As we move further into 2025, I am proud to reflect on the continued progress and achievements of our KMA. We are only into April, and already this past year has been marked by advocacy, innovation, and a renewed commitment to improving the health of our communities.
Our Small STEPS, Big Impact campaign continues to see success. Our campaign has gathered the attention of the news media across the state, whether through op-eds, morning shows, the evening news, or on KET. We were also thrilled to host our first virtual CME event last month, which welcomed gastroenterologist Dr. Whitney Jones, who discussed the importance of colorectal cancer screenings during Colon Cancer Awareness Month.
While the attention the campaign is receiving is certainly encouraging, one of the most gratifying parts of this effort has been the opportunity to get back to the “heart” of medicine. With all the stress and administrative burden that it takes to be a physician in 2025, the STEPS campaign has helped remind me how important it is to have these conversations with my patients.
KMA’s advocacy efforts have also remained strong. Although our KMA-supported bill on prior authorization did not receive passage this year, I am so encouraged by how many of our members flooded their senators and representatives with messages supporting and educating them on these issues. We will continue to advocate for this important legislation during the interim, and have also published an op-ed that is receiving statewide attention on our disappointment. Our voices are a powerful force in Frankfort, and I encourage all members to stay engaged in our policy work. It truly makes a difference.
Looking ahead to the coming months, we will continue to build on the momentum of Small STEPS, Big Impact, and are excited about several upcoming CME opportunities, PSAs, and events we have planned. We are also turning our attention to our upcoming KMA Annual Meeting, which will include some exciting new changes, including a virtual Reference Committee Meeting, as well as a dinner event celebrating graduates of the Kentucky Physicians Leadership Institute. This year’s keynote speaker will be Jordan Grumet, M.D., also known as “Doc G.” He is the author of The Purpose Code, which focuses on how taking small steps towards purpose can make a huge impact. In addition, Doc G is the host of the award-winning Earn & Invest podcast, focusing on financial independence and personal wellness. More information, including registration, will be available soon, and you can check out all the details at https://kyma.org/2025-kma-annual-meeting/.
I want to personally thank each of you for your commitment, your compassion, and your continued support of the KMA. Your work every day in communities large and small is what truly drives the success of this organization. I am honored to serve as your President, and I look forward to the continued strides we will make—step by step—toward a healthier Kentucky.
