Houston Medical Times by Rick Delarosa

HOUSTON

Volume 13 | Issue 12

Inside This Issue

UTMB Life Science Incubator Celebrates Grand Opening See pg. 8

INDEX Oncology Research......... pg.3 Mental Health...................... pg.5 Financial Forecast.............pg.11 Age Well, Live Well.......... pg.12

December Edition 2023

New Texas Law and Its Connection to Dr. Death

Sherri T. Alexander, J.D. Shelby D. Zumwalt, J.D. Polsinelli, PC

n June 2023, Texas Governor Abbott signed House Bill 1998 (“HB 1998”) into law, which became effective September 1, 2023. HB 1998 equips the Texas Medical Board (“TMB”) with additional tools to protect patients from potentially dangerous physicians while maintaining transparency about physician disciplinary records. HB 1998 clarifies statutory language and closes loopholes in current statutes that govern the TMB and its disciplinary authority, license and renewal requirements, and the complaint investigation/ resolution process. Although the TMB has more tools in its toolbox, the success of HB 1998 appears to depend on the TMB’s ability to implement these new requirements. HB 1998’s Direct Lineage to Dr. Christopher Duntsch Dr. Christopher Duntsch — nicknamed “Dr. Death” — killed or injured more than 30 patients in botched spinal surgeries in Dallas, Texas before finally losing his Texas medical license in 2013. He was sentenced to life in prison 6 years ago in a case that made national headlines and spawned a hugely successful podcast. In response to Dr. Death, an Austin, Texas new station, KXAN, spent 3 months retrieving thousands of physician disciplinary records from

medical boards across the country and then cross-referenced those records with the TMB’s pubic physician profiles one name at a time. At least 49 doctors who had disciplinary actions in other states — including having their medical licenses suspended, revoked, or surrendered — were still able to

with KXAN, Johnson stated “[m]y immediate reaction was, well, if the Texas Medical Board isn’t going to do it on its own, as a member of the legislature, I’m going to file a bill. I’m going to do something about it.” And she did. In February 2023, Johnson introduced HB 1998 and, on May 29, 2023, HB 1998 was signed by the Texas House and Senate. On June 13, 2023, Governor Abbott signed HB 1998 into law. HB 1998’s Changes to Texas Law A summary of the law includes: 1. The TMB must continuously query the National Practitioner Data Bank, and within 10 working days updating physicians’ public profiles to include new information regarding disciplinary action against the physician. 2. The TMB must submit a complete set of fingerprints to the Department of Public Safety (“Department”) for each license

49 doctors who had ... their medical licenses suspended, revoked, or surrendered — were still able to practice in Texas.

Carrum Health and Texas Oncology Collaborate on New Breast Cancer Treatment Model See pg. 10

practice in Texas. KXAN found some physicians were disciplined following criminal charges including domestic violence, possession of a controlled substance, and operating a firearm while intoxicated. In total, KXAN discovered disciplinary actions taken against physicians licensed in over 30 different states with no record on the TMB website even though the physicians were licensed in Texas. State Rep. Julie Johnson reacted to KXAN’s findings with plans to change Texas law. In an interview

see Texas Law ...page 14

PRSRT STD US POSTAGE PAID PERMIT NO 1 HOUSTON TX

Houston Medical Times

Page 2

From a deep dive to a quick update. Free CME, plus quick courses and case studies.

Join 250,000+ professionals who get free Continuing Medical Education (CME) with Texas Health Steps Online Provider Education. Choose from over 50 CME courses developed by trusted Texas experts, for experts like you. Quick courses and case studies on topics such as Medicaid guidelines, ethics and mental health, and more are all available 24/7.

Learn more at TXHealthSteps.com Content on the Texas Health Steps Online Provider Education website has been accredited by the Texas Medical Association, American Nurses Credentialing Center, National Commission for Health Education Credentialing, Texas State Board of Social Worker Examiners, Accreditation Council for Pharmacy Education, UTHSCSA Dental School Office of Continuing Dental Education, Texas Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics, Texas Academy of Audiology, and International Board of Lactation Consultant Examiners. Continuing Education for multiple disciplines will be provided for some online content.

December 2023

medicaltimesnews.com

Houston Medical Times

Page 3

Oncology Research When You Are the Cancer Caregiver By Eric Meyers, M.D., Texas Oncology

etting diagnosed with cancer is only the beginning of an emotionally challenging, complex, and sometimes bewildering journey – for both patients and their caregivers. A caregiver is often someone who has a strong, trusted relationship with the patient such as a spouse, child, other family member, or close friend. From emotionally and physically caring for the patient while they go through treatment to advocating for the patient during appointments, a caregiver provides invaluable support. It is no small thing to take on this responsibility, and the pressure can at times be overwhelming. Advocating For a Loved One with

Cancer A key job for a caregiver is to advocate for the patient when meeting with their care team. Cancer can be both emotionally overwhelming and physically demanding for a patient, so it’s understandable that a patient may not remember to ask certain questions about their treatment or discuss side effects of medication with their care team. As an advocate for the patient, their caregiver can ensure the patient’s questions and concerns are addressed. Another task that may fall on a caregiver is to be part of advance care planning discussions. These conversations can encompass decisions about treatment options, end-of-life care, and ways to improve the quality of life of the patient. While having these discussions may be emotionally difficult, they are essential. It ensures the patient’s voice is heard and respected throughout their cancer journey. Dealing With the Emotional Impact of Cancer

Cancer is not just a physical battle; it is an emotional one as well - for both the caregiver and the patient. Caregivers carry a heavy emotional burden when a loved one has cancer. Not only are caregivers worried about the life, health, and emotions of their loved one with cancer, but the caregiver is also helping the patient manage physical and emotional symptoms, ensuring the patient follows guidance from their care team, and making sure that day-to-day needs are met. It is normal to feel overwhelmed, scared, or angry. Reach out to family and friends for support, join caregiver support groups, and find time to take care of yourself. When someone asks how they can help, give them a task

medicaltimesnews.com

like making dinner once a week, driving the kids to/from activities, or ask them to stay with the patient so that you can rest and recharge. For both the patient and caregiver, emotional well-being is an integral part of their overall health. Don’t Forget to Take Care of Yourself The duty of caring for someone with cancer can take a toll, and self-care should be a priority. A caregiver cannot effectively support the patient if their own physical and mental well-being are neglected. It is important to maintain a healthy lifestyle, get adequate rest, and seek help if it is becoming too hard see Oncology ...page 14

December 2023

Houston Medical Times

Page 4

UTSW Simulation Center Leads with Technology, Advanced Training Robotics, OR Black Box, Virtual Reality Among Innovations Available to Students, Professionals As Facility Marks 5-Year Anniversary

T Southwestern Medical Center’s Simulation Center, which marks its fifth anniversary this year, is one of the most advanced facilities of its kind in the nation, offering an unparalleled environment for immersive learning at all levels – from first-year medical students to practicing health care professionals. Since opening in September 2018, the 49,000-square-foot Sim Center has logged nearly 6,000 events and more than 113,000 learner encounters. The Center is one of only a few in the nation with a robotic system used exclusively for training and, last year, became the first in the world to install OR Black Box technology in a simulated environment where it records all aspects

of a surgery. Artificial intelligence (AI), machine learning, virtual reality, 3D printing, and other technologies have also been integrated into the learning environment. “The Center has had a transformative impact on our campus,” said Daniel Scott, M.D., Assistant Dean of Simulation and Student Integration at UT Southwestern who is the Center’s Director. “Learners are exposed to leading curricular methods, patient safety is enhanced, and new technologies are explored. The Center has set UT Southwestern at the front of the pack, leading through innovation and scholarly activity, and providing us with a truly premier facility.” The facility’s 20 exam rooms and

Students practice their skills using one of the high-fidelity manikins at UT Southwestern’s Simulation Center.

six inpatient hospital rooms all have cameras and microphones to record learning encounters for later reviewing, which enhances education. Five spaces replicate specialty environments: an emergency room, an intensive care unit, an operating room, a labor and delivery suite, and a robotic operating room. Each of those areas has an adjacent control

room to monitor what’s happening and facilitate authentic scenarios. Lessons often involve high-fidelity manikins that closely resemble human anatomy by breathing, crying, showing vital signs,

see UTSW ...page 14

400 N Texas Ave Suite C Webster, TX 77598 webster@fyzical.com www.fyzical.com/webster-tx December 2023

medicaltimesnews.com

Houston Medical Times

Page 5

Mental Health Understanding the Illusion of the Road not Traveled

By Michael Jones

another road. We often imagine that Ph.D road unfolding in a much better way Clinical Psychologist than the road we chose. This vision

e all go through life making a series of choices. We face a fork in the road and must choose to go in this direction or that direction. We continue our journey, choosing one way or another over and over again. Some of these forks in the road are trivial, and some are major crossroads. We decide to go after this career instead of the other one. We choose to marry this person rather than another, or not to marry at all. We have children, or we don’t. Our capacity for vivid imagination can help us to imagine solutions to problems or to plan for things. Sometimes we use our imagination to consider how life might have been had we chosen

of the road not traveled can be very detailed and often meets all our essential needs. The more we focus on this road, the more we grieve that rejected choice where everything worked out great. The problem is that road only exists in our imagination. We are grieving the loss of something that never existed. We have only one path. It unfolds as a cumulative result of all the choices we have made along the way. We don’t know the consequences of other choices, because those paths do not exist. We imagine everything would have turned out great, but we can never know in truth. The illusion of the road not traveled often leads to grief related to losing that imagined path. It can also fuel a sense of regret. I regret my choice, because I now experience the outcome of that choice. We often use regret as a

stick to beat ourselves with whenever we revisit the choice. Regrets are a heavy load that weighs us down as we move along the path we have chosen. But regrets can be helpful if we transform them into an intention to realize or learn something from the regret, and to use that understanding to move forward and avoid making the same mistake again. I don’t think that people intentionally make bad choices. “Hmm . . . Door #3 is full of suffering and will turn out badly . . . yeah, I think I’ll pick that one. “ Nobody does that. In the light of all our competing needs and considerations, Door #3 seemed like

the best choice. Maybe we could not perceive at the time that Door #4 might have been a better choice, or maybe we couldn’t perceive Door #4 at all. When evaluating our prior selves, we often beat them up with some form of What were you thinking?! Door #3! Really! What an idiot. It may seem well-deserved, but it conveys a profound unfairness toward your prior self, who did not have the knowledge that your current self possesses. Your current self knows how the road unfolded. Your current self asks your prior self: “Couldn’t you see that coming?” Prior self could respond, “Well, no actually. I couldn’t.”

Sam Houston State University seeks an Osteopathic Family Medicine Physician Teach future physicians, both medical students and residents Work in a multispecialty clinic at a new state-of-the-art facility Live in a highly desirable city in Texas

medicaltimesnews.com

December 2023

Houston Medical Times

Page 6

HCA Houston Pearland Introduces Minimally Invasive Technique for Treatment of Enlarged Prostate

CA Houston Healthcare Pearland now offers a new robotic therapy for the treatment of an enlarged prostate or benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH). The advanced, minimally invasive technique provides long-lasting symptom improvement without compromising sexual function. BPH, or an enlarged prostate, is a non-cancerous condition where the prostate has grown to be larger than normal. One in two men ages 51 to 60 have BPH, and the incidence increases every decade of life. This common condition is associated with urinating too often, urgently, or at night. If left untreated, BPH can cause significant health problems, including irreversible bladder or kidney damage, bladder stones and incontinence. Aquablation therapy is a different type of treatment for BPH. It is an advanced, minimally invasive treatment that uses the power of water delivered

with robotic precision to provide long-lasting symptom relief with less irritation, fewer reported side effects and faster recovery than traditional treatment methods. “We are proud to perform the first robotic Aquablation procedures at HCA Houston Healthcare Pearland,” said David Wagner, CEO of HCA Houston Healthcare Pearland. “Aquablation therapy is the next step to furthering our commitment to robotic surgery and men’s health.” Ideal candidates include men with moderate to severe BPH symptoms, those that can no longer urinate on their own and have to use a catheter, those with very enlarged prostates, those experiencing other complications of BPH, including kidney failure, infections, bleeding and stones, and those who have not responded to traditional medications.

BRAND NEW

NOW LEASING

LUXURY 1 & 2 BEDROOM APARTMENT HOMES

346.263.0129 • • • •

Elite Penthouse Suites Available* Downtown Houston, Pool & Courtyard Views Many State-Of-The-Art Amenities, including an Elegant Clubroom w/ Fireplace, Social Lounge w/ Catering Kitchen! Stop By Or Visit Us Online Today!

9779 Fannin Railway, Houston, TX 77045 | 346.263.0129 | www.CharlestonAtFanninStation.com December 2023

medicaltimesnews.com

Houston Medical Times

Page 7

Not Just Your Regular Holiday Blues Diabetes and Depression Often Seen Together By Vinita Bhagia, M.D., Endocrinology

s the holidays approach, and the season’s expectations and demands draw near, it is not uncommon for some, especially older adults, to catch a case of the “holiday blues.” But it’s important to know when it’s more than just the “blues” and how other conditions, like diabetes, may be linked with depression Diabetes remains prevalent among older adults, and the American Diabetes Association reports that people with diabetes have a higher rate of depression than the general population. At the same time, older adults may also be more susceptible to depression because of increased loneliness associated with social isolation. Unfortunately, when depression co-occurs with other

illnesses, such as diabetes, it may go unnoticed. While depression affects everyone differently, recognizing the signs is a positive step toward managing your mental health while also managing your physical health. The National Institute of Mental Health notes that some of the common symptoms of depression to look out for include: • Persistent sad, anxious, or “empty” mood • Feelings of hopelessness or pessimism • Feelings of irritability, frustration, or restlessness • Feelings of guilt, worthlessness, or helplessness • Loss of interest or pleasure in hobbies and activities • Decreased energy, fatigue, or feeling slowed down • Difficulty concentrating,

remembering, or making decisions • Difficulty sleeping, waking early in the morning, or oversleeping • Changes in appetite or unplanned weight changes • Thoughts of death or suicide Disclaimer: If you or someone you know has thoughts about suicide, seek help right away. If you or someone you know is in immediate danger, call 911, or go to the closest emergency room. To reach a trained crisis counselor, call or text the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline at 988 or

LUXURY RENTAL HOME COMMUNITY IN MERIDIANA | NOW LEASING

1-800-273-TALK (1-800-273- 8255). You may also chat at 988.lifeline.org. If you experience any of these symptoms for two or more weeks, or if your symptoms are severe, seek medical attention. There are multiple options for the treatment of depression, but for all of them, the sooner help is sought from the appropriate medical provider, such as your primary care provider, the more effective the treatment.

AT MERIDIANA

BE THE FIRST TO CALL MERIDIANA'S ONLY RENTAL COMMUNITY HOME! THREE AND FOUR BEDROOM LUXURY HOMES

THE BEST OF MERIDIANA

MAINTENANCE FREE, 24/7 PROFESSIONALLY MANAGED LIVING

MINUTES TO THE TEXAS MEDICAL CENTER

ATTACHED TWO CAR GARAGES FOR EACH HOME

BRAND NEW, HIGHLY RATED ALVIN ISD SCHOOLS WALK TO MERIDIANA ELEMENTARY

PRIVATE BACKYARDS AND PATIOS

PRIVATE BALCARA LODGE NINE FOOT CEILINGS THROUGHOUT TMC

STAINLESS STEEL APPLIANCES AND GAS RANGES

610

SUGAR LAND

PEARLAND

FULL SIZE WASHER AND DRYER

MANVEL TOWN CENTER

EXPLORE MERIDIANA'S NUMEROUS PARKS AND PLAYGROUNDS

CALL TODAY!

(813) 859-6374

288

RESORT STYLE POOL AND FITNESS CENTER

VISIT US TO LEARN MORE:

GALVESTON

WWW.BALCARAMERIDIANA.COM medicaltimesnews.com

December 2023

Houston Medical Times

Page 8

UTMB Life Science Incubator Celebrates Grand Opening with Open House

PIERSON COMMERCIAL A

REAL

ESTATE

CO MPANY

COMMERCIAL REAL ESTATE SERVICES DOWNSIZING

RELOCATING

RENEWING

Our professionals specialize in negotiating the best economical solution for our clients. We can help value, market and sell your property! ► www.piersoncommercial.com ► 281.915.7049 ► john@piersoncommercial.com ► John DelaRosa Principal/Broker

Dear Doctors and Staff,

he University of Texas Medical Branch Life Science Incubator celebrated its grand opening with a Ribbon-Cutting and Open House event. This milestone marks the establishment of a cutting-edge incubator designed to support early-stage life science companies and entrepreneurs while fostering innovation and academic-industry collaboration in the field. “The Life Science Incubator represents a new era of innovation and entrepreneurship for our community and beyond,” says Dr. Jochen Reiser, president of UTMB Health and CEO of the Health System. “This facility will empower researchers and entrepreneurs to collaborate in a unique ecosystem, bringing advances in life sciences closer to practice. The impact of this incubator will resonate far beyond our immediate community, ultimately benefitting society at large.” In a strategic collaboration with the Galveston Economic Development Partnership, UTMB has redeveloped the Customs House

Incubator, leveraging a $2 million grant from the U.S. Department of Commerce’s Economic Development Administration and $500,000 in matching funds from the university. This collaborative effort aims to enhance the local and regional economies, create new jobs, and further develop the emerging technology ecosystem in Galveston and Galveston County. “It is an exciting time for scientists and entrepreneurs to come together and unlock the potential for groundbreaking solutions that can reshape the landscape of life sciences,” says Dr. Randall Urban, vice president for research and chief research officer at UTMB. The UTMB Life Science Incubator encompasses 4,000 square feet of lab space and an additional 3,000 square feet dedicated to office, support, and educational facilities. This state-of-the-art incubator plays a pivotal role in translating research into commercial ventures.

Let us take the guesswork out of fracture referrals. No more waiting for appointments! We at the Orthopedic Care Center wish to offer your patients and staff easy scheduling of patients. Our office has extended office hours on Fridays to accommodate patients with fractures. On behalf of the Orthopedic Care Center

Lubor Jarolimek M.D.

ORTHOPEDIC CARE CENTER 2121 OAKDALE HOUSTON, TX 77004

To celebrate this momentous occasion, UTMB co-hosted the Ribbon-Cutting on Nov. 8, 2023, with the Galveston Economic Development to unveil the incubator. Guests had the opportunity to explore the innovative infrastructure through a guided tour, and gained insights into the research that would take place within these walls.

Call us today! OCC_FractureFridaysFA3_Outlined.indd 1 December 2023

medicaltimesnews.com

5/29/2013 7:20:41 PM

Houston Medical Times

Page 9

medicaltimesnews.com

December 2023

Page 10

Houston Medical Times

Carrum Health And Texas Oncology Collaborate on New Breast Cancer Treatment Model Value-Based Care Program Provides Texas Patients Streamlined Access to High-Quality Care and Reduces Costs for Patients and Employers

arrum Health, a value-based Centers of Excellence healthcare solution changing how we pay for and deliver cancer and surgical care, and Texas Oncology, one of the largest community-based oncology practices in the U.S., today announced a new collaboration to provide high-quality, cost-effective breast cancer care to patients. Through employers, Carrum Health will offer patients a bundled package for breast cancer care that includes two years of coverage for chemotherapy, radiation, and symptom management from Texas Oncology. Texas Oncology joins Carrum’s rigorously vetted Centers of Excellence network, comprising high-value providers who have invested in

patient-centric, evidence-based care nationwide. Carrum offers its employer clients access to this network at pre-negotiated bundled prices, so members can benefit from high-quality care with the help of dedicated care navigators, without having to worry about cost and administrative burdens. “About half of cancer care is delivered in community oncology settings, which makes these providers a critical component in expanding access to high-value cancer care to our members,” said Sach Jain, Carrum Health founder and CEO. “As pioneers in value-based payment models and experts in cancer care, Texas Oncology is an ideal collaborator. We look forward to working with them to provide top-notch outcomes and

remove financial toxicity for breast cancer patients.” With the market’s only all-inclusive cancer care bundles, Carrum Health offers access to comprehensive breast cancer treatment and follow-up care including all cancer-related costs, such as chemotherapy and immunotherapy, which are high-cost drivers. This approach enables employers to realize significant and predictable savings with upfront, transparent pricing. Employees seeking treatment for breast cancer can receive comprehensive,

evidence-based care with little to no out-of-pocket payments, so they can focus on recovery rather than medical bills. “We are committed to developing innovative ways to ensure patients have easier access to high-quality local cancer care – so that all stakeholders benefit from the comprehensive value we provide, including reduced costs and less overall disruption to patients’

see New Model...page 13

Subscribe to Our Digital Issue You can get the Houston Medical Times delivered straight to your inbox. Never miss an Issue of Houston’s Leading Local Healthcare News Online.

medicaltimesnews.com December 2023

medicaltimesnews.com

Houston Medical Times

Financial Forecast Your 2023 Year-End Financial To-Do List What to do by the end of the year to keep your finances on track going into 2024 By Grace S. Yung, CFP Midtown Financial Group, LLC

s the end of another year quickly approaches, you may find yourself considering New Year’s resolutions or making a list of items you’d like to accomplish before next January 1st. One of the most common – and important – year-end to-do items has to do with your finances. Preparing Financially to Close the Books on 2023

or RMDs, refer to the minimum amount that you must take out each year from traditional retirement accounts, including IRAs, 401(k)s, 403(b)s, SEP IRAs, SIMPLE IRAs, etc. In 2023, the age to begin taking RMDs is 73. This age will increase to 75 by the year 2025. The amount you must withdraw is determined, based on an IRS formula. If you do not take the required distributions – or if you don’t withdraw the full amount – you will incur an IRS penalty. This penalty is in addition to any taxes that you owe on the distribution. Roth IRAs and retirement plans are not subject to the RMD rules. So,

Page 11

PLAN WISELY. YOU WON’T GET A DO-OVER. A successful retirement in the future can often depend on having a solid plan now. If your money isn’t working as hard as you are, it may be time to act—there are no do-overs in retirement planning. Now is the time to consider developing a strategy that can help you work toward your financial goals. I specialize in providing comprehensive, personalized financial guidance with the goal of maximizing every remaining moment of the retirement countdown.

Call today to learn more or to schedule a consultation. MDBA idtoName wn Financial Group, LLC GLocated race S. YatunInstitution g, CFP® Name MAgent anagiName, ng DireDesig ctor 1, Desig 2, Desig 3, Desig 4 1 . Alabama St., Ste. 180 3Title 355 W Insurance HTitle oust2onor, TX 7 7 0 9 8 Lic#xxxxxxxx 7Address 13-355-9line 833 1Ofﬁce 1Address -855-464line -38629 Toll Free XXXXX gCity, raceState .yung@ lpl.com 000-0000 w(000) ww.m idtownfgxExt .comor Description (000) 000-0000 xExt or Description (000) 000-0000 xExt or Description email.address@email.com www.webaddress.com

Your Logo Here F O O R A P P U K C O L V2

The Financial Consultants at <DBA Name> are registered representatives with, and securities and advisory services are offered through LPL Financial (LPL), a registered investment advisor and broker-dealer (member FINRA/SIPC). Insurance products are offered through LPL or its licensed affiliates. [Credit Union name] and [DBA name] are not registered as a broker-dealer or investment advisor. Registered representatives of LPL offer products and services using [DBA name], and may also be employees of [credit union name]. These products and services are being offered through LPL or its affiliates, which are separate Sentities ecuritiefrom, s andand advnot isoraffiliates y serviceof, s o[credit ffered tunion hrougname] h LPL For ina[DBA ncialname]. , a regisSecurities tered invesand tmeninsurance t advisor, M emberthrough FINRA/S IPCor . Lits PL affiliates Financialare: and Midtown Financial offered LPL Group, LLC are separate entities. Not Insured by NCUA or Any Other Government Agency

Not Credit Union Guaranteed

Not Credit Union Deposits or Obligations

May Lose Value

PRT-00000-0000Tracking Tracking #0-000000 (Exp. MKT-06048-0122 #1-05228930 (Exp. 00/00) 01/24)

Professional Science Master’s

UNCONVENTIONAL Career Path While there is still some time left in the current year, some of your primary financial focus areas should include: Savings, Required Minimum Distributions (RMDs), Gifting and Tax Loss Harvesting. Savings In 2023, you may contribute up to $6,500 to a traditional or Roth IRA (or combination thereof) if you are age 49 or younger. If you are age 50 or older, you may make an additional “catch-up” contribution of $1,000 in 2023. You have until April 15, 2024, to make your 2023 IRA contributions. But year-end often brings the “Santa Claus rally” in the stock market. So, if you want to have your funds work for you by catching this rally, now is a good time to fund your IRA if you haven’t already done so for the year. Required Minimum Distributions Required minimum distributions,

the money in these accounts may remain – even after you have turned age 73 – and continue growing on a tax-free basis. If you inherited an IRA from someone who is not your spouse, the SECURE Act requires that you must fully liquidate the account within 10 years. This is true for both traditional and Roth IRAs that are inherited by non-spouse beneficiaries. For those individuals who inherited funds prior to the SECURE Act, you are grandfathered, and you will need to withdraw according to your regular schedule. Gifting To reduce the amount of taxable assets for estate tax purposes, many people gift money to others. You are

Develop advanced technical and professional skills to make a difference in your career!

APPLIED CHEMICAL SCIENCES

BIOSCIENCE & HEALTH POLICY ENVIRONMENTAL ANALYSIS SUBSURFACE GEOSCIENCE SPACE STUDIES

Learn more profms.rice.edu

see Financial Forecast...page 13

medicaltimesnews.com

December 2023

Houston Medical Times

Page 12

Age Well, Live Well “Dieting” for the Holidays

he holiday season sometimes gives people a reason to end the year with decadence. However, some may be looking for advice when it comes to healthy food choices during celebrations or adjusting their eating habits for the new year. An expert with Baylor College of Medicine offers helpful information about how to be mindful of your eating habits. “The word diet has been misused as something that refers to caloric deprivation,” said Dr. Luis Rustveld, assistant professor of family and community medicine at Baylor. “When people think about ‘going on a diet,’ they really should be thinking about what they want to accomplish with their eating habits, like losing weight, reducing cholesterol levels or adjusting what they eat for chronic conditions, then changing your current eating habits to meet those goals.” Any time of year can be a good time to adjust your diet, Rustveld says, but the holidays may encourage

more mindful eating. It can be a great time to practice strategies like portion control, moderation and appreciating textures, flavors and smells of food. Taking your time while eating to focus on these details is one way to enjoy your meal and prevent overeating. People looking to be mindful of their caloric intake should not deprive or limit the amount of food they eat during the days leading up to celebrations as this may lead to overindulgence. And don’t forget about the alcohol and seasonal drinks. Alcohol is commonly served along holiday meals and should be consumed in moderation for health and safety reasons. These beverages are high in sugar, which in combination with desserts can have negative impacts on health. Sugar-free or sugarless substitutions for mixed drinks can mitigate this issue. Additionally, Rustveld says one should never drink on an empty stomach.

If you or a loved one has a modified diet due to health concerns, Rustveld says a couple of simple strategies will ensure holiday meals can still be enjoyable. First, plan ahead by making holiday hosts aware of meals or ingredients you or your loved one should stay away from. They can let you know which dishes are appropriate for you to eat. Additionally, you can make and bring your own version of items to enjoy and share with others. Exercise should also be incorporated into daily routines during the holidays; however, Rustveld says to not overdo any physical activity to overcompensate for the food eaten. This could lead to

the Montessori method WHAT • Integrating into the public school curriculum WE • Currently offering Pre-K thru 4th OFFER: • Open enrollment until positions ﬁll

injury and most likely does not lead to the intended results. “The holidays are a time for celebration and social gatherings, delicious meals and an abundance of sweet treats. Restricting your food choices can make these events less enjoyable and potentially lead to deprivation. It’s a time when people look forward to indulging in their favorite dishes, but also take the time to enjoy the company of treasured friends and family,” Rustveld says. “Spending quality time with family and friends are integral to overall well-being and mental health. Starting these habits during the holiday can lay the foundation for a healthier new year.” 

• Comprehension Stem Program • Character & Leadership Development • High Tech – 7 computers per classroom

2319 N. GRAND BLVD., PEARLAND, TX. 77581 www.hmps.net | 281-485-2500 December 2023

medicaltimesnews.com

Houston Medical Times

Page 13

Education Brief New HCC, Harris Health Apprenticeship Pact Educates Patient Care Technicians

ouston Community College and Harris Health System entered into a ground-breaking partnership on Nov. 8 at HCC Coleman College for Health Sciences. Margaret Ford Fisher, Ed.D., HCC interim chancellor, and Esmaeil Porsa, M.D., Harris Health president and chief executive officer, formalized the collaboration with a Memorandum of Understanding for the REACH Apprenticeship program. Starting January 2024, the program will pave the way to develop more patient care technicians for the region and enable the students to “earn as they learn.” Apprentice and future

patient care technician Demicee Hall of Houston attended the event and was recognized before the audience. Several educational, workforce, and healthcare leaders attended the event, including: Cynthia Lenton-Gary, Ph.D., HCC Board of Trustees chair; Madeline Burrillo-Hopkins, Ed.D., HCC Workforce vice chancellor and HCC Southwest College president; Phillip Nioctera, M.D., HCC Coleman College president; James Carnes, U.S. Department of Labor apprenticeship representative; Annica Gorham, Capital IDEA Houston operations director; Omar Reid, MBA, Harris Health executive vice president chief

people officer; Mauren Padilla, DNP, Harris Health senior vice president of nursing affairs and support services; and Alicia Hernandez, DNP, Harris Health administrative director.

For more information on the REACH Apprenticeship Program, visit hccs.edu/Apprenticeship. To see the event photos, view the album.

Financial Forecast Continued from page 11 remaining invested and working for you. Therefore, as the end of the year approaches, make sure that you review any capital gains taxes that you may owe, as well as any investments that could be sold at a loss to help offset current and future gains. Is Your Financial Plan Ready for 2024? Is a good idea to work with a CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER™ practitioner who can help you work towards your goals. 

New Model

Continued from page 10 patients in other parts of Texas in the future. In addition, Carrum Health and Texas Oncology plan to expand this collaboration to include other cancers, ensuring more Texans are able to benefit from high-value cancer care.

THANK YOU to all of our Houston area Healthcare Workers, and First Responders! Together, we can make a difference H ind el

lives,” said Steven Paulson, M.D., president and CEO, Texas Oncology. “The breast cancer care bundle with Carrum Health is the beginning of a growing relationship that will enable us to improve outcomes with superior patient experience.” The breast cancer bundle is currently available for patients in Austin, Houston, and San Antonio, with plans to expand access for

From all of us at the

allowed to give up to $17,000 to an unlimited number of individuals (in 2023) without taxation. If you are married, you and your spouse together may gift up to $34,000. Tax Loss Harvesting Tax loss harvesting is a strategy where one sells investments at a loss to offset the amount of capital gains taxes owed on other profitable investments. The primary goal of tax loss harvesting is to have less money going towards taxes and more

www.houstonfoodbank.org medicaltimesnews.com

December 2023

Page 14

Houston Medical Times

Texas Law

HOUSTON

Continued from page 1 applicant and the Department must classify and check the fingerprints against those in the Department’s fingerprint records. 3. A medical peer review committee or health care entity shall report, in writing, to the TMB the results and circumstances of a medical peer review that adversely affects the clinical privileges of a physician for a period of more than 14 days, as opposed to previously required more than 30 days. 4. The TMB must (a) refuse to issue a license to an applicant who held a license in another state that has been revoked for a reason that would be grounds for the TMB to revoke a license in Texas and (b) revoke a license if the license holder, while holding their license in Texas, held a license in another

state that has been revoked for a reason that would be grounds for the TMB to revoke a license. 5. The TMB may suspend or restrict the license of a person arrested for an offence related to (a) criminal homicide; (b) trafficking of persons; or (c) sexual or assaultive offences, when the offence meets certain criteria. 6. It is now a Class A Misdemeanor for a person to knowingly make a false statement on their application. It is a State Jail Felony for a person to knowingly make a false statement on their application with the intent to defraud or harm another. Conclusion Texas and the medical community continue to navigate options designed to prevent a patient from encountering another Dr. Death.

HB 1998 places an incredible amount of pressure on the TMB to protect the public from dangerous physicians. The TMB has already stated it would be “staff and time intensive” to post all out-of-state disciplinary records online. The success of HB 1998 appears to lie with the TMB’s ability to comply with the new more onerous requirements of the law. 

Web Development Lorenzo Morales

Office: 713-885-3808 Fax: 281-316-9403 For Advertising advertising@medicaltimesnews. com Editor editor@medicaltimesnews.com

through the power of health care simulation, we are paving the way for improved patient care.” Since the Center’s opening, its faculty and champions have published 68 peer-reviewed studies related to simulation. The Sim Center offers verification of 13 competencies considered essential by the Association of American Medical Colleges. It also provides hands-on instruction in more than two dozen content areas in undergraduate medical education. However, the largest learner group to participate in simulations at the Center is Graduate Medical Education, with 19 of UTSW’s 21

Clinical Departments hosting activities for residents and fellows. In addition, the Center regularly hosts continuing medical education courses that attract practicing physicians, nurses, and providers from across the nation. “The Center showcases this institution’s commitment to the value of medical education using simulation,” Dr. Scott said. “The fact that we’re five years down the road and have a 14% average annual growth rate in learner encounters attests to that.”

caregiver to someone with cancer is a significant responsibility. Effective collaboration, addressing the emotional impact, advance care planning, and self-care are all integral aspects of this obligation. By

proactively addressing these areas, one can provide the best support and care for a loved one, navigating the complex and emotional terrain of cancer together.

Oncology Continued from page 3

December 2023

Senior Designer Jamie Farquhar-Rizzo

Accounting Liz Thachar

Continued from page 4

to cope with the stress. Ask for assistance or delegate responsibilities to others. Getting help is not a sign of weakness but a recognition of the demanding nature as a caregiver. Assuming the role of a

Director of Media Sales Richard W DeLaRosa

Distribution Robert Cox Brad Jander

UTSW and even talking The Center stands out not only because of its size and advanced technologies but also because of a detailed curriculum and experienced team of simulation educators who offer breadth and depth to their programs. Its offerings range from the technical – suturing and learning robotic surgical skills – to the more complex dynamics involved with teamwork and communication. “We’ve become a campus resource like no other,” said Krystle Campbell, D.H.A., M.S.M.S., CHSE, Director of Operations for the Center. “We have an amazing, creative, and passionate team of simulation professionals, health care providers, and researchers. Together,

Published by Texas Healthcare Media Group Inc.

medicaltimesnews.com

Houston Medical Times is Published by Texas Healthcare Media Group, Inc. All content in this publication is copyrighted by Texas Healthcare Media Group, and should not be reproduced in part or at whole without written consent from the Editor. Houston Medical Times reserves the right to edit all submissions and assumes no responsibility for solicited or unsolicited manuscripts. All submissions sent to Houston Medical Times are considered property and are to distribute for publication and copyright purposes. Houston Medical Times is published every month P.O. Box 57430 Webster, TX 77598-7430

Houston Medical Times

Page 15

ELEVATED LIVING

above t he Green

808 Crawford Street Houston, Texas 77010 346-815-2296 www.ParksideAtDG.com

Easy Access to Metro Rail

SCAN ME

Studios - 3 bedroom apartments, townhomes & penthouses available medicaltimesnews.com

December 2023

Houston Medical Times

December 2023

medicaltimesnews.com