A note from the YPS chair
January 2025
From YPS Chair Sam Mathis, MD, MBA
January is one of my favorite times of the year. It is a time of reflection over the past year and anticipation for the year to come. Many people use the new year to start fresh and work on improving their health or habits. While I like to wait till spring to start my resolutions, I do take time in January to reflect on the prior year and my goals and aspirations. I also take time to reflect on my core values. These values help to shape who I am and why I do the things I do.
AMA values
If you have not taken time to reflect and define your values, I highly encourage you to try it out. These are usually one or two-word phrases that highlight our core beliefs and behaviors. Some of our AMA’s values are patient-centered care, professionalism, social responsibility and collaboration. How well are we meeting these values in our work within the AMA? How well do we meet these values in our own lives?
In looking back on last year, I argue that our section takes these values seriously. We regularly speak out for those who are underrepresented and underserved. We value the patient-physician relationship and fight for it in all areas of health care. We recognize our social responsibility to our communities and those outside our community. We value comradery and collaboration. Even in areas where we disagree, we consistently work to do what we feel is best for our patients. These are the reasons why I am so proud to represent this section as your chair.
National Advocacy Conference
As we look ahead, we are faced with some new challenges in the upcoming few years. With continued decreases in Medicare (and subsequently commercial) reimbursement, a growing distrust of the medical profession and worsening interference in the patient-physician relationship from so many outside influences, it is vital that we stand together to advocate for our patients.
If you have not done so already, I encourage you to register and attend the AMA’s National Advocacy Conference from Feb. 10-12. This is a fantastic opportunity to learn about the issues we face on a national level and meet with legislative staff.
On Feb. 11, the AMA is hosting a large meeting with physicians and legislators to highlight these issues. I know time away from work is challenging at this stage of our careers, but I encourage you to attend if possible. I will be there and hope to see you there too!
Contact us
As always, email us at [email protected] with any comments and questions.
