MEDICINE DECISION
STUDENTS MEET ROLE MODELS
Two dozen high schoolers envision themselves as next-gen health care providers
11 days after appendectomy, tests for acute abdominal pain revealed a
retained object
left inside the patient.
Surgical miscounts are considered never events because they are usually preventable by following established procedures.
ProAssurance offers risk assessments designed to help practices minimize errors by establishing and evaluating safety procedures and communication protocols.
With reliable procedures in place, our insureds are more likely to reduce errors in their medical practice, avoid claims, and make claims more defensible if they do occur.
PRESIDENT Neelesh Bangalore, MD
PRESIDENT ELECT Sujeeth Punnam, MD
TREASURER Stephen Tsang, MD
BOARD MEMBERS Cyrus Buhari, DO, Maggie Park, MD, Alain Flores, MD, Manreet Basra, MD, Sanjeev Goswami, MD, Kinnari Parikh, MD, Inderpreet Dhillon, MD, Bhagya Nakka, MD, Sunny Philip, MD, and Ripudaman Munjal, MD
MEDICAL SOCIETY STAFF
EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR Lisa Richmond
MEMBERSHIP COORDINATOR Jessica Peluso
COMMITTEE CHAIRPERSONS
CMA AFFAIRS COMMITTEE Larry Frank, MD
DECISION MEDICINE Kwabena Adubofour, MD
MEDICAL EDUCATION PROGRAMS Kelly Savage, MD
SCHOLARSHIP LOAN FUND Gregg Jongeward, PhD
CMA HOUSE OF DELEGATES REPRESENTATIVES
Robin Wong, MD, Lawrence R. Frank, MD
James R. Halderman, MD, Raissa Hill, DO
Richelle Marasigan, DO, Ramin Manshadi, MD
Philip Edington, MD , Sujeeth Punnam, MD
Sunny Philip, MD, Ripudaman Munjal, MD
SAN JOAQUIN PHYSICIAN MAGAZINE
EDITOR Lisa Richmond
EDITORIAL COMMITTEE Lisa Richmond, Neelesh Bangalore, MD
MANAGING EDITOR Lisa Richmond
CREATIVE DIRECTOR Sherry Lavone Design
CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Jo Ann Kirby, Neelesh Bangalore, MD, Jessica Freeman, MPH, Sydney Jenkins, MPH and Melissa Yago, M.Ed.
THE SAN JOAQUIN PHYSICIAN MAGAZINE is produced by the San Joaquin Medical Society
SUGGESTIONS, story ideas are welcome and will be reviewed by the Editorial Committee.
PLEASE DIRECT ALL INQUIRIES AND SUBMISSIONS TO:
San Joaquin Physician Magazine 3031 W. March Lane, Suite 222W Stockton, CA 95219
Phone: (209) 952-5299 Fax: (209) 952-5298
E-mail Address: lisa@sjcms.org
MEDICAL SOCIETY OFFICE HOURS: Monday through Friday 8:30am-4:30pm Closed for Lunch between 12pm-1pm
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FUTURE IS BRIGHT
I love our Fall Issue. It gives us the chance to highlight our most recent Decision Medicine cohort as well as past program alumni, who have been recently admitted to medical school or matched into residency or fellowship. There is nothing better than an email from an alum, just wanting to let me know they are starting medical school and sending along a photo from their white coat ceremony. Recently, I heard from Maliha Shahzad (’19). She said that “DM was a very formative experience in my high school years. I will forever cherish the people I had the opportunity to connect with, along with the experiences I was fortunate to gain during those memorable two weeks.”
If there was ever a question about the success of SJMS’ pipeline programs, emails like this, put that to rest. But, as I have often said, Decision Medicine takes a village. It is so rewarding to see our health care community partners rally around this program as they continue to plan fun and engaging activities for student visits at their facilities.
This year, during our annual visit to UC Davis Medical School, students were practicing suturing on a banana with a trauma surgeon, when two beautiful, familiar faces walked in to participate in the medical student Q&A lunchtime session. We were bursting with pride as Natalie Pearlman (’12) and Monifa Sawyer (’13), both fourth year medical students, introduced themselves and talked about their journey to medical school. They spoke about the impact of the program on their trajectory, as well as the support and mentorship they received along the way.
It is heartwarming to hear this feedback. Our goal is that once a student is in the BTM/DM family, we strive to stay in touch through annual update surveys, which allows us to measure the success of the program, while notifying them of opportunities and serving as a resource at any point along their path. Through those efforts, I am excited to report that we currently have 30 students in medical school, 14 in residency and 5 practicing physicians! There are 75 students currently in undergrad in pre-med/stem majors and others that went into (or plan to go into), equally important health careers as mid-level providers, nurses, physical therapists, and dentists.
We’d like to direct your attention to important information regarding the Yes on Prop. 35 campaign, which will be included on the November ballot. Proposition 35 will address our most urgent health care priorities and secure dedicated, ongoing funding to expand access to care. We urge to educate yourself, colleagues and patients by reading enclosed articles and visiting the Campaign Action Center at https://voteyes35.com/take-action/
Best
Wishes, Lisa Richmond
since 1899.
Dignity Health - St. Joseph's Medical Center opened its doors as St. Joseph’s Home and Hospital in December of 1899. Its founder, Father William B. O'Connor, collaborated with the Dominican Sisters of San Rafael to assist a local group of physicians in finding a suitable place to treat their medical and surgical patients with specialized care. As the population of Stockton and the surrounding towns increased, St. Joseph's grew alongside the community to meet the complexities and challenges of delivering quality health care—leading the way with firsts in cardiac, cancer, maternity, pediatrics, and emergency care services.
Celebrating 125 years, St. Joseph's Medical Center is proud to serve the Stockton community. For more information, please visit dignityhealth.org/stockton.
Challenging Times
ABOUT THE AUTHOR
I am extremely grateful to the San Joaquin Medical Society to have chosen me as a board member a few years ago. It has been an absolute pleasure to have served as a board member, Treasurer and Vice President. From July 1, 2024, I have assumed the responsibility of the president of San Joaquin medical society.
My goal is to recognize, and hopefully, address some of the challenges in the practice of medicine in our community setting.
First, understanding regional issues. We must be cognizant of the regional challenges we face. Specifically, population mix of patients, populations that are underserved, number and capabilities of hospitals and healthcare facilities that serve our population. We also need to understand the gross discrepancy between supply and demand as far as healthcare resources are concerned.
Second, physician practice environment. We need to recognize the pressures faced by physicians and their practices. Dealing with insurance companies, constant need to have peer-to-peer phone calls, excessive cost of healthcare resulting in substandard quality of care for certain patients, as well as difficulty in dealing with pharmacies to help our patients get medications on time and at a reasonable cost.
Third, reimbursement to doctors. Every year we are bombarded with information from the government threatening decreased reimbursement while at the same time expecting continued improvement in the level of care. We, as physicians strive to do the best for every patient however, reimbursement challenges certainly affect our practice, staffing levels, and our ability to provide comprehensive care.
Fourth, liability issues. We constantly face malpractice legal challenges, and it is causing a major change in how we practice medicine. A significant percentage of medical practice is defensive medicine which increases the cost of healthcare and therefore the cost of liability insurance. I feel the current
Neelesh Bangalore, MD is the current president of the San Joaquin Medical Society and practices at Stockton Hematology Oncology Medical Group
level of training of doctors needs to be more comprehensive in understanding the legal process so that unnecessary lawsuits do not consume much of our time which otherwise could be dedicated to patient care.
Thankfully, we are not alone. We will be working with California medical Association [CMA] and with other local medical societies to promote our philosophy of addressing challenging issues in real-time. As an example, we are working hard to have a successful vote of YES on Prop 35. It is a California ballot proposition that decides whether the state should permanently tax Managed-care organizations and whether revenue from that tax should go towards investments in health insurance for low-income people. If we vote YES on proposition 35, the tax will become permanent and the proceeds from it will be used only to offset a portion of Medi-Cal enrollment taxes and administrative costs. Those proceeds cannot be used for other needs of the state.
My Background
I grew up in a huge metropolis called Bombay (India), now Mumbai. I graduated from a Municipal hospital which
served a large population of the city. Services offered were essentially free. We took care of many underserved populations. I learnt the nitty-gritty of medicine during my training which was for 5 1/2 years. In September 1985 I arrived in the United States as a PhD student of biochemistry to the University of Georgia in Athens, Georgia. I spent 5 1/2 years getting a PhD in biochemistry. I then joined the American Red Cross, Holland Laboratories in Maryland and spent 3 years of bench research. I had the opportunity to publish several papers in various journals including the prestigious Journal of biological chemistry. One of them particularly was about protein C. That got me interested in hematology/oncology. I then got back into medicine and did my internal medicine fellowship at Providence Hospital in Washington DC after which I moved on to do a fellowship in hematology oncology at Georgetown University. Since graduating in July 2000, I have been practicing hematology oncology in the community setting in San Joaquin County. It has been a very gratifying experience. I have realized even with all the challenges we face, on a personal level, we can still provide a lot of comfort to our patients.
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IN THE NEWS
Central Valley Health System host student-athlete screenings
Dr. Pettegrew and Central Valley Doctors Health System provide over 2,300 student-athlete screenings at event for Manteca and Modesto schools
Dr. Jonathan Pettegrew and Central Valley Doctors Health System hosted one of the largest student-athlete health screenings in the region. Over 2,300 students, from 20 different schools in the Manteca Unified School District and Modesto City Schools, were screened at no-cost, including instructions for appropriate follow-up for any students where a concern was found. “We want to encourage kids to play sports,” said Dr. Pettegrew, an orthopedist who also volunteers and organizes physicians to be present at high school football games, “but we also want to make sure it is safe for them to participate.” The event marked the ninth year that Dr. Pettegrew, who practices in in Manteca and Modesto, and Central Valley
Providing staff, physicians, and patients with relevant & up to date information
Tenet Health’s Healthy Over Hungry
Cereal Drive
DHM donates 5,680 meals to help feed kids during summer break
Doctors Hospital of Manteca (DHM) has donated an estimated equivalent of 5,680 meals to Second Harvest of the Greater Valley as part of Tenet Health’s Healthy Over Hungry® Cereal Drive. The summer is a particularly tough time for many food-insecure families because children can no longer rely on schools for nutritious meals, which can be an added burden on those families. Therefore, the donations will allow local children and adults access to a healthy breakfast during this time.
Doctors Health System have provided screenings for local student athletes.
®
Central Valley Health System
Tenet Health’s Healthy Over Hungry®
Second Harvest estimates that DHM’s 396 pounds of cereal collected converts into 330 meals, and DHM staff also added $535 in monetary donations, which Second Harvest estimates will create 5,350 meals. Those donations total a combined equivalent of 5,680 meals that Second Harvest can use to provide meals to local children and adults with a healthy breakfast during the summer.
Matthew Syljuberget, RN inducted into Tenet Heroes Hall of Fame
Member of Doctors Hospital of Manteca’s surgery team named to Tenet Heroes’ Hall of Fame
Doctors Hospital of Manteca (DHM) is proud to share that Matthew Syljuberget, RN for Surgical Services at DHM, has been honored with the title of Tenet Hero and earned the prestigious honor of being inducted into the Tenet Heroes Hall of Fame as part of Tenet’s annual recognition program.
Matt was recognized for identifying an opportunity for safety enhancement that is being implemented nationwide. Nominated by leadership and/or fellow team members, only a select few are chosen to be honored as part of the Tenet Heroes’ Hall of Fame. This year, only 25 individuals or teams – out of 52 Tenet Hospitals and over 600 Care Centers – were named to the Hall of Fame, including Matt.
Benefits Underfoot: Doctors Hospital of Manteca Initiates flooring project to enhance safety and comfort
Doctors Hospital of Manteca has initiated a flooring project that intends contribute to the quality of experience for physicians, staff and patients. Studies show that new flooring not only has ergonomic advantages, such as less stress on knees and joints, but it will be a factor is preventing accidents with enhanced slip resistance and more force reduction for impacts. Two other benefits that may be noticed on the first day will be a reduction in noise and an easier to clean surface. Reflooring hospitals takes time and coordination, so the process will proceed in phases over several weeks and represents quite a feat.
Kaiser Permanente Northern California Hospitals Recognized for Providing HighQuality Care When Treating Cardiac and Stroke Patients
Kaiser Permanente Northern California hospitals are being recognized by the American Heart Association (AHA) for following nationally recognized, researchbased guidelines when diagnosing and treating heart failure and stroke patients, leading to more lives saved.
Every 40 seconds, someone in the United States has a stroke or heart attack, and heart disease and stroke are the leading and fifth-leading causes of death in the country, respectively. This national recognition from the AHA reflects Kaiser Permanente Northern California’s commitment to providing high-quality heart and stroke care, ultimately leading to more lives saved, shorter recovery times, and fewer hospital readmissions.
“This recognition is a tribute to our physicians, cardiac specialists, and care teams, who are dedicated to delivering high-quality, comprehensive cardiac care and treatment to their patients,” said Maria Ansari, MD, FACC, CEO and executive director of The Permanente Medical Group. “As a result, we are widely recognized for consistently delivering nation-leading clinical outcomes that enable our members and patients to live healthier and longer lives.”
Kaiser Permanente Northern California cardiac care specialists treat a broad range of heart conditions, frequently performing life-saving procedures. Using Matthew Syljuberget, RN
Medical Malpractice insurance for CMA members
About Medical Malpractice
Medical Malpractice insurance is crucial in protecting your practice and livelihood. Beyond paying the high cost of legal fees and judgments, Medical Malpractice insurance from the CMA Insurance Program, administered by Lockton Affinity, includes many benefits:
Coverage for common practice activites
Specialized customer service support
Regular updates from Lockton Affinity
Tailored
Medical Malpractice FAQs
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• These policies are the same coverage with different names. This coverage may also be referred to as Errors and Omissions or E&O.
Do I need a separate policy if I am working at multiple locations?
• Malpractice coverage follows you wherever you work, so there is no need to have a separate policy.
How do I get a quote and apply for Medical Malpractice coverage?
• Contact Lockton Affinity’s team of highly trained, licensed insurance professionals.
a team-based approach to care, Kaiser Permanente’s connected system enables our cardiologists to share knowledge across locations and specialties. In our communities, Kaiser Permanente members are 33% less likely to experience premature death due to heart disease, according to a 2022 research study.
Kaiser Permanente Northern California is also a leader in stroke care, and our integrated model of care supports close affiliation between our stroke care clinicians and cardiac researchers and specialists.
Joann Marks, COO, Dignity
Health St. Joseph’s Medical Center
Joann Marks Named St. Joseph’s Chief Operating Officer
Joann Marks, who has been with St. Joseph’s Medical Center for the past 16 years, most recently as Director of Cardiovascular Services, has been named the medical center’s new Chief Operating Officer. Marks has been involved in major construction projects at St. Joseph’s, including the remodel of Cath Labs in 2009, 2011, and 2024, in addition to the new construction of the Hybrid Suite in 2016, Cath Labs in 2017, and the EP lab in 2022. Marks is the key person responsible for leading the development and advancement of SJMC’s Structural Heart Program.
St. Joseph’s Medical Center Earns An ‘A’ Hospital Safety Grade from The Leapfrog Group
St. Joseph’s is proud to once again receive the nationally recognized “A” Leapfrog Hospital Safety Grade for Spring 2024. The Leapfrog grading is the only ratings program based on prevention of medical errors and coinciding
harm to patients and ranges from “A” to “F” on over thirty performance measures including but not limited to errors, accidents, and infections.
“We are honored to earn this national recognition from The Leapfrog Group,” stated Donald J. Wiley, President and CEO of St. Joseph’s Medical Center. “Our team’s dedication to safety and quality is commendable, and I see their commitment to our patients’ health demonstrated in the hospital day in and day out.”
Dignity Health St. Joseph’s Medical Center Receives “LGBTQ+ Equality High Performer” Recognition in 2024 Healthcare Equality Index
St. Joseph’s Medical Center has been recognized as an LGBTQ+ Healthcare Equality High Performer in the Human Rights Campaign Foundation’s 2024 Healthcare Equality Index (HEI). The HEI is the nation’s foremost benchmarking survey of healthcare facilities on policies and practices dedicated to the equitable treatment and inclusion of their LGBTQ+ patients, visitors and employees.
As part of the HEI process, St. Joseph’s Medical Center underwent a comprehensive review of LGBTQ+ care policies and practices within the organization. St. Joseph’s Medical Center updated dozens of policies to support LGBTQ+ health care outcomes, expanded training for staff and clinicians, updated patient forms and IT processes to better capture preferred pronouns and solicit feedback from LGBTQ+ patients, and clarified wording in employee benefits to be explicitly inclusive of LGBTQ+ employees – to name just a few examples.
U.S. News & World Report Names St. Joseph’s Medical Center Among Nation’s Best Hospitals for 2024-2025
Dignity Health St. Joseph’s Medical Center has been named by U.S. News & World Report as its 2024-2025 Best Hospitals, in addition to being recognized as High Performing in eleven common procedures and conditions.
St. Joseph’s Medical Center was ranked Best Regional Hospital in the Stockton Metro Area and is tied for 32nd in the state of California in the 2024-2025 Best Hospitals rankings, being among the top 10% of hospitals in the
Joann Marks, COO
IN THE NEWS
state. High Performing areas include Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease, Colon Cancer Surgery, Diabetes, Heart Attack, Heart Failure, Hip Fracture, Kidney Failure, Leukemia, Lymphoma and Myeloma, Pneumonia, Stroke, and Transcatheter Aortic Valve Replacement.
U.S. News evaluated nearly 5,000 hospitals across 15 specialties and 20 procedures and conditions; only 11% of evaluated hospitals earned a Best Hospitals ranking. Hospitals awarded a “Best” designation excelled at factors such as clinical outcomes, level of nursing care and patient experience.
Welcoming
Dr. Habib, Cardiology
Adventist Health Lodi Memorial Pacific Heart and Vascular is thrilled to welcome Dr. Habib Habib, a board-certified, skilled interventional cardiologist. He is dedicated to improving his patients’ health and quality of life with a goal to provide advanced, lifesaving care. He notes that his favorite part of his job is when patients express their gratitude and experience a higher quality of life after treatment.
Dr. Habib is also an established researcher who has studied best practices and treatments in cardiovascular
Providing staff, physicians, and patients with relevant & up to date information
care. His work has been published in peer-reviewed journals along with presenting his findings at national conferences. Originally from Syria, Dr. Habib is fluent in English and Arabic.
When he is not treating patients, Dr. Habib enjoys playing soccer, swimming, hiking and biking. His wife and 9-month-old daughter bring joy to his life, along with their cat and dog.
Welcoming Dr.Siddiqui, Gastroenterology
Dr. Khaleeq Siddiqui is a board-certified, fellowshiptrained gastroenterologist. Originally from Pakistan, Dr. Siddiqui completed gastroenterology training at United Health Services Hospitals in Upstate New York. Prior to this, he also trained in the United Kingdom and is board certified with the European Board of Gastroenterology and Hepatology. He previously worked in Stockton and is passionate about bringing patient-centered gastrointestinal care to the community.
Dr. Siddiqui brings 17 years of experience to his medical practice. He specializes in digestive disorders, including peptic ulcer disease, inflammatory bowel disease, irritable bowel syndrome and cirrhosis. He also provides screenings for gastrointestinal cancer and is trained
Habib Habib, MD
Khaleeq Siddiqui, MD
IN THE NEWS
in diagnostic and therapeutic endoscopies.
When he is not working, Dr. Siddiqui enjoys spending time with family, running, swimming, playing tennis and traveling. Along with English, he is fluent in Urdu, Hindi and Punjabi.
Welcoming Dr. Bhandal, Orthopedics
Dr. Nuvpreet S. Bhandal is a boardcertified orthopedic surgeon with fellowship training in sports medicine. He specializes in treating sports injuries and orthopedic conditions, including rotator cuff tears, anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) tears and shoulder arthritis.
Dr. Bhandal has served as a team physician for several sports teams, including the New York Jets.
Dr. Bhandal earned his medical degree at the University of Missouri-Kansas City School of Medicine. He then went on to complete an orthopedic surgery residency at Cleveland Clinic Akron General and a sports medicine fellowship at Lenox Hill Hospital.
Dr. Bhandal shares that his faith is based on giving back to his community, which inspired him to pursue a career in medicine. He enjoys sports such as golf and basketball, traveling, video games and exercising. He is married with one child.
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Adventist Health Lodi Memorial and Dameron Hospital Receive Get with The Guidelines ® Stroke Awards
Adventist Health Lodi Memorial and Dameron Hospital both received the American Heart Association/American Stroke Association’s 2024 Get with The Guidelines®-Stroke Gold Plus Quality Achievement Award.
The prestigious awards recognize both hospitals’ commitment to ensuring stroke patients receive the most appropriate treatments, according to nationally recognized, research-based guidelines.
To receive the Gold Quality Achievement award, Adventist Health Lodi Memorial and Dameron Hospital had to receive 85 percent or higher adherence to all Get With The GuidelinesStroke achievement indicators for at least 24 consecutive months. The Gold Plus Quality Achievement is an even more advanced level of recognition, acknowledging the hospitals’ consistent compliance with quality measures.
Adventist Health Lodi Memorial earned further recognition for Target: Stroke Honor Roll Elite, which means 75 percent or more of acute ischemic stroke patients who were treated with IV tPA, received thrombolytic therapy within 60 minutes.
Additionally, both hospitals received the Association’s Target: Type 2 Diabetes Honor Roll award. To qualify for this recognition, hospitals must meet quality measures developed with more than 90 percent of compliance for twelve consecutive months for the “Overall Diabetes Cardiovascular Initiative Composite Score.”
Nuvpreet Bhandal, MD
IN THE NEWS
Adventist Health Lodi Memorial Pharmacy Receives Gold designation within CDPH HAI Antimicrobial Stewardship Honor Roll
The California Department of Public Health (CDPH) Healthcare-Associated Infections (HAI) Program recently recognized Adventist Health Lodi Memorial’s pharmacy as a top performing antimicrobial stewardship
For Love...
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program through the Antimicrobial Stewardship Honor Roll. Adventist Health Lodi Memorial achieved Gold, the highest of the three designations offered.
According to the California Department of Public Health, “the goals of the CDPH HAI ASP Honor Roll are to promote optimal use of antimicrobials, prevent emergence of antimicrobial resistance and C. difficile infections, and to showcase California healthcare facility ASP that not only follow national guidelines, but also demonstrate outcomes and engage their local healthcare community.”
This prestigious designation is a testament to the excellent work done within Adventist Health Lodi Memorial and the hospital’s ongoing commitment to the highest quality of patient safety and care.
Office Space Available for Lease
Office space available now to be leased for medical/dental/medically relevant professional office. The space is 1367 square feet for immediate occupancy in the established Medical Doctor’s Complex, Weber Ranch Professional Park at East March Lane, with 7 rooms and waiting area. Call now (209) 951-8830.
Recognized for Excellence
Heart & Vascular Institute
Designated heart attack and stroke receiving center
Cancer Institute
San Joaquin County’s only nationally accredited cancer center
Orthopedic & Spine Center
Certification of distinction for total hip and knee replacement from the Joint Commission
Enhanced referrals for WORLD-CLASS CARE , closer to home
Convenience for referring providers
From delicate robotic and catheter procedures to precision therapeutics, we’re proud to offer diagnostic and treatment options for adult and pediatric referring providers across Northern California and the Central Valley.
Your referred patients benefit from shorter drives, less traffic, affordable lodging, and more. We also offer robust telehealth and telemedicine options, for both initial consultations and follow up care.
Our physician referral liaisons are here to help navigate referrals and:
■ Facilitate access to our secure EMR system, PhysicianConnect
■ Assist with UC Davis Health clinical trials and telemedicine
■ Keep you abreast of new services, providers and research programs
■ Arrange meetings and webinars, and share information about CME and events
Your local Physician Referral Liaison: Joaquin Muñoz | 916-701-7161 | joamunoz@ucdavis.edu
Frank Ing, M.D., F.A.C.C., M.S.C.A.I.
Chief, Division of Pediatric Cardiology
Codirector, UC Davis Pediatric Heart Center
Professor of Pediatrics
Specialty: Pediatric Cardiology
Central Valley Doctors Health System Three Trusted Hospitals, One United Team
We believe together, we can do so much good. Serving as one health system allows us to enhance patient care coordination, access to our hospitals and the many specialized services and resources our facilities provide. And, Central Valley Doctors Health System Transfer Center provides a seamless patient experience. One call provides direct access to our hospitals.
• Level II Trauma Center
• Central Valley’s only Comprehensive Stroke Center
• Advanced Heart Care
• Bariatric Center of Excellence
• Robotic-assisted surgery
• Comprehensive Oncology Center
• Premier Obstetrics and Neonatal Intensive Care (NICU)
• Blue Distinction Center for hip and knee replacement
We are always your Community Built on Care.
BY JO ANN KIRBY
STUDENTS MEET ROLE MODELS DECISION
medicine
Two dozen high schoolers envision themselves as next-gen health care providers
“I was really excited to make it. I’ve learned that the medical field is very diverse and that there are a lot of different aspects that go into treating a population.” - JOSE MARTINEZ
School was out for summer, but two dozen high school students from schools throughout San Joaquin County found themselves lucky to be back in class to learn how broad the possibilities are for a hometown career in medicine. The 24 students were among 98 who applied to San Joaquin Medical Society’s Decision Medicine program. While similar programs in the Bay Area can cost upwards of $5,000 per student, partnerships with area hospitals, physicians and nonprofits as well as a generous sponsorship by Health Plan of San Joaquin makes Decision Medicine free for those high-achieving, underprivileged and underrepresented high school students who make the cut.
After studying the student applications, 40 were invited to interview for one of 24 spots in this summer’s cohort. “My school counselor really encouraged me to apply because she knew I was interested in medicine,” said Jose Martinez, age 17, who is a student at Aspire Langston Hughes Academy. “I was really excited to make it. I’ve learned that the medical field is very diverse and that there are a lot of different aspects that go into treating a population.” The students represented 14 high schools, 5 cities and averaged a 4.0 grade point average.
The goal is that Jose and the other students who have completed the Decision Medicine program will be inspired to persevere in their journey to become a doctor after introducing them to personal mentoring opportunities, college prep coaching, site visits and even a chance to shadow a physician throughout the 2-week adventure. “I hope I can find a lot of resources. I’ve already learned a lot that will help me in planning for my future,” Jose said, who
Decision Medicine Class of 2024
Princess Briones Cesar Chavez High School
Janae Butler Mountain House High School
Keanu de la Cruz Mountain House High School
Aleesha Dhesi Mountain House High School
Alexis Esparza Tokay High School
Celeste Fernandez Franklin High School
Sehaj Gill Stockton Early College Academy
Simreet Gill East Union High School
Ximena Gonzalez Stockton Collegiate International School
Jenna Ibrahim Lodi High School
Ariana Jimenez Benjamin Holt College Preparatory
Jaisleen Kaur Lathrop High School
Celene Limon Health Careers Academy
Angela LopezHurtado Linden High School
Emma Lucca Linden High School
Emiliano Luna Weston Ranch High School
Jose Martinez Langston Hughes Academy
Gabriela Ochoa Benjamin Holt College Prep Academy
Anicia Ortiz Langston Hughes Academy
Jarely Ortiz East Union
Aliyah Rubio Benjamin Holt College Prep Academy
Yellena Rubio Benjamin Holt College Prep Academy
Omar Samara Health Careers Academy
Harpartap Sandhu Tokay High School
has an interest in becoming a gastroenterologist.
Beyond that, the overall objective is that these young DM students will make a dent in our county’s physician shortage by coming back to work as badly needed health care providers in their hometowns. The students met a DM success story during a tour of Community Medical Centers where Dr. Vanessa Armendariz shared her story and took questions from students.
Dr. Armendariz was a student at Franklin High School when she took part in Decision Medicine. Today, the family physician is living her dream of practicing medicine in her hometown. “Decision Medicine is really the reason I am here,” Dr. Armendariz told the students. “You will get to network with people. You’ll make connections. That will make all the difference for you if you stay in touch with those mentors. It’s really up to you to reach out when you need help.”
Along with meeting Dr. Armendariz, the students learned about Community Medical Centers mission to be a safety net for the most vulnerable in the areas they serve. Members of CMC’s Mobile Community Response Team shared how they provide welfare checks to homeless people in distress and follow-up with information on behavioral health services. In a partnership with the city of Stockton, the mobile health vans they dispatch are an alternative to 911. Students said they didn’t realize Stockton’s growing homeless population received health care and they learned the importance of treating all patients with dignity and respect. >>
Students said the experience was both educational and eye opening. “Before, I wanted to be a dermatologist because in the black community we don’t have a lot of representation,” Janae Butler, age 17, who attends Mountain House High School, said. A firsthand glimpse at all the different careers in medicine had her rethinking her direction. Other students said they were impressed with how enthusiastic physicians are about their vocation. “I didn’t realize how passionate they are about their work,” said Omar Samara, age 17, who attends Healthcare Academy.
Meeting medical residents gave the students a close up look at what the educational path is like. The students said the long journey it takes to become a doctor can appear overwhelming. “But residents told us you need hobbies. That makes you human,” said Jarely Ortiz, age 17, a student at East Union High School. “Knowing that puts us more at ease.”
Students were encouraged to ask physicians and
other medical professionals questions throughout their DM experience. They were especially inquisitive about the required educational path, the rigor of their training, the schedule, workload and routines. At a pizza lunch break, Dr. Benjamin Morrison, chief operating officer of Community Medical Centers, urged them not to stress. “It’s about the journey, not the destination,” he said, addressing the importance of self-care. Morrison said jobs in the healthcare field require emotional intelligence and compassion. They learned about the impact the physician shortage has and the opportunities that await them if they return to practice medicine. “We want you back in our community. We have to be able to relate with our community,” Dr. Morrison said. At their celebration banquet, the Decision Medicine students were in for a surprise. Dr. Lakshmi Dhanvanthari, chief medical officer of Health Plan of San Joaquin, announced the names of nine recipients of a Decision Medicine HPSJ Scholarship for students who took part in Decision Medicine in 2022 and 2023. The $3,000 scholarships will
help the students pay for the undergraduate degrees and are renewable each year, giving this 2024 class a glimpse at the support that’s possible.
The 2024 cohorts enjoyed a lively pep talk from Decision Medicine cofounders, Dr. Kwabena Adubofour and Dr. George Khoury, urging them to stick to their goals, communicate with their mentors and find their calling as physicians in their hometowns. Each of the 2024 students also received a white coat in a special ceremony, embroidered with their name and Health Plan of San Joaquin. Hopefully, it won’t be their only white coat ceremony. “Those years will fly by,” said keynote speaker and cardiologist Dr. Adnan Khan of the years of schooling and training ahead of them. “You have such a tremendous support system. Be patient, stay on track. Become a physician and then come back. There is no place like home.”
Medical School ADMISSIONS
Madeline Guajardo
UIW School of Osteopathic Medicine Decision Medicine 2015
D’Angelo Martinez
UC Davis School of Medicine Decision Medicine 2016
Bridge to Medicine
Mentor: Edward Schneider, MD
Maliha Shahzad
A.T. Still University School of Osteopathic Medicine Decision Medicine 2019
Karida Ean
UC San Francisco Medical School
Bridge to Medicine
Mentor: Edward Schneider, MD
Residency MATCHES
Carolyn Rieber, MD
Albany Medical Center PEDIATRICS
Bridge to Medicine Scholarship Loan Fund
Marissa Reyes, MD
UCSF – PLUS Program PEDIATRICS
Bridge to Medicine Scholarship Loan Fund
Jennifer Vu University of Illinois College of Medicine INTERNAL MEDICINE Scholarship Loan Fund
Olga Friaz-Borbon, DO
Children’s Hospital Los Angeles PEDIATRICS
Decision Medicine 2008
Decision Medicine Students Honored Through HPSJ Health Careers Scholarship Program
Decision Medicine (DM) was created by the San Joaquin Medical Society to encourage high achieving, under-represented students to consider a career in medicine and encourage them to return to the Central Valley to serve our diverse community.
Health Plan of San Joaquin (HPSJ), the county’s local MediCal Managed Care Plan, and long-time supporter of the DM program, provides scholarships through their “Health Careers Scholarship Program” to local students who are committed to pursuing careers in healthcare.
This year, the number of Health Careers Scholarships included eight Decision Medicine students, an investment of $24,000 in young adults who have successfully completed the DM program.
For scholarship recipient, Marisol Zaragoza, this program has helped her get closer to fulfilling her dream of becoming a physician and giving back to her Stockton community. Zaragoza states, “My aspiration is to become a pediatrician, fulfilling a lifelong dream to give back to my community in Stockton, as it allows me to make a meaningful difference in individuals’ lives. Knowing the shortage of doctors here, I’m motivated to return, give back, and save lives. My ultimate goal is to ensure that everyone receives equal access to quality care, regardless of their financial circumstances.”
Scholarship awardee, Apiksha Mistry, understands the need for access to more physicians in our community and plans to help. Says Mistry, “My heartfelt aspiration is to serve San Joaquin County. Witnessing the dedication of healthcare professionals and the critical need for more physicians has deepened my resolve to contribute to the health and well-being of our community.”
HPSJ attended the 2024 Decision Medicine (DM) Celebration Banquet to present the eight Health Careers
Scholarships to this year’s DM alumni. Pictured, from right to left, are HPSJ/MVHP Member Development Representative, Julia Valdez; DM graduates: Abigail Munoz will be attending UC Davis, majoring in Neurobiology, Physiology and Behavior, working towards her goal of becoming an ophthalmologist; Alina Sanchez looks forward to majoring in Biology at the University of California, Santa Cruz, and has a planned career as a psychiatrist; Apiksha Mistry plans to become an Emergency Medicine physician and will attend UC Davis this fall to major in Neurobiology, Physiology and Behavior; Giannah Cortez will attend UC Santa Barbara and major in Pre-Biology on the pre-med track to become a otolaryngologist; Nicole Reese Guiao Peterson has a planned career as a pediatrician and will study Biochemistry on the pre-med track at UCLA this fall; Xadria Roberts will attend San Francisco State University and major in biology as she works toward her goal of becoming a pediatrician; Gurneet Kaur has a goal of becoming a Cardiologist and will attend UCLA in the fall, majoring in Human Biology and Society; Marisol Zaragoza will major in Biological Sciences from UC Davis as she works towards becoming a pediatrician; HPSJ/ MVHP Chief Medical Officer, Dr. Lakshmi Dhanvanthari who presented each scholarship awardee with a certificate. Not pictured: scholarship awardee, Katedence Tran who will attend UCLA in the fall, majoring in psychology on the pre-med track.
Dr. Dhanvanthari said, “We believe in the importance of fostering relationships that will improve health equity and access to quality healthcare in our community. We are looking forward to increasing the scholarship awards in the coming year and expanding to include additional healthcare professions. We couldn’t be more proud to support these students on their journey and look forward to seeing them come back to serve our community.”
Thank You for Your Support!
Premier Financial Sponsor
Health Plan of San Joaquin
Community Partners
Adventist Health Dameron Hospital
Community Medical Centers
Kaiser Permanente
San Joaquin General Hospital
San Joaquin Public Health Services
Shriners Children’s Northern California
St. Joseph’s Medical Center
St. Mary’s Community Services
UC Davis School of Medicine
DM Committee & Shadow Day Mentors
Adnan Khan, MD
AJ Puthillath, MD
Bader Abu Ghalyoun, MD
Cyrus Buhari, DO
Erica Waters, MD
Gentry Vu, MD
George Khoury, MD
Hyma Jasti, MD
Jaicharan Iyengar, MD
Kwabena Adubofour, MD
Lily Pang, MD
Manreet Basra, MD
Marina Castillo, MD
Nadia Shaikh, MD
Richelle Marasigan, DO
San Tso, DO
Sanjeev Goswami, MD
Shailesh Singh, MD
Stephen Tsang, MD
Sunny Philip, MD
Vanessa Armendariz, MD
Venkata Emani, MD
And so many more who contributed their time and expertise!
Doctor for a day
Decision Medicine student shadows OB/GYN
By Jo Ann Kirby
Dressed smartly in a bright blue Decision Medicine polo that she paired with khakis and blue Converse, 16-year-old Angela Lopez-Hurtado walked alongside Dr. Gentry Vu as he made his rounds through the Family Birth Center at St. Joseph’s Medical Center in Stockton.
Dr. Vu, a board-certified obstetrician/gynecologist, has been in private practice since 2006. He only has to walk next door from his office to St. Joe’s where he warmly introduced Angela to the nurses and staff in the maternity ward and then went into a patient room to check on a woman whose labor was progressing slowly. “You’re an amazing doctor,” Angela said to Dr. Vu as they walked back to his office. “Everyone stops to greet you when they see you. You stop to talk and listen. I want to be just like you.” Dr. Vu took the compliment but reminded Angela that the practice of medicine requires teamwork. “It’s not just me,” he said. “There are so many people who are working together to help us.”
become a physician. Angela made it through the interview process to become one of 24 accomplished students who made the cut. The program offers personal mentoring opportunities, hands-on lessons and site visits with behind-the-scenes access to many diverse clinical settings including several regional hospitals, surgery centers and community clinics. The program was conceived by the San Joaquin Medical Society to encourage high achieving, underrepresented students, who would not otherwise have these opportunities, to consider studying medicine and eventually come back to work in our underserved community. “I’m very glad I got to take part in this,” she said. “It’s been very helpful.”
Angela nodded and asked, “So medicine is a team? It’s like one big family?”
Angela was one of 98 high school students who applied for Decision Medicine’s 2-week summer to learn what it takes to
Dr. Vu, who earned his medical degree from St. George’s University of Medicine followed by a residency and fellowship in obstetrics and gynecology at Mount Sinai School of Medicine and a residency at Kaiser Oakland, speaks both English and Vietnamese. His practice welcomes Medi-Cal patients and Angela got a firsthand look at how well-respected he is by his patients and their families.
She had the chance to see Dr. Vu perform a pap smear. She observed as he checked in with a patient who was diagnosed
with endometritis. Angela watched Dr. Vu break a laboring woman’s water. And she looked on closely as he conducted an ultrasound to measure the growth of a pregnant patient’s fetus. The ultrasound was fascinating, she said. “I took anatomy this year, and it was so interesting to see the baby’s head and see the line that separates the right and left hemisphere,” Angela said. She asked what the gel was for, which prompted a physics lesson from Dr. Vu in a manner that was easy for the gifted high schooler to understand.
She met a nurse practitioner in training as well as medical students in their third year who were doing a four-week rotation in Dr. Vu’s office. She was able to ask them about their health career journeys. Dr. Vu, who admits to a love of teaching, encouraged Angela to not be daunted by the years of schooling and training that it takes to become a physician. “Medicine isn’t a hard field, it just takes discipline,” he said. “In medicine you accumulate more knowledge every day. An older doctor is actually a better doctor because they are more knowledgeable.”
Angela, who said she went into the DM program with an interest in radiology, said she was impressed by the way Dr. Vu runs his practice and interacts with his patients. “When I teach, I want them to learn to be compassionate. My motto is to take care of your patient like you would treat your own family.” Dr. Vu said. His patients clearly feel like family. One proud father recently shared that his son is named Gentry after Dr. Vu delivered the baby boy.
of a good bedside manner. “He felt, as a student, that it was so hard to find a doctor who would be a mentor. He likes to teach and not a lot of ob/gyns take on students,” Josephine said. “He explains that because we have a doctor shortage here, there are a lot of opportunities if they come back to serve in their community. You’ll see a lot more patients and there is a lot less competition.”
After a busy morning, the Vus treated the entire staff to lunch at China Buffet where Angela was able to get to know more about each person, their careers, and share her hopes and dreams for the future. “What do you think about community college?” she asked Dr. Vu. He explained that he thinks community college is a great idea. The proud dad said one of his children attended a JC before transferring to UC San Diego where she was accepted into their highly competitive physician assistant program after completing an undergraduate degree. “The first two years, it doesn’t really matter where you attend, grades matter,” Dr. Vu said. “A community college is excellent because it gives you the opportunity to learn how to navigate a campus.”
The need for physicians in San Joaquin County is acute, Dr. Vu said, explaining his involvement in Decision Medicine as well as his commitment to providing medical students a place to complete a rotation.
The need for physicians in San Joaquin County is acute, Dr. Vu said, explaining his involvement in Decision Medicine as well as his commitment to providing medical students a place to complete a rotation. “It’s my contribution to the community,” he said. “In order to provide excellent medical care, we need to mentor others. In ob gyn, there are so few of us.” The program, Angela said, exposed her to all kinds of careers in medicine and she was excited to see how passionate Dr. Vu is about his practice.
Dr. Vu, along with Josephine Vu, are parents as well and welcomed Angela like one of their own. Josephine, who manages the office and handles billing, said Dr. Vu loves taking students under his wing and showing them the importance
Although she was nervous about her chances of landing a spot in the program, the Linden High School senior said she is so glad that she took her shot. “It’s a really competitive program. I actually wasn’t planning to apply because I had a lot of self doubt,” she said. “I grew up in a migrant community and I always went with my grandparents and mom to their doctor appointments so I could translate for them. I want to go into medicine so that I can give back to my community.”
Angela said the program taught her a lot and she hopes to maintain connections she’s made as she considers the future, one that might lead her to one day delivering babies for her own patients. Dr. Vu said that is his ultimate wish. “My goal is to provide a facility for medical students to see what we do in women’s health,” he said of those who shadow him or complete their rotations at his practice. “Hopefully, that gives them a good impression and they will become part of a women’s health team.”
Addressing our most urgent health care priorities. Here’s how you can help.
The California Medical Association (CMA) is a proud supporter of Proposition 35 , which will secure dedicated funding to keep hospitals, clinics and doctors’ offices open.
Why We Need Prop 35:
Our health care system is in crisis. Hospitals are closing. Emergency rooms are overcrowded. More than 40 hospitals have stopped offering labor and delivery services. Patients wait months to see a primary care doctor or specialist.
California has dramatically expanded health care coverage and services, but care for almost 15 million children, seniors, disabled and low-income families with Medi-Cal coverage is significantly underfunded. What’s more, continued challenges and divestment have made it increasingly hard to recruit and retain frontline health care workers.
CMA has joined a coalition of health care workers, community health centers, Planned Parenthood, health plans and emergency responders to pass Prop 35. And, Prop 35 is supported by both the California Democratic Party and the California Republican Party.
Prop 35 will secure ongoing revenue—without raising taxes—and dedicate these funds to protect and expand access to Medi-Cal. And most importantly, it will prevent the state from redirecting these revenues for non-health care purposes.
Prop 35 will:
+ Provide long-overdue rate increases for Medi-Cal providers and stabilize rates, to protect and expand access to care
+ Secure ongoing funding—without raising taxes on individuals—to ensure that our health care system has the resources it needs
+ Ensure health care funds aren’t redirected for non-health care purposes
+ Fund more graduate medical education residency programs to address the physician shortage
+ Fund loan repayments for physicians and allied health professionals
+ Expand access to preventative health care to alleviate the burden on ERs
+ Reduce wait times in emergency rooms and urgent care facilities
+ Help hire more first responders and paramedics to reduce emergency response times
Bottom line: Prop 35 will improve health outcomes for millions of Californians.
Get Involved:
The Prop 35 campaign has launched a new Action Center to activate supporters at voteyes35.com/take-actio n .
Physicians are trusted messengers across regional and partisan lines and are important advocates to ensure California votes Yes on 35 to protect and expand access to health care. Visit the Action Center now to:
+ Share Your Story: In your own words, tell us why you support Prop 35.
+ Follow Yes on Prop 35 on Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn and X and share our messages with your followers.
+ Post on Social Media: Share with your friends and family why you are voting #Yeson35 .
+ Order Campaign Swag: Request campaign materials for you to show your support. Sign up to receive campaign materials that you can share with friends, colleagues and patients.
+ Email a Friend: Tell your friends and family why you support YES on 35 !
+ Download Materials: Get the latest campaign materials.
+ Join the Coalition.
+ Make a Donation: Make an individual donation at voteyes35.com/donate . If you would like to make a group or medical staff donation, please email nskadsen@cmadocs.org .
Myth: Prop 35 will lead to increased taxes for Californians.
FACT: Prop 35 does not involve any new taxes or tax increases for Californians. Prop 35 extends an existing levy on health insurance companies that will otherwise expire in 2026. This levy has been in place for decades, with funds dedicated to protecting and expanding access to health care. And, Prop 35 prevents the state from redirecting these funds for non-health care purposes.
Myth: Prop 35 is unnecessary – California already has dedicated resource streams for Medi-Cal.
FACT: Over the last 15 years, California has redirected more than $30 billion of these funds for other purposes. This has exacerbated California’s health care crisis. Prop 35 secures dedicated, ongoing funding to protect and expand patient access to care – and ensures these funds cannot be redirected for other purposes. Without Prop 35, funding for health care services will continue to be subjected to the volatility of the state budget process, and we could lose vital funding, further reducing everyone’s access to quality, timely, and affordable health care.
Myth: There are no guarantees Prop 35 will invest in patient care.
FACT: Prop 35 has strong accountability requirements to ensure funds are spent on patient care. It caps administrative expenses at 1% and requires 99% of revenues to go to patient care. The measure also requires ongoing independent financial audits and public reporting to ensure funds are spent effectively and as intended. And it prevents the state from redirecting these funds. Prop 35 specifically directs resources to improve patient care, including:
+ Expanded access to preventative health care
+ Reducing wait times in emergency rooms
+ Primary care
+ Community health centers
+ Specialty care like cancer, cardiology, and OB/GYN
+ Family planning
+ Hiring more first responders and paramedics to reduce emergency response times
+ Expanded mental health treatment
+ Expanded services and access to health care for Medi-Cal patients
+ Health care workforce training to address worker shortage
Myth: Prop 35 narrowly sends funds to only certain factions of our health care system.
FACT: Prop 35 dedicates funds to a broad range of health care services that benefit all Californians, and especially the 15 million patients on Medi-Cal. Prop 35 protects and expands patient access to care at community health clinics, hospitals, emergency rooms, primary care, family planning, mental health, and specialty care providers. It will help ensure quality, timely, and affordable health care for all Californians, which is why the measure has broad bipartisan support from a growing coalition of social justice organizations, health care workers, first responders, health care workers, physicians, dentists, hospitals, Planned Parenthood, and community health centers.
Myth: Prop 35 lacks flexibility to focus resources where they’re needed most.
FACT: Prop 35 was written to support a broad range of health care services and to address our most urgent health care priorities. It provides funding to protect and expand patient access to care at community health clinics, hospitals, emergency rooms, primary care, family planning, mental health providers, OB/GYNs and with specialty care providers like cancer and cardiology.
Myth: Prop 35 will make our state budget crisis worse and take funding away from other general fund priorities.
FACT: Prop 35 protects health care funding from the ongoing volatility of the state budget process and provides much needed stability for patient access to care, especially for Medi-Cal patients. The state has redirected more than $30 billion in these funds over the past 15 years, making our health care crisis worse. Importantly, Prop 35 does provide flexibility for state lawmakers and includes billions in funding that can be spent on state priorities.
Myth: Prop 35 will lead to job losses in the health care industry.
FACT: Prop 35 provides dedicated funds to health care workforce training and education to address the worker shortage. What’s more by providing increased funding for health care services, more professionals and workers will be needed. That’s why health care workers and worker unions support Prop 35.
Myth: Voting yes on Prop 35 will give the government too much power over health care decisions.
FACT: Prop 35 prevents the state from redirecting health care funds for non-health care purposes. It guarantees billions in health care dollars are spent as intended— on treating patients, capping administrative costs at 1%, and ensuring the remaining 99% is spent directly on expanding access to health care. Lastly, the measure requires ongoing independent financial audits to ensure funds are spent effectively and as intended.
Prop 35 has received bipartisan support from a growing coalition of social justice organizations, nurses, health care workers, first responders, labor unions, physicians, dentists, hospitals, Planned Parenthood, and community health centers because it will improve access to health care for ALL California patients.
Diagnosis
Parampal K. Gill, MD Vincent Pennisi, MD Jasbir S. Gill, MD Darrell Burn, MD Maria Escalona, MD Jacqualin Miller, D.O. Alecia Russell, D.O.
David Russell, D.O. Molly Campbell, M.D.
Radhika Hombalegowda, M.D.
James P. Maganito, D.O.
Armita Bakhtmand, PA-C
Magegan Sakhizada, PA-C
Crystal Chavez, PA-C
RESID ENTS' REPORT
A PLACE FOR ALL NEWS HIGHLIGHTING RESIDENTS AND GRADUATE MEDICAL EDUCATION
SJMC Welcomes New Residents and Fellows
In July, St. Joseph’s welcomed its new class of residents and fellows, with 87 new members of the Graduate Medical Education program in nine residencies and four fellowships for the 2024-2025 Academic Year. For the incoming class, St. Joseph’s welcomes 57 Californians, including 11 from the Central Valley area, 24 Northern Californians, and 18 previous medical student rotators.
The Resident’s Report is dedicated to all the good news related to our hard-working residents training at San Joaquin General Hospital and St. Joseph’s Medical Center. Please email your submissions, written in third person with accompanying photo to Lisa@sjcms.org.
St. Joseph’s rapidly-growing Graduate Medical Education program, which was launched in 2018, helps train and retain physicians in San Joaquin Community and to maintain and expand services we offer to our community. Current Residency specialties include Anesthesia, Emergency Medicine, Family Medicine, Internal Medicine, Neurology, Orthopedic Surgery, Psychiatry, Transitional Year, and Urology in addition to four Fellowships, Cardiovascular Disease, Critical Care Medicine, Simulation, and Ultrasound. Ultimately, St. Joseph’s will have 17 programs with over 270 residents and fellows by 2028.
SJMC Residents Engage with Decision Medicine Students
A group of SJMC Residents led interactive activities in the Sim Lab for the 2024 cohort of the San Joaquin Medical Society’s Decision Medicine students. Later they participated in a panel discussion and Q&A, where they shared their journey to medical school, including their reason for choosing medicine, tips, and tricks for studying and overcoming obstacles. They stressed the importance of resilience, focus and seeking mentors along the way.
Practice News and Resources
Free to SJMS/CMA Members!
The Office Managers Forum empowers physicians and their practice manager staff with valuable tools via expert led education sessions from industry professionals who are committed to delivering quality healthcare. This quarterly forum is normally held on the second Wednesday of March, June, September and December at Papapavlo's in Stockton.
Registration is required!
If you don’t receive an invitation via E-Mail, please email Jessica@sjcms.org
September 11, 2024: 11:00AM to 1:00PM
Annual OSHA Staff Training
This workshop provides up-to-date changes and practice requirements to meet the Annual OSHA mandates.
Topics included: Bloodborne Pathogens, Aerosol Transmissible Disease Guidelines, Violence in the Workplace, as well as several other OSHA related topics.
Carrie Champness, RN, BSN Safety Compliance Specialist- Carrie has been an OSHA compliance specialist for over 35 years and provides up-to-date information about changes and practice requirements to meet all OSHA mandates.
December 11th, 2024: 11:00AM to 1:00PM
Medicare Changes 2024 and Beyond
Join us for our annual Medicare Update workshop for physicians and office staff. This 2 hour seminar will cover relevant information about current, future and proposed changes for the coming year!
Cheryl Bradley- Associate Director of CMA’s Center for Economic Services
CMA PRACTICE RESOURCES
Prop 35 campaign unveils new Action Center; physicians encouraged to take action now
UHC delays Designated Diagnostic Provider program in CA until Jan. 1, 2022
Prop 35, the November ballot initiative that would secure dedicated funding to keep hospitals, clinics and doctors’ offices open, has launched a new Action Center to activate supporters.
Physicians are trusted messengers across regional and
partisan lines and are important advocates to ensure California votes Yes on 35 to protect and expand access to health care.
Visit the Action Center (https://voteyes35.com/take-action/) now to:
Share Your Story: In your own words, tell us why you support Prop 35.
Post on Social Media: Share with your friends and family why you are voting #Yeson35.
Order Campaign Swag: Request campaign materials for you to show your support.
Email a Friend: Tell your friends and family why you support YES on 35!
Download Materials: Get the latest campaign materials.
Why we need Prop 35
Critically, Prop 35 will prevent the state from redirecting revenues for non-health care purposes. Prop 35 will secure ongoing revenue – without raising taxes on individuals or increasing health care premiums – and dedicate these funds to protect and expand access to care for all Californians.
Our health care system is in crisis. Hospitals and maternity wards are closing – 46 California hospitals have closed their maternity wards since 2014. Emergency rooms are overcrowded with patients waiting an average of three hours, and patients often wait months to see a doctor.
California has dramatically expanded health care coverage and services, but care for 15 million children, seniors, disabled and low-income families with MediCal coverage is significantly underfunded. Prop 35 will change that.
Visit voteyes35.com for more information.
AMA publishes provisional CPT code for avian flu vaccine
The provisional CPT code is effective for use on the condition the H5N8 Influenza virus vaccine candidates receive emergency use authorization from the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA). The American Medical Association (AMA) is publishing the CPT code update now to ensure electronic systems across the U.S. health care system are prepared in advance for the potential FDA authorization.
A CPT code that clinically distinguishes the avian influenza vaccine allows for data-driven tracking,
reporting and analysis that supports planning, preparedness, and allocation of vaccines in case a public health response is needed for avian flu prevention.
The new product code assigned to H5N8 influenza virus vaccines is:
90695: Influenza virus vaccine, H5N8, derived from cell cultures, adjuvanted for intramuscular use
The new CPT code for H5N8 influenza virus vaccines should be used with one of the following administration codes to report the work counseling patients or caregivers, administering the vaccine and updating the medical record.
For children (through 18 years of age) the administration codes are:
90460: Immunization administration through 18 years of age via any route of administration, with
counseling by physician or other qualified health care professional; first or only component of each vaccine or toxoid administered
90461: Immunization administration through 18 years of age via any route of administration, with counseling by physician or other qualified health care professional; each additional vaccine or toxoid component administered
For adults the administration codes are:
90471: Immunization administration (includes percutaneous, intradermal, subcutaneous, or intramuscular injections); 1 vaccine (single or combination vaccine/toxoid)
90472: Immunization administration (includes percutaneous, intradermal, subcutaneous, or intramuscular injections); each additional vaccine (single or combination vaccine/toxoid)
The California Medical Association has partnered with Lockton Affinity to administer the CMA Insurance Program. Whether you operate independently or as part of a group practice, are beginning your career or considering retirement, this program offers key benefits to help protect you through all stages:
Using group purchasing power, CMA members get exclusive, comprehensive
unique coverage offerings to safeguard yourself, your loved ones, your business and your livelihood.
To meet your exact needs, Lockton Affinity offers extensive policy options.
Public Health Update
Asthma Awareness
SYDNEY JENKINS, MPH
MELISSA YAGO, M.ED.
With the leaves turning and the smell of pumpkinspice in the air, there is much to celebrate during the autumn season. Here in San Joaquin County, though, the summer sun seems to be the last to go, leaving us with dry, dusty, and, often, smokey air. While this can cause discomfort and annoyance for many, it can be downright dangerous for those living with asthma and other lung ailments.
Considered an “Asthma Capital” by The Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America in 2023, 18.2% of adults and 28.4% of children living in San Joaquin County have been diagnosed with asthma. Since the air is riddled with irritants that can trigger respiratory distress and increase difficulty breathing, patients will need to take preventative measures to protect themselves.
STATE OF THE AIR
The surrounding Sierra-Nevada and Diablo Mountain Ranges tend to trap air pollutants and emissions causing San Joaquin County’s air quality to become detrimental to the health of its residents. According to the American Lung Association State of the Air report, this area has a high number of ozone/smog days and received a failing grade for its particle pollution. On days when the air quality is
at its worse, asthmatics can be triggered into respiratory distress just by being outside.
One way patients can practice self-care is to daily check the Air Quality Index for their area at www.AirNow.gov or download the app. This provides real-time color-coded ratings ranging from good to hazardous, along with suggested activity levels for those at risk. This is an essential tool to help patients and their caregivers make exposure and activity decisions based upon the current status of the environment.
OCCUPATIONAL AND ENVIRONMENTAL HAZARDS
Renowned for its agriculture industry, the San Joaquin Valley has several occupations that, just by the nature of the job, expose workers to environmental hazards related to poor lung health. Farmworkers, along with those in construction, landscaping, pest control, and manufacturing, are exposed to mold, dust mites, animal dander, tobacco, pesticides, chemicals, etc., all of which are associated with the development of asthma or can cause an asthma flare in a patient.
Asthma patients can take steps to protect themselves while working. Wearing a KN95 mask can filter allergens and other triggers of an asthmatic episode. Furthermore, they should have a plan that includes identification of triggers, awareness of worsening symptoms, keeping fast-acting inhalers at hand, and what to do when an attack happens.
Additionally, those within these industries are more likely to contract Valley Fever, an illness caused by inhalation of a soilbased fungus that is stirred up by wind, digging, and farming. It is so prevalent in this area that it was literally named after the San Joaquin Valley! Since Valley Fever’s symptoms are similar
to those of asthma -- chest pain, cough, trouble breathing, weakness, fatigue, etc.-- some asthmatics may self-treat with their already prescribed medications and not seek additional treatment. Patients may need guidance on the differences between asthma and a secondary illness.
HELP FAMILIES STAY HEALTHY
Impacts from asthma can be profound on a patient’s life. Many experience a decrease in work productivity, school attendance, and quality of life. Taking daily, simple actions to keep their illness under control can empower patients and their families. Preventative measures may include wearing a mask outside; using HEPA air filters and purifiers; regularly washing bedding and vacuum; and keeping windows closed on unhealthy air days.
Easy to use tools are only as far away as a patient’s phone. Apps like AsthmaMD and Propeller Health can be used to track symptoms, medication, triggers, and generate reports to share with providers.
Families can visit KidsHealth.org, an educational website that is tailored for parents and children to learn how to manage asthma together. Other valuable resources can be obtained from the websites of the American Lung Association, American Academy of Pediatrics, and Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America.
Asthma is both a complex and prevalent issue that requires comprehensive care and management by not only providers, but by patients themselves. Understanding their illness and taking preventative measures is essential in more effective control of asthma symptoms. The combined efforts of providers, patients, and caregivers are critical to overcoming the challenges of asthma in our community.
48 NEW SJMS MEMBERS THIS SUMMER!
...and even more on the way.
Karen Poirier-Brode, MD
OB/GYN
McGill University Faculty of Medicine, 1973
Jack Cossman, MD
Dermatology
632 W 11th St., Ste 219 Tracy, CA 95376
Florence Wandisan-Rosete, MD
Internal Medicine
4600 S Tracy Blvd, Ste 107
Tracy, CA 95377
Far Eastern University, Philippines, 1984
Tony Chang, MD
General Surgery
2545 W. Hammer Lane
Stockton, CA 95209
George Washington Univ School of Medicine, 2001
Rebecca Carrillo, MD
Psychiatrist
891 Mountain Ranch Rd
San Andreas, CA 95249
Keck School of Medicine at USC, 2008
Ameet Sandhu, MD
Internal Medicine
Government Medical College, Patiala, 2009
Zachary Bowman, MD
Neonatal-Perinatal Medicine
2545 W. Hammer Lane
Stockton, CA 95209
Medical Univ of South Carolina College of Med, 2007
Rashaad Chothia, MD
Clinical Cardiac Electrophysiology
2545 W. Hammer Lane
Stockton, CA 95209
University of Silesia School of Medicine Katowice, 2008
Stephen Kruger, DO
Urgent Care
445 W Eaton Ave Tracy, CA 95376
New York Institute Technology, 2019
Nihita Shah, MD
Family Practice
445 W Eaton Ave Tracy, CA 95376
University of Mumbai, Seth G.S. Medical College, 2001
Michael Yang, MD
Ophthalmology
36 W Yokuts Ave, Ste 1 Stockton, CA 95207
David Geffen School of Medicine, UCLA, 2019
Mathuran Sundaramoorthy, MD
Internal Medicine
1721 W. Yosemite Ave
Manteca, CA 95337
St. George’s University School of Medicine, 2016
Ariana Abid, MD
Psychiatry
193 Fairview Ln C
Sonora, CA 95370
Univ of S. Florida Morsani Coll of Med Eman Albaddawi
Carlos Alvarez, MD
General Surgery
193 Fairview Ln C Sonora, CA 95370
University of South Florida College of Medicine
Alexa Calfee, MD
OB/GYN
900 Greenley Rd #922 Sonora, CA 95370
University of California School of Medicine - Davis
Ryan Carey, MD
Family Practice
900 Mono Way Sonora, CA 95370
Cicely Chen, MD
OB/GYN
900 Greenley Rd #922
Sonora, CA 95370
Emory University School of Medicine
Melanie Davidson, MD
Cardiology
900 Greenley Rd #911 Sonora, CA 95370
Loma Linda University School of Med
Edmund Freund, MD
Family Practice
1901 W Kettleman Ln, Ste 200 Lodi, CA 95242
University of Iowa College of Medicine
Adam Greenberg, MD
Internal Medicine
690 Guzzi Ln, Ste Cd Sonora, CA 95370
Yeshiva - Albert Einstein College of Medicine
Rabeep Grewal, MD
Physical Medicine & Rehabilitation
975 S Fairmont Ave
Lodi, CA 95240
Kevin Hilton, MD
Orthopaedic Surgery
1235 W Vine St., Ste 22 Lodi, CA 95240
University of Kansas School Medicine
Pericles Ioannides, MD
Radiation Oncology
900 Mono Way Sonora, CA 95370
Indiana University School of Medicine
Jason Jefferey, MD
Internal Medicine
690 Guzzi Ln, Ste Cd Sonora, CA 95370
Loma Linda University School of Medicine
Mohammad Kazmi, MD
Neurology
515 S Fairmont Ave
Lodi, CA 95240
Dow Medical College, Karachi
Ayad Khourdaji, MD
Urology
830 S Ham Lane, Ste 26 Lodi, CA 95242
John Lee, MD
General Surgery
999 S Fairmont Ave, Ste 100 Lodi, CA 95240
Andrew Lo, MD
Internal Medicine
690 Guzzi Ln, Ste Cd Sonora, CA 95370
Donald Mansell, MD
Gastroenterology
999 S Fairmont Ave, Ste 50 Lodi, CA 95240
Univ Montemorelos Facultad De Medicina
Lincoln Maynes, MD
Urology
690 Guzzi Ln, Ste B Sonora, CA 95370
University Of Massachusetts
Travers McLoughlin, MD
Radiation Oncology
2407 W Vine St. Lodi, CA 95242
State Uni of NY, Health Science at Brooklyn
Sami Moshi, MD
Neurology
515 S Fairmont Ave. Lodi, CA 95240
Alexander Nedopil, MD
Orthopaedic Surgery
1235 W Vine St., Ste 22 Lodi, CA 95240
Tech University Med
Angela Nicolini, DO
Family Practice
10200 Trinity Parkway, Ste 102 Stockton, CA 95219
Touro University California
James Nozaki, MD
Family Practice
1901 W Kettleman Ln., Ste 200 Lodi, CA 95242
Loma Linda University School of Medicine
Matthew Personius, MD
Family Practice
193 Fairview Ln, Ste B Sonora, CA 95370
University of Iowa College of Medicine
Sheila Ponzio, MD
Pediatrics
12791 Cabezut Rd Sonora, CA 95370
University of North Dakota School of Medicine
Mathea Salas, MD
Family Practice
19747 Greenley Road, Ste S2 Sonora, CA 95370
OPTI Kansas City Univ. of Medicine/Biosciences
Sartaj Sandhu, MD
Geriatric Medicine
1901 W Kettleman Ln, Ste 200 Lodi, CA 95242
Sandra Shetzline, MD
Family Practice
445 S Main Street Angles Camp, CA 95222
Rowan University
Deandra Sims, MD
General Surgery
530 W Acacia St., Ste 1 Stockton, CA 95203
Howard University Hospital GME
Sital Singh, MD
Gastroenterology
999 S Fairmont Ave., Ste 125 Lodi, CA 95240
Creighton University School of Medicine
Seneca Storm, MD
Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation
900 Greenley Road, Ste 914
Sonora, CA 95370
Loyola Univ of Chicago, Stritch School of Medicine
Kyi Kyi Win, MD
Internal Medicine
690 Guzzi Ln, Ste Cd Sonora, CA 95370
University of California School of Medicine – LA
Steven Wunschel, MD
Urology
690 Guzzi Ln, Ste B Sonora, CA 95370
University of Iowa College of Medicine
Welping Yao, MD
Neurology
515 S Fairmont Ave Lodi, CA 95240
Lingham U Sun Yat-Sen
Osama Zahriya, MD
General Surgery
530 W Acacia St., Ste 1 Stockton, CA 95203
American University of the Caribbean
Karim Zahriya, MD
General Surgery
999 S Fairmont Ave, Ste 100 Lodi, CA 95240
Wayne State University School of Medicine
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Now Hiring — Primary Care Physicians and Anesthesiologists
UC Davis Health is an extraordinary place to grow your career. You’ll experience being part of an academic medical center that’s committed to advancing pioneering research, promoting a sense of belonging through an inclusive work environment, and fostering continuous learning to develop health care leaders.
Join our team as we strive to provide world-class care in the Northern California region. Offering a competitive compensation and benefits package, flexible schedules, access to wellness programs, and more.
San Joaquin Medical Society
3031 W. March Lane, Suite 222W
Stockton, California 95219-6568
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For over 25 years, Health Plan has pursued a vision of community wellness. As part of our 2023-2026 strategic roadmap to improve health for residents in San Joaquin, Stanislaus, El Dorado, and Alpine counties, we have launched a Community Reinvestment Program. We aim to transform care delivery, expand provider access, and improve the quality of health care for our community. Long-time and new partners are encouraged to learn more at www.hpsj.com/community-reinvestment.
We are accepting grant applications for:
• Standard Data Sharing Health Information Exchange (HIE) & Non-HIE Grant Program
• Community Health Worker (CHW) Training
• Lead Screening for Children Initiative
• Provider Recruitment Grant
• Capital Projects Grant
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