Maine Medicine Weekly Update - March 18, 2019
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Great Attendance at Physicians' Day at the Legislature

Fifty-eight physicians and nine medical students, many in white coats, were in the State House for Physicians' Day at the Legislature last Wednesday.

Fifty-eight physicians and nine medical students, many in white coats, were in the State House for Physicians' Day at the Legislature last Wednesday. It was the best turnout in several years. Meetings were held with Legislative leadership from both parties, and the afternoon featured a tea at the Blaine House with Governor Janet Mills.

Members were able to meet with many of their state senators and representatives as well as with Democratic and Republican leaders of the House and Senate and our five physician-legislators. Several doctors stayed around after the day was over in order to testify before the Joint Committee on Education and Cultural Affairs on a bill to repeal the philosophical and religious exemptions to the school immunization requirements.

MMA Board of Directors Meets with US DHHS Region I Administrator John McGough

The MMA Board of Directors held a regular business meeting following a busy Physicians' Day at the Legislature in the Maine State House last Wednesday. 

The MMA Board of Directors conducted its second regular business meeting of 2019 in the newly renovated large conference room in the Frank O. Stred Building in Manchester on Wednesday, March 13th. Most of MMA's officers and many board members had spent some time at the State House for Physicians' Day at the Legislature and/or at the Blaine House for a Tea with Governor Mills and Director of Opioid Response Gordon Smith.

MMA President Robert Schlager, M.D. welcomed Physicians' Day participants in remarks in the Hall of Flags and President-elect Amy Madden, M.D. and Board Chair Karen Saylor, M.D. joined a great crowd of physicians at the Blaine House Tea, all before the board meeting.

The priority topics on the board business agenda featured a visit with guest John McGough, the US DHHS Region I Administrator, who spoke about the priorities of US DHHS Secretary Alex Azar, including the opioid crisis and prescription drug prices. The other priority topics for the Board were amendments to the 2019 MMA operating budget and highlights of the current legislative session. Leadership reports covered the AMA's National Advocacy Conference, MMA's Physician Wellness Summit scheduled for April 10th, and updates on the MMA CEO search process and the Ad Hoc Committee on Physician-assisted Death.

Board members are enjoying the much improved atmosphere of the renovated conference room and remote participation has been greatly enhanced through the Zoom technology now available.

The MMA Board will hold its next regular business meeting on Wednesday, April 24th.

Case of Mumps Confirmed at York High School

The Maine CDC has confirmed that a York High School student, unvaccinated against mumps, contracted the disease while traveling outside the US and subsequently became ill.

The Maine CDC has confirmed that a York High School student, unvaccinated against mumps, contracted the disease while traveling outside the US and subsequently became ill. The person was not isolated during the early stages of the illness and may have exposed others between March 6^th and 8^th, including at a basketball game at Massabesic High School gym on March 7^th.

Mumps is spread through saliva or mucus and objects of surfaces touched by an infected person. The Maine CDC is working to notify close contacts and has provided recommendations for the school. Dr. Siiri Bennett, state epidemiologist, said that mumps can be prevented through vaccination. While the vaccine protection is not perfect, one is nine times less likely to get the disease if vaccinated. Two doses of the vaccine yield the highest protection level.

Boards Seek Comments on Proposed Rule for Office-based Treatment of Opioid Use Disorder

The Board of Licensure in Medicine, State Board of Nursing, and Board of Osteopathic Licensure propose to adopt a new joint rule regarding office-based treatment of opioid use disorder. The proposed rule: defines terms; establishes minimum requirements for qualified clinicians to prescribe, and in limited circumstances, dispense approved medications to individuals requiring and seeking treatment for opioid use disorder; establishes requirements for prescriptions for approved medications; establishes principles for proper office based treatment for opioid use disorder; establishes requirements for clinical care and management; and establishes additional requirements for pregnant patients and adolescent patients.

Full details can be found by following the link, Proposed Rule.

Comments are due by Friday, April 12, 2019 at 4:30 p.m.

Egg Consumption Associated With Increased Risk of Cardiovascular Disease

A New York Times story reports an analysis of six prospective studies connects egg consumption with increased cardiovascular risk.

[from AMA Morning Rounds]

The New York Times (3/15, Bakalar) reports an analysis examining data from six prospective studies involving almost 30,000 participants “found that for each additional 300 milligrams a day of cholesterol...there was a 17 percent increased risk of cardiovascular disease and an 18 percent increased risk of premature death from any cause.”

Furthermore, “each additional half-egg a day was associated with a 6 percent increased risk of cardiovascular disease and an 8 percent increased risk of early death.”

The research was published in JAMA.

MMA Legislative Call Tuesday, March 19th

The Maine Legislature is in full swing, with over 1,200 bills printed. All committees are holding public hearings and work sessions and voting on bills. That means there's lots of work to do on the MMA Legislative Calls. The next call will be Tuesday, March 19th, at 8 p.m.

MMA Legislative Committee Chairs Jay Mullen, M.D. and Lindsey Tweed, M.D. welcome you to participate in the weekly conference calls of the MMA Legislative Committee.

The last MMA Legislative Committee weekly conference call for the First Regular Session of the 129th Maine Legislature will take place Tuesday, March 12th, at 8:00 p.m.

Legislative Committee members and specialty society legislative liaisons are strongly encouraged to participate. Any physician, practice manager, or other staff member who is interested in the MMA's legislative advocacy also is welcome to participate. It is not necessary to RSVP for the calls.

Please use the following conference call number and passcode. These will remain the same for every weekly call during the session.

Conference call number: 1-603-766-5646

Participant ID - 699139#

The purpose of the weekly conference calls is to discuss the MMA's position on bills printed the previous week, to hear the views of specialty societies on the new bills or their concerns about any current health policy issues, and to discuss the highlights of legislative action of the week. The calls rarely last longer than an hour.

The following are bills of interest to the physician community printed last week. (For those not familiar with the term, a "concept draft" is a bill that contains only a title and a brief description of what it is intended to do. It does not contain the actual bill text.) We will discuss the priority bills marked with an asterisk (*) first. This will be important when the list grows in the next few weeks.

Following are the bills of the week: 

March 19, 2019

LD 1225,  An Act To Increase Funding for Home Visiting Programs. As stated, for foster families caring for infants.

LD 1228,  Resolve, Requiring the Department of Health and Human Services To Create a Limited Benefit MaineCare Card for Individuals Eligible for the Medicare Savings Program. As stated.

LD 1229,  Resolve, To Establish the Committee To Study and Develop Recommendations To Address Guardianship Challenges That Delay Patient Discharges from Hospitals. As stated, in cases involving guardianship, conservatorship and authorization of transaction challenges for persons clinically authorized for discharge.

LD 1235,  An Act To Increase Safety in Health Care Facilities. Requires all health care facilities (not just hospitals) to adopt annually a safety and security plan addressing aggressive or violent behavior.

LD 1236,  An Act To Clarify the Laws Governing the Licensing of Paramedics. Defines paramedic, authorizes supervision by physicians, NPs, and PAs.

LD 1239,  An Act To Mandate Paid Maternity and Parental Leave. Employer-paid 2 weeks (1-49 employees) or 4 weeks (>49 employees) for persons employed over 12 months, plus right of rehire.

LD 1243,  An Act To Assist Small Businesses in Providing Health Care for Their Employees. Requires Bureau of Insurance to assist small (<51) employers to understand and obtain health care coverage for their employees.

LD 1249,  An Act To Prohibit the Abuse and Isolation of Older and Dependent Adults. Applies to persons having responsibility for care, custody, or control. Felony. Based on RI law.

LD 1255,  RESOLUTION, Proposing an Amendment to the Constitution of Maine To Require Referenda To Receive 60 Percent of the Vote To Become Law. As stated.

*LD 1256,  An Act To Provide a Health Care Preceptor Tax Credit. Up to $1500 per year total credit ($500 per student) for APRN, physician, or PA unpaid preceptors for APRN students only.

LD 1259,  Resolve, Directing the Department of Health and Human Services To Adopt Rules To Streamline and Remove Barriers for Reimbursement for Providers of Dental Care Services. Removes “written agreement with 2 dentists” requirement re: temporary fillings and radiograph interpretation, adds services of diagnosis, tobacco use counseling, and other dental services.

LD 1260,  An Act Regarding Short-term, Limited-duration Health Plans. Limits issuance of policies over 3 months, requires disclosures.

*LD 1261, An Act To Authorize Certain Health Care Professionals To Perform Abortions. Adds APRNs and PAs to DOs and MDs.

LD 1263,  An Act Regarding Telehealth. Require coverage for telehealth if those services would have been covered in person.

*LD 1264,  An Act Relating to Insurance Coverage for Screening Mammograms. Amends the definition of "screening mammogram" to include 3-dimensional tomosynthesis for purposes of coverage.

LD 1269,  An Act To Update the Laws Governing Child Safety Seats and Seat Belts. Amends law to include various types of child restraint systems and bases requirements on child’s age, height, and weight. Changes legal consequences of violation.

*LD 1272,  An Act To Increase Access to Low-cost Prescription Drugs. Allows importation of drugs from Canada by or oh behalf of State. Calls for designation of state agency to become licensed drug wholesaler to provide cost savings to consumers.

LD 1275,  An Act To Support Access to Health Services for Homeless Youth in Maine. Allows minors to consent if living separately and independent of parent support. Eliminates 60-day requirement.

*LD 1276,  An Act To Better Enforce the Prohibition against Dangerous Persons Possessing Firearms. Requires dealer background checks for private sales at gun shows when 25 or more firearms offered for sale and 3 or more vendors involved in event, or resulting from advertising or marketing (e.g., Craigslist, Uncle Henry’s, Facebook).

*LD 1277,  An Act To Require the Director of the Maine Center for Disease Control and Prevention To Be Credentialed. Sets qualifications (Physician or APRN, public health degree or equivalent education & experience, public health or human services administration experience). Requires annual report to HHS Committee.

LD 1281,  Resolve, To Create a Committee To Explore Regional Cooperation for Affordable Health Insurance. Explore New England health insurance cooperative.

*LD 1289,  Resolve, To Reduce the Incidence of Infants Exposed to Illegal Substances. Community based outreach for family planning options for certain women & adolescents (SUD, homeless, etc).

LD 1295,  An Act To Determine the Need To Increase the Number of Forensic Emergency and Crisis Beds. Concept draft, as stated.

LD 1296,  An Act To Clarify the Scope of Practice of Certain Licensed Professionals Regarding Conversion Therapy. Minority position from last year’s bill, limits prohibition to aversive practices. Excludes talk therapy. (See LD 1025)

LD 1297,  An Act To Reduce Youth Cancer Risk. Prohibits use of commercial tanning facilities by persons under 18, requires warnings, instruction, sanitization, protective eyewear, etc..

LD 1303,  An Act To Establish the State Board of Dental Hygiene. Concept draft, establishes board separate from dental board.

LD 1308,  An Act To Better Fund Nursing Homes in the State To Better Help the Elderly and Disabled. Concept draft, as stated.

LD 1309,  An Act To Index MaineCare Reimbursement to Nursing Homes and Other Adult Care Facilities to Increases in the Minimum Wage.As stated.

*LD 1312,  An Act Regarding Access to Firearms by Extremely Dangerous and Suicidal Individuals. Detailed “red flag” bill. Restrictions from 14 to 365 days (temporary and extended orders) with Court order. Petition may be filed by law enforcement or family or household member. Same day, ex parte orders available. Hearings required, “clear and convincing evidence” standard.

*LD 1313,  An Act To Enact the Maine Death with Dignity Act. Physician assisted death bill. Detailed consultation and notification requirements, waiting period, residency requirement, unused medication disposal. Health care providers may prohibit employees from participating.

*LD 1314,  An Act To Extend Protections for Genetic Information.Prohibits insurers from discriminating in issuing, renewing policies based on genetic information. Applies to life, credit life, disability, long-term care, accidental injury, specified disease, hospital indemnity or credit accident insurance or annuities.

LD 1315,  An Act To Support Medically Monitored Crisis Support and Intervention. Enhanced crisis stabilization MaineCare rates, applies to adults with mental health or co-occurring SUD who voluntarily seek treatment.

LD 1317,  An Act To Restore Services To Help Certain Noncitizens Meet Their Basic Needs. Provide MaineCare coverage (and SSI & food assistance) to lawful immigrant noncitizens.

LD 1325,  An Act To Allow Workplace Substance Use Testing for Fentanyl, Hydromorphone, Hydrocodone, Oxycodone and Oxymorphone Use at the Employer's Discretion. Allows any employer to test employees or applicants to test for these substances “during any substance use test.”

State House Highlights of the Week: Immunization Bills Draw Hundreds, Prior Authorization is Among Issues Before HCIFS Committee

Click through for news on the past week's developments in the Legislature and from the Governor's office.

Hundreds of people gathered at the Education and Cultural Affairs Committee last Wednesday to testify on two bills relating to the school, daycare, and healthcare workplace immunization requirements. LD 798, supported by the Maine Medical Association, would repeal the philosophical and religious exemptions to the requirement, while LD 987, opposed by the MMA, would broaden the medical exemption rules to allow nurses and others to issue them. The hearing began at 1:00 p.m. and ran without a break until 2:15 a.m. A work session on the bill will be scheduled at some time in the future.

Physician legislators Senators Geoff Gratwick and Linda Sanborn and Representative Patricia Hymanson all testified in favor of eliminating the non-medical exemptions, as did representatives of the Maine CDC, the Maine Department of Education, the Maine School Management Association, and the Maine School Nurses’ Association.

The MMA thanks the following 20 physicians who testified in person, and several not listed here who submitted written testimony, in favor of repeal:

Laura Blaisdell, MD

John Bancroft, MD

Sydney Sewall, MD

Stanley Chaleff, MD

Tom Reynolds, MD

Sam Zager, MD

Rebecca Hemphill, MD

Norma Dreyfus, MD

John Vogt, MD

Don Burgess, MD

Deborah Hagler, MD

Patricia Nobel, MD

Jack Nobel, MD

Emily Keller, MD

Adrienne Carmack, MD

Laura Kelly, MD

Tin Ha-Ngoc, MD

Larry Losey, MD

Sarah Hoffman, MD

Andrea Loeffler, MD

Testimony in opposition was submitted by the following physicians:

Zach Mazzone, DO

Meryl Nass, MD

Christiane Northrup, MD

Dustin Sulak, DO

In addition to the physicians who testified, many parents testified on both sides of the issue, along with nurses, chiropractors, naturopaths, attorneys, and others.

It is still not too late for physicians to make your views known to your state senator and state representative. The MMA can assist if you have trouble finding how to contact them.

The Health Coverage, Insurance & Financial Services Committee held a public hearing on three bills addressing certain practices by health insurance carriers:  LD 249, LD 705, and LD 1009.  LDs 249 and 705 addressed issues included in LD 1032 from the 128th Legislature.  That bill would have required the health insurance carriers to move towards "real time" electronic PA.  It passed the legislature, but was vetoed by Gov. LePage.  LD 705 brings that same language before the legislature again and it also would shorten the time frame for response to PA requests by the carriers and would exempt MAT from PA.  LD 249 amends the definition of a "clinical peer" in the utilization review statute and requires the carriers to use a clinical peer for all utilization review decisions.  Finally, LD 1009 would put some boundaries on health insurance carriers' "step therapy" protocols.  MMA testified in favor of all three bills.  The MMA thanks Sen. Geoffrey Gratwick, M.D. for his leadership in sponsoring both LD 249 and LD 705 and we also appreciate David Thanhauser, M.D. for coming to testify in favor of LD 705, even though he felt the bill did not go far enough.  The period between the public hearing and the work session is a critical time for you to reach out to members of the HCIFS Committee, so if you are concerned about these issues, please reach out to Committee members whom you may know or are from a district in which you practice or live.  You can find the members and their contact information here:  http://legislature.maine.gov/committee/#Committees/HCIFS.

 You can find recent coverage of the AMA's national efforts on PA reform here:  https://www.ama-assn.org/practice-management/sustainability/insurers-progress-fixing-prior-authorization-disappointingly.

In other HCIFS action, the Committee voted out LD 555, a bill to update the national guidelines in the colon cancer screening mandated benefit.

Upcoming Specialty Society Meetings

Below you will find an on-going list of Upcoming Specialty Society Meetings.  Any questions should be referred to the contact person listed for each specialty.

Below you will find an on-going list of Upcoming Specialty Society Meetings.  Any questions should be referred to the contact person listed for each specialty.

UPCOMING SPECIALTY SOCIETY MEETINGS

March 23, 2019
Maine Society of Orthopaedic Surgeons Annual Meeting
Maine Medical Association – Manchester, ME
Contact: Cathy Stratton at 207-592-5725 or cstratton@mainemed.com

April 3-6, 2019
27^th Annual Family Medicine Update & Annual Meeting
Atlantic Oceanside – Bar Harbor, ME
Full brochure & registration available after Jan 15, 2019 at www.maineafp.org
Contact: Deborah Halbach at 207-938-5005 or maineafp@tdstelme.net

April 25-26, 2019
Maine Association of Psychiatric Physicians Annual Spring Program
PSYCHOPHARMACOLOGY:  An Update and a Look Ahead
Hilton Garden Inn, 5 Park Street, Freeport, ME 04032
Contact:  Dianna Poulin 207-480-4194 or dpoulin@mainemed.com

May 10, 2019
Maine Society of Eye Physicians and Surgeons Spring Educational Program & Business Meeting
Harraseeket Inn – Freeport, ME from 11:30am – 5:00pm
Contact:  Shirley Goggin 207-445-2260 or sgoggin@mainemed.com

May 17-19, 2019
Maine Chapter, American College of Surgeons
Harborside Hotel and Marina – Bar Harbor, ME
Contact: Cathy Stratton at 207-592-5725 or cstratton@mainemed.com

May 18-19, 2019
Maine Chapter, American Academy of Pediatrics 2019 Spring Conference
Point Lookout – Northport, ME
Contact: Dee Kerry at 207-480-4185 or dakerry@aap.net

June 27, 2019
Maine Chapter, American College of Emergency Physicians Chapter Meeting
Cabbage Island Clam Bake – Boothbay Harbor, ME
Contact: Cathy Stratton at 207-592-5725 or cstratton@mainemed.com

September 7, 2019
Maine Chapter, American College of Emergency Physicians Chapter Meeting
Harborside Hotel & Marina – Bar Harbor, ME
Contact: Cathy Stratton at 207-592-5725 or cstratton@mainemed.com

September 20, 2019
Maine Society of Eye Physicians and Surgeons Fall Business Meeting
(Held in conjunction with the 17^th Annual Downeast Ophthalmology Symposium)
Harborside Hotel & Marina – Bar Harbor, ME from 10:30am – 11:45am
Contact:  Shirley Goggin 207-445-2260 or sgoggin@mainemed.com

September 20-22, 2019
18^th Annual Downeast Ophthalmology Symposium
(Presented by the Maine Society of Eye Physicians and Surgeons)
Harborside Hotel & Marina – Bar Harbor, ME
Contact:  Shirley Goggin 207-445-2260 or sgoggin@mainemed.com

December 11, 2019
Maine Chapter, American College of Emergency Physicians Chapter Meeting
Portland Regency Hotel – Portland, ME
Contact: Cathy Stratton at 207-592-5725 or cstratton@mainemed.com

Maine Society of Orthopaedic Surgeons Annual Meeting March 23, 2019

The Maine Society of Orthopaedic Surgeons (MSOS) is hosting its Annual Meeting on March 23, 2019 at the Maine Medical Association. The meeting will focus on current issues facing Orthopaedic Surgeons in Maine and initiatives of the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons (AAOS).

The Maine Orthopaedic Association (MSOS) is hosting its Annual Meeting on March 23, 2019 at the Maine Medical Association. The meeting will focus on current issues facing Orthopaedic Surgeons in Maine and initiatives of the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons (AAOS). We are pleased to announce that Graham Newson, the Director of Government Relations at the AAOS will be joining us. Please mark your calendars and register for the MSOS meeting on Saturday, March 23, 2019!

Date: March 23, 2019

Location: Maine Medical Association (and electronic conferencing)

Address: 30 Association Drive, Manchester, Maine 04351

Time: 10:00 am to 3:00 pm

Registration: MSOS Registration  (https://events.r20.constantcontact.com/register/eventReg?oeidk=a07eg3nsb4k9cc3e066&oseq=&c=&ch=)

Identifying Substance Use Early Saves Lives! - SBIRT with Motivational Interviewing Training - 1-day Sessions Offered on April 6 and June 8

Maine continues to see deaths from opiate use increase. Rates of opiate use are highest in the 18-25 year old group and data from those entering treatment suggest that the majority begin using before the age of 17. Maine AAP is committed to helping practitioners identify youth on this path earlier and intervening earlier! SBIRT (Screening, Brief Intervention, Referral to Treatment) is one evidence based approach to doing this.

Maine continues to see deaths from opiate use increase. Rates of opiate use are highest in the 18-25 year old group and data from those entering treatment suggest that the majority begin using before the age of 17. Maine AAP is committed to helping practitioners identify youth on this path earlier and intervening earlier! Screening, Brief Intervention, Referral to Treatment is one evidence based approach to doing this. Maine AAP will be offering several trainings throughout the state over the next 6 months. Please consider joining us to enhance your skills in identifying and offering brief interventions in the primary care settings for youth on the path to substance use disorders.

The Maine AAP will be offering one day Saturday sessions in several regions of Maine, providing training and coaching to Pediatricians and Pediatric Specialists in SBIRT (Screening, Brief Intervention and Referral to Treatment) and effective conversational skills in Motivational Interviewing.

Confirmed Dates for all sessions:

Instructor: Stephen R. Andrew LCSW, LADC, CCS, CGP is a storyteller, consultant, trainer, co-author of Game Plan: A Man's Guide to Achieving Emotional Fitness, and Chief Energizing Officer of Health Education & Training Institute. He maintains a compassion-focused private practice in Portland, Maine (USA) where he also facilitates a variety of men's, co-ed, couples, and caregiver groups. Stephen has been a member of the International Motivational Interviewing Network of Trainers (MINT) since 2003 as well as a MIA-STEP (Motivational Interviewing Assessment; Supervisor Tools for Enhancing Proficiency) trainer for the New England ATTC. Stephen has been MITI trained and has over 100 hours of training in Motivational Interviewing. He provides coaching and training domestically and internationally for social service agencies, health care providers, substance abuse counselors, criminal justice, and other groups.

NAMI Maine’s Beyond the Basics in Suicide Prevention Conference - Friday, April 12, 2019

NAMI Maine is excited to announce that Dr. Sally Spencer-Thomas is our keynote speaker.

Dr. Sally wears many hats: clinical psychologist, mental health advocate, faculty member, researcher, and suicide loss survivor. She has diligently earned her reputation in social change by helping to establish many mental health efforts, including Man Therapy and National Action Alliance for Suicide Prevention.

The theme for this year’s conference is Building Resiliency Through Effective Interventions. Several breakout sessions will focus on different methods of intervention. We are pleased to announce that the conference offers both a clinical and a non-clinical track. Several sessions will include CME credits and CEUs for professionals who attend.

In the late afternoon, there will be mini breakout sessions focusing on building your self-resiliency, supporting self-care, and preventing burn out.

NAMI Maine is excited to announce that early bird registration for the Beyond the Basics in Suicide Prevention Conference 2019 is available at a reduced cost of $65 until March 1^st. For more information, click here.

Family Medicine Opportunity in Beautiful Western Maine

Western Maine Primary Care, a department of Stephens Memorial Hospital, is currently seeking a BC/BE family medicine physician to join our exceptional team of providers.

Western Maine Primary Care, a department of Stephens Memorial Hospital, is currently seeking a BC/BE family medicine physician to join our exceptional team of providers. Western Maine Primary Care is committed to providing high quality care. Now is a great time to join our team as we recently relocated our practice to our brand new, state-of-the-art medical office building.

Stephens Memorial Hospital, a 25-bed critical access hospital, is a part of the MaineHealth family, the premier healthcare system in Maine, and is nationally renowned for its innovative programs in rural healthcare. This position offers teaching opportunities of medical students, as Stephens Memorial Hospital is one of the teaching sites for the Maine Medical Center – Tufts University Medical School program. Come be a part of our dynamic team of providers and exceptional support staff and experience the warmth of a small town combined with a medical community working closely with colleagues throughout the MaineHealth system.

Competitive salary and benefits, including student loan repayment and relocation assistance. FMI please contact Abbie Graiver, Director of Physician Recruitment at (207) 744-6049 or graiverab@wmhcc.org.

PCHC in need of Pediatrician for Brand New Pediatric Center!

Penobscot Community Health Care is seeking a Pediatrician in our Penobscot Pediatrics in Bangor. Become a part of the legendary Penobscot Pediatrics, at our new location set to open fall of 2019.

Penobscot Community Health Care is seeking a Pediatrician in our Penobscot Pediatrics in Bangor. Become a part of the legendary Penobscot Pediatrics, at our new location set to open fall of 2019. Penobscot Peds has been a staple amongst the Bangor community for over 30 years! We are the largest and most comprehensive FQHC in Maine and the 2^nd largest in New England. Seaport and Penobscot Pediatrics are both NHSC loan repayment eligible sites! PCHC offers loan repayment to those that are not awarded or eligible for NHSC. Competitive benefits package, 403(b) retirement, signing and retention bonuses, relocation assistance and more! Questions? Contact Vanessa Sanderson, PCHC Recruiter at (207)404-8015 or at recruitment@pchc.com.

4/15/19

Medical Director - Maine Mobile Health Program

The Maine Mobile Health Program (MMHP) seeks a Medical Director to support its mission of improving the health status of Maine’s seasonal workers and their families by providing culturally appropriate care and services in an all-mobile health center setting.

The Maine Mobile Health Program (MMHP) seeks a Medical Director to support its mission of improving the health status of Maine’s seasonal workers and their families by providing culturally appropriate care and services in an all-mobile health center setting.

A 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization and federally qualified health center (FQHC), MMHP has an innovative approach to care that is low-barrier, values cultural competency and embraces the human dignity of an invisible and vulnerable population. MMHP’s unique model brings medical, dental and behavioral health services to patients where they live and work via mobile medical units and by connecting clients to local partners.

The Medical Director (MD, DO, NP) is based part-time in the Augusta, ME office with some provision of state-wide care. Click here to read the full job description or visit us at www.mainemobile.org.

To apply, please send cover letter and resume to Lisa Tapert at ltapert@mainemobile.org. EOE.

Board Certified Family Physician - Newport, RI

East Bay Community Action Program, a Federally Qualified Health Center, has a full-time opportunity for a RI-licensed, board-certified Family Physician to join our location at 6 John H. Chafee Boulevard in Newport, RI.  

East Bay Community Action Program, a Federally Qualified Health Center, has a full-time opportunity for a RI-licensed, board-certified Family Physician to join our location at 6 John H. Chafee Boulevard in Newport, RI.   He/She will provide patient education and direct medical services for all ages including health promotion, disease prevention, routine health maintenance visits, and acute care, while providing supervision to a multidisciplinary team.    

The position requires an MD or DO degree, completion of an accredited residency in Family Medicine, current licensure through the RI Department of Health, current DEA registration/RI Controlled Substance Licensure, completion of all privileging and credentialing requirements, and Board Certification in Family Medicine by the American Board of Family Medicine.

Interested candidates may log onto our website at www.ebcap.org, and apply to the position through our Careers page link.  For additional questions, candidates may contact Debbie Scott, Senior Staffing Specialist either at dscott@ebcap.org, or 401-431-9870 x 124.  

Internal Medicine Outpatient Physician

Maine Medical Partners Internal Medicine Westbrook is seeking a BC/BE Internal Medicine physician for their well-established outpatient practice located in the greater Portland, Maine area. 

Maine Medical Partners Internal Medicine Westbrook is seeking a BC/BE Internal Medicine physician for their well-established outpatient practice located in the greater Portland, Maine area.  The selected candidate will join 4 internal medicine physicians, 4 family medicine physicians and a geriatrician.

Maine Medical Partners is a division of Maine Medical Center and is Maine's largest multi-specialty medical group serving the healthcare needs of patients locally and throughout northern New England.  This high quality team of more than 500 physicians and 200 advanced practice professionals provides a wide range of hospital based, primary, specialty, and sub-specialty adult and pediatric care delivered throughout a network of 30 locations across the State and acts as a regional referral network.

Maine Medical Center has 637 licensed beds and is the state’s leading tertiary care hospital and Level I Trauma Center, with a full complement of residencies and fellowships and an integral part of Tufts University Medical School.  The successful candidate will have an academic appointment at Tufts University School of Medicine, and the position involves teaching and mentoring residents and medical students from the Maine Medical Center-Tufts University School of Medicine Medical School Program.

Situated on the Maine coast, Portland offers the best of urban sophistication combined with small-town friendliness.  The area provides four season recreational opportunities, such as skiing, hiking, sailing, and miles of beautiful beaches.  Just two hours north of Boston, this is an exceptionally diverse and vibrant community. 

For more information please contact Alison C. Nathanson, Director, MaineHealth Physician Recruitment Center at (207) 661-7383 or nathaa@mainehealth.org.

3/25/19

BC/BE Family Medicine Physician

Strong Area Health Center seeks aBC/BE Family Medicine Physician to provide medical care to people of all ages.

Strong Area Health Center seeks aBC/BE Family Medicine Physician to provide medical care to people of all ages. As a NCQA-Patient-Centered Medical Home, the health center offers accessible, high quality healthcare with integrated behavioral health services focused on the patient’s care experience. We also provide on-site general dentistry.

Over 2,000 people from Strong, Phillips, New Vineyard, as well as Farmington and other surrounding communities access family health care at the health center. The practice has been a vital part of the community since 1986 and is part of HealthReach Community Health Centers, a group of eleven Federally Qualified Health Centers in Central and Western Maine serving 28,000 residents in 80 Maine towns.

The selected candidate will receive competitive salary and benefits, malpractice coverage, pension plan with employer match, and eligibility for loan repayment. EOE. Contact: Recruiter, HRCHC, 10 Water Street, Suite 305, Waterville, ME  04901 ~ 207.660.9913 ~ Fax 207.660.9901 ~ Communications@HealthReach.org ~ www.StrongCHC.org

Part-time Physician for Academic Year Contract Position

Maine Maritime Academy (MMA) seeks physician for a part-time, academic year contract position.

Maine Maritime Academy (MMA) seeks physician for a part-time, academic year contract position.  MMA is a four-year state supported college in Castine, Maine, is seeking proposals for the contracted services of a State of Maine licensed physician to assist in providing general and acute care for its students. These services include, but are not limited to: Acute medical care, both urgent and routine; Reviewing physicals for qualification for MMA programs of study; Performing United States Coast Guard physical examinations for students in the license program; Performing as the Medical Review Officer for MMA’s Coast Guard certified Drug Testing Program; Provide standing orders and medical oversight for MMA’s certified Athletic Training staff for all intercollegiate athletic programs at MMA; Performing physicals for MMA’s intercollegiate student-athletes as needed; Coordinating with MMA’s athletic training staff for treatment of athletes. For more information, please contact Hildy Lowell at hildy.lowell@mma.edu or 207-326-2447.

Psychiatric Mental Health NP - Leeds

DFD Russell Medical Centers (DFDRMC) operates three community health centers in central Maine.  We are seeking a full time PMHNP, for our Leeds location.

DFD Russell Medical Centers (DFDRMC) operates three community health centers in central Maine.  We are seeking a full time PMHNP, for our Leeds location.

Our three health centers serve a multicultural, rural population and have a family practice focus serving pediatrics to geriatrics.

Responsibilities: Assessment of mental health needs for children or adults; Diagnosing mental health/psychiatric conditions; Developing and executing treatment plans; Providing primary health care; Prescribing medication (Suboxone waiver, required); It is a full-time 4 days per week.

This position combines making a difference in patients' lives with a family-friendly work life, please e-mail your resume to Laurie Kane-Lewis, CEO. (Laurie.Kane-Lewis@DFDRussell.org) EEO

Requirements
Current Maine License. Proficiency with electronic medical records.

Benefits
Excellent benefit package: medical, dental, life, 401(k), flexible spending accounts and a generous paid time-off plan. Salary is commensurate with experience; there is also an incentive plan and a CME reimbursement.

4/8/19

Outpatient Internal Medicine Physician – Bangor, Maine

Northern Light Eastern Maine Medical Center seeks a primary care physician, board-certified/board-eligible in internal medicine, to join our well-established, quality-driven, outpatient practice.

Northern Light Eastern Maine Medical Center seeks a primary care physician, board-certified/board-eligible in internal medicine, to join our well-established, quality-driven, outpatient practice. Our practice is one of seven primary care practices operated by Northern Light Eastern Maine Medical Center. Our practice was the second in the nation to achieve “Patient-Centered Medical Home” status with NCQA. All physicians are NCQA-certified in diabetes and cardiac care. Our primary care network, largest in our area, has adopted a new practice model to include teams of one physician, one nurse practitioner, two registered nurses, and two medical assistants.

Northern Light Eastern Maine Medical Center is a 411-bed, regional, tertiary care and level II trauma center serving the more than 500,000 residents living in central, eastern, and northern Maine We offer a collegial atmosphere, cutting-edge EMR, generous vacation and CME benefit, flexible work schedule, and reasonable call schedule. No hospital call required. We also offer a relocation bonus and sign-on bonus in addition to our generous educational loan repayment program.

Candidates in need of J-1 visa waivers welcome to apply.

For confidential consideration, please contact:
Amanda Klausing, AASPR, Physician Recruiter
Northern Light Health
Phone: 207-973-5358
ProviderJobs@NorthernLight.org

3/11/19

Opportunities at the VA for Volunteer Physicians

Take advantage of this opportunity with the Veterans' Administration to thank our veterans in a concrete way for their service and their sacrifices.

The Physician Ambassador Program was created by the Department of Veterans Affairs as a best practice recruitment and placement initiative seeking fully licensed physicians and clinicians to enhance health care services for Veterans.

The Physician Ambassador Program is a without compensation program that provides civilian physicians and clinicians an opportunity to give back to the Veteran community by serving in a volunteer role to deliver health care services to Veterans. 

If you are interested in participating in this program at VA Maine Healthcare System, please contact Jonathan Barczyk at (207) 621-4886.

Volunteer Opportunity with Partners for World Health

Partners for World Health has a great need for advice from certain medical professionals on how to sort and package the vast amount of supplies received, for shipping and use in destination countries.

Volunteer Opportunity with Partners for World Health - Portland, ME

Partners for World Health (PWH) is a non-profit 501(c)3 based in Portland, Maine committed to reducing medical waste, improving the quality of healthcare in underserved countries, and educating our local community about global healthcare issues.

Our mission is to collect unused/discarded medical supplies from local medical facilities and to distribute those medical supplies to international communities in need. This work limits the negative impact we have on the environment and provides much-needed resources to the developing world. To support our work in improving health conditions around the world, we send local medical personnel on medical missions to developing countries, and we educate our local Maine community about global health issues. 

PWH has a great need for advice from certain medical professionals on how to sort and package the vast amount of supplies received, for shipping and use in destination countries, specifically, in the areas of:

• Surgery: all aspects of OR medical supplies and equipment
• Respiratory: any and all aspects
• Anesthesia
• Laparoscopic surgery: advice on the proper components of a “tower”
• Cardiology

Please note: this request is not for ongoing time commitment but rather for a few hours of a professional’s time to help organize certain supplies appropriately.

While PWH receives tens of thousands of pounds of equipment/supplies from hospitals and clinics, there are certain critical items always in short supply.

For more information, contact volunteer Rita Zanichkowsky at rznct@maine.rr.com or 207-232-3264, or contact Partners directly at 774-5555.  Thank you! 
https://www.partnersforworldhealth.org/