Outgoing PAMED President Message

It has been an honor to serve as president of PAMED.  The experience allowed me to personally engage in our legislative process, interact with the media and, most importantly, listen to and appreciate our members.

My initiative “Physicians’ Choice - Aligning Your Career with What Matters” began with the goal of developing educational videos and launching the PAMED podcast, PAMED Talks.  I started by asking members about their perspectives and experience in order to help fellow physicians determine how they wish to practice.  Discussions included questions about large vs. small health systems, private vs academic, solo vs. group, etc.  However, as the project got underway, I realized that my initial premise had expanded.  It was more than just developing a database of choices.  Instead, it was a means for our eloquent inspiring members to tell their stories, share past challenges and present their hopes for the future of our profession.  It was a humbling and joyful experience interacting with each member I interviewed.

The second part of my initiative focused on private equity.  I had watched and personally experienced the impact of PE on health care, but I certainly did not predict that I would end up speaking on the issue during a hearing held by the PA Senate Democratic Caucus in March 2025.  Physicians, nurses, community leaders and Delaware County citizens came together giving testimony to save Crozer Hospital.  It was my pleasure to have been part of that experience despite the unfortunate outcome of the subsequent closure of Crozer hospital which had compassionately served patients for so many years.  A few weeks after the hearing I went to Harrisburg interacting with our great lobbyists who arranged meetings with legislators focusing on PE.  At the time of this letter a PE bill (1460) which would require oversight of PE transactions in the Commonwealth has passed in the house but has not made its way through the senate.

The third part of my initiative, physician autonomy, easily followed from the first two parts of my agenda.  It has become increasingly evident that to care for our patients, physicians must be an integral part of the decision-making process about their care.  Financial pressure can sometimes lead to health care decisions that are heavily pro-profit without the proper balance of being pro-patient.  Physicians must have a respected voice in health care implementation, delivery and oversight.

I would be remiss if I did not express my gratitude and appreciation for the expertise and support of PAMED staff.  They were always available to assist, research, and organize so I would be prepared for events throughout the year.  Letters to legislators, op-eds in local papers and preparation of slide decks for talks were always quickly and efficiently prepared. Calm support in the “green” room prior to interviews was wonderful. What a team.

Finally, I wish to express what I feel being president of PAMED means and consistently used as a guide throughout the year.  It is truly about the members of this organization who dedicate themselves to patients every day.  Our historic organization provides a vehicle for them to express their concerns and present their ideas in an environment of mutual respect.  I tried to remind myself before each presentation, interview, or meeting that I am representing the membership of PAMED and must try to make sure that I serve the entire organization well.

Thank you for a spectacular year!

Sincerely yours,

Lynn Lucas-Fehm MD JD