opioid crisis. Dr. Steven Salanski, crafted a letter that was sent to the superintendents of schools in the greater Kansas City area petitioning that Narcan be available in all schools. Second, physician wellness is being addressed by attempting to combat burnout. We are engaging Chief Medical Officers of local hospitals for their involvement. In addition, an informal physician mentorship program is being explored. Our first happy hour took place in late April to allow for networking, which welcomed medical students and residents as well. Finally, our dedication to community strives to span the ages. We are in the beginning stages of developing a youth video competition by high schoolers to encourage teens not to use drugs. Dr. Keith Jantz and the retired physicians' group, are working on “walk with a doc”, an experience in which community members hear a short talk and can then ask questions one on one to physicians. We continue with physician advocacy by supporting MSMA and KMS. We greatly appreciate our hospital partnerships, as we could not thrive as we do without them.

As I reflect on our mission, which is to improve the health of all in greater Kansas City through leadership, advocacy and innovation, I am excited for the rest of the year in all that we can do as a medical community.

Sincerely,

Carole Freiberger-O’Keefe, DO

Kansas City Medical Society Interim Executive Director Steps Down

Wed, 28 Dec 2022 08:19:32 GMT

On Dec. 31, 2022, Annette Small will step down from her role as Interim Executive Director of the Kansas City Medical Society. The new Executive Director will be announced soon.

Annette entered this role during the pandemic, but distance did not minimize her tremendous impact or ability to tackle important initiatives. Her leadership has helped KCMS better serve its members and hospital partners through listening, collaboration, and action.

Annette Small, RN, BSN, MBA

Interim Executive Director, Kansas City Medical Society

Annette departs the Kansas City Medical Society with a few parting words about her time, experiences, and excitement for the future:

What were the most rewarding aspects of serving in this role?

Meeting and working with the physicians of KC–witnessing their passion for patients and the best for our community and each other.

What are you proud to have accomplished?

Bringing physicians together for their annual meetings to celebrate their dedication. The community responded so well with donations of space, money, food and beverages in both 2021 and 2022.

Why was it important to you to serve as the Interim Executive Director?

I have been a nurse in the KC metro area for more than 30 years. Supporting physicians and helping serve patients in need are core values and key tenets of my career. This was another way to do both of those in a new and important way.

Why will the Society be in good hands going forward?

I’m very excited about the future of KCMS. There is a lot of passion for the physicians, and the new leadership team is well poised with experience and resources to help meet our goals of having a voice, supporting leadership development, and managing physician burnout.

What makes Kansas City Medical Society members special? How will they impact the future of health care in our communities?

The passion of the KCMS physicians for the community and each other is priceless—they are comfortable and confident in making their voices heard for the betterment of the community as well as their peers. They are very thoughtful, inclusive, and actively involved and educated in health equity. I am thrilled to have been part of this organization and am grateful for all the relationships and experiences!

Thank you, Annette, for all you have done — and will continue to do —to enhance health care in our communities.

Kansas City Medical Society 2022 Year-in-Review Publication

Wed, 14 Dec 2022 15:49:45 GMT

The Kansas City Medical Society year-end publication features our annual impact on health care in Kansas City communities, profiles of each of this year’s Kansas City Medical Society Award winners, and more. Download the PDF to read more, and get ready for even more meaningful moments in 2023!

A letter from the Kansas City Medical Society president Scott W. Kujath, MD, FSVS, FACS:

2022 Publication

As my second year as President of the Kansas City Medical Society wraps up, I am pleased with the achievements made regarding the future of KCMS. We held two in-person annual meetings and celebrated physicians in the Kansas City metro area, hosted a book club for physician leadership training, exerted our physician voice on masking in schools during the peak of the pandemic, the opioid crisis and recreational marijuana clinical concerns. The work we have done with our Foundation included physician education, community health programs and over $8 million in donated health care for the uninsured.

While we have many amazing and active physicians in the community on our Board of Directors and Leadership Council, we need more! This Society is over 140 years old and the mission is to improve the health of all in greater Kansas City through leadership, advocacy and innovation. It takes all of us to carry this mission forward for generations to come. We are excited to engage new physicians, physicians young in their careers as well as retired physicians to elevate involvement in the Society and continue the tradition of serving greater Kansas City.

Please consider reaching out to your peers, administrators, vendors, health systems and other contacts to encourage their engagement of time and treasure to promote the ongoing mission of the Kansas City Medical Society.

Best to All,

Scott W. Kujath, MD, FSVS, FACS

President, Kansas City Medical Society

St. Luke’s Health System Cardiologist Dr. Paul Chan Co-Authors Study Making National Headlines

Fri, 11 Nov 2022 15:36:25 GMT

A recent study published in The New England Journal of Medicine and co-authored by Saint Luke’s Health System‘s Paul S. Chan, M.D., is making national headlines on CNN, news radio, and other major outlets.

A comprehensive review of data showed Black and Hispanic individuals had 26% lower odds for receiving bystander CPR at home compared to White individuals and 37% lower odds of bystander CPR in public. These disparities remained regardless of neighborhood and type of public setting.

Paul Chan, MD

St. Luke’s Cardiology

“These results were important to understand and likely emblematic of other larger social issues that affect health care and treatment,” Dr. Chan said in a St. Luke’s news release. “In cardiac arrest, you depend on bystanders to respond. Without them, the likelihood of surviving before first responders and paramedics arrive are substantially lower. That’s why this study really brings to light challenges with structural and individual bias that we, as a society, have to confront that may not be as prominent with other medical conditions.”

Dr. Chan has over 90 peer-reviewed publications, serves on multiple national committees for the American College of Cardiology and the American Heart Association, and is an internationally renowned for his work on cardiac arrest, quality and appropriateness of care, and disparities in care. He has a particular interest in studying the care of traditionally vulnerable populations (e.g., minorities, uninsured patients). He has received numerous awards for his research.

Learn more about this study and the research team’s findings in the news release from St. Luke’s Health System .

Celebrations and Award Winners from the 2022 Annual Meeting

Mon, 17 Oct 2022 22:56:55 GMT

2022 Kansas City Medical Society Annual Meeting

Thanks for all who joined us on Oct. 25 to extinguish burnout and reignite our passion for medicine while caring for our vibrant Kansas City communities. We had a wonderful time at Amigoni Urban Winery and enjoyed celebrating our award winners together.

We can’t wait to see what 2023 has in store!

Former KCMS President wins Independence City Council Primary Election

Tue, 09 Aug 2022 23:03:31 GMT

Congratulations to Bridget McCandless, MD, MBA, FACP, on her Aug. 2 primary election win for Independence City Council. Dr. McCandless is the former president of the Kansas City Medical Society, serving in 2011-2012, and the retired President/CEO of the Health Forward Foundation.

She has also served on the American College of Physicians Health and Public Policy Committee, the Missouri Medicaid Oversight Committee, the Missouri Women’s Health Council and the board of the Truman Library Institute.

Dr. McCandless received an M.D. from the University of Missouri–Columbia School of Medicine, completed her residency in Internal Medicine at the University of Virginia, and received an M.B.A. in Health Care Leadership from Rockhurst University. Prior to joining the foundation, she served as founder and Medical Director of the Shared Care Free Clinic.

Dr. McCandless continues to work on issues related to health care access and social contributors to health and will no doubt continue to serve the people and communities of Kansas City. Learn more about the primary election here and Dr. McCandless’s run for Independence City Council at mccandless2022.org.

Michael Weaver, MD, Receives KCMS 2021 Lifetime Achievement Award; Other Awards Presented

Fri, 05 Nov 2021 19:05:00 GMT

Congratulations to Michael Weaver, MD, and the other recipients of our 2021 KCMS Awards. Learn more about our honorees.

Thank You Annual Meeting Supporters

Fri, 05 Nov 2021 18:58:00 GMT

Thank you to all of our great supporters who helped to make the October 26, 2021 KCMS Annual Meeting a huge success!

Introducing … “Your Health Minute”

Mon, 04 Oct 2021 23:24:28 GMT

Introducing … “Your Health Minute”

Maintaining good cardiovascular health and avoiding diabetes are key to good health and longevity. In these eight “Your Health Minute,” videos, Kansas City Medical Society member physicians provide brief tips on controlling high blood pressure and diabetes, along with recognizing the warning signs of stroke.

1. What You Can Do to Control High Blood Pressure

Internal medicine physician Keith Jantz, MD, from Kansas City discusses healthy measures you can take to keep your blood pressure in a safe range.

2. Taking Medications for Your High Blood Pressure

Internal medicine physician Keith Jantz, MD, of Kansas City explains the importance of taking your blood pressure medicine as prescribed, plus additional lifestyle measures you can take.

3. What Is Prediabetes and What it Means

Internal medicine physician James Wetzel, MD, of Kansas City discusses prediabetes and how it is measured. He suggests lifestyle changes you can make to prevent this from becoming type 2 diabetes.

4. Management of type 2 Diabetes

Internal medicine physician James Wetzel, MD, of Kansas City shares how type 2 diabetes is managed through medications and lifestyle changes.

5. High Blood Pressure and Why Controlling it Is Important

Kansas City anesthesiologist Greg Unruh, MD, describes how blood pressure is measured and the consequences of leaving high blood pressure untreated.

6. Diabetes Prevention and Management

Kansas City retired cardiologist Alan Forker, MD, how medication and lifestyle changes are used to prevent and manage diabetes.

Join us for the 2021 KCMS&F Annual Meeting Tuesday, Oct. 26

Tue, 28 Sep 2021 21:09:00 GMT

Please join us for the 2021 Kansas City Medical Society & Foundation Annual Meeting 2021 on Tuesday, October 26, 2021, from 6 to 9 p.m. at J. Rieger & Co. Distillery. Network and enjoy the company of KCMS physicians as we honor and thank you for all you’ve done through the pandemic! Free to KCMS members and guests!

Trends in the Ongoing Diabetes Epidemic

Thu, 09 Sep 2021 23:31:28 GMT

Trends in the Ongoing Diabetes Epidemic

Programs in Johnson County support patients in lifestyle modifications and self-care in diabetes management

By Betty Drees, MD, FACP, FACE

Diabetes mellitus is no doubt one of our greatest global health concerns.

A study published in the June Journal of the American Medical Association using data from U.S. adults showed that the estimated prevalence of diabetes increased significantly from 9.8% in 1999 to 14.3% in 2018. Only an estimated 21% of adults with diagnosed diabetes achieved control goals for three important risk factors to reduce complications in 2015-2018, including individualized hemoglobin A1c targets, blood pressure less than 130/80 mm Hg, and low-density lipoprotein cholesterol level less than 100 mg/dL.

These disturbing findings are concerning as risk for associated complications increases. Add COVID-19 into the mix, and the risks increase as people have delayed care for diabetes and screening for diabetes have decreased. The pandemic spurred weight gain for many adults who were inactive, and decreased access to health screenings in peak phases of the pandemic, creating a care gap for a growing number of individuals who have diabetes but don’t know it.

In short, we have a lot of work to do to identify those at risk for diabetes, reduce risk of complications, and implement standards of care for people with diabetes.

There is encouraging news. Although the risk of cardiovascular disease is two to four times higher in people with diabetes and is the leading cause of death in diabetes, the rate of death from cardiovascular disease has decreased significantly over the past two decades, largely due to better blood pressure control and the use of statins. And now we have two new classes of diabetes medications that have cardiovascular benefit aside from the effect on glucose control, namely SGLT2 inhibitors and glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP1) receptor agonists. Based on cardiovascular outcomes studies, the FDA continues to approve new drugs in these two classes.

These drugs have been a game changer in algorithms for the clinical management of patients with diabetes. Updated regularly, the standards of care are available on the American Diabetes Association and American Association of Clinical Endocrinology with easy-to use-diabetes management algorithms. These algorithms incorporate use of SGLT2 inhibitors and GLP1s much earlier in the management of those at increased risk of cardiovascular complications, but also guide choices of drugs based on cost, risk of hypoglycemia, weight management, etc.

As with most chronic diseases, diabetes requires both medical intervention and self-management, including lifestyle modification. Lists of regional, certified diabetes self-management programs can be found through the American Diabetes Association and The Association of Diabetes Care & Education Specialists.

Identifying people at high risk for developing diabetes is important for two reasons: first, they are at increased risk of cardiovascular disease even if they don’t yet have glucose levels high enough to diagnose diabetes, and second, structured lifestyle intervention programs are effective in preventing diabetes and reducing cardiovascular risk. In Johnson County, The Live Well Johnson County initiative through the Johnson County Department of Health and Environment offers the Diabetes Prevention Program, a year-long evidence-based self-management program for prediabetic adults. Programs are offered throughout the county. To learn more contact Anne Hayse anne.hayse@jocogov.org

The American Heart Association Kansas City affiliate has a variety of resources, including the Move More Together exercise initiative, and the “Check Change Control” program to track and manage blood pressure. Contact erin.gabert@heart.org to learn more about local resources.

Betty Drees, MD, FACP, FACE, is a professor of medicine and Dean Emerita at the University of Missouri-Kansas City School of Medicine, Department of Internal Medicine and Department of Biomedical and Health Informatics. She is also president of the Graduate School of the Stowers Institute for Medical Research.

Diabetes Management Opportunities in the Kansas City Area

Opportunities to connect patients with health promotion and recreation activities are available throughout the metropolitan area. Here are a few:

Health Promotion for Patients

Health Departments

Johnson County – https://www.jocogov.org/dept/health-and-environment
Wyandotte County – http://www.hcwyco.org/what-we-do-2
Kansas City, Mo. – http://bit.ly/kcmo-health
Jackson County – https://jacohd.org/initiatives/building-a-healthier-jackson-county
Clay County – https://www.clayhealth.com
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention – National Diabetes Prevention Program – https://www.cdc.gov/diabetes/prevention/index.html

Community Organizations

American Diabetes Association – https://diabetes.org
American Heart Association Kansas City – https://www.heart.org/en/affiliates/kansas/kansas-city
YMCA/Diabetes – http://bit.ly/ymkc-diabetes
YMCA/Chronic Disease Management – http://bit.ly/ymkc-chronic
Kansas State University Research and Extension – https://www.johnson.k-state.edu
Area hospitals also offer a wide range of health education and promotion programs.

Walking & Bicycling Trails, Recreation Programs

Providing patients with the Johnson County Park and Recreation District’s comprehensive trail guide is an easy way to encourage physical activity at no cost to the patient.

Regional – http://bit.ly/KC-trails
Johnson County – https://www.jcprd.com/592/Trail-Guide
Johnson County 50-Plus Program – https://www.jcprd.com/170/50-Plus
Wyandotte County – https://www.wycokck.org/Parks/Recreation.aspx
Kansas City, Mo. – https://kcparks.org/about-recreation/trails/
Jackson County – https://www.makeyourdayhere.com
Clay County – http://bit.ly/clay-trails

Resources for Physicians

Show-Me ECHO (Extension for Community Healthcare Outcomes) – Includes bimonthly CME sessions on diabetes, pediatric weight management, and other topics. https://showmeecho.org/
American Association of Clinical Endocrinology – https://www.aace.com/
American Diabetes Association (standards of care; list of certified diabetes education programs) – https://diabetes.org
JDRF Kansas and Missouri Chapter
Centers for Disease Control
The Association of Diabetes Care & Education Specialists (list of certified diabetes education programs) – https://www.diabeteseducator.org/living-with-diabetes/find-an-education-program

Gain Leadership Tips from the Experts at KCMS Book Study Group

Fri, 03 Sep 2021 14:14:00 GMT

Join with leaders in the Kansas City medical community for a five-week Leadership Book Study beginning October 6. Under the facilitation and expert guidance of Sarah Hon, DO, FAAN, and Betty Drees, MD, FACP, FACE, participants each week will read and discuss two leadership articles from the book "HBR’s 10 Must Reads on Leadership."

Missouri Opens Expanded Medicaid Enrollment

Mon, 16 Aug 2021 22:08:00 GMT

The Missouri Department of Social Services will begin accepting Medicaid applications under the expanded eligibility criteria, it was announced on Aug. 11. Medicaid expansion in Missouri finally appears to becoming a reality!

KCMS Strongly Encourages COVID-19 Vaccination

Fri, 06 Aug 2021 19:19:00 GMT

The physicians of the Kansas City Medical Society strongly encourage all people who are eligible to obtain the COVID-19 vaccination. The vaccine has proven to be safe and effective through clinical trials and now the experience of over 160 million Americans who have been vaccinated.

KCMS Urges Schools to Adopt Masking Policy

Tue, 03 Aug 2021 17:48:00 GMT

The Kansas City Medical Society has sent a letter to 17 area school districts along with local public health departments, urging schools to adopt a masking requirement for the 2021-22 school year.

Missouri Supreme Court Upholds Medicaid Expansion

Mon, 26 Jul 2021 13:25:00 GMT

On July 22, the Missouri Supreme Court overruled a lower court ruling and unanimously upheld Medicaid expansion for the State of Missouri, upholding the will of the voters from the August 2020 election, and extending needed health care coverage to 275,000 Missourians.

Where to Find a COVID-19 Vaccine in the Kansas City Area

Sun, 28 Feb 2021 19:53:00 GMT

Wondering where to look for COVID-19 vaccine in the Kansas City area? We've compiled a list of links to the area public health departments, health systems, retail stores and others that are providing the vaccine.

COVID-19 Vaccine Myth vs. Fact

Fri, 26 Feb 2021 23:47:00 GMT

With a host of misinformation about COVID-19 vaccines circulating, here are possible responses to popular myths you might hear from your patients, friends or family. Get the facts and be safe.

Heart-Healthy Resources for Your Patients

Wed, 24 Feb 2021 22:44:00 GMT

Johnson County has a robust network of organizations offering programs and resources designed to help patients as they work to adopt a more heart-healthy lifestyle. Take a look at these four local organizations and encourage your patients to connect with them to help support wellness efforts.

“Advocating for Your Patients” Webinar Offers Valuable Tips

Fri, 05 Feb 2021 22:11:00 GMT

Speakers at the January 30 KCMS webinar physicians in attendance much useful advice about how to be more effective advocates with legislators and in their communities. Here are highlights.

Welcoming Scott W. Kujath, MD, FSVS, FACS, as 2021 KCMS President

Mon, 11 Jan 2021 17:24:00 GMT

The Kansas City Medical Society welcomes Scott W. Kujath, MD, FSVS, FACS, as our 2021 president. A board-certified vascular surgeon with Midwest Aortic & Vascular Institute (MAVI), Dr. Kujath is the chief of vascular surgery at Kansas City Veterans Administration Medical Center. He has been a member of the KCMS board of directors since 2007 and was president-elect in 2020. He chaired the KCMS Foundation board in 2018. He is 2021-2022 president of the medical staff at North Kansas City Hospital.

Experts Assure Safety, Effectiveness of COVID-19 Vaccines

Tue, 08 Dec 2020 16:11:00 GMT

A panel of Kansas City infectious disease experts provided informative guidance on the coming COVID-19 vaccines to nearly 100 KCMS members on a December 5 webinar. They praised the effectiveness of the vaccines and the integrity of the clinical trials.

November American Diabetes Month: Action Tips for Physicians

Fri, 13 Nov 2020 15:24:00 GMT

Diabetes mellitus is a chronic disease that has a tremendous impact on the lives of the 34 million Americans living with diabetes every day. But in November each year, we take the opportunity to formally recognize this impact and reflect on how we can make a difference.

Mayors Discuss Health and Wellness at KCMS Annual Meeting

Fri, 23 Oct 2020 17:52:00 GMT

At the 2020 KCMS Virtual Annual Meeting on October 21, a panel of area mayors described recent health and wellness successes achieved in their communities. Also at the Annual Meeting, the KCMS 2020 Awards were presented. Thank you to the Annual Meeting sponsors.

Register Now for Oct. 21 Annual Meeting: KCMS Awards; Protecting & Promoting Community Health Panel

Sat, 17 Oct 2020 16:53:00 GMT

Register now for the KCMS Virtual Annual Meeting this Wednesday, Oct. 21, at 7 p.m. over Zoom. Join in honoring our 2020 Award recipients. Hear an informative discussion on "Protecting and Promoting Community Health" from a panel of mayors and civic leaders. Celebrate the presentation of an honorary KCMS membership to Chiefs lineman and 2018 medical school graduate Laurent Duvernay-Tardif.

Chiefs’ Lineman to Receive KCMS Honorary Membership

Fri, 25 Sep 2020 20:24:00 GMT

Chiefs' offensive lineman Laurent Duvernay-Tardif will be welcomed as a KCMS Honorary Member at the October 21 Annual Meeting. He is the first medical school graduate to play in the National Football League. This year, he has spent nine weeks caring for patients in a nursing home in his native Quebec.

Flu Shot Campaign Materials Available

Fri, 25 Sep 2020 19:51:00 GMT

Let’s avoid the “twindemics” of COVID-19 and seasonal influenza by encouraging patients to get their annual flu shots, preferably early. Download these graphics for your social media.

KCMS Offers COVID-19 School Safety Recommendations

Fri, 11 Sep 2020 15:45:00 GMT

The Kansas City Medical Society has approved a statement on opening schools safely during the COVID-19 pandemic. Decisions on school openings should be guided by science and health care professionals, take into consideration current trends in community spread of COVID-19, and include financial support to provide supplies and increase services for schools.

Thank You for Passing Medicaid Expansion

Wed, 05 Aug 2020 05:01:00 GMT

Thank you to the voters of Missouri and thank you to all the individuals and organizations that worked so hard for passage of Amendment 2. Now, more than 230,000 hard-working Missourians will be able to access the health care they need to remain healthy, contributing members of society.

Physicians Advise, “Wear a Mask,” in New Video

Fri, 24 Jul 2020 20:32:00 GMT

Check out and share this new two-minute video of KCMS physicians urging the public to wear masks to prevent the spread of COVID-19. The video was created at the suggestion of KCMS members during the July 11 KCMS webinar on COVID-19 leadership.

KCMS Statement on Mask Wearing

Thu, 16 Jul 2020 16:37:00 GMT

The Kansas City Medical Society has adopted a statement emphasizing the critical importance of individuals wearing face masks in public at all times to prevent the spread of COVID-19.

Join KCMS for July 11 and 18 Webinars on COVID Leadership, Medicaid Expansion

Thu, 02 Jul 2020 16:56:00 GMT

Join KCMS for two timely and informative physician-only webinars scheduled for 8-9 a.m. on Saturday, July 11 and Saturday, July 18.

July 11, “Leading Through Crisis: Lessons Learned from COVID-19”

Dr. Jackson

Dr. Norman

Dr. Archer

Three area health care leaders will join in a panel discussion “ Leading Through Crisis: Lessons Learned from COVID-19 ” on Saturday, July 11, from 8-9 a.m. over Zoom. KCMS members and other physicians are invited to view the presentation. Panelists will include Rex Archer, MD , Kansas City, Mo., health director, and Lee Norman, MD , secretary of the Kansas Department of Health and Environment. Moderating the panel will be Mary Anne Jackson, MD , dean of the University of Missouri-Kansas City School of medicine and an infectious disease specialist. There is no cost to attend this PHYSICIAN ONLY event, but advance registration is required to get the Zoom link. Learn more and register

July 18, “Medicaid Expansion: Impact on Access to Care”

Dr. Brady

Dr. McCandless

Sen. Denning

A panel of community leaders will discuss Medicaid expansion and its impact on access to care in a KCMS webinar on Saturday, July 18, from 8-9 a.m. over Zoom. KCMS members and other physicians are invited to view the presentation. Speakers will include Kansas state Sen. Jim Denning , and former Health Forward Foundation CEO Bridget McCandless, MD, MBA . KCMS past President Mark Brady, MD , will moderate. A constitutional amendment implementing Medicaid expansion is going before Missouri voters on Aug. 4. In Kansas, legislative action to expand Medicaid stalled this year, but advocates will be pushing for the measure again in 2021. There is no cost to attend this PHYSICIAN ONLY event, but advance registration is required to get the Zoom link. Learn more and register .

Additional webinars featuring candidates for Missouri and Kansas elective offices are being planned for later in the summer.

KCMS Physicians Discuss Medicaid Expansion

Thu, 25 Jun 2020 03:12:00 GMT

On these five brief videos, Kansas City Medical Society member physicians discuss how expanding Medicaid will keep people healthier, support our local economies and bring taxpayer dollars back from Washington. Please share these videos and encourage Missouri residents to vote YES on Amendment 2 on August 4.

Yes on Missouri Medicaid Expansion Aug. 4

Sun, 14 Jun 2020 22:53:00 GMT

On August 4, Missouri voters have the opportunity to pass Amendment 2, which will expand Medicaid coverage per the Affordable Care Act to over 200,000 low-income Missourians. The Kansas City Medical Society and the Kansas City Medical Society Foundation endorse Amendment 2.

Attention Patients: It’s Safe to See Your Doctor

Sun, 14 Jun 2020 22:01:00 GMT

The Kansas City Medical Society reminds everyone: Don't delay your health care. It's safe to see the doctor. Putting off seeking care could lead to your condition getting worse.

Mental Health Resources for Physicians

Wed, 20 May 2020 18:38:00 GMT

Whether you are working on the frontlines caring for COVID-19 patients, or your practice has suffered a substantial loss of patients and income, or you are otherwise affected, the pandemic has brought much added stress for physicians.

COVID-19 Resources for Physicians

Fri, 15 May 2020 23:29:00 GMT

The novel coronavirus (COVID-19) situation is changing rapidly. For the latest updates on the novel coronavirus (COVID-19), check these local and national websites regularly.

Karole Bradford Appointed Chief Executive Officer of Kansas City Medical Society Foundation

Wed, 29 Apr 2020 22:46:00 GMT

Please join us in congratulating Karole Bradford who has been appointed chief executive officer of the Kansas City Medical Society Foundation effective May 1, 2020. Bradford joined the KCMS Foundation in December 2018 as chief program officer. She brings nearly 20 years of nonprofit leadership experience.

COVID-19 Financial Assistance for Physician Practices

Tue, 31 Mar 2020 21:51:00 GMT

The COVID-19 pandemic is placing financial stress on physician practices through the shutdown of non-essential services. Many face substantial loss of revenue. Emergency assistance is becoming available to physician practices and other providers through several federal and local Kansas City programs.

Special Message on COVID-19 from KCMS President Dr. Betty Drees

Wed, 18 Mar 2020 15:25:00 GMT

The coronavirus pandemic is a serious threat like none we have experienced in our lifetimes. Whether or not you are involved in the direct treatment of COVID-19 patients, we all have a role to play. Together, we can and will manage through this crisis.

Lessons from 1918: Social Distancing Was Most Effective Preventive Measure

Wed, 18 Mar 2020 12:24:00 GMT

The last flu pandemic to affect the United States to this magnitude was the 1918 influenza. Kansas City was less effective than other cities, particularly St. Louis, in implementing broad and swift social distancing measures. The lessons of 1918 are very relevant today. Learn more in these links.

KCMS Sponsoring Three Resolutions to MSMA House of Delegates

Fri, 21 Feb 2020 01:01:00 GMT

The Kansas City Medical Society is sponsoring or co-sponsoring three resolutions for presentation to the Missouri State Medical Association House of Delegates April 3-5.

Easy Moves to Reduce Your Risk for Heart Disease

Fri, 14 Feb 2020 20:16:00 GMT

Walking for 30 minutes nonstop on a daily basis reduces one’s risk for heart attack by 20% in their lifetime. In conjunction with February Heart Health Month, find out how easy it is to start a walking program.

KCMS Leader’s Commentary in the Star Makes Case for Medicaid Expansion

Fri, 07 Feb 2020 03:25:00 GMT

See this excellent commentary by Michael O'Dell, MD, MSHA, FAAFP, in the February 6 Kansas City Star on how Medicaid expansion will save money for the State of Missouri, help keep people healthy and working, and help keep rural hospitals open.

Make the Physician Voice Heard Through Resolutions

Tue, 28 Jan 2020 16:08:00 GMT

Deadline approaching for Missouri convention resolutions

Each year, resolutions are submitted by local medical societies and individual members to the Missouri State Medical Association and Kansas Medical Society conventions. The MSMA convention will be held April 3-5 in St. Louis; the KMS convention will be held September 25-26. Many resolutions approved by MSMA and KMS are forwarded to the American Medical Association meetings for further consideration; others are implemented at the state level.

KCMS encourages members to participate in the resolutions process by presenting ideas for resolutions. If you would like to have your resolution introduced by the Medical Society at the upcoming MSMA meeting, please submit your idea by Tuesday, February 11, to Emily Whalen, director of membership and events, at ewhalen@kcmedicine.org . If you prefer to submit your resolution directly to MSMA, the deadline for submitting resolutions to MSMA for inclusion in convention materials is Tuesday, February 18, at 5 p.m . More information on MSMA resolutions and how to submit .

Here are the topics of resolutions approved by MSMA in 2019:

Need tips on how to write a resolution? See MSMA resolution writing guidelines

Watch for information on Kansas resolutions prior to the KMS convention.

New Resources Announced for Prescription Drug Monitoring Program

Fri, 24 Jan 2020 23:34:00 GMT

The St. Louis County Department of Public Health has announced two important enhancements to the Prescription Drug Monitoring Program (PDMP) that covers much of Missouri including Jackson, Clay and Cass counties.

Legislative Action Alert: Kansas Medicaid Expansion

Fri, 24 Jan 2020 23:17:00 GMT

On January 9, Kansas Gov. Laura Kelly and Senate Majority Leader Jim Denning announced a bipartisan compromise plan to expand Medicaid in Kansas. Legislation has been drafted and introduced (SB 252)

Hearings on SB 252 began January 23 in the Kansas Senate Public Health and Welfare Committee and will continue the week of January 27. Pending committee action, a full Senate vote could be held quickly. Last year, Medicaid expansion passed the House but was blocked in the Senate.

If you live or practice in Kansas, please call your state senator where you live and/or practice to express your support. If you don’t have the name or phone number of your state senator, you can look it up here .

Details on the bipartisan compromise:
– KCUR
– Topeka Capital-Journal

Help push Medicaid expansion over the finish line in Kansas!

More information about Medicaid expansion in Kansas and Missouri

Welcoming Betty M. Drees, MD, FACP, as 2020 KCMS President

Fri, 17 Jan 2020 21:29:00 GMT

Dr. Drees served as KCMS president-elect in 2019 and is a member of the KCMS Foundation Board of Directors.

Dr. Drees has 30 years in clinical practice, research, education, and administration. Her research interests center around community impact and improved quality of health care, such as prevention of diabetes mellitus and prevention of fractures. She is the site principal investigator for the Enhanced Lifestyles for Metabolic Syndrome (ELM) study, which is a $9 million, six-year, multi-site trial for evaluation of lifestyle intervention for sustained reversal of metabolic syndrome. She is president of the regional American Diabetes Association Community Leadership Board.

She began her career with the Veterans Administration in the research Career Development Program, and, in addition to seeing patients for metabolic disorders and diabetes, also helped the hospital system develop its strategy to adopt the use of electronic medical records.

Among her many honors, Dr. Drees is a member of the Alpha Omega Alpha and Phi Kappa Phi honor societies and is a Fellow in the American College of Physicians and the American College of Endocrinology. She has been recognized by Kansas City’s 435 Magazine (2014) and the Kansas City Business Journal (2013) on their “Best Doctors” lists, by Ingram’s Magazine as one of Kansas City’s Most Accomplished and Successful Women (2008), among MidwestCEO ’s Influential Women (2009), and in Kansas City’s Influential Women: Inspiration and mentorship from the women who make Kansas City great, Susan Greenberg, editor (2010).

Dr. Drees obtained her medical degree from the University of Kansas and continued her training at the University of Kansas Medical Center with a residency in internal medicine and a fellowship in endocrinology, diabetes and metabolism.

Celebrating Our Successes in 2019

Wed, 08 Jan 2020 20:06:00 GMT

Thanks to you, our members, the Kansas City Medical Society enjoyed a most successful year in 2019. We are reaping the benefits of the merger that created one metropolitan medical society. We look forward to even greater success in 2020.

Here are some highlights that took place in 2019 … because of you:

Thank you to Mark Brady, MD, for his leadership as President in 2019. We look forward to another successful year in 2020 with President Betty Drees, MD!

North Kansas City Hospital Appoints Stephen L. Reintjes, Sr., MD, as President and CEO

Fri, 03 Jan 2020 17:21:00 GMT

Dr. Reintjes, a nationally recognized neurosurgeon and executive leader, is a past president of the Kansas City Medical Society and a past board member of the Missouri State Medical Association. A respected and engaged member of the North Kansas City Hospital medical staff for 30 years, Dr. Reintjes has held numerous executive leadership positions at the hospital, including director of spine surgery and medical staff president. In the community, Dr. Reintjes is a board member of BioNexus KC and the Midwest Transplant Network.

North Kansas City Hospital is a longtime partner of the Medical Society and supporter of our charitable care programs, Wy Jo Care and Metro Care, donating hospital services in support of volunteer specialty physician care for uninsured patients.

Said North Kansas City Hospital board of trustees chairperson Rebecca Welbern: “Dr. Reintjes is a proven health care leader at North Kansas City Hospital and across the region’s health care community. He’s been an engaged, trusted physician and colleague for many years. We are confident in his ability to maintain our organizational excellence and unique culture.”

Dr. Reintjes is a graduate of Rockhurst High School, Georgetown University and the University of Kansas School of Medicine, earning his undergraduate and graduate degrees in philosophy and medicine. He completed his residency in neurosurgery at the KU School of Medicine.

“I am honored to have been selected as North Kansas City Hospital’s next CEO. It is a privilege to be part of an organization that delivers personalized, high quality health care,” said Dr. Reintjes. “We are an organization led by a purpose – to provide hope and healing to every life we touch. I will do my best to serve our patients and help our employees and physicians fulfill their passion to make a difference.”

Dr. Reintjes practices neurosurgery with his son, Stephen L. Reintjes, Jr., MD.

North Kansas City Hospital has 451 beds and ranks fourth on the Kansas City Business Journal’s list of the area’s largest acute-care general hospitals, with 20,736 admissions in 2018. Its subsidiary Meritas Health offers primary and specialty care in 30 facilities in Platte and Clay counties.

See the hospital news release

Study of Americans’ Attitudes on Health Care Uncovers Deep Concern About Costs, Policies

Fri, 27 Dec 2019 23:16:00 GMT

Health care costs weigh heavily on Americans’ minds, with 73% concerned about their ability to pay for an unexpected medical treatment, according to the 2019 biennial Survey of America’s Patients by the Physicians Foundation , a nonprofit seeking to advance the work of practicing physicians and help them facilitate the delivery of high-quality health care to patients.

In addition, the survey found that Americans are unclear about policy proposals for a single-payer system, with an overwhelming number (77%) confused about what a single-payer system means. Patients support the physician’s role in leading health care, with 94% of agreeing that the physician should be allowed to overrule the health insurance company and 91% believing they should have the ability to significantly influence the health care system..

“The Physicians Foundation’s survey is meant to be a comprehensive look at patients’ views on multiple aspects of our health care system; however, it’s clear that costs, policy issues and the opioid epidemic are areas of concern,” noted Gary Price, MD, president of The Physicians Foundation. “The survey also shows that patients want their physicians to assume greater leadership roles in advocating for solutions to these pressing issues.”

Costs
The survey found that the rise in what patients pay for medical care is causing significant financial concern with nearly half (42%) of Americans only being able to afford $500 or less in unexpected medical expenses before facing financial issues.

Politics
With the presidential campaign underway, the current political discussion about health care is confusing to patients. In fact, nearly one in four Americans (22%) are not sure exactly what “single payer health care” means, while 77% cannot agree on one definition. With confusion swirling around the term, the majority (55%) of Americans are more likely to vote for a candidate who advocates for expanding private insurance reforms.

Physician Leadership
Nearly all (91%) Americans believe physicians should have the ability to significantly influence the health care system; while 71% feel that the ultimate decisions about their health care should be made in collaboration with their physician. Further, 94% of Americans agree that the physician should be allowed to overrule the health insurance company and 93% believe the physician’s opinion should outweigh the insurance company’s opinion when it comes to health care.

“Patients want us as their advocates and believe physicians should have a great deal of influence on our health care system because we have patients’ best interests at heart,” said Dr. Price. “We cannot sit idly by as our patients are negatively impacted by ill-informed policy reform. The physician-patient relationship should be at the forefront of our health care system with the goal of driving down costs while improving the delivery of high-quality care for all people.”

Additional findings from the 2019 Survey of America’s Patients include:

Opioids
When it comes to the opioid epidemic, the survey shows that this continues to be a serious public health emergency impacting millions of Americans. Shockingly, 35% of Americans know someone who has abused or is addicted to opioids and 21% know someone who has died because of opioid use. Patients blame pharmaceutical companies (53%) and physicians (39%) for their role in causing the epidemic even though data from the Physicians Foundation’s 2018 Survey of America’s Physicians found that 69% of physicians are prescribing fewer pain medications.

With the opioid epidemic top of mind, 60% of Americans believe rehabilitative services are essential health care, while 45% believe care for substance abuse is essential. A majority (69%) believe that care for mental health disorders is essential.

“It is clear, now more than ever, patients need our support. They need direct and open communication about the very real issues facing them today,” said Dr. Price. “From costs, to the impending presidential election and the opioid epidemic, it’s time our health care system takes into account the patient voice if we hope to move the needle on health care reform. More than ever, physicians need to show critical leadership on these issues.”

For a complete breakdown of the survey and its results, click here .

###

Fourth Quarter Kansas City Medicine Highlights Need for Advocacy, Recaps Annual Meeting

Tue, 10 Dec 2019 21:11:00 GMT

The fourth quarter issue of Kansas City Medicine, the Medical Society’s award-winning journal, is here. Watch for your copy in the mail later this month.

Read the current issue . Featured in this issue:

Advocacy

– Profiles of former Kansas Gov. Jeff Colyer, MD ; Kansas State Sen. Barbara Bollier, MD ; and Missouri State Rep. Jonathan Patterson, MD . How these three physicians are making a difference by serving in elected office.

– Advocacy tips: How physicians can build relationships with the legislators representing the districts where they live and practice. Important decisions are being made that will shape the environment and rules under which physicians will practice in the future. Find out how to keep informed about legislative issues and make the physician voice heard!

Annual Meeting Recap

– Summary of remarks by keynote speaker Vanila Singh, MD, MACM, Stanford University professor who served for two years as a chief medical officer in the Department of Health & Human Services. She discussed the findings of the federal inter-agency task force on pain management that she chaired.

– Photos from the Annual Meeting. See who was there!

– Expanded profiles of the 2019 KCMS Award recipients, including former Kansas City Mayor Charles B. Wheeler, Jr., MD, JD, the Lifetime Achievement Award honoree. Also profiled are Friend of Medicine honoree Patrick “Rusty” Ryan, PharmD, as well as the five Member Award recipients

Photos from the 2019 Medical Society Annual Meeting

Fri, 11 Oct 2019 16:46:00 GMT

Over 250 Medical Society physicians and partners attended the KCMS 2019 Annual Meeting on September 26. Keynote speaker was Vanila M. Singh, MD, MACM, Stanford University professor and immediate former chief medical officer in the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. Wesley Hamilton, founder of the Disabled But Not Really Foundation of Kansas City, also spoke. Former Kansas City Mayor Charles B. Wheeler, Jr, MD, JD, received the Lifetime Achievement Award. Patrick B. “Rusty” Ryan, PharmD, received the Friend of Medicine Award. Thanks to our premier sponsor Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Kansas City and all of our sponsors. (Photos by Mike Curtis) ( Click on individual photo to enlarge. )

Individualized, Multidisciplinary Approach to Pain Management Is Needed, HHS Task Force Chair Tells KCMS Annual Meeting

Thu, 10 Oct 2019 16:17:00 GMT

Dr. Singh chaired the federal Pain Management Best Practices Inter-Agency Task Force that released its report on pain management best practices in May. She chaired the task force as part of her work as chief medical officer for the Office of the Assistant Secretary for Health, U.S. Department of Health & Human Services, from June 2017 through July 2019. Dr. Singh also has served at Stanford University School of Medicine for the past 13 years as clinical associate professor of anesthesiology, perioperative and pain medicine.

“Pain matters. Addressing it matters. How we address pain is what enables people to recover and return to society. It has to remain at the forefront of what we do,” Dr. Singh said.

(click on image to enlarge)

Data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention show that some 50 million American adults suffer from chronic pain daily or almost daily, and 19.6 million American adults have high-impact chronic pain that significantly affects their quality of life, she quoted from the task force report. This in turn has led to the opioid crisis where people becoming addicted to prescription painkillers, and then end up obtaining substitutes on the street that often are laced with the much more powerful and damaging fentanyl.

Dr. Singh presented the model for pain management proposed by the task force.

In assessing the patient, the task force calls for a biopsychosocial approach . The physician should consider three components: biological factors (age, injury, diagnosis, general health), psychological factors (mood, stress, trauma) and social factors (culture, education, spirituality). This provides a complete, holistic view of the patient.

(click on image to enlarge)

Treatment should be individualized, multimodal and multidisciplinary , she said. The mix available to the physician includes not just medications, but also can incorporate interventional procedures, restorative therapies, behavioral health, and complementary and integrative health approaches. The report details options in each of these areas.

“This pain management model places even greater priority on the physician-patient relationship,” Dr. Singh said. “Together they can arrive at a treatment plan that best suits the patient’s individual needs and circumstances.”

The task force had 29 members including representatives of federal agencies, hospital associations, medical organizations, patient advocacy organizations and others, along with experts in pain management, substance use disorder, primary care, pharmacy and other areas. The report was the result of broad stakeholder input including more than 10,000 public comments, she said. The report has been endorsed by the American Medical Association, the Association of American Physicians and Surgeons and many other organizations.

Follow the activities of the Pain Management Task Force through these links:

Congratulations to Recipients of our 2019 KCMS Awards!

Thu, 19 Sep 2019 15:44:00 GMT

The Medical Society is pleased to announce the recipients of our 2019 KCMS Awards. The honors were presented at the Medical Society Annual Meeting on Thursday, September 26.

Learn more and read our tribute bio .

Watch our tribute video from the awards presentation .

Learn more and read our tribute bio .

Watch our tribute video from the awards presentation .

Member Awards:

Congratulations to our 2019 honorees!

Surgeon General Issues Advisory Against Marijuana Use During Pregnancy and Adolescence

Wed, 04 Sep 2019 20:10:00 GMT

The advisory cites statements from the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists and the American Academy of Pediatrics, as well as numerous studies. It also notes that the potency of marijuana today is much stronger, with the THC concentration in commonly cultivated marijuana plants having increased three-fold between 1995 and 2014.

“Recent increases in access to marijuana and in its potency, along with misperceptions of safety of marijuana endanger our most precious resource, our nation’s youth,” the advisory stated.

Read the full advisory.

See the August 29 news conference with Surgeon General Dr. Adams and Secretary of Health & Human Services Alex Azar .

Reports on Actions at the AMA House of Delegates Meeting

Wed, 04 Sep 2019 19:42:00 GMT

Delegates from Missouri and Kansas participated in the House of Delegates at the American Medical Association meeting in June. A wide range of issues were discussed. Click on the links below for more information on the proceedings.

KCMS members in the Missouri AMA delegation included Charles Van Way, III, MD, far left and MSMA President James DiRenna, Jr., DO, second row standing left.

Members of the Kansas AMA delegation included KCMS members Richard Warner, MD, and Art Snow, MD, second and third from left.

Full AMA meeting report from Missouri Medicine by Charles W. Van Way, III, MD, member of the Missouri delegation

Report on the 2019 Annual Meeting of the AMA Organized Medical Staff Section by Art Snow, MD, member of the Kansas Delegation

AMA Summaries of the Proceedings

KCMS Journal Honored for Publication Excellence

Tue, 13 Aug 2019 19:41:00 GMT

Kansas City Medicine is among 100 Grand Award winners out of more than 1,200 entries in the competition, recognized in the category of magazines, journals and tabloids. The award affirms the Medical Society’s commitment to providing a quality publication for the membership.

Communications Concepts, Inc. helps publishing, public relations and marketing professionals improve publications and communications programs through consulting services and reports on business writing and communications. Learn more about the APEX Awards .

Position Opening: Kansas City Medical Society Foundation Business Manager

Mon, 05 Aug 2019 20:56:00 GMT

The Kansas City Medical Society Foundation , the charitable arm of the Kansas City Medical Society, is seeking a qualified individual to serve as our Business Manager.

The Business Manager provides management, administrative and project/event coordination functions for the Kansas City Medical Society Foundation in a virtual office environment. This position reports to the Chief Program Officer.

Minimum Key Responsibilities:

Qualifications:

How to Apply:

Interested applicants should submit a cover letter, salary requirements and resume to kbradford@kcmedicine.org.

This is a full-time position. KCMSF offers an attractive team-oriented flexible work environment, paid time off/vacation, and health stipend.

KCMSF is an equal opportunity employer that welcomes all qualified persons without regard to race, color, sex, disability, national origin, citizenship, age, pregnancy, genetic information, military status, ancestry or any other characteristic or status protected by law.

Job Type: Full Time

Salary Range: $30,000 – 49,999,$50,000 – 74,999

Be part of our mission to coordinate volunteer specialty care for the uninsured and promote community health. Learn more about the Kansas City Medical Society Foundation .

The Kansas City Medical Society

Letter from the President 2026

A Letter from the President

Brad Garstang MD

Family Physician, Liberty Hospital

Letter from the President 2025

A Letter from the President

Sarah J. Hon, DO, MBA, FAAN

2024 Physician Suicide Awareness Campaign

Kansas City area hospitals turn out for Physician Suicide Awareness Day: September 17th, 2024

Anthony Harrington, MD Neurologist, Research Medical Center and KCMS Leader

Passion for being a Physician:

Challenges of being a Physician:

What are some available resources for struggling physicians?

Why do you believe there are higher suicide rates among Physicians than in other industries?

Final thoughts:

Joanne Loethen, MD Primary Care Physician, UH-KC and KCMS Leader

Tell us about your passion for medicine

In your opinion, what challenges lead to Physician burnout and suicide?

What are some coping strategies that help you?

The importance of personal connections:

The need for teamwork and support:

Tell us about your personal experience with Physician suicide:

Dr. Able Speaks on Physician Burnout

By Dr. Kelsey L. Able

“Our inability to say no, our avoidance and our hiding, often lead us to feelings of immense failure, inauthenticity, and burnout.”

Dr. Kelsey L. Able

No Half Measures

By Anthony M. Harrington, M.D.

Anthony M. Harrington, M.D.

KCMS Opioid Crisis and Narcan™ Education Program

KCMS and KCMSF received a grant from AHEI for Narcan™ training kits to support the KCMS Opioid Crisis and Narcan™ Education Program.

Letter from the President 2024

A Letter from the President

2023 KCMS Medical Student Scholarship Recipient

Congratulations to our 2023 Kansas City Medical Society Medical Student Scholarship Recipient

Carson Gates

2023 Annual Event

2023 Annual Meeting: An Amazing Event!

Walk with a Doc

Walk With a Doc

Walk With a Doc Upcoming Dates:

Letter from the President Summer 2023

A Letter from the President

KCMS Foundation's Initiative Aims to Eliminate Disparities in Cancer Treatment

KCMS Foundation's Initiative Aims to Eliminate Disparities in Cancer Treatment

Medical Society Foundation’s Initiative Aims to Eliminate Disparities in Cancer Treatment

Annual Meeting of the American Medical Association (AMA)

Annual Meeting of the American Medical Association (AMA)

North Kansas City Hospital | Donate Life

North Kansas City Hospital | Donate Life

165th MSMA Convention

165th MSMA Convention

New Executive Director Announcement

New Executive Director Announcement

Membership Portal

Letter from the President

A Letter from the President

Kansas City Medical Society Interim Executive Director Steps Down

On Dec. 31, 2022, Annette Small will step down from her role as Interim Executive Director of the Kansas City Medical Society. The new Executive Director will be announced soon.

Annette Small, RN, BSN, MBA

Annette departs the Kansas City Medical Society with a few parting words about her time, experiences, and excitement for the future:

Thank you, Annette, for all you have done — and will continue to do —to enhance health care in our communities.

Kansas City Medical Society 2022 Year-in-Review Publication

The Kansas City Medical Society year-end publication features our annual impact on health care in Kansas City communities, profiles of each of this year’s Kansas City Medical Society Award winners, and more. Download the PDF to read more, and get ready for even more meaningful moments in 2023!

2022 Publication ﻿

St. Luke’s Health System Cardiologist Dr. Paul Chan Co-Authors Study Making National Headlines

A recent study published in The New England Journal of Medicine and co-authored by Saint Luke’s Health System‘s Paul S. Chan, M.D., is making national headlines on CNN, news radio, and other major outlets.

Paul Chan, MD

Celebrations and Award Winners from the 2022 Annual Meeting

2022 Kansas City Medical Society Annual Meeting

Former KCMS President wins Independence City Council Primary Election

Michael Weaver, MD, Receives KCMS 2021 Lifetime Achievement Award; Other Awards Presented

Thank You Annual Meeting Supporters

Introducing … “Your Health Minute”

Introducing … “Your Health Minute”

1. What You Can Do to Control High Blood Pressure

2. Taking Medications for Your High Blood Pressure

3. What Is Prediabetes and What it Means

4. Management of type 2 Diabetes

Anthony Harrington, MD
Neurologist, Research Medical Center and KCMS Leader

Joanne Loethen, MD
Primary Care Physician, UH-KC and KCMS Leader

2022 Publication