Posted August 29, 2018
The Kentucky Medical Association presented its Distinguished Service Award to David J. Bensema, M.D., of Lexington during the Leadership Dinner at the 2018 KMA Annual Meeting on Aug. 25.
Dr. Bensema served as the KMA President from 2014-2015, a year in which the KMA underwent substantial internal changes when it implemented a year-long strategic plan known as “Focus Forward.” The KMA honored him for his work implementing the changes, noting that “implementation can often be more difficult than planning, but [he] made sure that the changes were integrated into the KMA with minimal disruption and maximum effect.” For the last three years, Dr. Bensema has served as Chair of the Budget Committee, and his attention to the health of the organization and his efforts to present a balanced budget have taken extensive work and commitment. Having taken over the position at a time that the KMA used reserve funds to make changes outlined in its strategic plan, Dr. Bensema was the architect of a financial path for the organization that led to a stronger financial position and improved financial reserves. The KMA noted that his financial work “will be little noticed by [KMA] members, but should be memorialized in the history of the organization as a singular unparalleled success.” His longstanding service to the Association made him an ideal and deserving candidate.
Dr. Bensema has also served as President of the Lexington Medical Society and currently serves as a Delegate to the American Medical Association, where he has on numerous occasions provided his expertise on policy related to electronic health record usage and adoption.
“Dave has been a major supporter of organized medicine and has taken on some of the most demanding jobs within KMA,” said colleague Preston Nunnelley, M.D. “His advocacy within the association and at national events, along with his unique timing of being in the right place at the right time make him a logical choice as the recipient of the KMA Distinguished Service Award.”
