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April 2, 2026

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CCMS Mission:

Serve the needs of our physician members so they can better serve the needs of the community

Apex Brain & Spine

In this Issue



News Briefs, Member Notices, Events, Member Spotlights, CCMS Names Dr. Rebekah Bernard Physician of the Year

LTCI Marketplace

News Briefs

2026 Legislative Report: “The 2026 Florida Legislative Session has been intriguing, and it’s not over. (...) The Legislature officially adjourned sine die at 3:15 p.m. on Friday, March 13, and will reconvene in mid-April to discuss the budget.” - FMA


Gov. DeSantis confirms budget Special Session, says it should be a quick ‘cut and paste’ of previous spending plans: “Lawmakers will return to Tallahassee in April to wrap up the budget, a process that ordinarily would have been resolved by the end of the Regular Session.” - Florida Politics


Florida drops to fourth-most number of measles cases as spread slows: “Measles cases in Florida continue to rise but the rate of the spread has slowed significantly in the last month.” - WUSF | Provider Letter | Measles Algorithm | Patient Flyer | Flyer - Spanish | Flyer - Creole


The fight for fair Medicare payment continues: “The Medicare Payment Advisory Commission (MedPAC) recently recommended that physicians receive payment updates ranging from 0.75% to 1.25% in 2027. (...) Once again, physician advocacy organizations will have to fight to prevent a Medicare payment cut.” - FMA

Member Notices

Project HELP

Urgent Need for SANE Clinicians – Project HELP


Project HELP is facing a critical shortage of Sexual Assault Nurse Examiners (SANE) in Collier County. These clinicians are essential for providing timely, trauma-informed care to survivors.


RNs, APRNs, PAs, or physicians interested in SANE training, contact Alexandra Abraham for more information or call 239-649-1404 ext. 1021.


Learn more >

CCMS Board 2025-26

Call for CCMS Officer Nominations


This spring, the 2026 CCMS nominating committee will present its slate of CCMS officers for 2026-2027 and candidates for alternate delegates to the FMA 2026 Annual Meeting, To submit your nomination(s) to be considered by the committee, send the nominee information by Tues., April 21st to CCMS via email, fax 239-435-7790. Please note if the nominees have consented to the nomination.


Mote Info. >

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Stay Informed with CCMS Member Text Alerts


Members, receive timely text messages with CCMS and Foundation of CCMS event updates and important notices regarding your CCMS membership. Text “Join” along with your email to (239) 610-4796. Messages are sent occasionally.


Sign Up for Text Messages >

RCC Card

2026 RCC Cards


CCMS Members receive special $10 pricing on the 2026 RCC Card, which provides discounts at restaurants and merchants. Order a card at ccmsonline.org/membership or call CCMS, (239) 435-7727. Cards will be mailed to the office address on file unless otherwise specified.


Order a 2026 RCC Card >

volunteer

Volunteer Opportunities with the Foundation of CCMS


Know anyone looking for non-profit or healthcare-related volunteer opportunities this spring/summer. We are always accepting volunteer administrative/office support. Volunteer hours can count for Bright Futures scholarship requirements. If interested, please email or call FCCMS at (239) 435-7727.

Constant Contact

Marketing Discount for CCMS Physicians

 

Take advantage of 15% off Constant Contact subscriptions, with email, SMS/text, and social media, and events marketing options. Sign up through the CCMS member page for a free trial and details.


Sign Up for Free Trial >

Digital Marketing Resources >

CCMS Physician Wellness Graphic

Physician Wellness Program



Article of the week: “What Successful Doctors Do When They Stop Feeling Successful”


Join a CCMS Fitness/Wellness Group to stay active and connect with colleagues! Whether you're into tennis, cycling, kayaking, or weekend dining, there’s already interest—or you can explore options like running, fishing, and discussion groups. Email CCMS to sign up!


Confidential, cost-free counseling/coaching sessions with the CCMS Physician Wellness Program (operating via telehealth or in-person) are open to all CCMS physician members. The PWP member-only appointment line is (239) 208-3984.



Learn more / Schedule a session >

Foundation of CCMS News

Win World Cup Tickets or Disney VIP Trip & Support the Foundation of CCMS!


We have two incredible opportunities for you to support the Foundation of CCMS and win amazing prizes! (Be sure to select "Foundation of Collier County Medical Society" from the list of charities on the Tix for Good page).

2026 World Cup

Win 4 Tickets to any 2026 World Cup Game

Event: June 11-27

Enter By: May 24, 11:59 pm

Winner Announced: May 25

Disney World Sweepstakes

Win a 5 Night Stay for 5 Guests in VIP Accommodations at the Disney Park/Cruise of Your Choice

Event: 2026

Enter By: July 5, 11:59 pm

Winner Announced: July 6

Upcoming Events*

CCMS & Foundation's 17th Annual Women's Health Forum

Sat., April 11, 8:30AM, Naples United Church of Christ


The Women's Health Forum - "Stronger Tomorrow: Women’s Health & Vitality,” is free and open to the public and features presentations from CCMS member physicians, vendor exhibits, and refreshment breaks.


Sponsor/Exhibitor Opportunities >

Register >

After 5 Social

CCMS After 5 Social

Thurs., April 16th, 6:00PM, Hope PACE


Enjoy hors d'oeuvres with specialty “mocktails” and non-alcoholic beer/wine, while networking with colleagues and friends. Free for CCMS physician members, prospective members, & one guest each. Sponsored by Hope PACE.


Register >

CCMS Webinar: "Mortgage Process & Programs for Medical Professionals"

Thurs., April 23, Virtual


This insightful event features speaker Brendan Collins, LMCU Mortgage Loan Officer. Free for CCMS members and their staff. Co-hosted by LMCU.


Register >

2nd Annual Florida Women Physicians Retreat: “Beyond the White Coat: Building Your Brand, Voice, and Visual Identity”

May 1-2, Sonesta Fort Lauderdale Beach Hotel


The event begins with a Welcome Reception on Fri., May 1 and continues on Sat., May 2 with educational presentations, group discussions, lunch, and an evening reception. $25 for student/resident physicians,

$75 physicians members of CCMS & participating medical societies $125 for non-member physicians.


Register >

Save the Date for more CCMS Events: May 8 - CCMS & LCMS After 5 Social | May 20 (changed from May 13) - CCMS Spring General Membership Meeting | June 20 - CCMS Annual Meeting & Installation



Partner Events

Click here for information on CME courses online


NCH Grand Rounds (Topics Vary) | In-person or Livestream

Thursdays, 7:30-8:30AM, NCH Lutgert East (733 4th Ave N) 2nd Floor Auditorium

To livestream, contact CME office at (239) 624-2795. 1 CME Credit each. Complimentary to all physicians. No RSVP required. April Grand Rounds


Webinar Recording: One Big Beautiful Bill Act - The impact on physicians and patients

What do physicians need to know and how they can help their patients navigate these changes?

View webinar >


The Dignified Mission of Catholic Health Care conference

April 11, 10AM, Church of the Resurrection, Ft. Myers

CCMS member Dr. Michael Gloth invites CCMS members to join him at this regional CME conference where he will be giving a lecture. Ticket Cost (Physician): In-Person: $159 | Online: $129

Register >


CCMS Member Spotlights

Email your news to CCMS to be included in the next issue

Rebekah Bernard, MD
Dr. Bryan Murphey

Drs. Rebekah Bernard and Bryan Murphey were featured in the Gulfshore Business article Physician shortage strains Southwest Florida care.

 Thomas Caranasos, MD
Dr. Robert Cubeddu

Drs. Thomas Caranasos and Robert Cubeddu were featured in the Florida Weekly article NCH plans advanced heart care and organ transplant program.

 Susan M Cera, MD
Dr. Anthony Vernava

Drs. Susan Cera and Anthony Vernava were featured in the Florida Weekly article Prevent colorectal cancer.

Cubeddu MD Robert
 Jonas Mansson, MD

Drs. Robert Cubeddu and Jonas Mansson were featured in the Gulfshore Business article AI, robotics transform Southwest Florida health care.

Dr. Jose Valle

Dr. Jose Valle was quoted in the Florida Weekly Naples article Naples offers new sleep apnea therapy.

Dr. Rebekah Bernard named CCMS Physician of the Year

Dr. Rebekah Bernard

CCMS is pleased to announce that Rebekah Bernard, M.D. is the recipient of the 12th Annual CCMS Physician of the Year Award. This award honors a CCMS member who deserves special recognition for exemplary contributions to the practice of medicine and/or outstanding service to our community. Members of the Medical Society submitted nominations for the award to the CCMS Board of Directors, who this year selected Dr. Bernard, as nominated by Dr. Catherine Kowal.


The award will be presented at the CCMS 69th Annual Meeting & Installation of Officers on June 20 at Arthrex One Conference Center. Interested attendees can register for the event online, or by contacting CCMS: (239) 435-7727 or info@ccmsonline.org. Sponsorships are also available, please contact CCMS for details. The event is open to the public.


“Dr. Bernard has been a tremendous asset to CCMS and a dedicated advocate for physicians, particularly women physicians,” commented Dr. Kowal in her nomination. “Her leadership, service, and commitment to physician-led care represent the very best of our medical community.”


Read More >

Classified Ads

To place a classified ad: CCMS members and Circle of Friends vendors - FREE up to 75 words (limit 4 consecutive issues). General public - $1 per word, 50-word minimum/75-word maximum, per issue. Email us to reserve your space.

The European Wellness Institute, an about-to-launch world-class concierge integrative medicine clinic near the Mercato in Naples, is seeking exceptional staff to be part of a new model of healthcare. We’re especially looking for experienced RNs with strong IV access and infusion therapy skills who are passionate about advanced, whole-person wellness. Work alongside a Johns Hopkins-trained physician offering excellent care in a boutique, high-touch environment. Email ankit.chander@gmail.com.

We’re seeking a compassionate Concierge Physician to join our independent, physician-run practice focused on patient-centered care. You'll provide personalized medical services to a small patient panel, build lasting relationships, and collaborate with a multidisciplinary team. Enjoy career growth and a supportive, innovative environment. Requirements include board certification in Internal or Family Medicine and strong communication skills. Benefits include competitive pay, CME allowance, retirement match, and comprehensive coverage. Apply to jmarsh@naplesconciergehealth.com to learn more!

CCMS Circle of Friends Preferred Vendors

Featuring benefits for CCMS members Learn more

Integris Assurance Company

Lake Michigan Credit Union

Markham Norton Mosteller Wright

Attorney Linda Minck

Creative Scripts Compounding Pharmacy

FineMark National Bank & Trust

HUB International

JD Private Wealth Advisors

LTCi Marketplace

Meridian Financial Group

Network Minds

Porter Wright

Regions Bank

Slepcevich Financial Group

Stickboy

Summit Broadband

Wintrust

Additional Member Benefits

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