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April 4, 2024

April: National Minority Health Month

Advancing Health Equity by Addressing Social Determinants of Health

National Minority Health Month marks a time to reflect on the health disparities that persist among racial and ethnic minority and American Indian/Alaska Native (AI/AN) populations. The US Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) Office of Minority Health (OMH) leads this annual observance and encourages everyone to take action to end inequities. The theme for 2024, Be the Source for Better Health: Improving Health Outcomes Through Our Cultures, Communities, and Connections, is about understanding how the unique environments, cultures, histories, and circumstances of racial and ethnic minority and AI/AN populations impact our overall health. Visit the HHS National Minority Health Month page to learn more about this year’s theme, download resources and graphics to share with your network, and find National Minority Health Month events hosted by our partners.

Celebrating Eid al Fitr

Marking the End of the Holy Month of Ramadan

Eid al-Fitr, marking the end of the holy month of Ramadan, holds significant cultural and religious importance for Muslims worldwide. Based on Ramadan 2024 beginning March 11 (at night, with the first fasting day being March 12), it is anticipated that Eid al-Fitr 2024 to fall on or near April 9. Eid al-Fitr is one of the two most celebrated days in Islam’s Hijri calendar — its lunar calendar of 12 months. Eid al-Fitr marks the end of the Hijri calendar’s ninth month, Ramadan, and the first day of its 10th month, Shawwal. There is more to determining this, beginning first with establishing when Ramadan 2024 begins. Although some accept calculation as a method of determining the start of one of Islam’s lunar months, others rely on the prophetic tradition of moon sighting with the bare eye. This leads to some groups of Muslims in the same parts of the world beginning Ramadan on different days from each other. This, in turn, can lead to differences in determining when Eid al-Fitr 2024 might be. 

April's Total Solar Eclipse Will Be Historic Event in the US

Delaware Not in the Path of Totality, But Eclipse Will Be Visible, Barring Weather

On Monday, April 8th, a total solar eclipse will cross North America, passing over Mexico, the United States, and Canada, plunging areas into darkness, marking a rare celestial phenomenon that will not return for decades. The next total solar eclipse in the contiguous U.S. won't be until August 23, 2044 in Montana and North Dakota, and the next to span coast-to-coast is slated for 2045. Due to the fact that April's total solar eclipse will be the last of its kind to occur in North America for 20 years, it is projected to be the U.S.'s largest mass travel event in 2024. A March 25, 2024 JAMA Internal Medicine report warned that a 2017 eclipse in the U.S. was linked with spikes in fatal car accidents and road traffic risks similar to what's seen on major holiday weekends. Safety is the number one priority when viewing a total solar eclipse. The American Academy of Ophthalmology offers these tips. There is only one safe way to look directly at the sun, whether during an eclipse or not: through special-purpose solar filters. These solar filters are used in “eclipse glasses” or in hand-held solar viewers. They must meet a very specific worldwide standard known as ISO 12312-2. The only time that you can look at the sun without a solar viewer is during a total eclipse. When the moon completely covers the sun’s bright face and it suddenly gets dark, you can remove your solar filter to watch this unique experience. Then, as soon as the bright sun begins to reappear very slightly, immediately use your solar viewer again to watch the remaining partial phase of the eclipse. However, keep in mind that Delaware will not experience the total eclipse. Never look at the uneclipsed or partially eclipsed sun through an unfiltered camera, telescope, binoculars or other similar devices. This is important even if you are wearing eclipse glasses or holding a solar viewer at the same time. The intense solar rays coming through these devices will damage the protective filter in your solar glasses and put your eyes at risk. You can also use an indirect viewing method, such as a pinhole projector. Delaware is not in the path of totality, so the view in Delaware will be about 80% coverage, a partial eclipse. The closest place to Delaware with complete coverage will be Erie, PA. According to Delaware Online, action in Delaware will take place at the following times:

  • Partial eclipse begins at 2:07 p.m.  
  • Maximum eclipse begins at 3:23 p.m.  
  • Partial eclipse ends at 4:34 p.m. 

Registration Deadline Approaching for Interim Council Meeting

Registration Closes April 11th

Registration is open for all MSD members to register to attend the MSD 2024 Interim Council Meeting to be held on Thursday, April 18th at the Smyrna Opera House, located at 7 W. South St., Smyrna, DE. The evening will begin at 6:00 p.m. with sign-in and a half-hour cocktail social, followed by the Interim Council business meeting beginning promptly at 6:30 p.m. As a member of MSD, this event affords you the opportunity to connect with your peers and meet new colleagues, all the while enjoying fine food and beverage at a historic Delaware location!


Reports being submitted must be received no later than Monday, March 25th.


Consider submitting a resolution. Resolutions are a vehicle to submit to Council your issues for change. Learn more about writing a resolution from the MSD Resolution Writing Guide or the brief training video developed. Resolution submission deadline is Friday, April 5th. All submissions must be correctly formatted prior to the submission deadline (in final format). For example, no edits/corrections will be accepted after the deadline of April 5th. Please email resolutions to Mary.LaJudice@medsocdel.org.


To register go to: https://reg.planetreg.com/INTERIM2024. Absolute registration deadline is Thursday, April 11 by end of business day.

Don't Let Your Membership Terminate

Communications to Stop for Those Who Have Not Renewed

MSD depends on the support of its members to continue the important work that positively impacts the practice of medicine, such as the following:


  • MSD continued the collaborative Primary Care Investment Initiative, providing financial stimulus awards to eligible practices who proposed an implementation-ready, qualified method to prepare their practice for sustainable success in value-base care.
  • MSD and the Delaware Healthcare Association authored a bill to significantly reform the prior authorization process. SB 10, the "Delaware Pre-Authorization Reform Act of 2023," currently is awaiting consideration in committee.


There is so much more that we do for you! Why miss out? But, we are sorry to say that, starting April 8th, all members who have not renewed their 2024 membership by that date will no longer receive MSD communications. This includes notifications of events and important information relative to health care, as well as the Practice Matters communication that is valued by your staff. Renew online or contact Michelle.Seymour@medsocdel.org for assistance. (Note that this is a general announcement that is being sent to all members.)

Increase in Global, Domestic Measles Cases

Ensure International Travelers are Current on MMR Vaccination

The Delaware Division of Public Health (DPH) sent a health advisory to advise clinicians and health care partners of the need to ensure Delaware children and those traveling internationally are current on their Measles Mumps Rubella (MMR) vaccination. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has noted a significant increase in measles cases across the country. Measles is a highly contagious viral illness and can cause severe health complications, including pneumonia, encephalitis (inflammation of the brain), and death, especially in unvaccinated persons. Additionally, even after recovering from initial infection, severe neurologic complications of measles have been known to occur up to a decade after the initial illness. The CDC immunization schedules currently recommend routine vaccination with two doses of MMR vaccine, with the first dose at 12 to 15 months of age, and the second dose at 4 to 6 years of age. However, the recommendations are different for persons travelling internationally. All individuals 6 months and older who are planning to travel internationally and who have not been fully vaccinated against measles should receive an MMR vaccine at least one month before departure. Infants ages 6 to 11 months who receive one dose of MMR vaccine pre-travel, will need two more doses of MMR vaccine later in life, the first of which should be administered when the child is at 12 through 15 months old and the second at least 28 days later. Children aged 12 months or older should receive two doses of MMR vaccine, separated by at least 28 days. Teenagers and adults without evidence of measles immunity (or history of being fully vaccinated against measles) should receive two doses of MMR vaccine separated by at least 28 days. MMR vaccines are safe and highly effective, with one dose being 93% effective and two doses being 97% effective against measles. 

DHIN Alert

Patient Alerts Through Event Notification and Clinical Gateway Aren't Delivering

The Delaware Health Information Network (DHIN) sent a communication this morning advising that patient alerts through the Event Notification and Clinical Gateway services were not delivering. Their technical teams were working to fix the problem and DHIN will keep physicians posted on a resolution. To contact the DHIN Service Desk: (302) 480-1770, servicedesk@dhin.org.

Delaware Overdose Deaths Decreased in 2023

Decrease Marks the First Time in a Decade

The Delaware Department of Health and Social Services (DHSS) announced today that, for the first time in a decade, the number of overdose deaths in Delaware has decreased. According to data from the Delaware Division of Forensic Science, there were 527 accidental drug overdose deaths in 2023, representing a 1.8% decrease compared to 2022. When looking at this issue holistically, more than 140,000 Delaware adults are living with a substance use disorder. Additionally, the state has seen challenging trends that deserve attention; Delaware Division of Substance Abuse and Mental Health (DSAMH) statistics indicate rising fatal overdoses and drug use in Black and Hispanic/Latino communities. To address the root causes of this crisis on the ground, there have been policy and education efforts, coordinated behavioral health care, and increased funding for the opioid crisis through the years. Additionally, the Prescription Opioid Settlement Distribution Commission (POSDC), a subcommittee of the Delaware Behavioral Health Consortium, is charged with distributing over $250 million in opioid settlement funds to expand access to substance use treatment services and combat the opioid crisis in Delaware.  

CMS Finalizes Payment Updates for 2025 Medicare Advantage, Medicare Part D Programs

MA Insurers Will Receive Reduced Payments in 2025

On Monday, the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) finalized the Calendar Year (CY) 2025 Rate Announcement for the Medicare Advantage (MA) and Medicare Part D Prescription Drug (Part D) Programs that updates payment policies for these programs and ensures payment accuracy. The Rate Announcement complements policies in the CY 2025 MA and Part D proposed rule that would strengthen protections for the millions of people who rely on MA and Medicare Part D prescription drug coverage, which will be finalized in the coming days. Under this CY 2025 Rate Announcement, payments from the government to MA plans are expected to increase on average by 3.70 percent, or over $16 billion, from 2024 to 2025. The federal government is projected to pay between $500 and $600 billion in Medicare Advantage payments to private health plans in 2025. CMS is also finalizing improvements to the structure of the Medicare Part D drug benefit for CY 2025 that will result in lower drug costs for millions of people with Medicare through the concurrent release of the Final CY 2025 Part D Redesign Program Instructions. Thanks to the Inflation Reduction Act, President Biden’s lower-cost prescription drug law, annual out-of-pocket costs will be capped at $2,000 for people with Medicare Part D in 2025, leading to even more savings for people with Medicare Part D in CY 2025.

CDC Reports Human Infection With Influenza Virus from Pigs

First in US in 2024

On March 29, 2024, CDC reported the first U.S. human infection this year with an influenza A(H1N2) variant (v) virus that normally circulates in pigs. This infection was detected in a person living near a pig farm in Pennsylvania who had direct contact with pigs. The person was hospitalized and has since recovered from their illness. No person-to-person spread of this virus has been identified. Learn more.

H5N1 "Bird Flu" Virus Infection Reported in Person in Texas

Person Had Exposure to Dairy Cattle in Texas Presumed to Be Infected

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reports that a person in Texas has tested positive for highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) A(H5N1) virus (“H5N1 bird flu”). This person had exposure to dairy cattle presumed to be infected with H5N1 bird flu viruses. The person reported eye redness (consistent with conjunctivitis), as their only symptom, and is recovering. APAI in dairy cows was first reported by the US Department of Agriculture (USDA) March 25, 2024. These are the first ever reports of HPAI virus infections in cows. HPAI viruses have been detected in unpasteurized milk collected from sick cattle on dairy farms.


This infection does not change the H5N1 bird flu human health risk assessment for the U.S. general public, which CDC considers to be low. However, people with close or prolonged, unprotected exposures to infected birds or other animals (including livestock), or to environments contaminated by infected birds or other animals, are at greater risk of infection. CDC has recommendations for clinicians on monitoring, testing, and antiviral treatment for patients with suspected or confirmed avian influenza A virus infections.


According to FDA and USDA, there are not concerns with the safety of the commercial milk supply at this time because products are pasteurized before entering the market. Dairies are required to send only milk from healthy animals into processing for human consumption; milk from impacted animals is being diverted or destroyed so that it does not enter the human food supply. In addition, pasteurization has continually proven to inactivate bacteria and viruses, like influenza, in milk. 

Consent Must be Obtained for Sensitive Examinations

Letter Sent to Nation's Teaching Hospitals and Medical Schools

On Monday, the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS), through the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS), released new guidance to teaching hospitals and medical schools to reiterate and provide clarity regarding hospital requirements for informed consent from patients as it relates to medical professionals performing sensitive examinations, particularly on patients under anesthesia. HHS indicated its awareness of media reports, as well as medical and scientific literature highlighting instances where, as part of medical students’ courses of study and training, patients have been subjected to sensitive and intimate examinations – including pelvic, breast, prostate, or rectal examinations – while under anesthesia without proper informed consent being obtained prior to the examination. 

Tool to Help Hospitals with Price Transparency Compliance

CMS Releases Web-Based Validation Tool

The Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) released a web-based validation tool that assists hospitals with price transparency compliance.  The V2.0 Online Validator tool assists hospitals in developing a machine-readable file (MRF) to ensure it conforms to the required form and manner requirements (45 CFR 180.50(c)(2)). These form and manner requirements are described in the CY 2024 OPPS/ASC Final Rule, and detailed technical specifications can be found in the Hospital Price Transparency Data Dictionary GitHub Repository. The Online Validator reviews a hospital's uploaded MRF against the required CMS template layout and data specifications. If a hospital's MRF does not conform to the form and manner requirements, the Online Validator will generate an output consisting of 'errors' and 'warnings'. Online Validator 'errors' represent requirements that are enforced beginning July 1, 2024, whereas 'warnings' represent requirements that are enforced beginning January 1, 2025. Additionally, the Online Validator tool runs in a web browser and does not store, record, report, or share any information with CMS related to a hospital's use of the tool.

How Can Health Apps Affect the Future of Medicine?

Primary Care Physicians Needed to Complete Brief Survey for Johns Hopkins

The Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health is looking for primary care physicians to complete a 5-minute survey on their thoughts about digital health tools. Interested physicians, physician assistants, and nurse practitioners who have experience treating patients with diabetes or depression are invited to participate. Those who complete the survey will receive a $10 gift card. If you have any questions, please reach out to Odia Kane at okane1@jh.edu. (Principle investigator: Dr. Nancy Kass.) Scan the QR code or go to: https://jh.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_ewXiR3xzpicR4zQ

Coolest Thing Made in Delaware

Hologic's Tomosynthesis System Wins Title

In a contest created by Delaware State Chamber of Commerce and the Delaware Manufacturing Association to highlight the state’s manufacturing sector and promote it as a career path, a device that helps detect breast cancer has been named the Coolest Thing Made in Delaware. Hologic Inc.’s 3Dimensions Mammography System, designed to provide higher quality images and a more comfortable screening procedure for women, won the state’s first Coolest Thing contest. The online contest ultimately had more than 40 products from 20 companies nominated for consideration. About 20,000 members of the public voted on their favorites in a March Madness-style bracket system. The company has been making the detector — one of three components for its machines — in Delaware for more than a decade. It recently decided to move all its production lines from Danbury, Connecticut to Newark. Hologic was founded in 1985, focusing on improving women’s health and well-being through early detection and treatment, and it’s been in Delaware for a quarter of a century. Its 3Dimensions Mammography System was introduced in 2011 and can be found around the globe.

Future Health Care Workers Win State Awards

HOSA State Leadership Conference

Aspiring Delaware health care workers will represent the First State at a national leadership conference this summer after winning state awards last week. More than 1,000 middle and high school students participated last week in the 13th annual HOSA State Leadership Conference at Wilmington University. HOSA members earning a medallion at last week's State Leadership Conference qualify for the International Leadership Conference June 26-29, 2024, in Houston, Texas. Delaware HOSA is a Career and Technical Student Organization (CTSO) dedicated to students who are interested in pursuing their future in a career in health care. Through HOSA-Future Health Professionals, more than 1,300 Delaware members have the opportunity to participate in career focused competitive events, take part in community service, and become leaders for the organization in their school, state, and at the international level. HOSA-Future Health Professionals incorporates curricular and co-curricular experiences to emphasize the importance of knowledge, leadership, skill development, and teamwork. A list of all state award winners and events is located at delawarehosa.org. To learn more about Delaware HOSA, please contact Peg Enslen by email at: peggy.enslen@doe.k12.de.us.

MSD Year Round Charity - Consider a Donation

Kind to Kids Charity Foundation: A Future for Every Child, All Year Round

As a year-round charity fundraising effort, MSD continues to support the Kind to Kids Foundation to make an impact in the lives of children and teens in foster care. You can donate items throughout the year from the "My Blue Duffel" Amazon Wish List. Your donation will provide direct support for a child in foster care. "My Blue Duffels" are emergency care kits given to children entering the foster care system. From the wish list, donors purchase items that are then sent to Kind to Kids to distribute. The children are victims of child abuse and neglect and are coping with trauma. Your gift will bring hope, love, and kindness to a vulnerable child. Kind to Kids Foundation is a 501c3 nonprofit charity and your donations are tax deductible. Thank you for your support.

Premier Educational Program Partner Spotlight

MSD is pleased to highlight one of our 2024 Premier Educational Program Partners. Quality Insights has been a part of the effort to keep our professional medical and public education programs growing through its partnership with MSD as a Premier Educational Program (PEP) Partner.


Quality Insights has long been a go-to resource for physicians and stakeholders seeking to improve quality. They can help identify the source of quality-related issues and offer solutions based on best practices, staff expertise and years of experience. The Quality Insights team provides educational resources and tools, baseline and ongoing performance data, collaborative learning opportunities, and one-on-one technical assistance. Quality Insights is leading several state-based initiatives in partnership with the Delaware Division of Public Health and the Pennsylvania Department of Health, with funding from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). https://www.qualityinsights.org/home


If you would like to become a PEP Partner, please contact Lynn Robinson, MSD's Director of Professional Education. 

AMA Pearl of the Week

Create a Team Compact

One way to bolster your organization's culture is through a team compact, a written document detailing how team members should treat each other. Everyone in your practice should contribute to developing this document and vote for the final version. The process of drafting a compact focuses the team on the practice's core values and strengthens team culture. Review and update the compact annually to involve new team members in the process.

LEARN MORE:

Toolkit:

Playbook:

Podcast:


AMA STEPS Forward® offers a collection of engaging and interactive educational content designed to help put the joy back into medicine.

Safety Information and Adverse Reporting Notices

Information on Recent Product Recalls and Safety Announcements

Methocarbamol Injection Single Dose Vial

Eugia US is recalling lot number 3MC23011 of Methocarbamol Injection USP, 1000 mg/10 mL (100 mg/mL) Single Dose Vial - 10 mL Vial due to a customer product complaint for the presence of white particles floating inside of the vial. Administration of an injectable product that contains particulate matter may result in local irritation or swelling. If the particulate matter reaches the blood vessels or is injected intravascularly it can travel to various organs and block blood vessels in the heart, lungs or brain which can cause stroke and even lead to death. To date, Eugia US LLC has not received any reports of adverse events related to this recall.


Vancomycin Hydrochloride for Oral Solution

Amneal Pharmaceuticals, LLC. Bridgewater, New Jersey (Amneal), is voluntarily recalling 4 lots (see table below) of Vancomycin Hydrochloride for Oral Solution, USP, 250 mg/5mL packaged in 80 mL, 150 mL, or 300 mL pack sizes, to the Consumer Level. Some bottles may have been overfilled which can result in an over potent dosing regimen. The recommended maximum daily dose allowance for this product is up to 2gm/day and patients prescribed a dosing regimen of 500 mg/10mL would exceed this daily allowance, which may be harmful to patients with renal insufficiency. The error occurred during the manual bottle filling stage of manufacturing.


Atovaquone Oral Suspension, USP 750 mg/5 mL

AvKARE, LLC. is voluntarily recalling lot # AW0221A of Atovaquone Oral Suspension, USP 750mg/5mL to the Consumer/User level, due to the potential Bacillus cereus contamination in the product found during stability testing at a 3rd party lab. In the population most at risk, immunocompromised population, there is a reasonable probability that microbial contamination of Atovaquone Oral Suspension can result in disseminated, life threatening infections such as endocarditis and necrotizing soft tissue infections. To date, AvKARE has not received any reports of adverse events related to this recall. Atovaquone Oral Suspension, USP is indicated for prevention and treatment of Pneumocystis jiroveci pneumonia (PCP) in adults and children 13 years of age and older who cannot tolerate other medicines, such as trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole.


ARROW QuickFlash Radial Artery, Radial Artery/Arterial Line Catherization Kits

Teleflex and Arrow International are recalling the ARROW QuickFlash Radial Artery and Radial Artery/Arterial Line Catheterization Kits after receiving reports of increased resistance in the guidewire handle and chamber during use. This issue may cause serious injury, including injury to blood vessel walls, narrowing of the blood vessels (vasospasm), artery blockage (embolism), or death. The FDA has identified this as a Class I recall, the most serious type of recall. Use of these devices may cause serious injuries, serious health consequences, or death.


PneuPac ParaPAC Plus 300, 310 Ventilator Kits

Smiths Medical is recalling the PneuPac paraPAC Plus 300 and 310 Ventilator Kits after receiving reports that the ventilator may intermittently provide continuous positive gas flow instead of the intended cycling like a human breath when it is switched to the “Ventilate” operating mode. This non-cycling and continuous positive gas flow when in cycling mode is a malfunction that prevents the ventilator from functioning properly. As a result of this issue, patients may not receive the right amount of ventilation or enough oxygen (hypoventilation). The issue may also cause a complete or partial airway obstruction. Any of these occurrences can lead to serious injury or death. The FDA has identified this as a Class I recall, the most serious type of recall. Please be aware, this recall is a correction, not a product removal.


Cerenovus CEREBASE DA Guide Sheath

Medos International Sàrl is recalling Cerenovus CEREBASE DA Guide Sheath due to a crack found in the far end of the catheter, where different parts of the catheter are joined together. The FDA has identified this as a Class I recall, the most serious type of recall. Use of these devices may cause serious injuries or death.

Hospital News

Beebe Medical Foundation

At its most recent meeting, the Beebe Medical Foundation Board of Directors welcomed three new members. Directors serve for a three-year term with the possibility of two more consecutive terms for a total of nine years of possible service. Brad Travis, Jr. was born and raised in Lewes. He is a 2003 graduate of the University of Delaware majoring in Finance and Operations Management. He began his career out of college working in Beebe Healthcare’s accounting department. He now serves locally as a Financial Advisor and Certified Financial Planner. Jason Abela is a native of Michigan and graduated from Western Michigan University with a degree in Political Science. He worked in the Pennsylvania government and served in the Governor’s office as a legislative liaison for the Department of Environmental Protection. Jason is a realtor with Jack Lingo Realty. He has served on the Board of Ambassadors since 2018 and was elected Chair of the Board of Ambassadors. Leanne Silicato Prosser was born in Milford and is a 2003 graduate of Syracuse University with degrees in English Textual Studies and Inclusive Education. She is the former owner of Make My Day Event Planning and Maven Event Management and Consulting. Leanne served as the 100th Anniversary Coordinator of Beebe Healthcare’s Centennial events. 

Highlight on Events

The Delaware Academy of Family Physicians (DAFP) Annual Meeting will take place on April 13, 2024, at Bayhealth in Dover. The theme is “Health Equity” - providing access to quality health care in all our communities. After great CME, join for the Business Meeting as they celebrate some great Delaware family physicians and install the new Board. AAFP Director, Karen Smith, MD will also officiate a convocation for Degree of Fellow candidates. The day will close with a session on resolution writing for anyone wishing to learn more about how to affect positive change in Family Medicine on a state and national level. REGISTER HERE

Join the Delaware Chapter of the American College of Physicians at their Earth Day community service event taking place on Saturday, April 13th from 10 a.m. to 12:00 Noon, at Talley Day Park in North Wilmington. Participants will be joined by Leah Brooks, a certified Delaware Master Naturalist and avid eco-gardener, who will teach about invasive and native plants. Volunteers will then help to remove those invasive species and clean up trash around the park. Friends and family welcome! The Chapter will provide trash bags, water, and snacks. Please bring gardening gloves and clippers to cut back the invasive plants growing in the park. Bring a shovel if you have one. Meetup location is the Dog Park. The event is FREE for all, but volunteers are asked to register ahead of time. Register here.

Get Involved in Earth Month! Registration is now open for the annual Christina River Watershed Cleanup, rallying volunteers to join the effort on Saturday, April 13. Sponsored by the Delaware Department of Natural Resources and Environmental Control, in partnership with the Christina Conservancy and the Partnership for the Delaware Estuary, the cleanup marks the 32nd year hundreds of volunteers will pick up trash at sites across New Castle County as part of Earth Month activities in Delaware. The cleanup, scheduled from 8 to 11 a.m., will span more than 12 sites from Brandywine Hundred south through Glasgow and Bear. Cleanup volunteers are encouraged to register now through Friday, April 5, on the volunteer tab at ChristinaRiverCleanup.org. Volunteers registered for the cleanup will be provided with gloves, trash bags and safety vests to use during the cleanup. As a thank you, volunteers will receive a Christina River Watershed Cleanup vehicle trash bag or other cleanup swag items while supplies last.

2024 Jazz Brunch Celebration to Benefit Delaware Hospice. Each year, Jazz Brunch, hosted by Fox & Roach Trident Charities, Berkshire Hathaway Home Services, and the Trident Group, serves as a crucial fundraiser for Delaware Hospice. Plan to be part of the event and enjoy a jazz-themed afternoon of delicious New Orleans-style cuisine, Bloody Mary bar, Mimosa bar, silent and live auctions, and musical entertainment provided by the Red Alert Band. The event will take place on Sunday, April 14th from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. at Harry's Savoy Grill, 2020 Naamans Rd, Wilmington. A new milestone has been set for this year to surpass $1 million raised in total. Learn more and register.

The Division of Public Health’s Office of Infectious Disease Epidemiology (OIDE) now has office hours for Delaware health care providers. OIDE is hosting an accessible and informative platform for health care professionals to engage with epidemiologists and other experts to stay informed about key public health topics. The monthly “EpiChat” forum is for Delaware health care professionals to learn about Delaware’s reportable diseases, ask questions, and share insights. Resources will be shared. During these meetings, OIDE will provide information and guidance on various public health topics. The EpiChat series will feature online discussions with epidemiologists and subject matter experts via DPH’s One Health partnership.


  • Thursday, April 18 at Noon - Rabies Education: How to report potential rabies exposures, when rabies post exposure prophylaxis (PEP) is needed, and how PEP should be administered.


To receive EpiChat notifications, contact Reportdisease@delaware.gov. Click here to register for the April EpiChat Rabies session. For more information, contact OIDE at 302-622-4149.

You're invited to attend the Delaware Chapter of the American Academy of Pediatrics (DEAAP) Conference, "Paving the Way to Pediatric Wellness: Chronic Disease Management and Mental Health in Primary Care" taking place on Thursday, April 18, 2024. The conference will be held at the Hyatt Place on the Wilmington Riverfront from 2:00-5:30 p.m., with a social reception immediately following. Please join for both the education and social reception. Click here for more details and to review the agenda. Please register no later than April 11th.

Moving Delaware Forward: From Equity Awareness to Action. Equity Action Summit will take place April 18 & 19 at the Chase Center on the Riverfront. Join the ongoing movement to advance equity for all as shared stewards. The goal is to work and learn together to ensure that all people and places in Delaware are thriving - no exceptions. Over two days, gain knowledge of the vital conditions for well-being and explore multisolving to advance equity. Learn about local initiatives, find ways to build momentum, and be ready to inspire action in your communities. This is a safe space to see, support, and align equity efforts in Delaware. Closing celebration at Wilmington Blue Rocks game with fireworks. Free to everyone. Learn more and register.

The Delaware Department of Natural Resources and Environmental Control invites kids to participate in crafts and activities and volunteers to join in a beach cleanup as part of the agency’s annual celebration of Earth Month. The DNREC Division of Fish and Wildlife will host two public events for Earth Month:



  • Earth Day Kids Crafts, Saturday, April 20, at the DuPont Nature Center, 2992 Lighthouse Road, Milford. Registration is not required, and participants can drop in between 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. to make their own special Earth Day craft from provided recycled materials while learning about how to take care of our planet.
  • Slaughter Beach Cleanup, Earth Day Monday, April 22. Volunteers will meet at the Slaughter Beach Pavilion, 359 Bay Avenue, Milford, DE. The program will be presented twice, from 10 to 11 a.m. and 1 to 2 p.m. Registration is not required, and participants should arrive by the starting time to join DuPont Nature Center naturalists combing the beach for fascinating aquatic creatures and cleaning up any trash along the way. Trash bags and pickers will be provided.

The National Minority Quality Forum established the Annual Summit on Health Disparities to assist health care professionals, administrators, researchers, policy makers, community, and faith-based organizations in delivering quality care to diverse populations. With nearly 1000 attendees annually, the Summit has educated thousands of health leaders. This year's theme for the National Minority Quality Forum's Annual Leadership Summit on Health Disparities and Spring Health Braintrust is "We have the data, now what? A look back at over 25 years". Join them April 29-30 for this in-person event at the Watergate Hotel in Washington, DC, featuring leaders across the health care equity community! Information and registration.

MSD will hold a blood drive on Tuesday, April 30 between the hours of 1:00-6:00 p.m. in conjunction with the Blood Bank of Delmarva Bloodmobile. Anyone eligible to give blood can schedule an appointment and come by the MSD office location at 651 N. Broad Street in Middletown. The Bloodmobile will be conveniently stationed in the parking lot.

The Delaware Academy of Medicine/Delaware Public Health Association will hold its 94th Annual Meeting on Wednesday, May 1st at 6:00 p.m. at the Hyatt Place at the Wilmington Riverfront. Join them as they honor Dr. Joseph F. Kestner, MD and the Sussex County Health Coalition, hear from APHA President Ella Greene-Moten, and welcome new Executive Director Kate Smith, MD. Register here.

Please join NAMI Delaware for their annual walk event on Saturday, May 4, 2024, at Bellevue State Park in Wilmington. The event will open with registration at 8 a.m., followed by the walk at 9:30 a.m. You are invited to #step up and #sign up and walk in support of a friend or family member experiencing severe and persistent #mental illness . Health care professionals and partners are also invited to join their caring community and sponsor the event to show that we are all united towards providing “Mental Health for All”. Give your all for Mental Health for All today by:

• Creating a team today and registering on the official NAMIWalks Delaware website

• Sponsoring their signature event. Don’t miss your chance to promote your organization to over 400 attendees on Walk Day. Opportunities are going fast. Please visit the Walk page on our website for more information - deadline to sign up is March 31st! Questions? Please call 302-427-0787 or send an email to engage@namide.org. Register for NAMIWalks Delaware today!

Please join MSD for the next Pubs and Politics event at the Starboard in Dewey Beach. This next event in a series of events planned across the state will take place on Tuesday, June 4th beginning at 5:30 p.m. ACP and DAFP are joining MSD for this event for members! Join your colleagues for another great Pubs & Politics event, with complimentary food and beverages provided while you discuss regulatory and legislative updates for Delaware. Stop by when you can! Please register by May 29th.

The Young Physician Section of the Medical Society of Delaware (YPS) invites you to attend a YPS Social at the Riverfront's Constitution Yards - featuring complementary food and drinks, on Thursday June 6, 2024 (5:30 to 8pm). Please register no later than May 31st.

The Center for Community Research & Service and the Institute of Public Administration at the Biden School of Public Policy and Administration of the University of Delaware invites you to SAVE THE DATE! to attend Homelessness in Delaware: New Ideas and Directions. In the past few years, demand for homeless services has increased substantially, while little has changed in the response to homelessness in Delaware. This one-day conference will feature presentations of services and policy approaches that have been successful in other jurisdictions that could be adapted to Delaware, as well as laying the groundwork for developing a more coordinated and deliberate approach to ending homelessness in the state. Formal invitation and registration to follow. This event will take place on Thursday, June 6 at Embassy Suites Hotel, 654 S. College Ave., Newark.

Is your practice interested in improving appropriate use of antibiotics in telemedicine? The Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality (AHRQ) is currently recruiting practices for a no-cost, 18-month program beginning in June 2024 to promote appropriate antibiotic use while maintaining patient satisfaction and reducing potential side effects in patients seen via telemedicine. Practices will receive training and one-on-one expert coaching to implement sustainable improvements in the diagnosis and treatment of infections in the telemedicine environment. Practices will learn how to improve workflow efficiencies and participants will be eligible for continuing education units (CEUs), continuing medical education (CME) credits, and American Board of Internal Medicine maintenance of certification (MOC) points. Learn more and sign up for an informational webinar on the program website: safetyprogram4telemedicine.org. Refer to the informational flyer.

The Disparities Solutions Center at Massachusetts General Hospital announces its Disparities Leadership Program (DLP) is now taking applications for the 2024-2025 class. Letters of intent are due Friday, July 12, 2024, and applications are due Friday, August 2, 2024. The DLP is a year-long executive education program designed for leaders from health care organizations who want to implement practical strategies to eliminate racial and ethnic disparities in health care, particularly through quality improvement. To date, over 569 participants from 236 organizations representing 35 states, Washington D.C., the Commonwealth of Puerto Rico, Canada, and Switzerland have participated in the program. To read more about the program, visit:

https://www.mghdisparitiessolutions.org/disparities-leadership-program. Limited scholarships are available for public hospitals, Medicaid-managed health plans, and community health centers. 

MSD Night at the Wilmington Blue Rocks! As a member of MSD, you are invited to attend the game on Friday, August 9 when the Wilmington Blue Rocks take on the Jersey Shore Blueclaws. Game time is 6:35 p.m. at Frawley Stadium in Wilmington. Following the game, a fireworks show will be presented. By registering for this event, you are reserving an entrance ticket for yourself and one $10 gift card that can be used at any concession stand at the stadium. Tickets for this event are offered at no charge to MSD members. Additional tickets may be purchased for $16 each, which can be purchased using the "Self-Pay Tickets" registration option. MSD members registering must be current with their 2024 membership renewal. Please contact MSD to renew your membership if needed. Click to register.

SAVE THE DATE! For the third year in a row, MSD is joining DNREC's Coastal Clean Up at Herring Point, Cape Henlopen State Park in Lewes, taking place on Saturday, September 14th beginning at 10 a.m. (rain date September 21st). In 2023, our efforts netted over 75 pounds of trash collected from the beach. Join us this year to beat the 2024 goal. Watch the clip from the September 16, 2023, Coastal Clean Up event.

Join MSD for the 7th Annual Superhero for Hope Run/Walk 5K on Saturday, October 5th at Rockford Park, 19th St & Tower Rd, Wilmington. Check-in starts at 8:00 a.m., with the race beginning at 9 a.m. Register early! Registration fee until September 2nd is $25. Pricing goes up starting September 3rd. Racers will receive a t-shirt and refreshments and music will be provided. Top awards will be given. Register at: https://raceroster.com/events/2024/87034/superhero-for-hope-7th-annual-runwalk-5k

Physician Employment Contract Negotiation Self-Paced, Online Program. Equip yourself with the vital business skills needed to negotiate fair and sustainable physician contracts. Enroll now to level the playing field and secure favorable outcomes for your professional partnership. This activity has been approved for a maximum of 3.5 AMA PRA Category 1 credit. Discounted registration fee for MSD members and residents/fellows. For more information and to register, visit https://reg.planetreg.com/PhysicianContractNegotiation. Download the flyer.

On December 29, 2022, the Consolidated Appropriations Act of 2023 enacted a new one-time requirement which went into effect on June 27, 2023, for any Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA)-registered practitioner to complete eight hours of training “on the treatment and management of patients with opioid or other substance use disorders.” You can satisfy this training requirement to meet the conditions of the MATE Act through courses offered online by the American Medical Association. If you have not met this specific eight-hour training requirement yet, the deadline to do so is the date of a practitioner’s next scheduled DEA registration submission.

Other Upcoming Events

April 9 - Delaware Cancer Consortium 2024 Retreat, 9:00 a.m.-3:30 p.m., Bally's Dover Casino Resort, Conference Center Ballroom D). This activity has been approved for a maximum of 4.25 AMA PRA Category 1 credit.

April 9 - Mind Matters: The Intersectionality Between Behavior Health, HIV, and Substance Use, 8:30 a.m.-4:00 p.m., Del One Conference Center, 100 Campus Dr., Dover. This activity has been approved for a maximum of 5 AMA PRA Category 1 credit.

April 12 - Climate and Health Conference, 8:00 a.m.-4:00 p.m., John H. Ammon Education Center, ChristianaCare Newark Campus. This activity has been approved for a maximum of 6.75 AMA PRA Category 1 credit. No fee to attend, but registration is required, no late in-person registrations will be accepted. Registration deadline is April 10th.

April 13 - Delaware Academy of Family Physicians Annual Meeting, Bayhealth SIM Center, Dover.

April 13 - Bayhealth 4th Annual Nurse on the Run 5k/1 Mile Walk, 9 a.m., Bayhealth Sussex Campus, Milford.

April 17 - 18th Annual Delaware Healthy Mother & Infant Consortium Summit, 8:30 a.m.-4:00 p.m., Chase Center on the Riverfront.

April 18 - DEAAP Spring Conference, "Paving the Way to Pediatric Wellness: Chronic Disease Management and Mental Health in Primary Care," 2:00-5:30 p.m., Hyatt Place Wilmington Riverfront (760 S. Justison St.). This activity has been approved for a maximum of 3 AMA PRA Category 1 credit.

May 7 - 61st Annual William J. Holloway Infectious Disease Symposium, 8:30 a.m.-3:30 p.m., virtual and in person at the John H. Ammon Education Center, ChristianaCare Newark Campus. This activity has been approved for a maximum of 5 AMA PRA Category 1 credit.

October 29 - SAVE THE DATE! 28th Annual Delaware Healthcare Forum, 8:30 a.m.-4:30 p.m., Bally's Dover Casino Resort, Rollins Center, Dover.

September 19 - SAVE THE DATE! DAFP Geriatric Medicine Symposium, ChristianaCare, Newark.

October 19 - DAFP Research & Education Foundation Healthcare Heroes 5k, Cape Henlopen State Park.

November 23 - SAVE THE DATE! MSD Annual Meeting and Presidential Reception, Bally's Dover Casino Resort

Mpox Dashboard

"Rerum Cognoscere" 

The Latin phrase Rerum Cognoscere translates to learn, examine, or become aware of facts or things. In this section, we highlight measurable items of interest in health care from MSD, Delaware, the US, and the world.

15 Billion

Number of health care transactions processed annually by Change Healthcare.

CMS

  1 in 3

Number of patient records that Change Healthcare is involved in.

CMS

41%

Percent increase in uptake in flu vaccination among study participants who were asked about getting a flu shot, given pamphlet, and shown a short video.

NEJM Evidence

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The information contained herein is solely informational, planned in accordance for a diverse membership audience. This communication reflects news and announcements that have been made available to MSD and is not intended to exclude other pertinent material. The content published is proposed to represent facts of interest and provide awareness to the members. MSD reserves the right to determine what information is relevant to its membership.

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