Looking back, looking ahead

December 2011

Through a passion for medicine and a desire to do what’s best for patients, the Medical Society of Virginia (MSV) continues to achieve success thanks in large part to its members and physician leaders. In 2011, we have many accomplishments to share. Take a look at some of MSV’s memorable accomplishments, through the words of our members.

“I have worked with other health professionals, including PAs, throughout my career. We deliver care together and should have continual opportunities to network, advocate and learn together. The Roanoke Academy of Medicine is proud to have led the drive for the new PA membership category within MSV and excited about the opportunities
this brings to work together.” —David B. Trinkle, M.D.

“What a remarkable year. We achieved a historic 20-year agreement on the medical malpractice cap and also eliminated a four percent cut to Medicaid and ensured protections for peer review and quality assurance! Working collaboratively with other stakeholders was critical to all of these accomplishments.” —Daniel Carey, M.D.

“Legislators tell us they want to hear from their constituents. Physicians answered the call and sent over 3,300 messages to legislators and to the governor about medical malpractice and Medicaid! Over 260 physicians came to White Coats on Call days to talk with their legislators about issues important to them. Let’s make our voice even louder next year.”
—Hugh M. Bryan III, M.D.
 
“MSV Foundation’s quality improvement program, TO GOAL™, was recognized nationally as a way of helping practicing physicians provide the excellent care they desire and prepare for the future of performance measurement. I’m
excited we initiated a third phase for asthma and a COPD module this year and plan to launch a diabetes phase.”
—Kurtis S. Elward, M.D.

“The MSVPAC board is organizing a development committee to amplify our fundraising efforts. We will be partnering with specialty societies to show a united front for medicine. What a great collaboration.” —Sterling N. Ransone Jr., M.D.

“What a remarkable achievement—the MSV Insurance Agency now helps 1,599 physicians with their health insurance needs and 1,693 physicians with their malpractice insurance. And we’ve only just begun. Our growth plan will definitely take us to new heights over the next few years.” —Waring Trible Jr., M.D.

“I was excited with the response to our Docs on Call political fundraiser to support Virginia’s four physician legislators. Physician contributions make it possible for our MSVPAC to make contributions to 73 medicine-friendly candidates this
year.” —Geoffrey T. Harter, M.D.

“It is satisfying to know that we touch lives every day through the MSV Foundation’s DOC RxRelief program. It’s hard to believe that we have provided 476 patients with almost 1,700 prescriptions valued at more than $1 million so far this
year.” —Krista Crawford-Mathis, Ph.D.

“This year we are proud to have provided scholarships for medical training, donations to medical missions and donations of over $132,000 to more than 40 community organizations. This is the MSV Alliance at work!” —Ellen Morgan

Did you know?

• Virginia physicians are responsible for over 90,000 jobs in the commonwealth.
• MSV has helped place 174 physicians in elected and appointed state positions, boards, councils and task forces.
• An additional 123 MSV members have pursued leadership through MSV task forces, committees and boards as well as through the MSV Foundation Leadership Institute.
• Physicians generate $14.2 billion in wages and benefits and $953 million in local and state taxes.
• For every $1 generated by the practice of medicine in Virginia, an additional $0.76 is generated by other businesses.
• For every $1 of direct employee compensation by physician offices, an additional $0.42 in wages and benefits is generated by other businesses.

*Source: The Lewin Group. The Economic Impact of Office-Based Physicians in Virginia (2009), Jan. 2011. 

The year ahead
Through the efforts of individual members and through strength in numbers, we will continue to achieve great things. In 2012, we can look forward to:

• MSVPAC organizing and operating a development committee to facilitate peer-to-peer fundraising and communications for MSVPAC.
• The Institute for Healthcare Advancement developing strategies to inform and empower physicians in a rapidly evolving health care environment.
• The launch of MSV Select, a new member-only benefit providing special offerings from preferred partners.
• The continued growth of MSV Insurance Agency, with the Life and Health division expanding into the business market.
• The launch of two new TO GOAL phases—COPD and IMPACT Primary Care, with 19 total practices participating in each phase.
• The MSV Foundation becoming a Multi-Specialty Maintenance of Certification (MOC) Portfolio Program as approved by the American Board of Medical Specialties.
• The Alliance expanding and growing its membership, grassroots efforts and leadership opportunities.
• The launch of a statewide physician compensation survey.