MISSISSIPPI ACADEMY OF FAMILY PHYSICIANS

Newsletter - October 29, 2025

CME On The Coast Was A Success!

Thank you to everyone who joined us for the 2025 MAFP Fall CME Conference in Gulf Shores!


We had a fantastic time embracing our “No Tricks, Just Treats for MAFP” theme during Friday evening’s reception, followed by Game Day CME sessions on Saturday. With a KSA on Heart Disease and seven engaging CME sessions, attendees gained valuable knowledge to better serve patients across Mississippi.


A special thank-you to our sponsors, exhibitors, and The Lodge at Gulf State Park for helping make this an unforgettable blend of learning, relaxation, and fun—all while advancing our mission to keep Mississippi communities healthy through trusted family physicians.

Dr. Bushardt Gives Back To MAFP Foundation

The MAFP Foundation held a "Mini Split the Pot" Fundraiser during Fall Conference. Attendees who purchased tickets raised a total of $1,825.00. When the winner was chosen to take home half, Dr. Lisa Bushardt of Hattiesburg graciously gave back her half to the foundation.


Thank you Dr. Bushardt for your generosity and support of MAFP!

FamDocPAC Update

We were thrilled to feature the FamDocPAC in our Exhibit Hall at this year’s Fall Conference in October. MAFP Advocacy Director Hope Ladner did a fantastic job hosting the booth and boosting both membership and contributions.


The FamDocPAC, founded by MAFP, helps family physicians make their voices heard in Mississippi’s electoral process through financial participation. You can support the FamDocPAC with a one-time donation or by setting up easy installment contributions. We have 32 members with contributions over $50,000. If you have not joined the FamDocPAC, please consider your contribution today.


Contribute today by clicking HERE.

Mississippi Delegates Represent MAFP

Your Mississippi Delegation to the American Academy of Family Physicians (AAFP) traveled to Anaheim, CA October 4-6 representing MAFP at the 2025 Annual Meeting of the Congress of Delegates.


Our delegates proudly advocate for the future of family medicine—participating in key discussions, helping shape national health policy, and ensuring Mississippi’s voice is heard.



During the Congress, new AAFP officers and three members of the Board of Directors are elected for the coming year. AAFP members are also invited to participate in hearings of the five reference committees—Advocacy, Education, Health of the Public and Science, Organization and Finance, and Practice Enhancement—where resolutions are reviewed and recommendations made for debate and action by the Congress.


This year's meeting included debate on 57 different resolutions. MAFP submitted 9 resolutions and were represented by our delegates: Drs. Lucious Lampton, Jennifer Gholson, Dustin Gentry, and Katherine Royals. Accompanying our delegates is MAFP President Dr. James Ervin. Also present was Dr. Brent Smith of Greenville, member of the AAFP Board of Directors and AAFP Past President Dr. Warren Jones. .


We Remember Dr. William Jackson

We are saddened by the passing of longtime Mississippi Family Physician, Dr. William “Bill” Jackson who served the people of Corinth and surrounding areas since 1976.


A Fellow of the American Academy of Family Physicians, Dr. Jackson was a dedicated leader within the Mississippi Academy of Family Physicians, serving in every officer role and as MAFP President in 2002–03. He also represented Mississippi nationally at the AAFP Congress of Delegates. Dr. Jackson was honored with the MAFP Family Physician of the Year award in 2019.



Dr. Jackson was known for his unwavering commitment to his community through his work with the Corinth Historical Commission, the Boy Scouts of America, Past President of the Corinth YMCA, and the Boys Club of Corinth. He also helped train future physicians as a preceptor for third year medical students from the University of Mississippi School of Medicine and the Magnolia Regional Health Center Internal Medicine Program.


Dr. Jackson’s life and legacy reflect the very best of family medicine. Our thoughts and prayers are with his family, colleagues, and the Corinth community. The MAFP has sent a memorial gift to the MAFP Foundation in Dr. Jackson's memory.


You can read more about Dr. Jackson here.


Renew Your Dues Now!

The MAFP strives to be the unifying voice that works locally and nationally to promote Family Medicine in Mississippi. Renew your 2026 membership to maintain your access to exclusive member benefits, educational resources, and most importantly – connections.


 The MAFP connects you with over 1300 colleagues who are as committed as you to the specialty of family medicine. As a member, not only will you help advance this important specialty, but also strengthen the collective voice of the only professional association solely focused on issues that impact you and your practice on a daily basis. A strong member base ensures that the specialty and scope of Family Medicine is preserved and protected. As a member, you have a voice for our 2026 agenda. Stay connected in 2026!


The AAFP has begun sending notifications with information regarding renewing your 2026 membership including your dues invoice and payment options. Dues payment can be made online at AAFP QuickPay. The AAFP is still offering the Auto Installment Plan Option. This allows you to spread your annual dues payment over 12 months. There is a $15 convenience fee associated with the installment plan. The installment charges will occur on the 10th of each month. You will receive e-mail confirmation for the charges and can discontinue this service at any time by contacting the AAFP.


Pay Dues By November 15th and Win $475 Registration Fee!


Pay your MAFP dues by November 15th and you'll be entered to win a certificate for a FREE registration to the 2026 Annual Scientific Assembly! Renew now and treat yourself next summer in Sandestin, FL.

Is 2025 Your Election Year?


If is your year for CME re-election, the MAFP is here to help! All Active members are required to report 150 CME credit over a 3-year lookback period.


Remember to report the following:

  • Teaching of any health professionals – even your office staff! Claim up to 60 credits!
  • Any life support courses: ACLS, ATLS, BLS, etc.
  • Claim up to 25 Professional Enrichment credits for attending any medical meeting: medical staff meetings, hospital/clinic meetings, etc.


The MAFP values your membership. With you, family medicine is stronger! Please don’t hesitate to contact the MAFP office at 601.853.3302 with any questions. We are happy to help!


Use Your Kroger Rewards To Support The MAFP Foundation!