Jefferson County Medical Society

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Jefferson County Medical Society

Preserving the physician-patient relationship through education, support and advocacy.

02/26/2026

Alabama lawmakers are taking steps to expand access to breast cancer screenings.
The Alabama Senate unanimously passed SB 177, a bill that would require health insurance plans to fully cover breast cancer screenings for women ages 40 and older — including follow-up diagnostic imaging such as mammograms, breast MRIs, and ultrasounds — at no out-of-pocket cost to patients.
The American Cancer Society estimates that approximately 4,900 women in Alabama will be diagnosed with breast cancer this year. (Alabama Reflector)
A companion bill, HB 300, has passed the Alabama House and is also under consideration. Only one of the two bills would need to be signed by the governor for the changes to become law. (Alabama Political Reporter) If passed, the legislation would take effect January 1, 2027.

02/18/2026

Did you know Alabama law doesn't always require a physician to be present in the ER? 😮

Senate Bill 80 would change that — mandating a physician on-site 24/7 in every hospital emergency department across the state. That means all 9 emergency rooms right here in Jefferson County would be held to the standard patients already expect.

When it's a heart attack, a stroke, or a child struggling to breathe — seconds matter. Every Alabamian deserves a doctor in the room, no matter where they live.

📢 Want to help? Contact your state legislators at alison.legislature.state.al.us, share this post, or reach out to the Alabama Chapter of the American College of Emergency Physicians at alacep.org.

https://www.alreporter.com/2026/02/06/opinion-when-seconds-matter-alabamians-deserve-a-physician-in-the-emergency-room/

02/10/2026

What a great afternoon at Dread River Distillery! 🥃
We learned the fascinating science behind crafting premium spirits, heard the legends of Birmingham's mysterious underground river, and got a behind-the-scenes look at a fully operational distillery right here in Jefferson County.
The highlight? Having founder and fellow JCMS member Dr. Jeff Dugas personally lead us through the tour – his passion for the craft really shines through!
A huge thank you to Dread River Distillery for hosting us and making this such a memorable experience.
This is what our "Learn Something New" series is all about – exploring new interests, building community, and supporting our fellow physicians. We can't wait to see what's next!
Stay tuned for upcoming events – we'd love to see you there! 📸✨

02/02/2026

🎉 Big win for Alabama physicians!
Starting January 30, Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Alabama will allow practices to apply up to a 3% surcharge when patients pay copayments or coinsurance by credit card, provided a non-surcharge payment option is available.
For many practices, swipe fees have been draining $100,000+ annually at a time when costs are rising and reimbursements aren't keeping pace. This change finally gives physicians a way to offset these costs.
"Swipe fees have quietly eaten away at our ability to keep the doors open," said Dr. Mark LeQuire, President of the Medical Association. "We appreciate BCBSAL for hearing physicians' concerns and working with us toward a better solution. This is a positive step toward improving the environment to practice medicine in Alabama."
Thank you to all the physicians who responded to the Medical Association's survey and made your voices heard! 💙

01/26/2026

Cold weather health check from your Jefferson County Medical Society: ✓ Dress in layers ✓ Protect extremities ✓ Stay dry ✓ Check on vulnerable neighbors. We're all in this cold snap together! ❄️💙

01/21/2026

We're excited to announce the 2026 Emerging Physician Leaders Conference! 🩺✨
Join The Medical Association on February 20-21, 2026 at The Hotel at Auburn University for an inspiring event designed to educate and engage the next generation of physician leaders. Sponsored by The Young Physicians Section of the Medical Association of the State of Alabama, this conference is dedicated to growing and strengthening the house of medicine.
📍 Where: The Hotel at Auburn University
📅 When: February 20-21, 2026
💰 Cost: FREE for Medical Association members!
Physicians of all ages and levels of practice are welcome to attend. Don't miss this opportunity to network, learn, and develop your leadership skills alongside colleagues from across Alabama.
👉 Register now at alamedical.org

01/19/2026

As we observe this day, let's take time to reflect on the profound difference Dr. King made for our country. Just as Dr. King dedicated his life to serving others and lifting up those who needed it most, physicians are called to serve patients with that same spirit of compassion and commitment.
His dream of equality and justice reminds us that healing extends beyond the exam room—it's about ensuring every patient receives the care and dignity they deserve, regardless of who they are or where they come from.
Happy MLK Day, Jefferson County.

01/16/2026

🏥 Important Update: House Passes ACA Subsidy Extension
The House voted Thursday (230-196) to extend enhanced ACA health insurance subsidies for 3 more years in a bipartisan vote that defied GOP leadership.
What this means for your practice:
The enhanced subsidies expired December 31, 2025, affecting approximately 22 million Americans nationwide—including many of our Alabama patients. Without this extension, these patients could see their insurance premiums roughly double, potentially impacting their ability to maintain coverage and access care.
What's next:
The bill moves to the Senate, where its fate is uncertain. Senate leadership has shown limited support for a clean extension, though bipartisan negotiations are exploring compromises that could include income caps and minimum premium requirements.
Bottom line for physicians:
This issue directly affects patient access and coverage stability. We'll continue monitoring developments as they could significantly impact your patients' insurance status and your practice's reimbursement landscape.

01/15/2026

🩺 JCMS Members: Join Us for an Important Conversation!
The Medical Association of the State of Alabama's Minority Physician Section is hosting a meeting focused on advocacy, and we'd love for our Jefferson County Medical Society members to participate!
From Conversation to Change: Let's Start the Conversation
Join Dr. Siddharth Patel (Vice Chair), Dr. Latoya Hicks (Chair), and Dr. Mrudula Thiriveedi (Secretary) as they explore:
✨ What does advocacy mean to you?
✨ How can the Medical Association do more to advocate for you?
📅 Thursday, January 29, 2026
🕡 6:30 p.m. via Zoom
This is a valuable opportunity to connect with colleagues across Alabama and make your voice heard on issues that matter to minority physicians and the broader medical community.
Visit alamedical.org to join!
See you there! 👋

01/09/2026

Members, join fellow Jefferson County physicians the weekend before Valentine's Day for an evening at Dread River Distillery in Birmingham – part of our "Learn Something New" series!

Discover the Science & Story Behind the Spirits

Explore how premium spirits are crafted in a fully operational facility

Learn the fascinating legends of Birmingham's mysterious underground river

Understand the distinct characteristics of Vodka, Gin, Rum, Agave, Whiskey, Bourbon, and Rye through guided tasting

This 60-minute immersive experience combines chemistry, history, and craftsmanship – plus, you'll impress your Valentine with your newfound knowledge!

Space is limited – members register today @ www.jcmsalabama.org

01/08/2026

You're Invited to This Month's Wayne Finley Physician Symposium
Join us for a thought-provoking presentation by Emily Riser: "A Comprehensive Review if Multiple Sclerosis."
When: Tuesday, January 20th at 10:00 a.m.
Where: Homewood Public Library, Large Auditorium
Cost: Free and open to all
Bring your questions and a friend- We look forward to seeing you there!

01/05/2026

📢 Attention JCMS Members!
Don't miss this FREE CME opportunity from the Medical Association of the State of Alabama!
Navigating Contracts: What You Need to Know Before You Sign
📅 Tuesday, January 7, 2026
🕐 Noon (Live Webinar)
💰 FREE to all members
🎓 1 AMA PRA Category 1 Credit™
Today's physician employment contracts have high-stakes details that can impact your pay, mobility, and long-term career. Join expert speakers Maddox Casey, CPA and Howard Bogard, JD as they guide you through navigating these agreements with confidence in an evolving regulatory landscape.
📲 Register now at https://alamedical.inreachce.com/ or scan the QR code!
This is essential knowledge for any physician reviewing or negotiating contracts. Mark your calendars!

Address

211 Frankfurt Circle
Birmingham, AL
35211

Telephone

+12059338601

Website

https://jcmsalabama.org/

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