POMA DOes...

In this episode of POMA DOes…, Tyler Burke, POMA Senior Director of Government Affairs, speaks with Sean Neal, Vice President of Advocacy and Political Affairs for the American Osteopathic Association (AOA), about the importance of physician advocacy and how osteopathic physicians, residents, and students can get involved. They highlight several current healthcare policy issues affecting the profession, including Medicare physician payment reform, prior authorization reform, administrative burden reduction, healthcare affordability, and physician workforce challenges. The conversation focuses on how physicians can get involved in advocacy through the AOA's Osteopath Advocacy Network and help shape healthcare policy at the state and federal levels.

Key Takeaways:

• Many important healthcare policy issues are impacting physicians today. Topics like reimbursement instability, prior authorization reform, workforce shortages, and administrative burden continue to affect physician practices and patient access to care.

• Physician voices matter in advocacy. Lawmakers rely on real-world insight from physicians caring for patients when considering healthcare policy decisions.

• Getting involved is easier than many realize. Through the AOA's Osteopathic Advocacy Network and events like DO Day on Capitol Hill, physicians, residents, and students can directly engage lawmakers and participate in grassroots advocacy efforts.

Interested in getting involved? Visit the AOA's Osteopathic Advocacy Network webpage to learn more about grassroots advocacy efforts, connect with lawmakers, and participate in advocacy campaigns and DO Day on Capitol Hill. Physicians, residents, and students interested in advocacy opportunities through POMA can also contact Tyler Burke at [email protected].

Find Us:

• Online: https://www.poma.org/

• Email: [email protected]

• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/POMADOs

• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/pomados/

• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/pennsylvania-osteopathic-medical-association/

• X: http://www.x.com/POMA_DOs

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@pomados

In this episode of POMA DOes…, Cathleen S. McGonigle, DO, faculty member and Director of the Osteopathic Principles and Practice Courses at LECOM at Seton Hill campus and POMA District 8 Trustee, speaks with three osteopathic medical students who took nontraditional paths to medicine. Aaron Vanderberg, a former Army physician assistant and current second-year student at LECOM Seton Hill; Derek DiAngelis, a former orthopedic physician assistant and fourth-year student at LECOM Seton Hill; and Kevin Hauns, a third-year student at PCOM with a background in military leadership and vaccine research, share their paths to osteopathic medicine. Together, they discuss the challenges of returning to school, balancing family responsibilities and the demands of medical school, and how prior careers shaped their approach to patient care, resilience, and leadership. Their stories offer encouragement and practical advice for anyone considering a nontraditional path into osteopathic medicine.

Key Takeaways:

• There's no single path to becoming a physician. Nontraditional students bring valuable life experience, perspective, and resilience that can strengthen both medical education and patient care.

• Prior experience can be a major advantage. Whether through military service, clinical practice, research, or leadership, real-world experience builds discipline, confidence, and a deeper understanding of patient care.

• If you're considering the leap, go for it. The panel encourages aspiring nontraditional students to trust their abilities, ask for help when needed, and move forward with intention and hard work.

Find Us:

• Online: https://www.poma.org/

• Email: [email protected]

• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/POMADOs

• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/pomados/

• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/pennsylvania-osteopathic-medical-association/

• X: http://www.x.com/POMA_DOs

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@pomados

In this episode of POMA DOes…, John J. Kalata, DO, POMA Foundation Chair and Past President, highlights the impact of two POMA Foundation grant programs: Community Enhancing Grants and Resident Wellness Grants. He is joined by Becca Swick, LC, MPA, LPN, BSW, of The Sight Center of Northwest PA, and POMA Past President Frank M. Tursi, DO, who shares his experience participating in the National Diabetes Prevention Program in collaboration with Becca's team. Together, they discuss how the program improves patient outcomes through education, screening, and community outreach. The conversation also features Sierra Lovisone, DO, PGY-1, Indiana Regional Medical Center Rural Family Medicine Residency Program, who received a Resident Wellness Grant for her program and shares how a simple team-based activity helped strengthen morale and connection during residency. Together, the episode showcases how POMA Foundation grants are making a meaningful impact on both community health and physician well-being.

Key Takeaways:

• Community grants drive meaningful impact. Programs like the National Diabetes Prevention Program help identify at-risk patients, improve health literacy, and deliver resources that benefit physicians, patients, and their communities.

• Physicians don't have to do it alone. Community-based programs provide structured, no-cost support that extends care beyond the office and helps patients stay engaged in lifestyle change.

• Wellness matters at every level. Resident Wellness Grants create opportunities for connection, stress relief, and improved morale, helping combat burnout and strengthen care teams.

Interested in learning more about diabetes prevention or getting involved? To connect with The Sight Center of Northwest PA, contact Becca Swick at [email protected] or 814-455-0995 x110 to schedule an educational session for your practice. To learn more about the National Diabetes Prevention Program, visit the CDC's National Diabetes Prevention Program webpage.

Find Us:

• Online: https://www.poma.org/

• Email: [email protected]

• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/POMADOs

• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/pomados/

• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/pennsylvania-osteopathic-medical-association/

• X: http://www.x.com/POMA_DOs

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@pomados

In this episode of POMA DOes…, Anthony DiMarco, DO, Clinical Assembly Convention Chair and Education Program Vice Chair, is joined by Michael Venditto, DO, Clinical Assembly Education Program Chair, and David Kuo, DO, Clinical Assembly Convention Vice Chair, to preview the 2026 POMA Clinical Assembly. They discuss the education program, including up to 34 CME credits available for license renewal. The conversation also covers flexible attendance options—in person, live simulcast, or on-demand—and key sessions, speakers, and hands-on opportunities. From high-quality education to networking and the unique Kalahari experience, this episode outlines why the Clinical Assembly remains a must-attend event for osteopathic physicians.

Key Takeaways:

• Earn the credits you need, your way. Up to 34 CME credits are available, including 10 required credits—2 in child abuse recognition, 2 in opioid education, and 6 in patient safety—with options to attend in person, via live simulcast, or on-demand.

• High-quality, affordable education designed by DOs, for DOs. The program features expert speakers, timely clinical topics, and hands-on sessions focused on practical, relevant learning.

• More than a conference. The Clinical Assembly offers networking, exhibitor engagement, and a unique experience at Kalahari, home to the largest indoor waterpark in Pennsylvania, making it both educational and fun for the whole family.

Find Us:

• Online: https://www.poma.org/

• Email: [email protected]

• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/POMADOs

• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/pomados/

• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/pennsylvania-osteopathic-medical-association/

• X: http://www.x.com/POMA_DOs

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@pomados

In this episode of POMA DOes…, Sayed Arian, DO, speaks with Michelle Thompson, DO, about the growing role of artificial intelligence in clinical practice. They discuss how AI tools help physicians improve documentation, access information more efficiently, and spend more meaningful time with patients. The conversation also explores the responsibility clinicians hold when using AI, how it is shaping medical education, and why these tools are enhancing, not replacing, the art of medicine. They discuss how thoughtful use of AI can improve patient care, physician efficiency, and overall well-being.

Key Takeaways:

• AI is improving efficiency and documentation. Tools like AI scribes can significantly reduce time spent on notes, improve accuracy, and allow physicians to focus more on patient care.

• Clinicians remain responsible. Physicians must review, verify, and take ownership of AI-generated content, ensuring accuracy, transparency, and patient trust.

• AI supports, not replaces, the art of medicine. While AI enhances access to information and streamlines workflows, clinical judgment, communication, and human connection remain essential.

Find Us:

• Online: https://www.poma.org/

• Email: [email protected]

• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/POMADOs

• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/pomados/

• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/pennsylvania-osteopathic-medical-association/

• X: http://www.x.com/POMA_DOs

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@pomados

In this episode of POMA DOes…, POMA President George J. Wolters, DO, speaks with POMA Speaker of the House Jeffery J. Dunkelberger, DO, about the important role of the House of Delegates (HOD) within the Pennsylvania Osteopathic Medical Association. They discuss how the HOD serves as POMA's legislative body—debating policy, electing leadership, approving the organization's budget, and helping guide the future of osteopathic medicine in Pennsylvania. The conversation also highlights why volunteer delegates are essential to the process and how members can step forward to represent their district and have their voice heard.

Key Takeaways:

• The House of Delegates is POMA's legislative body. It debates policy, elects leadership, approves the annual budget, and helps shape the direction of osteopathic medicine in Pennsylvania.

• Delegates represent physicians across the state. Each district selects delegates based on membership, bringing diverse perspectives together to debate issues and move the profession forward.

• Getting involved starts locally. Members interested in serving as delegates should contact their district chair—or the POMA office—to learn how to participate and represent their district at the House of Delegates.

Find Us:

• Online: https://www.poma.org/

• Email: [email protected]

• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/POMADOs

• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/pomados/

• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/pennsylvania-osteopathic-medical-association/

• X: http://www.x.com/POMA_DOs

• YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@pomados

In this episode of POMA DOes…, POMA Past President John J. Kalata, DO, speaks with fellow Past President William J. Kuprevich, DO, who shares his journey from community sports medicine to serving at the Paralympic and Olympic Games. Dr. Kuprevich reflects on how early experience working with high school and collegiate athletes led to opportunities with Team USA, eventually serving as Chief Medical Officer at the 2008 Summer Olympic Games in Beijing. He discusses the responsibility of representing both the United States and the osteopathic profession on the international stage. As the Winter Olympics conclude, this episode offers a timely reflection on what it means to serve athletes at the highest level.

Key Takeaways:

• Start where you are. Experience at the high school, college, or local level builds the foundation for larger opportunities in sports medicine.

• Whole-person care sets you apart. Communication skills, manual therapy, and an osteopathic approach to treating the "whole athlete" are invaluable on and off the field.

• Say yes to opportunity. Be confident, gain experience, understand emergency action plans, and when asked to serve—take the opportunity and run with it.

Interested in working with a USA National Team? Contact the sport's National Governing Body (NGB) for information about medical staff opportunities.

Find Us:

• Online: https://www.poma.org/

• Email: [email protected]

• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/POMADOs

• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/pomados/

• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/pennsylvania-osteopathic-medical-association/

• X: http://www.x.com/POMA_DOs

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@pomados

In this episode of POMA DOes…, Angela Zawisza, DO, POMA President-Elect, and Andy Sandusky, POMA CEO, discuss POMA's upcoming Call for Volunteers and why committee participation is vital to the organization's governance. They explain how POMA operates as a ground-up organization, outline the range of committees available, and share how even a one-hour monthly commitment can make a meaningful impact. Whether you're a practicing physician, resident, or student, this episode shows how you can get involved and help shape POMA's future.

Key Takeaways:

• Committees drive POMA's decisions. Volunteers shape policy, education, advocacy, and communications through thoughtful discussion and recommendations to the Board.

• Getting involved is simple and flexible. Most committees meet virtually for one hour per month, and the streamlined Call for Volunteers form matches your interests with the right opportunity.

• Every voice matters. You don't need to be a board member or an expert to serve. Students, residents, and physicians at all stages are encouraged to participate and strengthen POMA's future.

Find Us:

• Online: https://www.poma.org/

• Email: [email protected]

• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/POMADOs

• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/pomados/

• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/pennsylvania-osteopathic-medical-association/

• X: http://www.x.com/POMA_DOs

• YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@pomados

In this episode of POMA DOes…, Angelo Ratini, DO, speaks with Benjamin Chack, DO, about population health and its growing impact on patient care and physician practice. They discuss what population health means, its connection to preventive care and quality metrics, and why it is increasingly tied to reimbursement and healthcare policy. The conversation also highlights the role of Accountable Care Organizations (ACOs), the importance of data and Electronic Health Records (EHRs), and the shift toward outcome-based care.

Key Takeaways:

• Population health looks beyond individual visits. It focuses on improving outcomes and prevention across entire patient populations.

• Quality and payment are linked. Meeting benchmarks and managing costs can improve both patient care and practice performance.

• Data drives better care. Using EHRs and aligned protocols helps identify gaps and improve outcomes.

Find Us:

• Online: https://www.poma.org/

• Email: [email protected]

• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/POMADOs

• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/pomados/

• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/pennsylvania-osteopathic-medical-association/

• X: http://www.x.com/POMA_DOs

• YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@pomados

In this episode of POMA DOes…, Susan Medalie, DO, speaks with Erin Birely, LCPC, Alumni Services Coordinator at The Renfrew Center, about recognizing and addressing eating disorders. They discuss why eating disorders can't be identified by appearance alone, the behaviors and misconceptions that are sometimes overlooked, and the importance of approaching these conversations with compassion and curiosity. The episode also explores how life transitions, food-focused holidays, and weight-centered care can impact patients—and how clinicians can better screen, support, and refer by focusing on the whole person.

Key Takeaways:

• You can't tell by looking. Eating disorders affect people of all body sizes and shapes, and may be present even when weight or labs appear normal.

• Curiosity changes the conversation. Thoughtful, non-judgmental questions about behaviors, stress, and food can reduce shame and reveal concerns that might otherwise be missed.

• Whole-person care matters. Effective treatment addresses behaviors, emotions, and thought patterns—not just weight—helping patients build healthier relationships with food and their bodies.

Find Us:

• Online: https://www.poma.org/

• Email: [email protected]

• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/POMADOs

• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/pomados/

• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/pennsylvania-osteopathic-medical-association/

• X: http://www.x.com/POMA_DOs

• YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@pomados