Maine Medicine Weekly Update - September 9, 2019
(Print All Articles)

MMA Holds Successful Annual Session in Bar Harbor

The Maine Medical Association held a successful Annual Session, its 166th, in Bar Harbor this past weekend. The session featured a panel of Mills administration officials on state government's approach to health and health care and a panel of physicians, including a medical student and a resident, with an interactive discussion of all aspects of physician advocacy, including that on behalf of patients, the profession, and public health. Click through for additional information and detail.

 

The Maine Medical Association's members met in Bar Harbor last weekend for their 166th Annual Session. In addition to the annual meeting of the Association, the Session featured a variety of CME presentations, specialty society meetings, and ample time to socialize, dine…and even run! Amy Madden, MD assumed the reins of the presidency for the coming year, and Jeff Barkin, MD became the new chair of the MMA Board of Directors.

The session began with a reception Friday evening at the Bar Harbor Club, where all the weekend’s events were based. Physicians from around the state had an opportunity to gather and see people they hadn’t seen since last year’s event. Just before the reception, the MMA Board of Directors held its September meeting, at which Jeff Barkin, MD was elected Chair of the Board.

 

Saturday morning began with the Association’s annual meeting. As reported elsewhere in this issue, the membership approved two resolutions, one about addressing the problem of plastic waste and the other a two-part vaccine resolution directing that the membership be educated about the CDC’s medical contraindications to vaccination and decrying the current effort among vaccine skeptics to overturn the recently passed elimination of non-medical exemptions to school and healthcare employment vaccine requirements. You can read more in the separate article in this Weekly Update. A major feature of this year’s meeting was the presentation of remarks by the MMA’s new Chief Executive Officer, Andrew MacLean, Esq. Mr. MacLean spoke of his wish to have the voices of MMA members be heard clearly and to promote greater engagement and policy determination by the members.

The meeting was followed by a panel discussion among the current Maine Government leaders on the issue of healthcare. Present and speaking were Governor Janet Mills, JD; DHHS Commissioner Jeanne Lambrew, Ph.D., Maine CDC Director Nirav Shah, MD, JD; Senior Advisor for Delivery System Change Lisa Letourneau, MD; State Chief Pediatrician Amy Belisle, MD; and Director of Opioid Response Gordon Smith, Esq. In a detailed and in-depth session, the group discussed healthcare progress in Maine in recent months, new initiatives the administration is undertaking in the areas of prevention, recovery, telehealth, children’s behavioral health, Medicaid expansion, immunizations, and other public health initiatives. Governor Mills asserted that we will have no victory in the fight against opioid use disorder until the number of deaths from drug overdoses is zero. She also said, “Healthcare coverage…is a human right.”

 

Saturday afternoon gave attendees a chance to sample all that Bar Harbor and Mount Desert Island, including Acadia National Park, have to offer. For those who decided to remain, there were meetings of various specialty societies, a presentation by Dr. Mark Publicker on the medical treatment of alcohol dependence, and a 3-hour CME presentation on opioid prescribing by the MMA’s MICIS program.

The banquet on Saturday evening saw the presentation of recognition pins to member physicians who graduated from medical school in 1969, fifty years ago. Dr. Michael Curci, MD, a pediatric surgeon, was presented with the Mary Floyd Cushman, MD Award for Exceptional Humanitarian Service. Dr. Curci, since his retirement from Maine Medical Center, has traveled to Haiti and several countries in East Africa, providing patient care and helping to train pediatric surgeons in places where they are badly needed. The MMA President’s Award for Distinguished Service to the Association was presented to MMA General Counsel Peter Michaud, JD, RN for his work on behalf of Maine physicians and public health, particularly his efforts in collaboration with pediatricians and families in support of LD 798, the new law that eliminates non-medical exemptions to immunization requirements for school attendance and healthcare employment. The evening culminated with the passage of the leadership torch from Dr. Robert Schlager, the longest serving president in MMA history, to Dr. Amy Madden, who will lead the MMA during the coming year.


As has been customary in recent years, Sunday began with the 39th Annual Edmund Hardy Road Race, a 5K run/walk that began at the boat launch in downtown Bar Harbor and proceeded along the ocean’s edge before curving back through Bar Harbor neighborhoods and returning to the site of the meeting. This year’s first place finisher was Garreth Debiegun, MD, who won despite taking a slight detour due to a sign which had been blown down by the remnants of Hurricane Dorian. The next Weekly Update will have more information about the various age group leaders, along with photos of the successful finishers.

The entire Annual Session gave members an opportunity to earn up to 9 AMA PRA Category 1 CME credits, in addition to learning about the activities of the Association, participating in significant MMA policy making decisions, and sharing thoughts (and meals) with fellow members. The MMA staff invites members to express your opinions about the location of next year’s and future MMA Annual Sessions by calling the MMA headquarters or sending Email to dmcmahon@mainemed.com .

More Annual Session photos will follow in next week's Weekly Update.

 

MMA Membership Approves Resolutions on Immunizations, Plastic Waste

At its Annual Meeting in Bar Harbor last Saturday, the Maine Medical Association membership approved (by unanimous vote of those present) resolutions calling for action on plastic waste and decrying the current petition drive to overturn the recently passed Maine statute eliminating non-medical exemptions to existing vaccine requirements for school attendance and health care employment.

 

At its Annual Meeting in Bar Harbor last Saturday, the Maine Medical Association membership approved (by unanimous vote of those present) resolutions calling for action on plastic waste and decrying the current petition drive to overturn the recently passed Maine statute eliminating non-medical exemptions to existing vaccine requirements for school attendance and health care employment.

The resolutions are as follows:

(Plastic Waste):

Be it Resolved, that the Maine Medical Association will actively pursue efforts to reduce plastic waste in the state of Maine, beginning with an effort to enact legislation to eliminate the use of “single use plastic items” (to include plastic straws and utensils items typically sold for single use but exclude cooking utensils and other plastic items typically sold as multiple use) in retail establishments in the state.  

(Vaccines): 

Be it Resolved, that the Maine Medical Association strongly supports universal childhood immunizations except for cases in which there are valid medical reasons a person should not be immunized, and the Maine Medical Association decries the current campaign to place a referendum question on the ballot to establish non-medical exemptions to statutory and regulatory immunization requirements;

and Be it Further Resolved, that the Maine Medical Association will devote the necessary resources to educate members and the public about the benefits of vaccines and scientifically valid contraindications to vaccines, from the United States Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

While the MMA Board of Directors will have the final word on whether these resolutions become official policy of the MMA, no opposition is anticipated among members of the Board.

 

Dr. Graham presents the views of the Public Health Committee

Vaping Illness Cases Rise; Now Five Deaths

The number of people with a severe lung illness linked to vaping has more than doubled to 450 possible cases in 33 states, and the number of deaths rose to five.

 

[from the AMA Morning Report]

The New York Times (9/6, Richtel, Grady) reported health officials and medical experts “warned the public about the dangers of vaping and discouraged using the devices as the number of people with a severe lung illness linked to vaping more than doubled to 450 possible cases in 33 states and the number of deaths rose to five.” The third, fourth, and fifth people to die from the illness passed away in Indiana, Minnesota, and California, respectively, as health officials and physicians continue their efforts to identify the cause of the illness.

The AP (9/6, Stobbe) reported health officials said that no single device, liquid, or ingredient has been tied to all cases. However, many of those who have fallen ill have reported vaping THC, and federal officials have said they are examining vitamin E acetate as a potential cause. Meanwhile, physicians have reported cases in patients who say they only vaped nicotine, so many officials are warning people to be wary of all vaping products.

The Washington Post (9/5, A1, Sun) reports the FDA found a derivative of vitamin E “in samples of marijuana products used by people” with vaping-related illnesses “in different parts of the country and who used different brands of products in recent weeks.” The federal agency “shared that information with state health officials during a telephone briefing this week, according to several officials who took part in the call.”

NBC News (9/5, Edwards) reports on its website that “there have been 361 confirmed or suspected cases reported by state health departments nationwide,” including two deaths, the first in Illinois and the second in Oregon.

USA Today (9/5, O'Donnell, Robinson) reports the New York State Department of Health announced that they “are focusing their investigation of vaping-related illnesses on vitamin E acetate after finding very high levels of the substance in marijuana-containing samples being examined.” In the state’s investigation, “at least one vitamin E acetate vape product has been linked to each patient who submitted a product for testing.” The article adds that “the person who died in Oregon” earlier this year marking the second death linked to the illnesses “had recently used an e-cigarette or vaping device containing cannabis purchased from a cannabis dispensary, according to the Oregon Health Authority.”

CNN (9/5, Howard, Gumbrecht) reports the New York health department “noted that vitamin E acetate is not known to cause harm when ingested as a vitamin supplement or applied to the skin, but the department continues to investigate its health effects when inhaled because its oil-like properties could be associated with the symptoms seen in the lung illness cases.”

 

This Week's Public Health Updates from the AMA

Click through for a brief update on recent public health issues, provided by the American Medical Association's electronic publication, Morning Rounds. [This article is updated weekly.]

 

 

Firefighters’ work at World Trade Center site after 9/11 may be associated with long-term higher risk of developing heart problems, research suggests

The AP (9/6, Marchione) reported, “Firefighters who arrived early or spent more time at the World Trade Center site after the 9/11 attacks seem to have a modestly higher risk of developing heart problems than those who came later or stayed less,” researchers concluded after tracking “the health of 9,796 male firefighters through 2017 – 16 years after the collapse of the twin towers exposed many to a cloud of thick dust and particles from fires that burned for days.”

The NBC News (9/6, Winter, Miller) website reported the findings “‘suggest a significant association’ between greater exposure at the World Trade Center and a higher risk of long-term cardiovascular disease.” In addition, the “study points out that the cardiovascular care is not currently covered by the James Zadroga 9/11 Health and Compensation Act, meaning 9/11 firefighters receive no compensation for cardiovascular diseases from the fund.” The particular “cardiovascular risks that appear to be linked to Ground Zero exposure include heart attack, stroke, unstable angina, coronary artery surgery and angioplasty.” The findings were published in JAMA Network Open.

CDC warns Americans on hazards of contact with chickens

Newsweek (9/6, Jensen) reported that in a “recent advisory,” the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention warned “Americans of the hazards of contact with chickens, including the risk of catching salmonella.” The advisory also warned “owners not to ‘kiss backyard poultry or snuggle them and then touch your face or mouth.’” So far this year, “the CDC has recorded 1,003 cases of salmonella across the U.S., including two deaths.” The CDC recommends “always washing your hands with soap and water after touching backyard poultry, not letting chickens inside the house and setting aside a separate pair of shoes to wear while taking care of backyard birds.”

HHS OIG: Migrant children separated at U.S. border suffered mental trauma, PTSD

USA Today (9/4, Gomez) reports a report released by the Office of Inspector General (OIG) for the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) contents that “migrant children who were separated from their parents at the U.S.-Mexican border under the Trump administration’s ‘zero tolerance’ policy suffered a wide range of mental trauma, including symptoms of post-traumatic stress disorder.” Moreover, “the children, many of whom had already endured extreme mental and physical trauma in their home countries, were hit with a second round of distress when they were separated by U.S. officials, according to the report.” Meanwhile, “immigration advocates and mental health experts, including the American Academy of Pediatrics, warned about the long-term damage to those children from being separated from their parents and placed in prison-like conditions for prolonged periods of time.”

The AP (9/4, Long, Mendoza, Burke) reports the report was “based on interviews with about 100 mental health clinicians who had regular interactions with children but did not directly address the quality of the care the children did receive.” Meanwhile, “a second report Wednesday by the watchdog found that thousands of childcare workers were given direct access to migrant children before completing required background and fingerprint checks.” The OIG “said the longer children were in custody, the more their mental health deteriorated, and it recommended minimizing that time” and “suggested creating better mental health care options and hiring more trained staff.”

Researchers examine how early-life environmental exposures may affect blood pressure in children

Reuters (9/4, Rapaport) reports that children “who grow up in warmer climates and in walkable neighborhoods may have lower blood pressure than those who live where it’s cooler and people drive everywhere,” researchers concluded after examining “data on 1,277 mother-child pairs from the U.K., France, Spain, Lithuania, Norway, and Greece to see how exposures to outdoor factors like air pollution and weather, chemicals like pesticides and metals, and lifestyle factors like diet and exercise impacted blood pressure in kids age 6 to 11 years old.” The findings were published online in the Journal of the American College of Cardiology.

People living in U.S. counties with highest rates of poverty may be more likely to die from heart failure than those from more affluent areas, research suggests

Reuters (9/4, Carroll) reports, “People living in U.S. counties with the highest rates of poverty are more likely to die from heart failure than those from more affluent areas,” researchers concluded after “examining data from more than 3,000 U.S. counties.” The study revealed that “for each percentage-point increase in poverty, heart failure mortality increased by 5.2 deaths per 100,000 county residents.” Following adjustment “for other factors that could contribute to heart failure outcomes,” the study found that “about two-thirds of the effect of poverty on heart failure mortality was explained by rates of diabetes and obesity, researchers noted.” The findings were published online in the Journal of the American Heart Association.

Growing number of U.S. communities testing kids as young as 11 for illicit drug use

Kaiser Health News (9/4, Ungar) reports that a “growing number of communities across America that are testing kids as young as 11 for illicit drug use.” Across the U.S., “a federal government survey shows nearly 38 percent of school districts had such policies in 2016, up from a quarter of districts a decade earlier.”

Study suggests stamina may trump strength in improving metabolic health

The New York Times (9/4, Reynolds) reports that a new study “of the molecular effects of different aspects of fitness” suggests that “stamina may trump strength for improving metabolic health.” Researchers studied “records from the performance testing of 580 young Finnish men called up for military training,” then divided the men into two groups, the first based on aerobic capacity and the second based on strength testing. Researchers “then checked the men’s blood for metabolites and, finally, compared metabolic readouts between the men in the top third and bottom third of the two groups.” Overall, they found that “there were few differences over all in the metabolite profiles of the strongest men and those who were relatively weak. ... These results...suggest that aerobic capacity affects metabolism substantially more than muscular strength does, says Dr. Urho Kujala,” who led the study. The results were published in JAMA Network Open.

Veterans with PTSD who improve with treatment may also lower risk of developing T2D, study indicates

Reuters (9/4, Rapaport) reports, “Veterans with post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) who improve with treatment may also lower their risk of developing type 2 diabetes [T2D],” researchers concluded after examining “medical records for 1,598 veterans who received treatment for PTSD and had regular assessments to rate their symptom severity.” The findings were published online in JAMA Psychiatry.


PMP Password Policy Change; New SAMHS Director Attends Annual Session

In response to the expression of concerns from physicians, the Maine Prescription Monitoring Program (PMP) has modified its requirements for password changes by its users, moving from a 3-month time limit to 6 months.

 

In response to the expression of concerns from physicians, the Maine Prescription Monitoring Program (PMP) has modified its requirements for password changes by its users, moving from a 3-month time limit to 6 months.

Gordon Smith, Esq., Maine's Director of Opioid Response, announced today that the change will take place in the next few days. Users of the PMP will no longer have to change their passwords every three months. Instead, those changes (which are necessary to maintain the safety and integrity of the system) will only be required every six months.

This is one of several changes that will be put into place in the coming weeks. At this weekend's MMA Annual Session, the Governor introduced the new Director of Maine's Office of Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services (SAMHS), Jessica Pollard, Ph.D. Director Pollard will begin her new duties on September 30th, but we were all pleased that she was able to come to Bar Harbor and meet MMA members. Her presence underlines the emphasis the DHHS is placing on working with physicians and other members of the health care community for the advancement of public health throughout Maine.

Maine CDC to Hold Rulemaking on Death With Dignity

The Maine Center for Disease Control and Prevention (Maine CDC) is hosting a public stakeholder meeting on September 12th (this Thursday) at 5:00 pm to seek input for its new rule required by An Act to Enact the Maine Death with Dignity Act. It seeks input from physicians on reporting requirements and data collection.

 

The Maine Center for Disease Control and Prevention (Maine CDC) is hosting a public stakeholder meeting to seek input for its new rule required by An Act to Enact the Maine Death with Dignity Act (See 129th Legislature’s Public Law, ch. 271 – LD 1313). 

Specifically, Maine CDC would like input on the following two questions: 

  1. What data elements would you recommend that the Maine CDC collect, in addition to the items outlined in the Maine Death with Dignity Act and Governor Mills’ Executive Order Number 9?
  2. Where should the reporting forms associated with this new law be accessed? Should the forms be available on a public site or at a portal reserved for practitioners?

All interested individuals are invited to attend. The meeting is scheduled to be held from 5 p.m. to 6:30 p.m., Thursday, September 12, 2019, in the Cumberland Room at the Augusta Civic Center.   

Individuals who are unable to attend this public meeting may submit written comments to Bridget Bagley at bridget.bagley@maine.gov. All written comments must be received by 5 p.m. on Friday, September 13, 2019.   


MMA Legislative Calls Finished for the Session

Now that the Maine Legislature has adjourned sine die, our MMA legislative calls are on hold. Watch this space in late autumn for information about an in-person meeting to prepare for the Second Regular Session (2020) of the 129th Maine Legislature.

 

MMA Legislative Committee Chairs Jay Mullen, M.D. and Lindsey Tweed, M.D. thank you for participating in the weekly conference calls of the MMA Legislative Committee. It was a busy session for health care and health legislation, and the legislative calls were essential in giving MMA advocacy staff the guidance we needed to support or oppose significant legislation.

Preparation for the 2020 Second Regular Session of the 129th Maine Legislature will begin with an in-person meeting sometime in late fall, and regular legislative calls will resume the first week of January. In the meantime, enjoy your summer and fall, and don't forget to cultivate your relationships with your representative and senator. They appreciate hearing from you, not just on health issues but on any matters in which you have an interest.

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

September 20, 2019
Maine Society of Eye Physicians and Surgeons Fall Business Meeting
(Held in conjunction with the 17th 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
18th Annual Downeast Ophthalmology Symposium
(Presented by the Maine Society of Eye Physicians and Surgeons)
Harborside Hotel & Marina – Bar Harbor, ME
View Brochure or Register Online
Contact:  Shirley Goggin 207-445-2260 or sgoggin@mainemed.com

October 24, 2019
Maine Association of Psychiatric Physicians, Fall Members Meeting/Program
Hilton Garden Inn, Freeport, ME
Contact Dianna Poulin at 207-480-4194 or dpoulin@mainemed.com

November 9, 2019
Maine Neurological Society
  9:00am - 12:00pm - Maine Medical Association – Manchester, ME
REGISTER TODAY
Contact: Cathy Stratton at 207-592-5725 or cstratton@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

February 7-9, 2020
Maine Urological Association & Rhode Island Urological Society’s 2020 Winter Program
Sugarloaf Mountain Hotel & Conference Center – Carrabassett Valley, ME
Contact: Dianna Poulin at 207-480-4194 or dpoulin@mainemed.com

April 1-4, 2020
28th Annual MAFP Family Medicine Update & Annual Meeting
DoubleTree by Hilton Portland, Portland, ME
Full brochure and registration available after January 15, 2020 at www.maineafp.org
Contact Deborah Halbach at 207-938-5005 or maineafp@tdstelme.net

April 16-17, 2020
Maine Association of Psychiatric Physicians, 14th Annual Spring Program
Hilton Garden Inn, Freeport, ME
Contact Dianna Poulin at 207-480-4194 or dpoulin@mainemed.com

May 1, 2020
Maine Society of Eye Physicians and Surgeons Spring Meeting
Harraseeket Inn – Freeport, ME 11:30am - 5:00pm
Contact:  Shirley Goggin 207-445-2260 or sgoggin@mainemed.com

May 1-3, 2020
Maine Chapter, American Academy of Pediatrics Spring CME Conference
Hilton Garden Inn – Freeport, ME
Contact:  Dee Kerry 207-480-4185 or dkerry@mainemed.com

 

 

 

 

  


 

MICIS Individual Academic Detailing Sessions on Opioid Topics

The Maine Independent Clinical Information Service (MICIS) is offering 1-hour individual Academic Detailing sessions on two topics: Treating Complex Patients with Chronic Pain who Are Prescribed Opioids and Overview of Office-Based Buprenorphine Prescribing.  www.micismaine.org

 

2019 Opioid Academic Detailing Sessions
Maine Independent Clinical Information Service (MICIS)

Academic Detailing is peer-to-peer educational outreach which is designed to improve prescribing practices.  It is useful for improving quality of care and identifying priorities for change.

MICIS is scheduling individual 1-hour Academic Detailing sessions on these topics:

  • Treating Complex Patients with Chronic Pain Who Are Prescribed Opioids
  • Overview of Office-Based Buprenorphine Prescribing
Prescribers of opioids (physicians, nurse practitioners and physician assistants) and Medical Directors may request a 1-hour Academic Detailing session at their practice location.  This direct learning session can be scheduled for any time of day, and sessions can be scheduled on the same day for mutliple prescribers in the same or nearby practices.  The sessions are provided free of charge.

Visit www.micismaine.org for information on MICIS education outreach and academic detailing and to request an Academic Detailing session at your medical practice or hospital.

MICIS has provided evidence-based prescribing education since 2008, and is a program of the Maine Medical Association.

 

2019 Clinical & Legal Opioid Update: Tuesday, Sept 10th at the Augusta Civic Center

Presented by the Maine Independent Clinical Information Service (MICIS) from 5-8:30pm.  Free presentation, registration required.

2019 Clinical and Legal Opioid Update
Tuesday, September 10 2019
Augusta Civic Center  REGISTER HERE
5:00-8:30pm

The topics covered at this session will be:

  • 2019 Clinical Opioid Update
  • 2019 Legal Opioid Update
  • Co-prescribing Benzodiazepines and Opioids: The Black Box of Increased Overdose Risk
Presenters: Elisabeth Fowlie Mock, MD, MPH: Peter Michaud, JD, RN

FREE - Advanced registration is required
REGISTER HERE
Light snacks will be provided

The Maine Medical Education Trust designates this live activity for a maximum of 3 AMA PRA Category 1 Credit(s) TM.  Physicians should only claim credit commensurate with the extent of their participation in the activity.

This activity has been planned and implemented in accordance with the accreditation requirements and policies of the Accreditation Council for Continuing Medical Education (ACCME) through the joint providership of the Maine Medical Education Trust and the Maine Independent Clinical Information Service (MICIS).  The Maine Medical Education Trust is accredited by the Maine Medical Association Committee on Continuing Medical Education and Accreditation to provide continuing medical education for physicians.

This activity qualifies for a maximum of 3 credits of the 3 CME credit requirement for opioid medication education found in P.L. 2015, Chapter 488, Maine's legislation to address opioid drug use.

The Maine Independent Clinical Information Service (MICIS) is a program of the Maine Medical Association.  www.micismaine.org 

MICIS: 2019 Clinical & Legal Opioid Update - Fall Dates Scheduled

Registration is open for Fall 2019 presentations of 2019 Clinical & Legal Opioid Update.  Presented by the Maine Independent Clinical Information Service (MICIS).

2019 Clinical & Legal Opioid Update
Presented by the Maine Independent Clinical Information Service (MICIS)
Free - Advanced registration is required
5:00-8:30 pm

The topics and learning objectives for this session will be:
    2019 Clinical Opioid Update
    • Review latest research relating to opioid + pain prescribing practices
    • Constantly consider harm reduction
    • Discuss opioid use disorder and treatments
    2019 Legal Opioid Update
    • Review impact of Chapter 488 in Maine
    • Discuss opioid laws, rules and initiatives of the new administration
    • Study Chapter 21 requirements and logical implementation
    • Investigate methods to further transform local and regional prescribing
    Co-Prescribing Benzodiazepines & Opioids: The Black Box of Increased Overdose Risk
    • Review the trends in benzodiazepine prescribing
    • Evaluate risks of co-prescribing benzodiazepines and opioids
    • Consider taper plans
    • Recall importance of risk reduction
    Presenters: Elisabeth Fowlie Mock, MD, MPH; Peter Michaud, JD, RN
    Light snacks will be provided.

    The Maine Medical Education Trust designates this live activity for a maximum of 3 AMA PRA Category 1Credit(s)TM.  Physicians should only claim credit commensurate with the extent of their participation in the activity.

    This activity has been planned and implemented in accordance with the accreditation requirements and policies of the Accreditation Council for Continuing Medical Education (ACCME) through the joint providership of the Maine Medical Education Trust and the Maine Independent Clinical Information Service (MICIS).  The Maine Medical Education Trust is accredited by the Maine Medical Association Committee on Continuing Medical Education and Accreditation to provide continuing medical education to physicians.

    This activity qualifies for a maximum of 3 credits of the 3 CME credit requirement for opioid medication education found in P.L. 2015, Chapter 488, Maine's legislation to address opioid drug use.

    The Maine Independent Clinical Information Service (MICIS) is a program of the Maine Medical Association. www,micismaine.org

    VA Maine Healthcare System to Host Community Mental Health Summit on MAT September 11th

    The VA Maine Healthcare System will be hosting a community mental health summit focused on Medication assisted Treatment for substance use disorder September 11, 2019, at the Togus VA Center.

     

    VA MAINE HEALTHCARE SYSTEM

    H o s t s

    Community Mental Health Summit

    Medication Assisted Treatment

            -M.A.T. Saves Lives-

     

     

    By attending this Summit, you will learn about:

    • VA’s response to the Opioid Crisis
    • How Veterans with Opioid Dependence can access care
    • VA Veterans Justice Outreach Program

    • Current research on Substance Dependence and Suicide

        

          Wednesday, September 11, 2019

    8:30 a.m. - 4:00 p.m.

                    1 VA Center, Augusta, ME             

      Building 210, Theater (Togus)

     

    Limited Seating. Register Early

    https://www.eventbrite.com/e/mh-summit-2019-registration-67038898149

     

    Qualidigm Rapid Induction Starting in the ED (RISE) Training

    Qualidigm is hosting an education program for hospital Emergency Departments (EDs) with training and technical assistance on initiating buprenorphine in the ED.

     

    Qualidigm: Rapid Induction Starting in the ED (RISE) Training

    Qualidigm, in collaboration with BlueWater Emergency Partners and several other partners (MMA and ACEP) is working under a contract with the state of Maine to host an education program for interested hospital Emergency Departments (EDs) focusing on how to initiate buprenorphine in the ED. 

    During the Rapid Induction Starting in the ED (RISE) project, Qualidigm is offering education and assistance on best practices for initiating buprenorphine in hospital EDs for individuals with Substance Use Disorder (SUD) who are willing to engage in treatment during an ED visit. 

    If your ED is interested in receiving training or technical assistance on initiating buprenorphine in the ED from peer coaches in the field please contact Kayla Cole at kcole@qualidigm.org or tel. 207-620-8526 ext. 1027.

    Obesity Medicine: There is no 'one size fits all' - Monthly Lecture Series Beginning September 18th

    Obesity continues to skyrocket and most patients are not getting the help they desperately need.  Join us for one lecture or all 12 lectures (monthly) and learn the science behind obesity and current clinical guidelines in treating it. 

    What: Monthly Lecture Series (1.25 AMA PRA category one CME credits per lecture for 12 months for a total of 15 CME credits) 

    When: Lecture #1- Wednesday, September 18 from  6:00pm - 7:15pm

    Where: 66 Leighton Rd, Falmouth, ME 04105

    Who: Catherine Krouse, DO 

    Why: Obesity continues to skyrocket and most patients are not getting the help they desperately need.  Join us and learn the science behind obesity and current clinical guidelines in treating it.  Understanding the physiology of weight regulation will help open lines of communication with your patients in unexpected ways, and help guide patients towards treatment options with the best evidence for long term success.

    COST: $40 per lecture OR $360 for the entire series (15 CME)

    RSVP: info@empoweredmaine.com

     

    Maine Concussion Management Initiative (MCMI) Training Program - October 9

    The Maine Concussion Management Initiative (MCMI) has its final training program for 2019 on October 9 at the annual conference of the Brain Injury Association of America-Maine Chapter. MCMI training will be listed as the Youth Concussion Track.

    The Maine Concussion Management Initiative (MCMI) has its final training program for 2019 on October 9 at the annual conference of the Brain Injury Association of America-Maine Chapter. MCMI training will be listed as the Youth Concussion Track.

    The BIAA-Maine Chapter conference will be held at the Abromson Community Education Center on the campus of the University of Southern Maine. The conference runs from 8:00am to 4:30pm. The MCMI Youth Concussion Track will have Level 1 from 9:30am to 1:00pm and Level 2 from 1:30pm to 4:30pm.

    Registration with more conference information is now open online at: https://shop.biausa.org/products/meconfreg

    Level 1 is the Introduction to Concussions and Concussion Management. Level 2 is Advance Concussion Management that includes interpreting neurocognitive tests. Level 1 is a prerequisite for Level 2. MCMI training is appropriate for physicians, nurse practitioners, physician assistants, neuropsychologists, school nurses, athletic trainers, physical therapists, occupational therapists, athletic directors, and coaches.

    For any questions – please contact: Jan Salis, PT, ATC, at jsalis@aol.com or 207-577-2018.

     

    Celebrate 65 Years of MMA Executive Leadership on Oct. 26. Tickets Available Now

    Please join us this fall as the Maine Medical Association celebrates the past 65 years of consecutive leadership and accomplishments! Brick South, the event center at Thompson's Point in South Portland, will be the site of an MMA Gala Celebration on Saturday evening, Oct. 26. We will celebrate the executive leadership of Dan Hanley, M.D., Frank Stred and Gordon Smith who sequentially led MMA for sixty-five years from 1955 into 2019.

     

    Please join us this fall as the Maine Medical Association celebrates the past 65 years of consecutive leadership and accomplishments!

    Brick South, the event center at Thompson's Point in South Portland, will be the site of an MMA Gala Celebration on Saturday evening, Oct. 26. We will celebrate the executive leadership of Dan Hanley, M.D., Frank Stred and Gordon Smith who sequentially led MMA for sixty-five years from 1955 into 2019. An elegant evening of wonderful memories is planned, including dinner and dancing to the band Plush.

    The Oct. 26 event will begin with a reception from 5:00 to 6:30pm. The program will include a video tribute and a roast with invited roasters including Senator Angus King, Governor Janet Mills, MHA President Steven Michaud, MMA's Andy MacLean, and former Ohio State Medical Association Executive Director D. Brent Mulgrew.  

    Sponsorships are available and anyone wishing to sponsor or purchase an ad in the program should contact Andy MacLean at MMA (amaclean@mainemed.com) or Sam Surprise (sam@surpriseadvertising.com).

    Online registration is now open at: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/celebrating-65-years-of-mma-leadership-tickets-66193569749Early Bird ticket prices are available through September 8, so act now!

     

    MMA partners with the Maine Suicide Prevention Program and the Maine CDC/Sweetser to offer training for clinicians.

    MMA continues to partner with the Maine Suicide Prevention Program to offer training for clinicians.

    The Maine Suicide Prevention Program, administered by NAMI-Maine, is excited to announce their Fall schedule.   The following suicide prevention, assessment and management trainings are open for registration.  MMA works closely with NAMI-Maine to provide educational opportunities for Maine physicians and other clinical providers. CMEs and contact hours for licensure are offered as appropriate. 

    Suicide Prevention Gatekeeper Training

    Suicide Prevention Training of the Trainers

    Suicide Assessment for Clinicians Training

    Non-Suicidal Self Injury Training

    Suicide Prevention Protocol Development Training

    Suicide Prevention Curriculum Training

    If you have needs not identified in the above list, please contact Nicole, Suicide Prevention Coordinator, to discuss the possibility of a customized training program.  

     

    The Maine CDC and Sweetser are offering free online Suicide Prevention Training Modules!

    Enrolling is easy. There are 12+ courses available at no charge. Download the flyer with enrollment info here.

    Sample modules:

    · Columbia Suicide Severity Rating Scale (C-SSRS)

    · Depressive Disorders in Children and Adolescents

    · Counseling on Access to Lethal Means (CALM)

    · Collaborative Assessment & Management of Suicidality (CAMS)

    · Safety Planning Intervention for Suicide Prevention

    · Suicide Risk Factors, Screening and Assessment

    Physician

    Nasson Health Care is seeking a qualified clinical leader to work collaboratively with a team of health and administrative professionals to provide comprehensive primary care to patients while utilizing the Patient-Centered Medical Home model of care delivery. 

    Nasson Health Care is seeking a qualified clinical leader to work collaboratively with a team of health and administrative professionals to provide comprehensive primary care to patients while utilizing the Patient-Centered Medical Home model of care delivery.  The Physician provides direct clinical services and works in partnership with members of the practice team to manage the care of patients, assuring a high standard of medical care.   

    Applicants must have a degree from an accredited medical school in the U.S., Board certification in Family or Internal Medicine, an unrestricted Maine license to practice medicine, as well as a U.S. Drug Enforcement Agency license.  Qualifications include:

    • A minimum of three years’ experience in a primary care medical practice;
    • Demonstrated respect for cultural diversity in serving patients and families;
    • Working knowledge of the core concepts of evidence-based practice, social and behavioral determinants of health, population-based care, integration of medical, behavioral health and dental care, and Meaningful Use of health information technology;

    Springvale is an iconic New England village located in western York County, Maine, less than an hour’s drive from Portland, Maine and Portsmouth, New Hampshire

    Visitwww.nassonhealthcare.org for an application. Completed cover letter, resume, and YCCAC employment application will be accepted until November 22, 2019.

    York County Community Action Corp.
    6 Spruce Street, P.O. Box 72
    Sanford, ME 04073
    (207)324-5762 or 1-800-965-5762
    Fax (207)459-2811
    apply@yccac.org
    EOE

    9/30/19

    Nurse Practitioner

    Nasson Health Care is seeking a qualified Nurse Practitioner to work collaboratively with a team of health and administrative professionals to provide comprehensive primary care to patients while utilizing the Patient-Centered Medical Home model of care delivery. 

    Nasson Health Care is seeking a qualified Nurse Practitioner to work collaboratively with a team of health and administrative professionals to provide comprehensive primary care to patients while utilizing the Patient-Centered Medical Home model of care delivery. 

    • Provides direct clinical services in accordance with the highest standards of medical and nursing practices and in full accordance with health center policies and protocols.
    • Fully embraces and carries out all applicable NCQA Patient Centered Medical Home standards and Federally Qualified Health Center requirements.

    Applicants must have a Master’s degree in nursing, an unrestricted Maine license to practice as an adult, family or pediatric nurse practitioner, as well as a U.S. Drug Enforcement Agency license.  Qualifications include:

    • A minimum of three years’ experience in a primary care medical practice required.
    • A working knowledge of the core concepts of evidence-based practice, social and behavioral determinants of health, population-based care, integration of medical, behavioral health and dental care, and Meaningful Use of health information technology.

    Visit www.yccac.org for an application. Completed cover letter, resume, and YCCAC employment application will be accepted until November 22, 2019.

    York County Community Action Corp.
    6 Spruce Street, P.O. Box 72
    Sanford, ME 04073
    (207)324-5762 or 1-800-965-5762
    Fax (207)459-2811
    apply@yccac.org
    EOE

    9/30/19

    Full-time, Part-time and Leadership Opportunities for Physicians

    TeamHealth is now partnering with Northern Light Health to provide integrated emergency medicine and hospital medicine services in Northern Light Health Hospitals throughout Downeast Maine.

    TeamHealth is now partnering with Northern Light Health to provide integrated emergency medicine and hospital medicine services in Northern Light Health Hospitals throughout Downeast Maine. We have full-time, part-time and leadership opportunities for physicians to join our teams at Sebasticook Valley Hospital, Inland Hospital, Blue Hill Hospital, AR Gould Hospital and Maine Coast Hospital. TeamHealth offers free CME, a great work-life balance that gives you quality time with family and friends, and the potential to realize your career by growing into local, regional and national leadership positions. Northern Light Health is the most expansive integrated healthcare system in Maine offering care in locations across beautiful Downeast and inland Maine, an area known for its breathtaking vistas and seaside living. TeamHealth will be working with clinical teams at Northern Light Health to optimize operational efficiency and continue providing compassionate, high-quality care in an environment that prioritizes integration between emergency medicine and hospital medicine teams. For more information and to apply, click here.

    12/2/19

    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

    9/9/19

    BC/BE Family Medicine or Internal Medicine Physician

    Northern Light Eastern Maine Medical Center has an exciting leadership opportunity for a BC/BE Family Medicine or Internal Medicine Physician to lead our primary care network of five well-established, quality-driven, outpatient practices serving the greater Bangor community.

    Northern Light Eastern Maine Medical Center has an exciting leadership opportunity for a BC/BE Family Medicine or Internal Medicine Physician to lead our primary care network of five well-established, quality-driven, outpatient practices serving the greater Bangor community.

    The Physician Director, Primary Care will collaborate with the Practice Director, Primary Care to form a dyad partnership in leading our primary care team, as well as provide peripheral oversight for our Walk In Care and university health center locations. The Physician Director of Primary Care will have clinical, operational, financial and strategic duties. This role is 80% administrative and 20% clinical practice.

    Why Northern Light Health? We offer a robust compensation and benefits package, generous PTO benefits, loan repayment program, and an exceptional work/life balance.

    For confidential consideration, please contact:
    Amanda Klausing, FASPR, Physician Recruiter
    ProviderJobs@NorthernLight.org
    207.973.5358

    9/16/19

    Northern Light Sebasticook Valley Hospital seeks a BC/BE General Surgeon

    Bread and butter surgery, with high volume elective surgery and low volume emergency surgery. Upper and lower endoscopy ability required. Breast surgery preferred, but not required.

    Northern Light Sebasticook Valley Hospital seeks a BC/BE General Surgeon. Bread and butter surgery, with high volume elective surgery and low volume emergency surgery. Upper and lower endoscopy ability required. Breast surgery preferred, but not required.

    Northern Light Sebasticook Valley Hospital is a progressive, Joint Commission accredited, 25-bed Critical Access Hospital in Pittsfield, Maine that serves an area encompassing 40,000 people throughout the central region. Northern Light Sebasticook Valley Hospital is a member of Northern Light Health, an integrated statewide health delivery system that is raising the bar with no-nonsense solutions that are leading the way to a healthier future for our state.

    Why Northern Light Health?

    • Robust compensation and benefits package  
    • Student Loan Reimbursement Programs 
    • Relocation Bonus  
    • Sign on Bonus  
    • Flexible schedules and exceptional work/life balance  
    • Generous PTO benefits   

    For confidential consideration, please submit CV to: Providerjobs@northernlight.org

    10/7/19


    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.

    9/16/19

    Physician Director of Primary Care

    Northern Light Sebasticook Valley Health has an exciting physician leadership opportunity for a Board Certified/Board Eligible MD/DO Family Medicine or Internal Medicine Physician to lead our primary care network of three family medicine practices.

    Northern Light Sebasticook Valley Health has an exciting physician leadership opportunity for a Board Certified/Board Eligible MD/DO Family Medicine or Internal Medicine Physician to lead our primary care network of three family medicine practices. This is an excellent opportunity to lead a group of well established, quality driven, outpatient practices serving the greater Pittsfield community. Our team of physicians and NP/MHNP providers are committed to providing excellent medical care, exceptional service and a satisfying relationship between patient and provider. We do this by blending the latest technology with old-fashioned care and customer service. Our skilled office staff and providers work as integrated care teams to provide our patients with a full spectrum of family care. This role will be 20% administrative and 80% clinical practice.
     
    For confidential consideration, please contact: providerjobs@northernlight.org
     
    9/30/19

    Family Medicine Specialist or an Internist

    Northern Light AR Gould Hospital is seeking an additional Family Medicine Specialist or an Internist for its outpatient health facility in Presque Isle.  This is an outpatient only position with 24/7 Hospitalist support for all admissions.

    Northern Light AR Gould Hospital is seeking an additional Family Medicine Specialist or an Internist for its outpatient health facility in Presque Isle.  This is an outpatient only position with 24/7 Hospitalist support for all admissions.

    AR Gould Hospital features 89 acute care beds and a 72 bed facility and serves all of Aroostook County with a broad array of primary and specialty care, acute inpatient, diagnostic and surgical services.

    Northern Light AR Gould Hospital in Presque Isle, Maine, which is known for its beautiful lakes, rivers, and forests.  When you’re not enjoying year round outdoor activities, you will be working with supportive colleagues in a modern facility that is well-integrated into a cutting-edge health care syste

    For confidential consideration, please contact: Monica Hewitt, Physician Recruiter ProviderJobs@NorthernLight.org or 207.973.5358.

    9/16/19

    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/