From the beginning of their medical education, the new president of the Colorado Medical Society (CMS) has emphasized that medicine is shaped not only in clinical settings but also through involvement in policy and advocacy. The president recalls early experiences with the Indiana State Medical Association and the American Medical Association, noting, “if physicians don’t show up, decisions about us – and our patients – will be made without us.”
Throughout a career spanning residency, practice, and decades in Colorado, continued engagement with organized medicine has been described as essential. The president states, “I have seen firsthand how organized medicine protects patients, advances science, and defends the integrity of our profession.” Mentorship and collaboration are highlighted as key factors in maintaining commitment to advocacy.
As CMS President, the leader describes this role as evidence of what can happen when physicians remain engaged: “Organized medicine gives us a voice, but only if we use it.” The statement calls for broader physician participation to address challenges such as workforce strain and threats to the physician-patient relationship: “That means all of us. Not just the people at the microphones…but every physician who believes our patients deserve better.”
The president invites all CMS members to become more involved by joining committees or mentoring students: “Because when physicians show up, patients win. When we lead together, we shape the future of health care.”
The focus for this year centers on three priorities: practice sustainability, physician wellbeing, and increased engagement within organized medicine. These pillars align with a new strategic plan set to be released soon.
On practice sustainability, concerns are raised about declining reimbursement rates for physicians despite steady malpractice costs and risks. Many doctors face difficult choices between employment or leaving medicine altogether due to financial pressures. The president notes that while service is central to medicine’s mission, it must also be sustainable so patient care does not suffer.
Addressing mental health among physicians is another priority. Existing programs like Doc2Doc provide support consultations; recent legislative changes have removed stigmatizing language from licensing applications; and public communications aim to humanize doctors. However, burnout remains a crisis—medical students carry significant debt burdens while behavioral health resources are limited. As a trauma surgeon witnessing daily tragedy says: “This year I intend to advocate more strongly for mental health resources…and support psychiatrists and all physicians who care for patients in crisis.”
Finally, membership growth is described as both necessary and achievable through outreach efforts led by Dr. Omar Mubarak’s committee but requiring community-wide participation: “So I challenge each of you: bring one new member into CMS before December.” There is an emphasis on combining purpose with enjoyment in these efforts.
The message concludes with optimism about progress ahead for both CMS members and Colorado’s healthcare system.
