December 4, 2025

CCMS Mission:

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

In this Issue

News Briefs, Member Notices, Events, Member Spotlights, Highlights from the 2025 AMA Interim Meeting

News Briefs

Cracking the Code: Reducing Insurance Denials Through Smarter RCM: “If your healthcare practice isn’t among the lucky few operating on a fee-for-service model, you’re probably feeling the sting of rising insurance claim denials.” - MarkhamNorton

2025 Year-End Tax Planning: “As we approach the end of the year, it’s a great time to review tax-saving opportunities and prepare for changes taking effect in 2026.” - MarkhamNorton

Takeaways from Florida’s physician workforce report: “The Florida Department of Health (DOH) has released its 2025 Physician Workforce Annual Report, which provides key statistics about the state’s clinician workforce and summarizes findings of the licensure survey that physicians must take when they receive and renew their licenses.” - FMA

Chances dwindling for renewal of health care subsidies, risking premium spikes for millions: “Hopes for an extension of health care subsidies were diminishing in Congress this week as Republicans and Democrats largely abandoned the idea of bipartisan talks on the issue, increasing the odds that millions of Americans could see sharp premium spikes starting Jan. 1.” - AP

Member Notices

Congrats to all of the physicians and performers at the 2025 Physicians’ Community Talent Show!

A special thank you to everyone who supported the cause. Together, we raised both funds and awareness for the Foundation of CCMS and the Cancer Alliance Network.

View the recap >

CCMS Welcomes New Circle of Friends Vendor: Network Minds, Inc.

Network Minds, Inc. is a local IT provider offering help desk support, monitoring and maintenance, cloud systems, and server support, and software troubleshooting. HIPAA compliant IT solutions for medical practices is their specialty. Proudly supporting medical offices in SWFL for over 21 years.

CCMS members receive the first month of MSP Services free as new clients.

Contact: Janice Wade, COO, IT Advisor

Business Type: IT Management

Phone: (239) 659-3428 Web: networkminds.com

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.

Licensure Update: New Background Screening Requirements Now Apply to All Physicians

While many Florida-licensed physicians have previously submitted to the state’s background screening requirements when applying for initial licensure, physicians licensed prior to January 2013 were exempt from this process. Effective July 1, 2025, HB 975 (2024) removes this exception and requires all physicians to complete electronic fingerprinting prior to their next license renewal.

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 >

Invitation to join CCMS Committees

Committee membership is open to all CCMS members. Most committee meetings are virtual and take place in the evenings a few times each year. Highlighted opportunities include CCMS Health Disparities Ad-Hoc Committee, Legislative, Membership, Programs, Women's Health Forum, and Wellness committees. Committee business may also be discussed via email. If you are interested in serving, contact April Donahue, CCMS Executive Director.

Review CCMS Committees >

Physician Wellness Program

Article of the week: "1,800-plus organizations move to support physician health, well-being"

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 >

Upcoming Events*

CCMS After 5 Social

Thurs. Jan. 8, 6:00PM, Florida Oncology & Hematology

Join CCMS at Florida Oncology & Hematology, where they are thrilled to showcase their new facility! Enjoy refreshments and hors d'oeuvres while networking with colleagues and friends. Free for CCMS physician members, prospective members, and one guest each.

CCMS Great Wolf Lodge Family Day

Sat. Feb. 7, 10:00AM, Great Wolf Lodge Naples

Join CCMS for a day of fun with your family and friends. Bundle Day Pass Admission is $60/person and includes a full day access to waterpark available from 10am-8pm, plus unlimited climbs on ropes course, adventure trail, mini golfing, mini bowling, lunch, and parking. Open to CCMS members and their guests; children welcomed. Register by 12pm, Feb. 3. Presenting sponsor Inspire Oncology.

CCMS After 5 Social

Thurs. Feb. 27, 6:00PM, Blue Martini

Join us for a CCMS After 5 Social sponsored by Family Foot & Leg Center. Network with colleagues while enjoying refreshments and hors d'oeuvres. Open to CCMS physician members, prospective members, and one guest each.

*Save the Date for more CCMS Events: March 12, 2026 - CCMS After 5 Social | March 28, 2026 - CCMS Everblades Family Outing | Apr. 11, 2026 – Women’s Health Forum | 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. December 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 >

FMAA 2025 Annual Meeting & 100th Celebration Luncheon

Sat., Dec. 6, 10AM, Seasons 52

"Help us welcome the incoming board and celebrate all we've accomplished together". Spouses, children, and friends are invited. Cost: $50 per adult / $20 per child.

More Info.>

Luncheon only > | Luncheon + Meeting > | Kid’s Lunch >

CCMS Member Spotlights

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

Drs. Anika Fernandez and Lindita Hobdari were featured in the Florida Weekly article She Shines.

Drs. Kiran Gill and Cyndi Yag-Howard were featured in the Gulfshore Life article The Next-Gen Aesthetic Treatments Doctors Trust.

Drs. Andre Nye and Cosmina Popa were featured in the Gulfshore Business article Lee Health expands into Collier County with new clinic.

Dr. Jonathan Frantz was featured in the Naples Daily News article SW FL Frantz EyeCare helps people see who can't afford to pay for cataract surgery.

Dr. Steven Goldberg was featured in the Gulfshore Business article Naples surgeon’s implant innovation draws major backing.

Dr. Erik Hiester was quoted in the WINK News article Collier County doctors swap scrubs for stage lights in talent show this Sunday.

Dr. Svetlana Kogan contributed the Life in Naples article Staying Healthy and Balanced This Winter.

Dr. Bryan Murphey contributed the article Innovation in heart health: Early prevention is saving lives to Naples Daily News.

Dr. Patricia Poling was featured in the Coastal Breeze News article Major Healthcare Challenges in Florida.

Dr. Sariely Sandoval was recently named Associate Medical Director for Collier County Emergency Medical Services.

Highlights from the 2025 AMA Interim Meeting

Dr. Rebekah Bernard and Dr. Rafael Haciski

Drs. Rebekah Bernard and Rafael Haciski at the AMA Interim Meeting.

The AMA is fighting for physicians, and as the physician’s powerful ally the AMA is focused on addressing the issues important to doctors so they can focus on what matters most—patients.

The AMA’s advocacy efforts (PDF) are directed and deepened by the AMA House of Delegates, which works in a democratic process to create a national physician consensus on emerging issues in public health, science, ethics, business and government to improve the care and public heath of patients and communities.

About 700 physician and medical student delegates gathered in National Harbor, Maryland, for the 2025 AMA Interim Meeting.

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.

Thinking of opening your own practice, going concierge or downsizing? We have exam/office space available for rent at an affordable rate in a beautiful medical facility close to the YMCA. Electricity and water included. Call (239) 451-9747 and speak to Sasha or Kim at Essence of Health to get more information.

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!

Bonita Springs, FL Medical spa for sale. Successful medspa opened in 2008, owner has practiced in area since 2002. Owner willing to stay during transition. Contact CCMS for more info.