January 22, 2026

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, Integrating AI Safely Into Clinical Practice

News Briefs

Federal healthcare update: “Florida has 4.7 million ACA marketplace enrollees – more than any other state – and most of them will be affected by the recent changes in the form of higher premiums and/or higher out-of-pocket costs.” - FMA

400 employees at Radiology Regional in SWFL have new boss after sale: “A national leader in outpatient diagnostic imaging services, RadNet Inc., has acquired Southwest Florida-based Radiology Regional.” - Naples Daily News

NCH plans $350M women’s, children’s care expansion: “After expanding service lines for heart and stroke care, orthopedics and cancer in recent years, Collier County’s largest health care system announced plans Jan. 20 to significantly expand specialized services for women’s and children’s care.” - Gulfshore Business

Higher ACA premiums squeeze Florida's 'working stiff' as enrollment numbers plunge: “The cost of health insurance on the Affordable Care Act marketplace is up, and Florida saw the largest number of people fall off the rolls compared to any other state in the nation, according to government data released last week.” - WUSF

Member Notices

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.

New Issue: CCMS Member Magazine

A digital copy of the Jan./Feb. 2026 issue of The Forum is now available on the CCMS website, read it online today for the latest legislative news, a CCMS member feature, and more. A hard copy was mailed to each members’ preferred mailing address on file, please contact us if you do not receive.

View Online Magazine >

View Archived Issues >

Workforce Housing Support Available

Many CCMS members have shared that housing is a barrier to hiring staff for their practices. These resources from Collier County can help connect potential homebuyers/renters to area housing, secure assistance with loans, and more. This brochure contains contact information to get you started.

Collier County Resources >

Learn More >

View SHIP Program Brochure >

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 >

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.

Digital Marketing Resources >

Physician Wellness Program

Article of the week: "Work Hours, Stress, and Burnout Among Resident Physicians"

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 Great Wolf Lodge Family Day
Registration deadline approaching

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 Lecture at Twins Spring Training: "Strategies for Independent Practice Success"

Fri., March 6, 6:00PM, Minnesota Twins Spring Training Headquarters - EisnerAmper Suite

The evening includes a discussion on running a successful independent practice in today's business and healthcare climate followed by the Minnesota Twins Spring Training Game. Complimentary for CCMS physician members in independent practices. Food & beverages provided. Space is limited!

CCMS After 5 Social

NEW DATE: Fri. March 13, 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 (postponed) | 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. January 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 >

Living Longer Lecture Series: “Advancements in Oncology”

Tues., Feb. 3, 5PM, Arthrex One Conference Center

Event will showcase Advancements in Oncology care coming to Naples through the NCH partnership with Proscan Imaging. This event will feature a panel of experts including CCMS Members Drs. Edward Grendys, Stephen Pomeranz, and Michael Shriver. RSVP by 2/27. Cost: $50.

More Info.>

Around the World Dinner Fundraiser

Sat., Feb. 14, 6PM | CCMSA member Dr. Dijana Oliver's home

Celebrate Valentine’s Day with a global tasting experience as CCMSA members share their favorite cultural cuisines, both homemade and catered. Sponsorship opportunities also available. Cost: $125. RSVP by Feb. 7th.

More Info. >

The White Coat Safe Space Physician Wellness Retreat & CME

Feb. 19-22, Daytona Grande Oceanfront Resort, Daytona Beach, FL

This curated physician only CME personal and professional development retreat provides ample time for stillness, peace, purposeful movement, keynotes, community, mindfulness, and motivation. Cost $1,997 with Registration Code “Ambassador”.

CCMS Member Spotlights

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

Dr. Rebekah Bernard co-authored the Family Practice journal article Autonomous nurse practitioners in Florida frequently practice outside their legal scope of primary care: a cross-sectional study.

Dr. Bernard also contributed the Florida Politics article Florida shouldn’t gamble with patient safety on false promises.

Congratulations to Dr. Kiran Gill who was elected to the Naples Illustrated 2025 Naples 100. (Online pg. #43 & Magazine pg. #41)

Safely Integrating Artificial Intelligence Into Clinical Practice: What Physicians Need to Know

Artificial intelligence (AI) is no longer an emerging concept in medicine; it is rapidly becoming a foundational component of modern clinical practice. Over the past year, the capabilities of generative AI have accelerated at unprecedented speed, fueled by extraordinary growth in computational power and the maturity of large-language models (LLMs). As a result, clinicians now face a dual reality: AI offers tremendous promise for efficiency and insight, yet it also brings new risks, ethical considerations, and potential liability concerns.

This article summarizes current AI capabilities, outlines risks related to generative systems, and provides practical guidance for safe and responsible use in clinical settings.

Where We Are: The Rise of Generative AI in Medicine

The convergence of Moore’s Law and the exponential scaling of graphics processing units (GPU technology) described informally as “Huang’s Law,” has enabled the creation of massive AI models trained on enormous datasets. These foundational models now power chatbots, virtual assistants, and analytic tools capable of drafting letters, summarizing charts, explaining diagnoses, and emulating natural human conversation.

Their abilities can be impressive: they can translate between languages, generate patient-friendly explanations, assist with documentation, and provide comparative reviews of treatment options. However, their outputs are driven by statistical prediction, not true understanding, reasoning, or clinical judgment.

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.

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Fountain Life is seeking a visionary Medical Director to lead clinical operations and ensure an unparalleled, premium healthcare experience for our members. The MD will oversee diagnostic processes, develop individualized care plans, and ensure clinical excellence and consistency across all touchpoints. A unique opportunity to join a disruptive, innovation-driven health ecosystem founded by industry leaders including Dr. Robert Hariri, Tony Robbins, and Dr. Peter Diamandis. Let's transform medicine from “sick care” to “well care.” fountainlife.com/careers

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.