Pictured above: Newly elected OCMS President, Karol Zakalik, MD addresses the audience.

Gary Sarafa, MD, President of the Oakland County Medical Society (OCMS), led the evening expressing his deep gratitude for the unwavering support and collaboration during his term. Addressing the society during the transition ceremony, he conveyed his heartfelt appreciation for the opportunity to serve in this capacity over the past year.

Dr. Sarafa proudly introduced the new President, Karol Zakalik, MD, acclaiming his outstanding achievements in the field of neurosurgery. Dr. Zakalik commented on his upcoming term and how he will work with the board and members to continue the work of his predecessor and also focus on physician burnout and stressors.

The outcome of the ballots revealed that an overwhelming 83% majority proposed changes to the annual dues, which will be implemented starting from 2025.

Also, the audience was introduced to the members of the 2023-2024 OCMS board. Dr. Nikhil Hemady, a family medicine specialist and Medical Director for Honor Community Health, was welcomed as a new addition to the board. As well as Dr. Peter Watson, Vice President for Clinical Operations and Strategy at Health Alliance Plan (HAP).

In recognition of the outstanding service rendered by the past President and long-standing board member, Dr. Sarafa and Dr. Joann Smith, were presented with engraved plaques as a token of appreciation for their years of dedicated service to the OCMS.

The annual meeting also showcased the OCMS Committee Volunteer of the Year award, honoring Dr. Manveen Saluja for her impactful work in establishing the OCMS Health Equity Committee, aimed at addressing critical health disparities in Oakland County. The Community Service Volunteer of the Year award was bestowed upon Dr. Asha Shajahan, renowned for her selfless dedication to serving the underserved population through various initiatives addressing health disparities and community health and wellness.

Jessica Gustafson and Adrienne Dresevic from Health Law Partners presented best practices to mitigate harsh Medicare and payor audit outcomes.

As the annual meeting concluded, the spotlight shifted to the new leadership team, as they prepared to take on the opportunities ahead for OCMS in the coming year.