HJNO Jul/Aug 2025

70 JUL / AUG 2025 I  HEALTHCARE JOURNAL OF NEW ORLEANS MEDICAL SOCIETY COLUMN MEDICAL SOCIETY AS PHYSICIANS across Southeast Louisi- ana face unprecedented challenges, from shifting healthcare policy to a strained public health infrastructure, our unity and advocacy have never been more import- ant. MASELA, JPMS, and OPMS are work- ing every day to ensure your voice is heard at every level, from the clinic to the Capi- tol. We’re highlighting how our collective efforts are translating into action: new ini- tiatives to engage physicians, defend clin- ical leadership, and speak out on policies that affect our profession and our patients. Whether through legislative advocacy, public outreach, or leadership develop- ment, MASELA is committed to represent- ing and empowering local physicians like you. Thank you for standing with us. Physician advocacy in action: A united effort As the healthcare landscape continues to evolve, JPMS, OPMS, and MASELA are effort expands. We are also proud to launch a new pod- cast designed to amplify the voices of local physicians. The podcast will highlight the challenges and successes of the medical community, offer updates on advocacy ef- forts, and provide a platform for clinicians to share their perspectives on the future of healthcare in Louisiana. Policy alert: House Bill 138, restructur- ing the state medical board HB 138, a bill proposing significant changes to the governance structure of the Louisiana State Board of Medical Examin- ers (LSBME), has raised serious concerns among physicians and medical leaders across the state. While some elements may appear procedural on the surface, the broader implications for clinical oversight and professional autonomy are deeply troubling. working together to strengthen physician advocacy, public health leadership, and community engagement across Southeast Louisiana. With OPMS playing a leading role, our societies are coordinating on sev- eral key initiatives to address the pressing needs of physicians and the patients they serve. One such initiative is a collaborative digital media campaign aimed at increas- ing public awareness about the importance of vaccinations, especially for children and older adults. Supported by charita- ble foundations and led by physicians, the campaign will deliver evidence-based content to counter misinformation and promote trusted guidance across popular digital platforms. In the absence of strong state and federal messaging, our societies are stepping in to fill a critical gap in public health communication. We also look for- ward to engaging the Louisiana State Med- ical Society in potential partnership as this Stronger Together: MASELA Societies Step Up for Physicians and Public Health