01/16/2015

January President's Message

Last month’s newsletter saw a recap of 2014 by myself and others, so it seems only appropriate to look ahead to what’s in store for 2015. Of course it’s hard to look ahead without the great philosopher Yogi Berra’s quote regarding the future popping into mind: “It’s tough to make predictions, especially about the future.” With that in mind, let me look ahead…cautiously.

But first, let me mention a lady that I knew only too briefly. Joan Hesler was the first Executive Director of Ohio ACEP, and oh my, what a job she did. While I met her only briefly, the quality of her directorship is evidenced by two outstanding facts: 1) she was the Executive Director when the granddaddy of the Board Review courses was created, and 2) she was the Chapter’s “mom” when many of our Ohio leaders (many of whom went on to national leadership roles including multiple Presidents and at least one Council Speaker, plus many Board members), honed their leadership skills. Ohio ACEP is what it is today because of Joan. We are so fortunate for her service. Joan passed away on January 6. She will be missed.

Now that we have tipped our caps to the origins of the Chapter, let’s take a peek into 2015. On the legislative front, it’s safe to say “opiates” will continue to be among the most frequently heard words around Capitol Square in Columbus. There’s no question the narcotic epidemic is real, and legislators and others feel a need to do something…anything. Ohio ACEP will continue to closely monitor the goings-on—and, when appropriate, participate in policy formulation—to make sure what is done is in the best interest of the patients, and then in the best interest of providers of emergency care.

After failing to pass in the lame duck session of the last General Assembly, expansion of the “I’m Sorry” law (i.e., saying “I’m sorry” is not an admission of guilt) will resurface with modifications and be reintroduced. Certain sectors of the healthcare provider population will continue to push for a State Trauma Board. The “Concussion Committee” will come up with recommendations for the minimal education required for those who are to clear young athletes to return to the field of play. And Scope of Practice issues will continue to be discussed.

In 2015, we will continue to be represented by Chapter lobbyist, Amanda Sines, who has started her own lobbying group, Capitol Action Team.

In the Education realm, we will conduct our second out-of-state Board Review course. Last year found us in Orlando, partnering with Florida ACEP. This year we’re on our own, in the Gulf city of Tampa. Last year’s course received excellent reviews, and I would predict the same for this year’s. This newsletter precedes the course opening by a week…so it’s not too late to register.

We will continue with our other educational endeavors, including in-state Written Board Review courses, ultrasound courses, LLSA reviews, and Oral Board prep courses. And our own Carol Rivers’ publications will continue to inform and educate.

In the Leadership arena, we will welcome a new class of future leaders into our one-year education and mentoring program, the Leadership Development Academy.

I have established a subcommittee of the Leadership Committee this year, the Membership section. Stepping up to lead this very important section is Dr. Don Moffa, who joined us last year on the Board of Directors. We all realize the importance of keeping our membership levels sustained, and Don will be charged with overseeing this critical aspect of our Chapter, as well as working to demonstrate the value of Ohio ACEP membership. So don’t be surprised if you receive a call from Don at some point during the next few months!

Congrats to the Buckeyes…tough for this PAC 12 aficionado to express. But it is heartfelt…and feels good to say it. O-H…

Godspeed as each of you moves into the New Year. And come on down to sunny Tampa…a marvelous Board Review course awaits you.

We started with one, let’s finish with one. Again quoting the marvelous Yogi Berra, “The future ain’t what it used to be.”

Best,

John

John Lyman, MD, FACEP

President, Ohio ACEP