MAY 5, 2025 South Florida Hospital News and Healthcare Report
a Healthcare Media Company Charles Felix
Publisher/ Owner READ THE MAY 2025 PUBLICATION |
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Baptist Health Foundation Installs Michael J. Zinner, M.D. as Endowed Chair at Baptist Health Miami Cancer Institute
May 2, 2025 – On Thursday, May 1, Baptist Health Foundation hosted a ceremony and dinner at The Ritz-Carlton Coconut Grove, Miami in celebration of the Michael J. Zinner, M.D. Endowed Chair in Cancer Care. The chair will support the work of Michael J. Zinner, M.D., CEO and executive medical director of Baptist Health Miami Cancer Institute and Baptist Health Cancer Care. More than 120 guests attended the event, which was highlighted by the formal presentation of the chair to Dr. Zinner.
Funding for the chair was spearheaded by Miami Cancer Institute Governing Board chair Sherrill W. Hudson and Board member Michele Kessler, who along with several other donors, helped raise $3 million in support. Donors included Richard Berkowitz, Ambassador Nancy Brinker, Richard Cole, Esq., Mary Lou and John Dasburg, Karel Foti, Sandra T. Fuller, Jama and John Haley, Valerie and Michael Katz, Marisol Kutner, Cynthia and Patrick Lee, Cynthia and Ira Leesfield, Sue and Terry Perrin, Isabel and Jorge Rico, Anita and Ron Shuffield, Gladys and Eduardo Vargas, Suzy and Sadek Wahba and Lisa and Bill White.
Funds from the endowment will support cancer research, research associates and new unfunded or underfunded programs at Miami Cancer Institute.
“We are immensely grateful to this loyal group of Baptist Health supporters for their generosity,” said Alex Villoch, chief executive officer of Baptist Health Foundation. “This endowed chair is a wonderful tribute to Dr. Zinner and his many accomplishments.
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Holy Cross Health Launches Healing Heroes Program To Honor Healthcare Workers Who Provide Compassionate Care
Grateful patients are encouraged to show appreciation by making a philanthropic gift
April 29, 2025 – Holy Cross Health is proud to introduce the Healing Heroes program, a meaningful way for patients, families and donors to recognize the physicians, nurses, caregivers and staff who have made a lasting impact through their care. With a philanthropic gift, they not only honor exceptional service but also help advance Holy Cross Health’s mission of compassionate, patient-centered care. Each Healing Hero will receive a special pin and a personal note of gratitude, acknowledging the difference they’ve made in the lives of those they serve.
As part of Holy Cross’ efforts to introduce the Healing Heroes program, the Office of Philanthropy & Development joined the Medical Staff’s Doctor’s Day Luncheon. The event was a meaningful opportunity to celebrate physicians while sharing this new recognition program with the broader medical team. Several doctors in attendance had already been honored by grateful patients, highlighting the lasting impact of compassionate care.
“The Healing Heroes program is a reflection of what makes Holy Cross so special, the bond between caregivers and those they serve,” said Laura Denoux, vice president and chief development officer at Holy Cross Health. “Some of the most powerful moments in healthcare happen quietly, at the bedside or during a simple conversation. The Healing Heroes program shines a light on those moments and gives patients a way to turn their appreciation into something enduring.”
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World-Renowned Cardiologist Dr. Shyam Sathanandam Joins Nicklaus Children’s Heart Institute as Chief of Cardiovascular Medicine
A pioneer in groundbreaking procedures for neonates and premature infants
May 1, 2025 – Globally recognized pediatric interventional cardiologist Dr. Shyam Sathanandam has joined Nicklaus Children’s Hospital as chief of cardiovascular medicine and co-director of the renowned Nicklaus Children’s Heart Institute. In this role, he will contribute to the hospital’s national leadership in care of children with congenital heart disorders. Nicklaus Children’s is consistently ranked among the nation’s best in pediatric cardiology and heart surgery by U.S. News and World Report and is currently the only South Florida program included in the publication’s 2024-25 “Best Children’s Hospitals” listing.
Dr. Sathanandam brings to Nicklaus Children’s Heart Institute extensive experience in pediatric cardiology and interventional catheterization. He served since 2017 as the director of the catheterization lab at LeBonheur Children’s Hospital in Memphis, Tennessee. During this tenure, he was instrumental in strengthening the Pediatric Cardiology and Interventional Cardiology Program and also launched the International PDA Symposium in 2018, the first multispecialty global conference dedicated to advancing the management of PDA in preterm newborns.
“It is an honor to join the renowned team at Nicklaus Children’s Heart Institute,” says Dr. Shyam Sathanandam, chief of cardiovascular medicine and co-director of the Nicklaus Children’s Heart Institute. “My vision is to work alongside the trailblazers and innovators already here to make our Heart Institute the number one destination for tailored specialized cardiovascular care for neonates and infants born with congenital heart defects.”
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Baptist Health Miami Cancer Institute Names Sarbajit Mukherjee, M.D., MS, Chief of Gastrointestinal Medical Oncology
May 1, 2025 –Board-certified gastrointestinal medical oncologist Sarbajit Mukherjee, M.D., MS, has been named chief of gastrointestinal medical oncology at Baptist Health Miami Cancer Institute. Dr. Mukherjee specializes in the diagnosis and treatment of cancers of the gastrointestinal tract. He is certified by the American Board of Internal Medicine in internal medicine, hematology and medical oncology.
Prior to joining Miami Cancer Institute, Dr. Mukherjee was an associate professor of oncology and associate professor of immunology and served as co-leader of the gastrointestinal translational research group at Roswell Park Comprehensive Cancer Center in Buffalo, N.Y.
“We are pleased to welcome Dr. Mukherjee to our highly skilled team of cancer care specialists, dedicated to providing the highest quality care,” said Leonard Kalman, M.D., executive deputy medical director and chief medical officer at Miami Cancer Institute.
Dr. Mukherjee has led numerous clinical trials as a principal investigator. Many of his studies are grant-funded by organizations such as the National Cancer Institute and the U.S. Department of Defense. The goal of his work is to understand the biology of gastrointestinal cancers and develop novel clinical trials aimed at enhancing patients’ quality of life and extending their lifespan. His research interests also include the mechanisms of immune dysfunction in obese cancer patients and the use of immune checkpoint inhibitors in solid tumors.
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Miami Cancer Institute Study Shows High-Dose MR-Guided Radiation Therapy Safe and Effective for the Treatment of Various Cancers
May 2, 2025 – A study led by physician-researchers at Miami Cancer Institute, part of Baptist Health South Florida, showed that high-dose magnetic resonance (MR)-guided stereotactic body radiation therapy (SBRT) delivered in just one session can safely eradicate tumors in the chest, abdomen, and pelvis. The phase 2 SMART ONE trial demonstrated that this targeted therapeutic approach achieved nearly 100 percent local tumor control. The study was published in the International Journal of Radiation Oncology, Biology, Physics (Red Journal).
“This study is the first in the world to demonstrate that single-fraction MR-guided SBRT is highly effective, safe, and substantially more convenient alternative to other forms of radiation therapy that frequently are delivered over multiple days or weeks,” said Michael D. Chuong, M.D., vice chair and medical director in the department of radiation oncology at Miami Cancer Institute as well as principal investigator for the trial. “In addition, this novel treatment is performed without anesthesia, is completely noninvasive, and allows patients to immediately return to their normal daily activities. No patients experienced significant toxicity that was definitely related to radiation therapy and were able to maintain excellent quality of life throughout treatment.”
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Florida JFK Hospital Receives Comprehensive Stroke Certification from DNV
May 1, 2025 – HCA Florida JFK Hospital announces that it has received certification from DNV as a Comprehensive Stroke Center, reflecting the highest level of competence for treatment of serious stroke events.
“With stroke care, you must have the best clinicians and resources, but also the ability to act organizationally with extreme efficiency because of the time-critical nature of these events,” says Ken West, Chief Executive Officer. “This certification from DNV validates all the effort we have put into this program and to ensuring the health and safety of our patients.”
The DNV Comprehensive Stroke Center Certification is based on standards set forth by the Brain Attack Coalition and the American Stroke Association, and affirms that the medical center addresses the full spectrum of stroke care – diagnosis, treatment, rehabilitation and education – and establishes clear metrics to evaluate outcomes.
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BROWARD HEALTH NORTH AND BROWARD HEALTH CORAL SPRINGS EARN AN “A” HOSPITAL SAFETY GRADE FROM THE LEAPFROG GROUP
Spring 2025 grade is a national recognition for commitment to patient safety
May 1, 2025 – – Broward Health North and Broward Health Coral Springs have each earned an “A” Hospital Safety Grade from The Leapfrog Group, a national nonprofit watchdog organization. This top grade reflects excellence in protecting patients from preventable harm and delivering safe healthcare.
Leapfrog assigns letter grades from A to F to hospitals nationwide, evaluating performance across more than 30 measures focused on patient safety. The Leapfrog Hospital Safety Grade is the only national rating system dedicated exclusively to how well hospitals prevent medical errors, injuries, accidents and infections — serious risks that cause more than 500 deaths daily in the United States. Developed with guidance from a national panel of experts, the grading system is peer-reviewed, fully transparent and free to the public. Grades are updated twice a year, in the spring and fall.
“We are honored to receive an ‘A’ grade from The Leapfrog Group,” said Kristen Bowman, Chief Executive Officer of Broward Health Coral Springs. “This recognition reflects the tireless dedication of our physicians, nurses and staff who are committed to patient safety each and every day.”
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Memorial Hospital Miramar and Memorial Hospital Pembroke Earn ‘A’ Hospital Safety Grades from The Leapfrog Group
May 1, 2025 – Memorial Hospital Miramar and Memorial Hospital Pembroke, part of South Florida’s Memorial Healthcare System, have each earned an “A” Hospital Safety Grade from The Leapfrog Group, a national nonprofit watchdog organization. The spring 2025 grades underscore both hospitals’ ongoing commitment to clinical excellence, high reliability, and putting patient safety at the forefront of every decision.
Memorial Hospital Miramar achieved its fourth consecutive “A” grade, maintaining top-tier performance over the past two years. This distinction places the hospital among a select group nationwide that consistently demonstrate the highest standards in preventing medical errors, injuries, and infections.
“Earning another ‘A’ from The Leapfrog Group reflects the rigorous standards our team upholds to ensure patients receive safe, high-quality care,” said Stephen Demers, Chief Executive Officer of Memorial Hospital Miramar. “This level of performance is the result of intentional, system-wide practices that put safety at the center of everything we do.”
Memorial Hospital Pembroke also received an “A” in the latest grading period, making a return to the national safety honor roll for its strong performance.
“Earning an ‘A’ from The Leapfrog Group is a proud moment for our team and a clear reflection of our commitment to patient safety,” said Felicia Turnley, Chief Executive Officer of Memorial Hospital Pembroke. “It takes focus, teamwork, and accountability at every level to achieve this distinction. We are not only meeting national standards—we’re exceeding them to ensure our community receives safe, high-quality care.”
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LEAPFROG HOSPITAL SAFETY GRADE AWARDS FIVE “A” GRADES TO HCA FLORIDA HEALTHCARE HOSPITALS
May 1, 2025 – HCA Healthcare’s East Florida Division, part of HCA Florida Healthcare, is pleased to have been awarded five “A” ratings from the Leapfrog Group’s Hospital Safety Grade. We recognize the importance of measuring quality and safety in patient care and are proud of our dedicated physicians, nurses, and colleagues who provide our patients with exceptional care each day.
HCA Florida Healthcare hospitals receiving a Spring 2025 “A” grade from Leapfrog:
HCA Florida Kendall Hospital in Miami, FL
HCA Florida Westside Hospital in Plantation, FL
HCA Florida St. Lucie Hospital in Port St. Lucie, FL
HCA Florida Highlands Hospital in Sebring, FL
HCA Florida Raulerson Hospital in Raulerson, FL
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Five Hospitals within Palm Beach Health Network File Legal Complaint Against The Leapfrog Group Over Deceptive and Dangerous Rankings
Leapfrog’s deceptive scoring system puts patients’ lives at risk by only rewarding hospitals with passing grades that either pay or supply free data for their flawed survey
April 30, 2025 – As reported by the Palm Beach Health Network. Delray Medical Center, Good Samaritan Medical Center, Palm Beach Gardens Medical Center, West Boca Medical Center, and St. Mary’s Medical Center, trusted leaders in healthcare and patient safety, announced today that they have filed a legal complaint against The Leapfrog Group (“Leapfrog”) alleging that the organization’s hospital patient safety ratings are inaccurate, corrupt, and misleading. The Palm Beach Health Network hospitals assert that these deceptive rankings not only harm their reputation but also misinform patients and the community about the quality of care provided at its facilities, putting lives at risk.
The legal action comes after repeated efforts by the hospitals to engage with The Leapfrog Group to address concerns regarding its flawed rating methodology. Leapfrog did not punish the plaintiff hospitals for the past four years that they did not respond to its voluntary data requests, until last year when they changed their criteria to deliberately fail non-participating hospitals.
According to the complaint, Leapfrog fails to fairly evaluate hospitals that do not complete its hospital survey, and rather than indicating that there is insufficient data to issue a grade to non-participating hospitals, it instead assigns a score equivalent to the “Worst Hospital’s Score” on several measures. This flawed methodology does not accurately reflect hospitals’ performance or patient outcomes.
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Cleveland Clinic Survey Reveals Insights into Women’s Health, Sheds Light on Gaps in Knowledge and Barriers to Care
As part of National Women’s Health Awareness Month, Cleveland Clinic shares new survey results, highlights innovative care for women in midlife and raises awareness about the importance of research participation among women.
MAY 1, 2025 – A new national survey of women in the U.S. by Cleveland Clinic, in collaboration with YouGov, highlights knowledge gaps, barriers to care, and growing interest among women in clinical research participation. The results come ahead of National Women’s Health Awareness month, which is May.
The survey revealed that many women are not aware of how certain health conditions impact women and men differently. For example, despite nearly two-thirds of Alzheimer’s disease diagnoses being in women, 32% of women believe it affects both sexes equally. Similarly, 31% of women believe stroke affects women and men equally, even though it’s more common and fatal for women. In addition, even though heart disease is the leading cause of death in both men and women in the United States, 62% of women don’t realize it impacts women and men at similar rates.
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Children and Families Champion Ilene Silber Joins Mental Health America of the Palm Beaches Board of Directors
May 2, 2025 – Mental Health America of the Palm Beaches (MHAPB) is pleased to announce the election of Ilene Silber to its board of directors. A West Palm Beach resident and advocate for the health and well-being of children and families, Ms. Silber brings valuable expertise and passion to the organization’s leadership.
“Ilene’s commitment to improving mental health services through collaboration aligns perfectly with our mission to create a supportive community where all people can flourish,” said Andy McAusland, CEO of MHAPB. “Her extensive professional experience and community leadership will be invaluable assets as we create inclusive places where individuals connect with others, find belonging and purpose, and are celebrated for their talents and strengths rather than defined by a mental health diagnosis.”
Ms. Silber has dedicated her career to leadership roles in children’s mental health, early care, and education. She served as the executive director of Communities in Schools of Palm Beach County for 13 years and has been deeply committed to community service, contributing her expertise to Palm Health Foundation, United Way, BeWellPBC, Birth to 22, Northmore Elementary School, and the City of West Palm Beach.
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Nationally-Recognized Melbourne Nonprofit Appoints Abel Pomar as Chief Executive Officer
Seasoned Fiduciary Joins Nation’s Leading Health Care Sharing Ministry
April 28, 2025 – Christian Care Ministry (CCM), the Melbourne-based nonprofit which has administered the nationally-recognized Medi-Share health care sharing ministry for more than 30 years, announced today the appointment of Abel Pomar as Chief Executive Officer, effective May 12, 2025.
Pomar brings more than two decades of executive leadership experience in financial services, most recently serving for 10 years as President and CEO of AdelFi Credit Union, a faith-based financial institution, and before that, Senior Vice President of Strategic Initiatives and Marketing Technology at Bank of America. The CCM Board of Directors believes Pomar’s proven ability to lead with strategic vision and sound financial management in a faith-based context makes him uniquely qualified to lead the ministry.
“Abel Pomar has a clear understanding of the importance of balancing operational excellence with spiritual integrity,” said Joe Turner, CCM Chairman of the Board. “Medi-Share’s proven biblical model of a caring community uses modern tools to facilitate the sharing of $45 million in medical bills every month. Abel’s experience as an immensely-qualified fiduciary, his deep roots in values-driven organizations and his passion for service and excellence aligns powerfully with our mission.”
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Healthcare Network Awarded $30,000 Grant from the Richard M. Schulze Family Foundation for the Sister Veronica Fund
Grant will expand access to care for uninsured and underinsured patients
May 2, 2025 — Healthcare Network is honored to announce it has received a $30,000 grant from the Richard M. Schulze Family Foundation to support its Sister Veronica Fund, a critical resource that helps bridge the financial gap for patients who are uninsured or underinsured in Collier County.
The grant, awarded as part of the Foundation’s Spring 2025 grant cycle, will provide essential support to help patients overcome cost-related barriers to care.
Founded in 2004 by Best Buy founder Dick Schulze, the Schulze Family Foundation was established to give back to the communities where the Schulze family has deep roots—Minnesota and Florida. The Foundation partners with organizations across education, health and medicine, and human and social services to drive meaningful, lasting change. In all of its initiatives, the Foundation reflects Mr. Schulze’s commitment to strengthening families and building stronger communities.
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A May is Mental Health Month Event in Belle Glade, FL
TedX Speaker and Bestselling Author Reggie D. Ford to Share his Inspirational Message for Uniting Belle Glade Front-Line Responders and Community Leaders for Mental Health
Who: Refuse to Sink, Healthier Glades, and People of Purpose have joined forces to bring Nashville mental health advocate and bestselling author Reggie D. Ford to Belle Glade, FL, as part of his multi-day speaking tour in Lake Okeechobee communities. The audience will be comprised of professionals on the front lines of mental health, including first responders, guidance counselors, pastors, law enforcement, medical doctors and nurses, and community stakeholders.
What: Reggie will share his captivating journey of turning pain into peace through the process of perseverance while honoring and motivating the audience to come together and drive positive change in how the community collaborates to support individuals facing mental health challenges.
When: Tuesday, May 13, 2025, 11:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m.
Where: Belle Glade Civic Center in the Belle Glade Library, 725 NW 4th St, Belle Glade, FL 33430
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Encompass Health declares dividend on common stock
BIRMINGHAM, Ala., May 1, 2025 — Encompass Health Corporation (NYSE: EHC) today announced that its board of directors has declared a quarterly cash dividend on its common stock of $0.17 per share, payable on July 15, 2025, to holders of record on July 1, 2025.
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Workgroup Announced to Safeguard Financial Stability and Viability of Florida’s Continuing Care Retirement Communities
May 1, 2025 – LeadingAge Southeast and the Florida Life Care Residents Association (FLiCRA), in partnership with other key stakeholders, are proud to announce the formation of a new workgroup dedicated to reviewing and strengthening regulations for Florida’s Continuing Care Retirement Communities (CCRCs).
The workgroup will focus on ensuring that Florida’s CCRCs remain financially viable, offering stability and security to both residents and communities. As part of this collaborative effort, the workgroup will evaluate current regulatory frameworks and identify opportunities for improvements that better protect the interests of CCRC residents and their financial investments.
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Pristine Surgical Announces Two Leadership Appointments
May 1, 2025 — Pristine Surgical, the leading maker of single-use, digital endoscopes, today announced two key leadership appointments. These appointments will play a critical role in powering Pristine’s commercial growth and advancing its mission to Simplify Endoscopy™ through connected visualization solutions designed for precision and ease.
Rich McKillop joins Pristine Surgical as its Chief Revenue Officer. With over two decades of executive leadership in orthopedic sales and the medical device industry, Rich brings deep experience scaling high-performing commercial teams. He served as Vice President of Orthopedic Sales, North America for ConMed Corporation, as well as other senior commercial leadership roles at Orthosensor, Howmedica, Wright Medical, and Medical Sales College.
Pristine also announced the promotion of John Mahoney to Chief Product Officer. Having previously served exclusively in a commercial role at Pristine, John will take on additional responsibilities for product marketing and medical education at Pristine. John brings considerable experience to this role, having previously served as Group Director of Global Medical Education for Smith & Nephew.
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Florida Blue Foundation honors nine nonprofits from across the state for innovation and community impact during 20th annual Sapphire Awards
May 02, 2025 – The Florida Blue Foundation, the philanthropic affiliate of Florida Blue, is proud to announce the nine finalists for the 2025 Sapphire Awards, recognizing outstanding programs, organizations, and individuals making a significant impact in community health across Florida.
At its annual Community Health Symposium and Sapphire Awards on May 1 in Orlando, the Florida Blue Foundation announced the winners who will share $525,000 to continue their local impact work. This year’s symposium theme highlighted the power of technology, innovation, and AI in improving health outcomes for many in the state.
“We are thrilled to celebrate the 20th anniversary of the Sapphire Awards and recognize the outstanding contributions of these programs, organizations and individuals,” said Florida Blue Foundation Executive Director, Susan Towler. “Each of the honorees is dedicated to innovation that improves the lives of Floridians, and we are honored to support their inspiring work.”
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Award-Winning HSS Study Uses AI to Identify Risk Factors Linked to More Severe Pain After Knee Replacement
MAY 1, 2025 – A study using artificial intelligence to classify patient pain archetypes and identify risk for severe pain after knee replacement has earned a Best of Meeting award at the 50th Annual Meeting of the American Society of Regional Anesthesia and Pain Medicine (ASRA). The honor, which recognizes excellence in scientific research, is awarded to three of the top 10 highest-scoring abstracts chosen by the ASRA Research Committee.
“It is an honor to have one of the top professional organizations in the field of regional anesthesia and pain medicine highlight the collaborative work of our department’s Pain Prevention Research Center,” said Alexandra Sideris, PhD, director of the Pain Prevention Research Center at HSS. “The award reflects our dedication to innovations in patient care and underscores the greater scientific community’s acknowledgement of our efforts.”
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Two HSS Studies Exploring Pain Control Win President’s Choice Awards at Annual ASRA Meeting
MAY 2, 2025 – Two studies at Hospital for Special Surgery (HSS) focused on advancing pain management have received President’s Choice Awards from the American Society of Regional Anesthesia and Pain Medicine (ASRA). The awards recognize innovative research with significant potential to improve patient care, highlighting HSS’s leadership in developing safer, more effective approaches to pain control.
Study: Prevalence of cannabidiol use in patients undergoing sports medicine procedures on the knee, shoulder, or hip: A survey study
Researchers set out to determine the prevalence of cannabidiol (CBD) use in patients scheduled to undergo a sports medicine procedure at HSS. “We know that managing post-operative pain with opioids carries risks, including addiction. A promising alternative gaining attention is cannabidiol, a non-intoxicating derivative of the cannabis plant that is federally legal in the United States,” said Alexandra Sideris, PhD, director of the Pain Prevention Research Center at HSS. The study was presented at the 50th Annual ASRA Meeting in Orlando, Florida on May 1.
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HHS Releases Comprehensive Review of Medical Interventions for Children and Adolescents with Gender Dysphoria
MAY 1, 2025 – Washington, D.C.—The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, through the Office of the Assistant Secretary for Health and Office of Population Affairs, released a comprehensive review, opens in a new tab of the evidence and best practices for promoting the health of children and adolescents with gender dysphoria. This review, informed by an evidence-based medicine approach, reveals serious concerns about medical interventions, such as puberty blockers, cross-sex hormones, and surgeries, that attempt to transition children and adolescents away from their sex.
The review highlights a growing body of evidence pointing to significant risks—including irreversible harms such as infertility—while finding very weak evidence of benefit. That weakness has been a consistent finding of systematic reviews of evidence around the world.
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HHS, NIH launch next-generation universal vaccine platform for pandemic-prone viruses
May 1, 2025 – The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) and the National Institutes for Health (NIH) today announced the development of the next-generation, universal vaccine platform, Generation Gold Standard, using a beta-propiolactone (BPL)-inactivated, whole-virus platform.
This initiative represents a decisive shift toward transparency, effectiveness, and comprehensive preparedness, funding the NIH’s in-house development of universal influenza and coronavirus vaccines, including candidates BPL-1357 and BPL-24910. These vaccines aim to provide broad-spectrum protection against multiple strains of pandemic-prone viruses such as H5N1 avian influenza and coronaviruses including SARS-CoV-2, SARS-CoV-1, and MERS-CoV.
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Many genes in male and female placentas expressed differently
NIH findings may lead to insights on pregnancy complications, adult health.
May 1, 2025 – The genes of male and female placentas have marked differences in how they are expressed, according to a study by researchers at the National Institutes of Health (NIH) and other institutions. These differences involve the presence or absence of tags on DNA known as methyl groups, which switch genes on or off without changing their structure. Understanding these DNA methylation patterns may inform future research on the higher risk for pregnancy complications involving male fetuses, such as stillbirth and prematurity, as well as later life health conditions that occur in adults who were born after a complicated pregnancy.
Researchers analyzed male and female placental samples from a larger study for differences in their methylation patterns, and found differences in gene activity between male and female placentas that may play a role in birthweight and adult diseases.
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Upcoming Healthcare
Events are Listed Below |
THURSDAY, MAY 15 2025 MIAMI,FL |
The Marcus Neuroscience Institute Brain and Spine Symposium is a two-day academic event designed to assist attendees in expanding their knowledge of the latest advances in the field of neuroscience through didactic lectures, interactive panel discussions and case-based presentations. Thursday & Friday, May 15 & 16 Boca Raton Marriott at Boca Center 5150 Town Center Circle Boca Raton, FL 33486 CLICK HERE TO REGISTER OR LEARN MORE |
United Way of Broward County’s Commission on Behavioral Health & Drug Prevention, in collaboration with the Broward Behavioral Health Coalition and Florida Department of Children and Families will host the 10th Annual South Florida Behavioral Health Conference: The Power of Prevention on Wednesday, May 21 and Thursday, May 22 at the Greater Fort Lauderdale Broward County Convention Center to promote community awareness and support of behavioral health and substance use prevention.
The two-day Conference is for professionals in the behavioral and mental health fields to share insights, research, and best practices in promoting mental health and well-being. The Conference will feature renowned subject matter experts ranging from psychologists, behavioral health clinicians, professors, trauma and grief specialists, and prevention specialists who will provide crucial continuing education seminars, workshops and keynote sessions. Licensed Clinicians and Certified Professionals can earn CEU credits. For more information and to register/purchase tickets, please visit: https://www.unitedwaybroward.org/event/bhc2025/. |
HANGER CLINIC MAY EVENTS
May is Mental Health Awareness Month. This month is dedicated to raising awareness about mental health and well-being, promoting education, and reducing the stigma associated with mental health concerns. While mental health is a complex issue and external factors can influence it, ultimately, we are all responsible for actively managing and improving our own mental well-being. This responsibility includes seeking help when needed, prioritizing self-care, and developing coping mechanisms. This month, we will be offering educational and social opportunities to support your wellbeing.
Below you will find a list of the events we have available this month to support your rehabilitation process and ensure you have the resources and activities you need to reconnect and/or live a full life with limb loss/difference. These AMPOWER/Hanger Clinic events are also open to your families and loved ones! Healthcare professionals are also invited and encouraged to join us to celebrate our accomplishments as we are moving forward together and embracing life!
Please mark your calendars now and RSVP by replying to this email or texting me at 954-594-2060 to know which events you will be attending to make plans accordingly:
Monday, May 5 @ 10:00 AM: AMPOWER Support Group Meeting (in-person) at Encompass Health Rehabilitation Hospital in Stuart located at 5850 Southeast Community Drive Stuart, Florida 34997. Flyer attached. This month we will discuss tips to support our mental health.
Friday, May 9 @ 6:00 PM: Sunset at Pompano Beach –Start your weekend at the beach with us! Don’t forget to bring your blankets and/or beach chairs! Please see attached flyer for more details. After sunset, we can join Pompano Beach Music Under The Stars Event taking place at same location. Please call or text to RSVP.
Monday, May 26 @ 11:30 AM: AMPOWER Support Group Meeting at Encompass Health Rehabilitation Hospital in Sunrise, located at 4399 N Nob Hill Rd, Sunrise FL 33351. This month we will discuss tips to support our mental health.
Wednesday, May 28 @ 5:30 PM: AMPOWER Virtual Session: Join us to meet and learn from the one and only Sally Murphy, Personal Empowerment Life Coach / Med Educational Leadership. Sally has a passion to show people how to transition from “Inner Critic to Inner Shine”. She will also help us craft our glow statement to support our journey. Please see attached Flyer for more details. Once you RSVP, I will send you the link to join this virtual meeting.
Friday, May 30 @ 6:00PM: Big Dog Station: Join us for an evening with our AMPOWER friend Scott W and his Hobo Preservation Society Band. We will enjoy their acoustic, eclectic blend of Blues, Bluegrass, Country & Rock along with some original tunes. Big Dog Station is located at 3148 NE 12th Ave Oakland Park, Fla 33334. Please RSVP to receive more details.
LOOKING FOR MORE VIRTUAL SESSIONS? Join Hanger Clinic’s Director of Patient Advocacy & Education, Leslie Green, for Limb Loss Education Series. Please see attached or follow the link below for a complete list of virtual sessions. There are sessions everyday of the week! https://www.balancedamputee.com/communities-1
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AUTISM SPEAKS HOSTS INAUGURAL EMPOWER SUMMIT & CHALLENGE
Rising Diagnoses, Growing Demand: Insights, Resources and Pathways to Support the Transition to Adulthood
APRIL 2025 – Autism Speaks will unite more than 50 organizations, experts, self-advocates and industry leaders at the inaugural Empower Summit & Challenge, a two-day event taking place May 16–17 in Miami Beach. Part of a five-city national series, the summit will focus on how to best support autistic individuals during the transition to adulthood by addressing key areas such as employment, postsecondary education, healthcare, independent living, and community engagement.
Florida is home to an estimated 329,131 adults—2.03% of the state’s population—on the autism spectrum. Many face significant challenges after aging out of school-based supports, including limited access to jobs, housing, medical care and educational opportunities.
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A Safe Haven for Newborns, will host its annual fundraising golf event on Friday, May 16, 2025, on the manicured greens of the Red Tiger golf course at the Trump National Doral Golf Resort in Doral, Florida, with a one o’clock shotgun start. This year marks the eighth charity golf tournament, Tee Off for a Cause, benefiting the Foundation’s mission to end infant abandonment. Funds raised will go toward the many programs offered to the distressed teen or woman who is facing an unexpected pregnancy and feels she has no one to turn to for help.
Register your foursome and preview our sponsor brochure by clicking on the link. Sponsors receive exclusive benefits and opportunities.
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Health Foundation of South Florida Announces 2025 Black Health Summit In Action
Black Health Summit In Action advances community priorities through grassroots leadership and strategic investment
April 30, 2025 – As National Minority Health Month draws to a close, the Health Foundation of South Florida is proud to announce Black Health Summit In Action – highlighting the momentum and community vision of past Black Health Summits.
2025 marks a turning point: bringing the Summit’s mission beyond the stage and directly into the communities where real-time challenges are being met with responses. By centering grassroots leadership and community-designed solutions, Black Health Summit In Action puts health equity into motion—on the ground, in partnership, and with lasting impact.
This year’s work is a direct response to the community-identified priorities, specifically the need for greater access to quality health care, affordable housing, community safety, and culturally responsive outreach. In past Summits, residents and grassroots leaders made clear that health equity cannot be achieved without addressing the conditions that shape daily life—where people live, how they access care, and whether systems reflect their realities.
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.FOR ADDITIONAL INFORMATION ABOUT FUTURE EVENTS
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Nursing Consortium of Florida’s next conference set for June 2025 at St. Pete Beach
Make plans to join us at the TradeWinds Resort on St. Pete Beach on the 27th and 28th of June 2025 for our next educational conference Empowering Nurses at the Bedside & Beyond: Moving towards improved outcomes & satisfaction through greater mental health. Please click here to be among the first to register to attend and save with our best rates including discounted member rates for individuals and groups of ten or more!
We are now accepting abstracts addressing programs, research, scholarly projects, and process improvement exemplars that have succeeded in advancing staff and student mental health and contributed to strong workplace cultures or learning environments that have measurably improved staff or student retention in either practice or academic settings, contributed to improved team interaction, interaction with patients or students, and improved patient or student outcomes and experiences
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NAMI MIAMI-DADE COUNTY (NATIONAL ALLIANCE ON MENTAL ILLNESS) TO HOST FIFTH ANNUAL WALK FOR MENTAL HEALTH AWARENESS ON SATURDAY, MAY 10, 2025, AT LOANDEPOT PARK
The Mental Health Awareness Walk, a celebration of hope, continues to grow each year, hitting a home run for mental health.
MIAMI, FL – April 10, 2025 – In recognition of Mental Health Awareness Month in May, NAMI Miami-Dade County (National Alliance on Mental Illness) will host its Fifth Annual Mental Health Awareness Walk on May 10, 2025, at 8:00 AM at loanDepot Park. This inspiring community event raises awareness, provides support, and generates critical funds for NAMI Miami-Dade’s free mental health programs.
The walk is a vital initiative dedicated to breaking the stigma surrounding mental health and addressing the rising need for accessible mental health support. In 2024, NAMI Miami-Dade reached over 98,000 individuals through its awareness, prevention, outreach, education, training, and support programs.
“Now more than ever, people need a safe place to seek help for mental health conditions, whether for themselves or their loved ones,” said Susan Holtzman, NAMI Miami-Dade President & CEO. “Last year, we had 3,500 participants, and this year we expect 4,000. It’s 4,000 people coming together to learn, connect, and support each other and their community. The funds we raise support our ability to provide education, support, and advocacy for people with mental health conditions and their loved ones all year long. Join them, join us, contribute, and come on out for a great day at the stadium.”
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CALL CHARLES FELIX TO ADVERTISE YOUR JOB OPENINGS - 954-605-4785 STARTING AS LOW AS $50 |
APRIL 24, 2025
READ THE CURRENT NEWSLETTER FROM
CANNABIS NEWS FLORIDA |
FLORIDA MEDICAL CANNABIS CONFERENCE & EXHIBITION
The 8th Florida Medical Cannabis Conference & Exhibition (FMCCE 2025) will be held May 30- June 1, 2025, at the Rosen Centre Hotel in Orlando, Florida. This conference is a networking and educational forum on the subject of medical cannabis.
This conference is designed for attendees who are active or interested in the medical cannabis industry.
For medical professionals and entrepreneurs, the conference will cover a range of topics, all relevant to the medical cannabis industry, as it pertains to the State of Florida, including but not limited to:
•An Introduction to the Endocannabinoid System and Medical Cannabis
•Florida Medical Cannabis Legislative Update
•A Review of Qualifying Conditions Case Studies
•Medical Cannabis Dosing and Public Health Issues
•Medical Cannabis Research
•State of Florida Medical Cannabis Regulatory and Program Update •The Business of Medical Cannabis: How to Make Sure Your Practice is Successful
“Education is the key to raising awareness of the clinical uses for medical cannabis.” said Eugene Jones, Executive Director of Can-Ed, Inc. “This conference will provide a forum for industry leaders to expand their social capital, and healthcare professionals to expand their knowledge about medical benefits and applications.”
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Over 913,000
Patients in Florida are using Cannabis as their Medicine FOR LATEST OMMU REPORTS FROM OFFICE OF MEDICAL MARIJUANA USE IN THE STATE OF FLORIDA HERE
Highlights from MAY 2, 2025 BY THE NUMBERS Qualified Patients: (Active ID Card)
May 02 2025- 913,159 Apr 25 2025- 911,957 Apr 18 2025- 911,401
Apr 11 2025- 909,711 Apr 04 2025- 907,575 Mar 28 2025- 905,556
Patients Added Last Week: 1,202 Qualified Ordering Physicians:
2,391
New Doctors added Last Week: 0
Reporting Period: APR 25 - MAY 1, 2025
Amount of Medical Marijuana Dispensed - (mgs THC) 353,061,713
Amount of Low-THC Cannabis Dispensed - (mgs CBD ) 20,769
-Amount of Marijuana in a Form for Smoking (oz) 123,985.349 Approved Dispensing Locations: 719 Added Last Week: -1 |
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RECENT EDUCATION SEMINARS HOSTED BY THE SOUTH FLORIDA HOSPITAL NEWS NETWORK DISABILITY INSURANCE EDUCATION WEBINAR
Understanding the Disability Insurance Market in Florida with Howard Wolkowitz and Michael Tyler. June 27, 2024 CLICK HERE TO VIEW VIDEO Presented by Mirza Healthcare Law How Experienced Physicians Protect their Assets. May 21, 2024 CLICK HERE TO VIEW VIDEO Presented by Dabdoub Law Firm
PHYSICIAN DISABILITY INSURANCE WEBINAR – TIMING IS EVERYTHING – PART 2 MAY 21, 2024
CLICK HERE TO VIEW VIDEO Presented by Mirza Healthcare Law How to start your Healthcare Practice? March 19, 2024
CLICK HERE TO VIEW VIDEO Presented by Coleman Consulting Physician Practice Management - Managing Pit Falls in your Practice - Recorded on Feb 13, 2024.
CLICK HERE TO VIEW VIDEO Presented by Dabdoub Law Firm PHYSICIAN DISABILITY INSURANCE WEBINAR – WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW – PART 1
CLICK HERE TO VIEW VIDEO Presented by Mirza Healthcare Law "HOW TO HANDLE COLLECTION CHALLENGES OF WORKING WITH HEALTH PLANS"
CLICK HERE TO VIEW VIDEO
Presented by Mirza Healthcare Law "How Experienced Physicians Protect their Assets"
CLICK HERE TO VIEW VIDEO
Presented by Mirza Healthcare Law "How to Minimize the Risk of Malpractice Lawsuits"
CLICK HERE TO VIEW VIDEO
Presented by Mirza Healthcare Law "So, I Signed a Non-Compete, Now What?"
CLICK HERE TO VIEW VIDEO Presented by Mirza Healthcare Law "How to Approach and Do Business With Large Healthcare Systems"
CLICK HERE TO VIEW VIDEO
Presented by Mirza Healthcare Law "How Mergers & Acquisitions in Healthcare are Done!"
CLICK HERE TO VIEW VIDEO
Presented by Mirza Healthcare Law "How to Navigate - Hospital Medical Executive Committees, Peer Reviews, Investigations, and Bylaws"
CLICK HERE TO VIEW VIDEO
Presented by Mirza Healthcare Law "How Experienced Physicians Negotiate Employment Agreements"
CLICK HERE TO VIEW VIDEO
Presented by Mirza Healthcare Law “ASSESSING LIABILITY RISKS: HOW TO PROTECT YOUR PROFESSIONAL PRACTICE AND REPUTATION”
CLICK HERE TO VIEW VIDEO
Presented by Mirza Healthcare Law "So, I Signed a Non-Compete, Now What?"
CLICK HERE TO VIEW VIDEO
Presented by Mirza Healthcare Law Stark Law - How can Physicians and Hospitals Avoid Problems and Still Work Together
CLICK HERE TO VIEW VIDEO
CLICK HERE VIEW ADDITIONAL WEBINARS |
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