The Columbus Medical Association is proud to welcome Kristin Foley, MD, to the Board of Directors. Dr. Foley is a board-certified diagnostic radiologist at the Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center. Get to know her in our Board Member Spotlight!

What inspired you to join the CMA board at this point in your career?

I have always been interested in engaging more with the wider community in promoting health and well-being. The CMA has always impressed me as an important voice and organization, and a number of physicians I know and admire have been involved. I was thrilled when the opportunity to get involved as a board member arose. 

What do you see as the biggest opportunity—or challenge—for physicians in central Ohio right now?

I think one of the biggest challenges for physicians in central Ohio is the growth of demand for our services. As the population of central Ohio grows, and the population as a whole ages, there are more and more people who need health care. It is challenging to keep up with the growing need. 

What do you enjoy most about practicing medicine?

As I diagnostic radiologist, I really love the intellectual demands of my job. I have to know a lot of things about a lot of things. While some of the work feels routine, I often find that I am working hard to sort out a tricky puzzle when I have a challenging case. I also very much enjoy training residents.   

How do you recharge outside of work?

I enjoy exercise (running and strength training) as well as travel and live music. 

Coffee or tea?

Coffee almost always, though I occasionally enjoy a cup of hot herbal tea in the evening. 

Early bird or night owl?

More early bird than night owl, but not that early. 

Favorite local restaurant or hidden gem?

I love Comune and also Third and Hollywood. 

If you weren’t in medicine, what would you be doing?

Probably something in public health and/or public policy 

Employers must pay premiums timely to the Ohio Bureau of Workers’ Compensation (BWC) to receive and maintain workers' compensation coverage. 

Through the year, employers have been making premium installment payments based on estimated payroll.  As we near the conclusion of the 2025 policy year (July 1, 2025 through June 30, 2026), BWC will be requiring all employers to reconcile (“true-up”) the payroll that was used to estimate their premium with their actual payroll for the policy year.    

Important reminders 

BWC mailed 2026 estimated annual premium notices along with your installment schedule around May 1, 2026. 

• If you expect your payroll to change during the 2026 rating year from the estimate provided, you can call BWC at 800-644-6292 and request a change to your payroll and installment schedule. 
• Failure to make installment payments based on the installment schedule can result in lapses in coverage, therefore make sure installment payments are paid by the due dates as noted on the installment schedule.  The first installment payment will be due by mid/late June 2026.   
• If you pay your full 2026 premium by the June installment due date, you can earn a 2% Early Payment Discount. There is no need to switch to an annual installment, but the premium must be paid in full by the due date.  BWC will issue the 2% refund the following month. 

BWC will mail notices regarding the July 1, 2025 through June 30, 2026 true-up around July 1, 2026.  True-up reporting and payment is due by August 31, 2026.  Remember, there is no grace period.  

• Failure to true-up and pay any additional premium will result in your policy being removed from all discount and rebate programs and it will remain ineligible for discounts and rebate in future years. 

If you have any questions regarding premium installments or the true-up process, contact our Sedgwick program manager, Dave Deyo, at david.deyo@sedgwick.com. 

• Lamont Clay, MD - President, emergency medicine physician at Mid-Ohio Emergency Services.
• Chris Brown, MD - Secretary-Treasurer, internal medicine physician at PressureMD
• Kanny Grewal, MD - Immediate Past President, cardiologist at OhioHealth Heart & Vascular
• Karen King, MD - CMAF Board President, OBGYN at OhioHealth 
• Craig Barker, MD, internal medicine physician at MedOne Healthcare 
• Nita Bhatt, MD, psychiatrist at Central Ohio Behavioral Healthcare
• Tracy Cook, MD, OBGYN at Avina Women's Care. Read her board member spotlight here.
• Joshua da Silva, MD, emergency medicine physician at Emergency Services Inc.
• Andrew Detty, MD, family medicine physician at OhioHealth Family Medicine Grant
• Kristin Foley, MD, diagnostic radiologist at The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center. Read her board member spotlight here.
• Chelsea Mooreland, MD, family physician and founder of Life Cycle Direct Primary Care. 
• Pina Patel, MD, hospice & palliative care physician at OhioHealth Physician Group. Read her member spotlight here.
• Deepak Sudheendra, MD,  vascular and interventional radiologist at 360 Vascular Institute. Read his board member spotlight here.

Newly appointed Board President Lamont Clay, MD, is an Emergency Medicine Physician and  Medical Director of Pickerington Methodist Hospital. He has served on the CMA Board of Directors for 4 years. He is a 2020 graduate of the Physicians Leadership Academy and a faculty member for Made for Medicine.

Dear Colleagues,

It is an honor to serve as your incoming President of the Columbus Medical Association. As we step into this new chapter together, I’ve been reflecting on what connects us as physicians and what is being asked of us at this moment in time.

Our world is changing rapidly. Patients today are inundated with information from every direction. We used to worry about “Dr. Google.” Now, it’s “Dr. AI,” influencers, and many other sources of often dangerous misinformation. In this landscape, the voice of the physician has never been more important.

This is where our shared purpose and shared responsibility come into focus. At the Columbus Medical Association, we aim to be the home for all physicians to connect, find shared purpose, and build healthier communities. This isn’t just a vision – it's a call to action to join our ranks. Because we know that meaningful impact takes time, effort, and collaboration.

One of the core ways CMA supports all central Ohio physicians is by amplifying the trusted physician voice. We advocate on your behalf with legislators, city and county leaders, and ensure that the public hears directly from trained, experienced medical professionals. This includes a new partnership with The Columbus Dispatch to provide a monthly column answering common questions. Our first column, written by Board Member Nita Bhatt, MD, ran this past week. CMA members have an opportunity to contribute to this column—complete this form to let us know you’re interested. This work did not happen overnight. It reflects intentional relationship-building and a long-term commitment to elevating the physician perspective in places where it matters most.

At its core, our shared purpose is simple but powerful: a unified physician voice. In a time when misinformation is loud and persistent, our patients and our communities need clarity and trust. That unified voice is built and amplified together.

And that is our shared responsibility. It means showing up and engaging. It means joining and supporting the Columbus Medical Association so that, collectively, we can do the work that none of us can accomplish alone.

Whether you are employed or in private practice, early in your career or approaching retirement, CMA exists to ensure that your voice is part of something stronger—visible, trusted, and united.

None of us does this work alone. Together, through CMA, we can ensure that physicians remain a trusted voice in our community and a driving force in building healthier communities for all. Please join us at ColumbusMedicalAssociation.org/join.

Sincerely,

Dr. Lamont Clay

The Columbus Medical Association is excited to welcome Frances Horenstein, MD, as a new member! Dr. Horenstein is the founder and CEO of DigestWell Health. Get to know her in our New Member Spotlight!

What inspired you to pursue a career in medicine? 
I have always been passionate about the sciences since childhood. In college, I majored in Biology, where I was introduced to the fields of Genetics and Biochemistry. During that time, there was significant excitement surrounding the Human Genome Project, which further sparked my interest in science and medicine. As I learned more about its potential impact on understanding and treating illness and disease, I became increasingly inspired by the possibilities for improving human health. This experience ultimately motivated me to pursue a career as a physician. 

What do you enjoy most about practicing in Columbus? 
I enjoy being part of a community that is constantly evolving and growing. Columbus is such a dynamic city, and it is rewarding to practice in an environment where people from different backgrounds and experiences come together.  

What are your areas of clinical interest? 
I am passionate about colon cancer screening and prevention, lifestyle medicine, and the vital role of gut health in overall wellbeing. I believe that caring for the gut microbiome is one of the most powerful — and underutilized — tools in medicine today. Whether I am guiding a patient through a colonoscopy, addressing a chronic GI condition, or helping someone understand how daily habits affect their digestive health, my approach is always rooted in compassion, education, and partnership. 

What's your favorite restaurant in Columbus? 
It’s hard to pick just one, as Columbus has completely spoiled me with incredible dining options. For big family dinners, Martini Modern Italian and Tucci’s are favorites. When I’m in the mood for something more laid-back, Harvest Pizza always hits the spot. Meshikou serves what I think is the best ramen in the city, and North Market at Bridge Park is one of my go-to places, especially when eating out with picky eaters.  

When you're not working, how do you like to spend your free time? 
I enjoy spending time with family and friends, trying new restaurants, going to the gym, and playing tennis. I also like to read and participate in book clubs.  

What's a fun fact about you that people might not know? 
I love karaoke and I’m an intermediate quilter. My love of karaoke goes way back; when I left the Philippines for residency, my mom gifted me a portable karaoke machine to take with me, and it has remained a fun connection to home and family ever since. 

As for quilting, I love the process of cutting, arranging, and piecing everything together. There’s something very meditative about it, and in many ways it reminds me of medicine, taking individual pieces of information and bringing them together to understand the bigger picture. 

What's the best piece of advice you've ever received? 
Someone once reminded me that we are boundless and limitless — and that has never left me. Every day is an opportunity to grow a little more, learn a little more, and give a little more. I try to bring that energy into my practice and into every patient relationship. We are all capable of more than we think, and I believe that wholeheartedly — for myself and for every person who walks through our doors. 

The CMA’s Women-in-Medicine Community gathered for one final event before summer break, enjoying an evening of connection and time in nature together. The group met at Highbanks Metro Park on May 18 for a guided nature tour, with special thanks to the Highbanks Nature Center team for leading such a wonderful experience. Photos from the event can be viewed here: Event Photo Gallery.

Thank you to our event sponsors: the Columbus Medical Association Foundation, First Financial Bank, and The Brokerage House.
 
Since first connecting virtually during COVID, the CMA’s Women-in-Medicine Community has continued to grow into a vibrant network of physicians across all career stages and practice settings who come together each month for support, connection, and shared experiences.
 
Planning for the 2026–2027 season is already underway and we’re gathering feedback on what activities and experiences would be most valuable for the Women-in-Medicine Community. Please take a moment to complete our quick 60-second survey. Your ideas will help shape future opportunities to connect with colleagues across Central Ohio.

 
Save the dates for upcoming Women in Medicine gatherings:

• September 14 – Third & Hollywood Meetup
• October 5 – Topic/Location TBD
• November 2 – Topic/Location TBD
• December 1 – Annual Women-in-Wine Event featuring “Women in French Wine”
• January 11, 2027 – Topic/Location TBD
• February 1, 2027 – Topic/Location TBD
• March 1, 2027 – Topic/Location TBD
• April 5, 2027 – Topic/Location TBD
• May 3, 2027 – Topic/Location TBD

The Columbus Medical Association Foundation's Youth Council concluded their grant cycle by supporting another group of nonprofits that target youth health priorities. The Council focuses on developing the next generation of philanthropists by educating youth on the process surrounding youth health and wellness-related philanthropy and grantmaking. During their meetings in March and May, the Council awarded funds to:

Bailey's Blankets, an organization offers free childcare (ages 3 months to 6 years) to children of parents who are going through cancer treatment. They are a new nonprofit that recently secured a location at the OSU James Comprehensive Cancer Center. The funding for the supplies of these 100 blankets will be made by local volunteer groups who will assemble them in a care package and given to families as a symbol of hope. Learn more about them here.

MD Summer Camp, an affiliate of OSU and run by medical students, is a three-week intensive summer day camp for 60 students (Grades 10, 11, and 12) who are interested in pursuing careers in medicine. Curriculum includes lectures, clinical shadowing, and hands-on medical experience. Learn more about them here.

Femergy, Femergy's Chica Camp is a five-day overnight summer camp catered towards young girls ages 12-18 in Columbus. This camp is meant to engage participants in addressing self-esteem, mental health, skill development, and positive youth development. Learn more here.

The Council is now on summer break until August 18. If you know a teen who may be interested in joining the Youth Council, click here for more information and submit an application.
 

“Successorship” or “successors in interest” are terms describing the takeover of one employer’s business by another, generally resulting from a change in ownership due to a purchase, acquisition, or merger.

Both the predecessor (seller) and successor (buyer) must notify BWC of a transfer in operations. The BWC will transfer the employer's claims experience when a new owner wholly assumes the former employer's business. If the new owner assumes only a portion of the business, the BWC only transfers that part of the former employer's experience to the succeeding employer.  

Successor employer
If you're the successor and a new employer without Ohio workers' compensation coverage, you must complete an Application for Ohio Workers' Compensation Coverage (U-3). If you already have Ohio workers' compensation coverage, you only need to submit the Notification of Business Acquisition/Merger or Purchase/Sale (U-118). 
If you wish to maintain the predecessor employer’s policy, and the predecessor’s coverage is active, you may submit a Request to Transfer Existing Coverage to Succeeding Employer (U-115) (PDF). You cannot use the U-115 if you have an active policy or if the former policy was canceled. You must submit form U-118.

Obtaining employer and policy information on a potential seller
To learn about the predecessor employer's experience or outstanding financial obligations before you acquire a business, complete the Request for Business Transfer Information (AC-4) (PDF). Both seller and potential buyer MUST sign this form. The BWC encourages any entity considering the purchase of another entity to use this form to help discover any potential issues with the seller's policy before purchase.

Predecessor employer
After notifying the BWC of the transfer and a request to cancel coverage, the predecessor employer has 45 days from the date of cancellation to report the final payroll, also known as true-up. Your policy must be in a canceled status to access the Payroll true-up report.

Important: If you have additional locations covered under the policy for which a portion of the business was transferred, do not complete a cancellation request. Complete the U-118 instead.  More information about workers’ comp and selling or buying a business here in Ohio can be found at:  Selling or buying a business | Bureau of Workers' Compensation (ohio.gov)

If you have plans to buy or sell a business, please contact our Sedgwick program manager, Dave Deyo, at 614-318-5516 or david.deyo@sedgwick.com.

The proclamation highlighted Dr. Bope’s instrumental role in shaping the Foundation’s future, including helping facilitate the 1993 sale of the Physicians Health Plan, which resulted in a $22 million endowment and transformed the CMA Foundation’s ability to serve physicians and the community.  

"Your leadership and innovative spirit continue to inspire and serve as the cornerstone of the CMA and its community impact,” Tracy said. “Enjoy the next steps on your journey.”

Dr. Mrunal Shah, a former resident mentored by Dr. Bope, reflected on the lessons that extended far beyond clinical training. 

“Dr. Bope always said, ‘If you listen to patients long enough, they will always give you the answer,’” Dr. Shah said. “Looking back, he wasn’t just giving clinical advice. He was modeling how to lead, how to serve, and how to build something that lasts.”

Dr. Shah also spoke of Dr. Bope’s rare ability to see the full picture for physicians and patients. Under Dr. Bope’s guidance, residents were taught not only how to practice medicine with clinical excellence, but how to be leaders and good humans. 

That vision was echoed by Dr. Teresa Long, emeritus member of the CMAF Board of Trustees. Dr. Long reflected on working alongside Dr. Bope during critical moments in CMA and Foundation history, including the early days of what would become COTS, the CMA affiliate focused on emergency preparedness and response. 

Dr. Long spoke warmly of her decades‑long professional relationship with Dr. Bope and noted that while she had often followed his path into leadership roles, there was one step she would not be taking: following him to Florida in retirement. 

Dr. Bope was also a founding member of Physicians CareConnection (PCC), the CMA affiliate providing medical, dental, prenatal, and coordination wraparound services for the community's most vulnerable. In this special video, PCC President Isi Green thanked Dr. Bope for his crucial role in founding the organization and announced the naming of an exam room in his honor. 

The plaque states: “Your vision and leadership helped build a bridge to care for those most vulnerable in our community. Your impact touches every life served within these walls.” 

Finally, The CMA Foundation also presented Dr. Bope with a certificate of appreciation, a glass plaque, and a gift, recognizing not only the length of his service, but its lasting significance. The presentation was made by Dr. Karen King, Chair of the CMAF Board of Trustees. 

With more than five decades of service completed, Dr. Bope leaves behind a body of work that continues to support physicians, expand access to care, and strengthen the community. His legacy will carry forward through the people and organizations he helped prepare for the future. 

View more photos from the event here. 

We are excited to welcome Engy Habashy, MD, a urologist and U.S. Navy veteran, as a new member of the Columbus Medical Association! Learn more about Dr. Habashy, including why the wise words of a senior physician in an elevator during medical school turned out to be some of the best advice she's ever received.

What inspired you to pursue a career in medicine?
My military background instilled a profound sense of service and duty that naturally guided me toward medicine. I wanted to be in a position where I could directly impact health and advocate for better healthcare policies. Ultimately, the desire to profoundly impact lives with meaningful, long-term patient relationships and advocacy drew me to the field.
 
What do you enjoy most about practicing in Columbus?
Practicing in Columbus allows me to truly integrate with and serve my local community on my own terms. I greatly appreciate the vibrant medical network that supports both independent practice and active physician advocacy. It is incredibly rewarding to work in a city that values healthcare innovation while still feeling like a close-knit home.
 
What are your areas of clinical interest?
As a urologist, my primary focus is on advancing surgical techniques and staying engaged with the latest clinical literature. I am also deeply interested in the intersection of medicine with healthcare law and artificial intelligence, which I am actively studying. Furthermore, drawing from my own background, I conduct research on health outcomes specifically within military populations.
 
What’s your favorite restaurant in Columbus?
I love Vietnamese cuisine and have been to Buckeye Pho many times. Vietnamese will always be at the top of my list.
 
When you’re not working, how do you like to spend your free time?
I cherish spending time with my husband, and keeping up with our three-year-old son, especially as we get him started in new activities like toddler swim lessons. Beyond family time, I am very hands-on with interior design, regularly taking on home improvement and smart-home projects. I also prioritize my personal well-being and try to maintain an active lifestyle. I recently signed up to lead a Walk with a Doc session, a volunteer program I learned about through the Columbus Medical Association. Thank you for that tip!
 
What’s a fun fact about you that people might not know?
In addition to being fluent in a second language, I am an avid international traveler and have loved exploring countries like Armenia, Ecuador, Egypt, and New Zealand. Another defining aspect of my life is my own journey with significant health challenges, including overcoming heart and brain surgeries. Navigating the healthcare system from the other side of the stethoscope has profoundly shaped my perspective and deepened my empathy as a physician.
 
What’s the best piece of advice you’ve ever received?
The best advice I ever received came from a brief but profound encounter with a senior physician in an elevator during medical school. He advised me not to let medicine become just a source of livelihood, but to strive for a position where I could practice purely for the joy of it. He believed that finding financial independence outside of the clinic allows you to see patients out of true passion rather than necessity. That wisdom shifted my perspective entirely and continues to guide how I structure my career and life today.
 

CMA Sponsor Shumaker is a legal and legislative solutions firm with over 300 lawyers and advisors and 60 paralegals practicing across 13 offices nationwide. Learn more about their firm and services below.

Tell us about your company’s mission and values.
For over 100 years, we have set a high standard for service, consistently delivering exceptional results. Shumaker’s mission is to provide legal and legislative counsel that moves our clients and communities forward with confidence. This mission is driven by our firm’s core values: impeccable client service, trust and respect for each other, and commitment to our communities.

Please describe your company culture.
At Shumaker, we have worked intentionally to build a culture of trust and respect for each other, where every employee feels empowered to carry out their tasks to the best of their ability. We afford all members of the firm the same trust and respect because we firmly believe that all personnel contribute significantly to the client experience—from winning a court hearing, to attending a client dinner, to assembling a binder and giving a warm greeting to guests visiting the office. We celebrate each other’s victories, help each other through challenges, and collaborate closely with each other to best serve our clients. This foundation of trust and respect naturally builds strong teams and encourages connections.

What’s your favorite part of the Central Ohio medical community?
The Central Ohio medical community stands out for its unique culture of collaboration and innovation. Columbus maintains a distinct "small-town feel" within a major metropolitan area, where health systems, independent practitioners, and academic institutions work together to improve health outcomes for all citizens across the region. The city boasts world-class academic centers and specialized children’s hospitals that attract top-tier talent, all of which encourage integrated care models and progressive policy development. The entire community shares a commitment to ensuring that health care capabilities and accessibility grow as Columbus grows, making it a true hub for medical excellence in the Midwest.

Exclusive Member Benefit: Preferred Access to Physician-Focused Legal Counsel

Shumaker attorney Daphne Kackloudis, who is a member of the CMA's public policy team, recently announced an exclusive CMA member benefit of a 10% discount off her hourly rate for physician-related legal services.  Learn more here.

The Physicians CareConnection, or PCC, an affiliate of the Columbus Medical Association that helps coordinate care for vulnerable adults in Central Ohio, has an urgent need for specialty volunteers. PCC President Isi Green reported the following are needed to help meet the growing demand for services:

• Gynecology
• Gastroenterology
• Nephrology
• Allergy
• Pulmonology
• Orthopedics
• Endocrinology
• Sleep Medicine

The PCC Center for Optimal Health is located at 1390B Dublin Road in Columbus. They provide comprehensive support, including onsite and offsite lab services, pharmacy access, and a dedicated team of care coordinators who manage both medical and social aspects of patient care. Their goal is to make the experience as seamless as possible so providers can focus on what they do best: caring for patients.

"Physicians CareConnection creates a bridge between patients in need and physicians who are willing to help. It allows me to extend my care beyond my private practice, Hilliard Family PODIATRY, reaching individuals who may not have insurance or resources. It aligns with why I went into medicine in the first place and that is to help people in a meaningful way," Dr. Jennifer Trinidad said in a recent PCC Volunteer Spotlight.

What Volunteers Need to Know

• Medical services are offered Mondays and Wednesdays from 9:00 AM–7:00 PM
• There is additional flexibility to host morning (9:00 AM–12:00 PM) or afternoon (12:00 PM–4:00 PM) sessions on Tuesdays based on provider availability.
• They utilize Athena EMR, and scribe support is available if desired.
• Providers may volunteer for as little as one hour or longer and can determine the number of patients they wish to see.

Please consider donating time to PCC's life-saving work. Find more information and sign up to volunteer here.

The Scholar-in-Residence Program provides a stipend up to $5,000 to support the activities of the scholar. This funding is provided by the Columbus Medical Association Foundation endowment for the MHC and can cover but is not limited to equipment, support staff, and publication costs. Scholars also receive touchdown workspace, limited storage for materials, and shared large office equipment. All funds must be spent in the awarded year. A one-year renewal may be available upon request, depending on the scope of the project.

Suitable potential scholars can come from a variety of backgrounds (e.g., students, clinician historians, PhD historians) and each application will be reviewed based upon the quality of the application and proposed use of historical collections. Preference will be given to scholars whose research is directed toward local or regional medical historic issues. Use of the in-house archival and rare book collections is suggested but not limited to the collections of the Medical Heritage Center. The intent to publish in nationally-known presses and peer-reviewed journals is preferred. Scholars will be expected to provide a mid-point and final report discussing the progress and result of the residency project. At least one presentation and publication are expected from a successful scholar residency. 

An application package should be submitted for consideration by June 22, 2026, and a successful applicant will be decided upon by the Medical Heritage Center Advisory Committee by July 20, 2026. The application package should include:

1. A cover letter stating the scholar’s intended area of research and publication and how the research fits into the goals of the Scholar-in-Residence Program. Please note use of MHC collections where applicable.
2. CV
3. Proposed budget and timeline; and
4. At least two (2) recommendation letters.

The application and any questions should be sent to Judith Wiener, Health Sciences Library Associate Director for Collections and Outreach at MHCmail@osumc.edu.

The Columbus Medical Association Foundation's Youth Council gathered for an end-of-the school year outing to say farewell to their graduating seniors. The Youth Council is composed of students ages 13-18 who meet regularly to learn about philanthropy and grantmaking, and award grants to community organizations focused on their priority areas.

The Council gathered on April 21, 2026 to play arcade games and laser tag at Combat Ops. Three members of the council are graduating high school: Imani Akita - Westerville South HS, Stuti Deshpande - Dublin Jerome High School, and Zaid Abaza - Dublin Jerome High School.

"These students have been strong voices in philanthropy for the council and exhibited leadership and growth in each of the meetings," said Paula Cosby, CMA Foundation Director. "We are incredibly proud of their accomplishments and wish them success in their future."

You have an opportunity share a special message with Dr. Ed Bope as we celebrate his remarkable career and his retirement from service to the Columbus Medical Association and CMA Foundation.

A special celebration will be held on Tuesday, May 5 from 4:00 - 6:00 pm at the CMA Foundation Office (1390 Dublin Road) to honor Dr. Bope. His dedication includes five decades of practicing medicine and as a member of the Columbus Medical Association, 46 years as a member of the CMA Foundation Board of Trustees, and being a founding member of the Physicians CareConnection. RSVP to the event here.

We invite you to share messages of gratitude and congratulations to Dr. Bope. Share your message by following these steps:

• Go to this website
• Click on "Add a Post"
• Write your message and include images if you'd like
• Click "Next" and follow the instructions to post your message

Please submit your message by the end of the day Monday, May 4.

For National Volunteer Week, April 19-25, 2026, we are highlighting some of the incredible volunteers for the Physicians CareConnection (PCC) who are essential to their mission to support the most vulnerable in our community. 

Jennifer Trinidad, DPM, FACFAS, is a podiatric medicine and surgery specialist at Hilliard Family Podiatry, LLC. Dr. Trinidad has volunteered with PCC for more than eight years and in 2019 was honored with their Outstanding Volunteer Provider award. 

What is your volunteer role at Physicians CareConnection? 

I volunteer as a podiatrist providing foot and ankle care to underserved patients in our community. This includes evaluating and treating conditions such as diabetic foot complications, infections, wounds, and painful foot disorders. Many of these patients would otherwise go without care, so being able to step in and help prevent more serious complications is incredibly meaningful. 

What inspired you to volunteer? 

As a physician, I have always felt a responsibility to use my skills to help those who may not have access to care.  In podiatry, especially diabetic patients, early intervention can prevent serious outcomes like infection or amputation. Knowing that I can make that kind of impact for someone who might otherwise fall through the cracks is what truly inspired me to volunteer. 

Why is it important for you to volunteer with PCC? 

Physicians CareConnection creates a bridge between patients in need and physicians who are willing to help. It allows me to extend my care beyond my private practice, Hilliard Family PODIATRY, reaching individuals who may not have insurance or resources. It aligns with why I went into medicine in the first place and that is to help people in a meaningful way. 

Why do you think PCC is important for the community? 

PCC plays a critical role in improving access to healthcare for underserved populations. By coordinating care among volunteer physicians it helps prevent minor conditions from becoming major health crises. This not only improves individual patient outcomes but also strengthens the overall health of the community. 

When you are not volunteering, how do you use your time? 

When I am not volunteering, I spend my time running my podiatry practice and caring for my three children, Hunter (16), Weston (14), and Roxanne (11). I value my time to recharge whether it is enjoying playing music (guitar or piano) and staying active in our backyard with a hobby of raising chickens for eggs. I love animals and have three cats, one snake, two turtles, one dog and 5 chickens. 

Dedicated volunteers are vital to PCC’s life-saving work, and more health care providers are needed. We are seeking physician volunteers to help us meet the growing demand for comprehensive healthcare services and ensure that more people in our community have access to the care they need and deserve. Click here to learn more.

For National Volunteer Week, April 19-25, 2026, we are highlighting some of the incredible volunteers for the Physicians CareConnection (PCC) who are essential to their mission to support the most vulnerable in our community.  

Edward R. Sargent, MD, FACP, is board certified in internal medicine. After practicing in San Antonio, Texas, for 40 years, he retired in 2022 and moved to Ohio to be closer to family. As a retired physician member of the Columbus Medical Association, he began volunteering with PCC earlier this year. 

What inspired you to volunteer? 

I have always enjoyed patient care and have missed the interaction with patients since I retired. I feel being a physician has been a privilege, and I have been thankful to have had such a fulfilling career. While in practice, I also was on the clinical faculty at the University of Texas and enjoyed teaching students and residents. Volunteering at PCC has given me the chance to resume the practice of medicine, teach students and residents and give back to the community I live in. 

Why do you think PCC is important for the community? 

PCC is important to the community because it provides a place for individuals to receive ongoing health care and wellness treatment that would other wise not be available to a large number of people in this community. Every day I have spent there has been a meaningful experience. It is so rewarding to be able to help individuals that need access to a health care system. I have met many people from different cultures which I find fascinating, and one of the best parts of primary care is getting to know patients as individuals. When volunteering, you learn a different perspective about life and individuals’ struggles and needs. 

What would you say to someone considering volunteering for PCC? 

If you are considering volunteering at PCC, there are many opportunities for students interested in health care as a career. There are opportunities for a medical professional to continue providing care as well as potential teaching opportunities. 

When you’re not volunteering, how do you spend your time? 

I moved to Ohio two years ago with my wife of 50 years. We love the Midwest and Columbus. I spend my time with family and friends. I enjoy almost all outdoor activities and spend a good deal of my time reading. 

Dedicated volunteers are vital to PCC’s life-saving work, and more health care providers are needed. We are seeking physician volunteers to help us meet the growing demand for comprehensive healthcare services and ensure that more people in our community have access to the care they need and deserve. Click here to learn more.

Service animals provide essential support for people with disabilities, a right protected under the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). For healthcare providers, balancing compliance with the realities of a medical office can be challenging. Staff may be unsure what they can legally ask when a patient arrives with an animal or how to manage the situation if other patients have allergies or fears. 
 
This guide breaks down the essential laws and practical steps your facility needs to take to ensure both compliance and patient safety. 
 
Service Animals vs. Emotional Support Animals 
 
A common point of confusion is the legal difference between service animals and emotional support animals (ESAs). The distinction is critical, as they have different rights under the law. 

Read more about best practices for your facility.

What is a Service Animal? 
 
Under the ADA, a service animal is a dog specifically trained to perform tasks for a person with a disability. This task must be directly related to the individual’s disability. 

What is an Emotional Support Animal? 
 
Emotional support animals, therapy dogs, or comfort animals provide companionship and can help with conditions like depression or anxiety. However, they are not trained to perform specific tasks. Under the ADA, ESAs are not considered service animals and do not have the same automatic access rights to public spaces, including healthcare facilities. 

How to Identify a Service Animal 

Your staff cannot ask for medical documentation or proof of certification for a service dog. This often creates anxiety for team members who want to follow the rules without violating a patient's privacy. 

When it is not obvious what service an animal provides, staff may only ask two specific questions: 

1. Is the dog a service animal required because of a disability?
2. What work or task has the dog been trained to perform? 

That's it. You cannot ask about the person’s specific disability, require an ID for the dog, or ask the dog to demonstrate its task. If the handler only says the animal makes them feel safe or is for emotional support, it likely does not meet the ADA's definition of a service animal. 
 
Access Rights in Your Facility 
 
A common question is whether service dogs are allowed in hospitals and exam rooms. The general rule is yes. Service animals must be permitted to accompany people with disabilities in all areas where the public is normally allowed. This includes waiting rooms, clinics, and examination rooms. 
 
However, access is not absolute. Service animals can be restricted from sterile environments where their presence could pose a direct safety threat or fundamentally alter the service. 

Examples of restricted areas include:

• Operating rooms
• Burn units
• MRI rooms (due to metal on collars or harnesses) 

Handling Conflicts and Behavioral Issues 
 
Allergies or fear of dogs from other patients or staff are not valid reasons to deny access to a person with a service animal. Your facility should try to accommodate both parties, perhaps by placing them in different areas of the waiting room. 

You can, however, ask for a service animal to be removed if: 

• The dog is out of control, and the handler does not take effective action to control it. 
• The dog is not housebroken.

The facility is not responsible for the care or supervision of a service animal. If a patient is unable to care for their animal during a procedure, they must arrange for someone else to do so. 

Key Takeaways for Your Facility 

To minimize confusion and reduce risk, implement these best practices:

• Train Your Staff: Ensure everyone understands the difference between service animals and ESAs and knows the two permitted questions. 
• Create a Clear Protocol: Have a written plan detailing where animals are allowed and how to handle non-service animals. 
• Manage Conflicts Fairly: Accommodate staff or patients with allergies or fears without treating the person with the service animal less favorably. 

By understanding these rights and responsibilities, your facility can remain compliant, welcoming, and safe for everyone. 

MagMutual provides expert resources to help healthcare professionals navigate these challenges. For more strategies on enhancing patient safety and compliance, read our full article on service animals here, or visit our full library of Healthcare Insights for additional support. 

Disclaimer: The information provided in this article does not constitute legal, medical or any other professional advice. No attorney-client relationship is created and you should not act or refrain from acting on the basis of any content included in this article without seeking legal or other professional advice. 

CMA Member David Sabgir, MD is a cardiologist in Columbus. More than 20 years ago, he was inspired to launch the Walk with a Doc program that now has more than 500 chapters across 48 states and 40 countries. Last year, he launched a new endeavor -- Read with a Doc in collaboration with the Columbus Medical Association and the AMA Alliance. Find out more about Dr. Sabgir and why he believes these programs are essential for physicians and the community. 

What inspired you to pursue a career in medicine?
My Uncle Mike was the only practicing physician in the family, a cardiologist at Houston Methodist. There was just something about the way he carried himself that completely drew me in. He made medicine feel like a calling and that stuck with me early on.

What brought you to Columbus, and what do you enjoy most about practicing here?
My wife and I were both born and raised here; she is from Westerville, and I'm from Worthington, so Columbus has always been home. We still have family here, which means a lot to us. What I enjoy most is the patient population and the incredible teammates I get to work alongside every day. It really feels like a community.

What are your areas of clinical/professional interest?
Preventive medicine is where my heart is. I love spending time with patients and focusing on what we can do before illness takes hold, building health rather than just reacting to disease.

What led you to launch Walk with a Doc? What do you think is its biggest impact?
I believe consistent physical activity is the single greatest thing any of us can do for our health. Walk with a Doc came out of a real frustration. I was failing to inspire my patients to increase their activity level. One day in late 2004, I wanted the patient to have to say ‘no’ to my face. I asked, “Will you meet my family and me at the park to walk?” and that changed everything.

I believe the biggest impact has been breaking down the doctor-patient barrier. When that wall comes down, something powerful happens. We get back to a human connection between physicians and the communities we serve, and from there it's off to the races.

Why did you decide to launch Read with a Doc?
Read with a Doc is essentially a physician-led book club, but it really sits at the intersection of four things I care deeply about. Books that can truly change lives, libraries and all the resources they offer, communities that are hungry for connection and meaningful information, and physicians who want to do more for their patients than a 20-minute visit allows. The responses to our three pilot programs (with Westerville Public Library) in 2025 showed us that we were on to something.

Why is it important for physicians to connect with the community outside the office or hospital?
My experience is that when I step outside the clinic, I get a much clearer picture of my patients’ real lives, what makes health possible, and what gets in the way. That perspective leads to care that is more practical and more effective. It also builds trust and helps us reach people who might never walk through our doors. Ultimately, it shifts medicine from treating illness to actually creating health.

What is one thing you would like your colleagues to know about you or your work?
Everything I do is grounded in a simple belief that health is built in everyday life, not just in exam rooms. We have a unique opportunity to show up in our communities, and when we do, we're not just educating, we are connecting. To me, it is that connection that often drives real and lasting change. I also hear from our Walk with a Doc leaders all the time that it changes them too. Even hosting one walk a year can create a real sense of purpose.

What is your favorite restaurant in Columbus?
This is the toughest question on the list because there are so many great options. I tend to gravitate toward places with live music. For a quieter night, I really enjoy the vibe at Asterisk Supper Club in Westerville or Giuseppe’s Ritrovo in Bexley.

When you are not working, how do you like to spend your free time?
Time with my wife and close friends is priority one. If we can be together for a run, bike ride, or hike, even better. And our two dogs keep things interesting when we are not out exploring.

What is a fun fact about you that people might not know?
For more than 20 years, I have been writing a lighthearted Friday morning newsletter with our team (Rachael Habash and Bryan Romey) that has become a bit of a gathering place for the Walk with a Doc community. It started small and just kept going. We have a lot of fun with it.

If you could have dinner with any historical or medical figure, who would it be and why?
I would choose Martin Luther King Jr. He had a rare ability to take a complex and deeply rooted problem and turn it into a simple, actionable idea that people could rally around. His approach to consistent community engagement leading to lasting cultural and systemic change really resonates with me. I would have a thousand questions for him.

To learn more about Walk with a Doc and get involved, go to the Columbus page on their website or email bryan@walkwithadoc.org. Watch the CMA Newsletter for updates on what's next for Read with a Doc.

The Columbus Medical Association Foundation is thrilled to welcome internal medicine physician Erica Schwaiger Kemp, DO, to its Board of Trustees.

Dr. Kemp, who was featured in our New Member Spotlight in March, is an attending physician at Chalmers P. Wylie VA Ambulatory Care Center in Columbus.

“On behalf of the Foundation and our Board of Trustees, I’m excited to extend a warm welcome to Dr. Kemp,” said CMA Foundation Director Paula Cosby. “She has a genuine passion for our community, and we’re fortunate to have her insight as we work together to support initiatives that make a meaningful difference for physicians and patients across Central Ohio.”

The CMA Foundation Board of Trustees oversees the management and growth of the organization’s resources and works to fund initiatives to make the greatest positive impact in central Ohio.

Colorectal cancer (CRC) is one of the most preventable cancers but remains the second-leading cause of cancer-related deaths in the United States. Learn more about CRC prevention from our partners at OhioGastro.

Why this matters now 

Colorectal cancer (CRC) is one of the most preventable cancers – yet: 

• It is the second-leading cause of cancer-related deaths in the United States.  
• It is the leading cause of cancer death among individuals under the age of 50.  
• The lifetime risk of developing colorectal cancer is approximately 1 in 24 for men and 1 in 26 for women.  
• About 1 in 3 Ohioans are not up-to-date with recommended screening. 

Development & Symptoms – Often silent 

CRC typically develops from colonic polyps - precancerous growths that undergo genetic changes over time and may eventually progress to cancer. Precancerous polyp subtypes include adenomas, sessile serrated polyps, and sessile serrated adenomas. These lesions can accumulate progressive mutations that ultimately lead to malignant transformation. 

Most polyps and early-stage CRC are asymptomatic, causing no symptoms. One of the earliest clinical signs may be iron deficiency anemia due to occult gastrointestinal blood loss. As the disease advances, symptoms may include abdominal pain, changes in bowel habits, rectal bleeding, or unexplained weight loss. 

Mortality from colorectal cancer is strongly correlated with stage at diagnosis. The five-year survival rate for stage I disease is approximately 91%, compared with just 13% for metastatic disease. Early detection dramatically improves survival outcomes. 

Screening - Colonoscopies stand apart 

Colonoscopy is both a diagnostic tool and therapeutic intervention. Polyps can be removed by gastroenterologists during the procedure—preventing progression to malignancy. A landmark 2013 study published in the New England Journal of Medicine demonstrated that both colorectal cancer incidence and mortality were significantly reduced among individuals who underwent colonoscopy screening.  

The best test is the one a patient completes. But the most comprehensive test for prevention is colonoscopy. 

Screening tests at-a-glance 

*Beginning at age 45 for people at average risk - no personal history of colorectal cancer or advanced polyps, no first-degree family history of colorectal cancer or advanced polyps, and no history of inflammatory bowel disease 

Screening guidelines 

According to the American Cancer Society: 

• Individuals at average risk should begin colorectal cancer screening at age 45. Average risk refers to individuals without a personal history of colorectal cancer or advanced polyps, no first-degree family history of colorectal cancer or advanced polyps, and no history of inflammatory bowel disease.  
• Individuals with family history of a first-degree relative diagnosed with colorectal cancer or advanced polyps at a young age, or those with multiple affected family members, screening should begin 10 years prior to the age at diagnosis of the youngest affected relative. This may result in screening before age 45. 

Taking Points for Patients 

• Quiet disease - “Most early cancers and polyps that may turn into cancer are silent. Screening is how we find it sooner, making treatment easier.” 
• Prevent vs. detect - “The best way to prevent cancer is to find and remove polyps. Colonoscopy can detect and prevent it by removing polyps with the highest accuracy. Stool or blood tests are noninvasive and can detect cancer and polyps; but are less accurate and if abnormal, you’ll still need a colonoscopy.”
• One-and-done feel - “If your colonoscopy is normal, you may not need another for 10 years.” 
• Your why - “CRC is the second-leading cause of cancer-related deaths in the United States and is now the leading cause of cancer related deaths under 50. Screening starting at 45 and following your schedule is how we help prevent it.” 

Actions you can take today 

• Default to colonoscopy - When the patient is eligible and agreeable default to a colonoscopy; offer alternatives if they decline or have access barriers. 
• Address fears up front - Pain control, sedation, transportation, time off work, cost. 
• Close-the-loop - Track all positive stool or blood tests until colonoscopy is completed. 
• EHR nudges - Add an age 45 health maintenance prompt and an iron-deficiency anemia alert that suggests colonoscopy. 
• Run a gap list – Identify and reach out to patients 45–75 who do not have documented up-to-date CRC screening. 

The Physicians CareConnection (PCC) is one of 15 community organizations receiving funding through CelebrateOne’s infant mortality initiative. CelebrateOne recently announced they secured a $3.4 million grant from the Ohio Department of Medicaid to expand the Enhanced Maternal Health Program across Franklin County.  

The funds will allow PCC to expand its work addressing the critical challenges impacting women’s mental health and physical health to reduce infant mortality rates in central Ohio. Their wholistic approach includes culturally competent care coordination, partnerships, and community-driven initiatives to remove barriers to essential healthcare services. 

Their support of pregnant women includes: 

• Assistance scheduling prenatal appointments to ensure timely care through partnerships with hospitals and providers. 
• Transportation assistance to ensure women are able to attend critical medical appointments. 
• Rent and utility payment assistance for vulnerable pregnant mothers to alleviate stress during maternity leave. 
• Connection to substance abuse treatment and recovery services. 

In their 2025 Impact Report, PCC reported that during their 25,690 service encounters in 2025: 

• 6,919 lives were impacted, including household members 
• 698 pregnant women received prenatal and postnatal support 
• Of the 37 births tracked, 83% of the pregnancies went to full term and 83% of the babies were a healthy birth weight 
  

“Every year, our neighbors face barriers to health that have nothing to do with medicine — unstable housing, food insecurity, no way to pay for care,” said Isi Ikharebha Green, MPH, PCC President. “In 2025, PCC's volunteer physicians and healthcare experts led the way, helping reach 6,919 lives across Central Ohio with coordinated support that addresses the whole person.” 

Dedicated volunteers are vital to PCC’s life-saving work, and more health care providers are needed. We are seeking primary care provider volunteers to help us meet the growing demand for comprehensive healthcare services and ensure that more people in our community have access to the care they need and deserve. Click here to learn more.

The word “fraud” carries a heavy connotation with it and making a fraud referral to the Bureau of Workers’ Compensation can feel a bit overwhelming. What should you do if you suspect that a fraudulent claim has been filed against you? The Bureau of Workers’ Compensation has an entire division devoted to analyzing and investigating fraud concerns. The Special Investigations Department was created in 1994 with the sole purpose of reviewing potential fraud in the workers’ compensation system.   

According to the Bureau’s Special Investigations Department Annual Report from 2025, they received 2,164 fraud allegations and ultimately closed 1,395 cases with 56 resulting in convictions for an identified savings of $91 million dollars.

It is important to understand the activities that are most associated with potential workers’ compensation claim fraud:

• Collecting disability benefits while receiving compensation 
• Receiving cash payment for work performed “under the table”
• Claiming to be injured while at work when the injury happened elsewhere
• Exaggeration of disability complaints to extend disability
• Falsifying documents related to a claim application

Employers are often notified of potential fraud either from co-workers who witnessed or heard about the suspected incident or through personal observation, such as seeing a post on social media.  Should you suspect one or more of the above activities you should contact the BWC Fraud unit to report a concern.

You can do this either through the Bureau of Workers’ Compensation’s website or by contacting the BWC Fraud department directly at 1.800.644.6292.  For more information, contact our Sedgwick program manager, Dave Deyo at 614-318-5516 or email david.deyo@sedgwick.com 

Walk with a Doc is looking for volunteers this spring! The successful program, which was started in 2005 by Columbus cardiologist Dr. David Sabgir, offers free walking programs in communities around the world led by local doctors, healthcare providers, or medical students.

By bringing healthcare providers into local parks to walk with the community, the program creates meaningful opportunities to promote health beyond the clinic walls. Leading a walk is simple and requires just one hour of your time.

You'll begin with a brief discussion on a health topic, then walk and connect with participants for the remainder of the hour. Learn more and sign up here, or email bryan@walkwithadoc.org with any questions.

More than two dozen students are on their way to a future in medicine. The group of 7th grade students received their white coats at a special ceremony at Nationwide Children’s Hospital’s Stecker Auditorium on Thursday, March 19, as part of the Made for Medicine program, an affiliate of the Columbus Medical Association.  

Made for Medicine, which celebrates its five-year anniversary this year, focuses on increasing the number of doctors and advancing health equity by preparing youth to enter the medical field. The 26 students honored on March 19 have now successfully completed Phase 1 of the program, which includes teaching, hands-on learning, guest speakers, and simulations.  

Students were joined by their families and guests, along with Made for Medicine board members and faculty members, to receive their white coats. Just like a medical student graduating medical school, the ceremony doesn’t just represent the completion of one journey; it marks the beginning of the next. 

“This is about health equity,” said Made for Medicine founder and board chair Dr. Laura Espy-Bell. “Because every child, regardless of their zip code, their income, or the color of their skin deserves doctors who see them value them and truly believe in their potential.” 

Congratulations to Phase 1 graduates and future physicians: 

• Chizara Akusoba 
  
• Daenerys Alabi 
• Aatif Arif 
• Tselot Assefa 
• Mya Brim 
• Bryce Carpenter 
• Kason Cumberlander 
• Adrian Frederick II 
• Serenity Hardy 
• Ainsley James 
• Jordan Jennings 
• Salaia Jones-Munns 
• Ariann Lightfoot-Lynch 
• Pierce Marshall 
• Dre'Onna Moore 
• Michelle Narh 
• Dhinan Rajan 
• Willow Rogers
• Anisa Salah
• Bethel Solomon
• Jayla Thomas
• Naomi Washington
• Amiyah Williams
• Jeremiah Wilmer
• Tyra Woody
• Bryce Wright

Watch this video to learn more about these future doctors and this incredible program. The students will continue to Phase 2-Deeper Dive in the fall, with labs, hospital field trips, and leadership development. 

Made for Medicine leaders also honored seven medical student volunteers who are graduating from medical school and continuing on to the next step in their careers. 

• Tyler Bonner 
• Camari Mike 
• Greg Norwood 
• Maliek Scott 
• Prosper Ssekayombya 
• Abahamdah Wako 
• Dean Ware 

Made for Medicine is a program sponsored by the Franklin County Board of Commissioners and the Columbus Medical Association Foundation. 

The Columbus Medical Association Foundation is excited to welcome Miriam El-Rif, MD, to its Board of Trustees. Dr. El-Rif is an internal medicine physician at COPC Internal Medicine Group, a CMA Member, and a 2025 graduate of the Physicians Leadership Academy. 

“We are pleased to welcome Dr. El-Rif to the board,” said Paula Cosby, CMA Foundation Director. “She brings valuable clinical experience, and her perspective as a thoughtful physician leader will be a strong asset as we advance our work to improve the health and well-being of Central Ohioans.”  

The CMA Foundation’s Board of Trustees oversees the management and growth of its resources, including work to build relationships in the community and fund initiatives making the greatest positive impact. 

The Columbus Medical Association (CMA) Foundation is pleased to invite central Ohio physicians to its first informational speaker session focused on planned giving and charitable strategies for physicians. 

Many physicians reach a point in their careers where their balance sheet includes assets beyond their current lifestyle needs. On Tuesday, April 8 at 6:00 pm, CMA Foundation partner and presenter, WesBanco Wealth Management, will discuss how thoughtful planning will allow physicians to support meaningful causes while also strengthening long-term financial and estate planning goals. Topics will include: 

• Charitable Remainder Trusts 
• Qualified Charitable Distributions from IRAs 
• Charitable Lead Trusts 

This session is offered at no cost to central Ohio physicians and partners. Refreshments will be provided. 

Click here to register.

This is the first in a series of sessions hosted by the CMA Foundation to provide practical planned giving and charitable strategies for physicians. Additional session dates will be announced soon. 

The Columbus Medical Association is proud to partner with organizations that align with our vision to support our physician members and the community. This month, we’re highlighting our Bronze Sponsor, CARR, the nation’s leading provider of commercial real estate services for healthcare tenants and buyers. 

With a no-conflict approach, CARR handles every aspect of the healthcare real estate process, ensuring your financial and practice goals are always first and protected.  The team of experts at CARR Healthcare Realty® assist with all types of healthcare real estate transactions for tenants and buyers. Our services include start-ups, lease renewals, expansions, relocations, additional offices, purchases, and practice transitions. 

Mission/Values 

Our mission is simple: to exclusively represent those who help and serve the needs others, making CARR the top choice in healthcare real estate. We aim to act as educators throughout the process, explaining the market, protecting clients from hidden pitfalls, and negotiating from a position of strength. The result is clarity, confidence, and a more informed real estate decision that supports the long-term success of the practice. 

Culture 

Our culture is built around advocacy, transparency, and long-term relationships. We act as educators and strategic partners for our clients, helping them make confident, well-informed real estate decisions. We value integrity over transactions, collaboration over competition, and take pride in representing only our clients’ best interests every time. 

Central Ohio Medical Community 

"My favorite part is by far the relationships I get to create with my clients!  I deeply value and appreciate being seen as a trusted advisor during pivotal moments in their practices and helping them achieve the best possible terms and concessions for the practice is something that gives me tremendous pride.  The best compliment I can receive is being told I’m part of the client’s team!"

Learn more about CARR on their website or contact agent Kyle Sattler via email or (330) 340-5290. 

If you would like more information about becoming a CMA sponsor, contact Lynn Manoogian.

COTS recently released their 2025 impact report, highlighting the important work they accomplished to close gaps, elevate standards, and ensure communities are prepared for both everyday emergencies and large-scale events. 

Highlights from 2025 include: 

• 12 activations of the Emergency Patient Transport Plan (EPTP) 
• Regional coordination for preparedness and response to major planned events—including The Arnold Sports Festival, Red, White & Boom, and OSU football games—and 17 large-scale unplanned incidents 
• Training of nearly 3,000 professionals in trauma, emergency care, and preparedness 

Find out more in the interactive COTS 2025 Impact Report here. 

We are excited to announce a new member benefit through Savvik Buying Group, giving physicians access to national purchasing power and preferred pricing on products and services your practice uses every day. 

Savvik Buying Group is a non-profit organization that works with organizations and associations to provide group purchasing discounts to their members. Our affiliate COTS has partnered with Savvik for several years to provide discounts to its members, which range from 10-15% off retail prices. 

Through this expanded partnership to CMA members, you can now access discounts from trusted vendors, including: 

• Henry Schein: Dental and medical supplies 
  
• Medline: Medical supply products 
  
• Airgas: Gases and safety supplies 
  
• Cintas: Uniforms, first aid & safety, fire protection equipment, and cleaning supplies 
  
• Dash Medical: Disposable gloves 
  
• FedEx: Shipping solutions 
  

The benefit is designed to help physicians reduce overhead, improve purchasing efficiency, and strengthen practice operations. Purchasing through Savvik also helps the CMA—we receive a small percent of any revenue purchased through our membership which will be used to support our programs.  

You can browse their vendors here. If there is a product you need and it is not in their store, Savvik representatives may be able to help you find the product at a discount. 

How to Get Started 

• Complete the online registration form. Under “Organization/Agency,” you must enter “CMA Physicians.” 
  
• Your registration information will be sent to a Savvik membership specialist, who will add you to the CMA account 
  
• You will receive an email with your member number and information on their vendors and purchasing. 

Dear Columbus Medical Association Physicians,

You are delivering high quality, lifesaving care to patients across Columbus every single day. No matter your specialty, you are seeing the mental health crisis in real time. This is not psychiatry’s issue alone. It belongs to all of us.

As a member of the Board of Directors of the Columbus Medical Association and as President of the Ohio Psychiatric Physicians Association, I care deeply about bringing physicians together across disciplines. I would be honored to have you join us April 18 to 19, 2026 at the Hilton Polaris for the OPPA Mental Health Summit.

This is a highly clinical, practice focused conference grounded in real world medicine. Highlights include:

• Advocacy in Action: Advancing Public Policy for Better Mental Health Care, Anita Somani, MD, JD | State Representative, Ohio 8th House District; OBGYN, OhioHealth and Mike Troubh | Associate Vice President of Government Relations, American Psychiatric Association
• The Gut Microbiome and its Relationship to Psychiatric Disorders, Henry Nasrallah, MD, DLFAPA | Professor of Psychiatry, Neurology and Neuroscience, University of Cincinnati College of Medicine
• Repurposing GLP 1 Agents as Treatment and Prevention Strategies in Persons with Mental Disorders, Roger S. McIntyre, MD, FRCPC | Professor of Psychiatry and Pharmacology, University of Toronto; Chairman and Executive Director, Brain and Cognition Discovery Foundation
• Could This Be Autoimmune Encephalitis? A Practical Guide, Julien Cavanagh, MD | Assistant Professor of Neurology, Emory University; Associate Division Director of Hospital Neurology
• Addressing Gun Violence: Strategies for Physicians, Philip Resnick, MD, DLFAPA | Professor of Psychiatry, Case Western Reserve University
• Bridging Therapy and AI: Psychiatry’s Next Frontier, Marlynn Wei, MD, JD | Psychiatrist and Psychotherapist, New York, New York
• Talking with Myself: Stories of Mental Health, Shah Jalees, MD | Psychiatrist and Addiction Medicine Specialist, Akron, Ohio
• Logic Based Care: What Do You Do When You’re Out of Evidence Based Options? Erik Messamore, MD | Psychiatric Physician, Pharmacologist, University Professor

Saturday evening we will gather for Bridging Worlds: Bollywood Meets Hollywood, spotlighting the Aruna Project and its work supporting women rebuilding their lives after sex trafficking in Mumbai and Ohio.

Review the flyer for the event and register here. CMA physicians are eligible for a $100 discounted registration rate with code PRES26. .

Our goal is simple: align across specialties, strengthen collaboration, and move the #MentalHealthCareDoneRight Movement in Ohio forward together.

I truly hope you will join us.

Kind Regards,
Nita Bhatt

All local media outlets covered the simulation and highlighted the importance of the training and preparation: 

• WSYX ABC 6: Behind the scenes at the Arnold: first responders run emergency simulations 
  
• WBNS 10TV: Several agencies leading safety preparations ahead of Arnold Sports Festival 
  
• WOSU: OhioHealth holds simulation training at Arnold Sports Festival ahead of high attendance weekend 
  
• Columbus Dispatch: As the Arnold arrives in Columbus, medical teams are ready for anything 

OhioHealth also shared a story about the event and the collaboration with COTS: How OhioHealth Team Kept Athletes and Visitors Safe at 2026 Arnold Sports Festival, March 9, 2026

SEOHC Healthcare Emergency Drills: On Thursday, March 5, the Southeast/Southeast Central Ohio Healthcare Coalition (SEOHC) held a coordinated full-scale emergency drill involving every hospital in Regions 7 and 8. The drill imagines many serious emergencies related to severe weather – flooding and road closures impacting the ability to transport patients with severe injuries, weeks of rain breaking down infrastructure and leading to an outbreak of a waterborne illness, a hospital forced to evacuate, and more.  

COTS activated their Hospital Incident Command Center and worked closely with each hospital and agency to manage the evolving scenarios and coordinate response efforts across the region. 

Several regional media outlets covered the drill: 

• St. Clairsville Times Leader: Full-scale emergency drill at Neighborhood Hospital today, March 5, 2026
• The Logan Daily News: Local hospital joins many others in emergency exercise, March 7, 2026
• Barnesville Area News: Hospitals Participate in Emergency Preparedness Exercise, March 7, 2026
  
  
  

The Columbus Medical Association is proud to offer a physician directory. Whether you would like to connect with physicians who share your clinical interests, practice model, and professional passions, or explore referral options, a complete profile helps build a stronger community of colleagues who understand your work—and want to collaborate. It also allows the CMA to connect the media and other entities with physicians who have expertise in specific areas. 

CMA members are listed in our directory, which is accessible to the public, with their specialty, practice location, and professional contact information, along with featured blogs and contributed articles.

Find the CMA Member Directory here. 

Need to update your profile? Log into your account here. Be sure to add a photo and your practice information for other physicians to view. Find easy instructions here. 

Not seeing your name listed? Please join today and complete your profile.  

If you need assistance, contact Member Relations & Service Representative Lynn Manoogian.  

The CMA Foundation community extends its deepest gratitude to Dr. Brett Kockentiet as he concludes fourteen years of distinguished service as a Trustee. Throughout his lengthy tenure, Dr. Kockentiet has been a cornerstone of the Board, offering thoughtful insight and steadfast commitment to the Foundation’s mission.

His leadership was particularly instrumental during pivotal periods of growth and change, where he helped guide the organization’s strategic direction while ensuring high standards of governance and accountability. His contributions have left a lasting impact, strengthening a culture of collaboration and stewardship within the Foundation.

As Dr. Kockentiet steps away to begin his next chapter, the Board and the entire CMA community thank him for his role in shaping the organization’s history and positioning it for a strong future. We wish him the very best in his retirement.

Enrollment is now open for the next class of the Physicians Leadership Academy (PLA) at the Columbus Medical Association, a unique and transformational program unlike any other physician leadership program. 

PLA is a research-backed program to help physicians thrive in today’s ever evolving healthcare landscape. Over ten months, globally recognized faculty and coaches work with participants to develop the skills to lead and make a lasting impact in their organization and community.  

Our more than 200 alumni say PLA: 

Helped them rediscover their purpose and reason for becoming a physician 

Connected them with a thriving community of peers who truly understand them and their experiences 

Empowered individuals in developing their own unique capacity to influence their personal and professional environment  

The 2026/2027 cohort kicks off in September, but space is limited. Find additional information and registration details on our website. Early bird and group discounts are available! 

Get your questions answered at our upcoming Virtual Information Sessions: 

• Monday, March 17, 6:00 pm
• Tuesday, April 7, 6:00 pm 

Click here to register for an information session or contact us with questions. 

 

 

Made for Medicine physicians and medical student volunteers visited Champion Middle School recently. Founder and president Dr. Laura Espy-Bell, Outreach Faculty Lead Dr. Reversa Joseph, Dr. Christopher Brown, along with three medical students led stations on CPR, vitals, case studies, and splinting/fracturing that engaged over 50 sixth grade students.

Columbus City Schools Superintendent Dr. Angela Chapman was in attendance and observed CCS students discussing the medical profession, answering questions, and engaging in hands-on learning with real and emerging medical professionals.

The visit was part of Made for Medicine’s educational outreach program that provides hands-on enrichment activities with age-appropriate medical concepts and foundational learnings in medicine for students in Central Ohio.

“Outreach is our way of bringing the unique programming of Made for Medicine to future physicians across Central Ohio and connecting them with physicians in their community! We are planting the seeds now to create tomorrow's doctors. Schools like these in CCS are helping us in our work," said Dr. Espy-Bell.

Learn more about the outreach program here. Made for Medicine is a program sponsored by the Franklin County Board of Commissioners and the Columbus Medical Association Foundation.

Photos courtesy Columbus City Schools.

What inspired you to pursue a career in medicine?