Slopes and Seminars: A Peak at the 2025 POMA District 8 Winter Seminar
Release Date: 12/13/2024
POMA DOes...
In this episode of POMA DOes…, POMA Vice President Valeri L. Roth, DO, speaks with clinical psychologist Alan P. Childs, MA, PsyD. Together, they explore the power of empathy in medicine—what it is, how it differs from sympathy and compassion, and how physicians can strengthen it. They share practical strategies for conveying empathy through tone of voice, attentiveness, and authentic connection, even in time-constrained clinical settings. The conversation also offers heartfelt insights on how to bring more humanity to care without extending the clinical day. They highlight how empathy...
info_outlinePOMA DOes...
In this episode of POMA DOes…, Sayed Arian, DO, a third-year Family Medicine resident at Lehigh Valley Health Network’s Rural Family Medicine Program, sits down with three experienced program directors: John Kalata, DO (Family Medicine and Transitional Year Programs, LECOM Medical Center), Joseph Rosenblatt, DO (Orthopedic Surgery Residency Program, PCOM), and Brenton Song, DO (Child and Adolescent Psychiatry Fellowship Program, LECOM). Together, they offer unfiltered, candid advice for medical students preparing for residency interviews, covering what programs look for, how to communicate...
info_outlinePOMA DOes...
In this episode of POMA DOes…, James Zervios, Chief Operating Officer of the Obesity Action Coalition, joins Christopher Still, DO, Director of the Geisinger Obesity Institute, for a discussion on obesity and weight loss. They explore the wide range of treatment options, including lifestyle changes, behavioral strategies, medications, and bariatric surgery, while also addressing common challenges such as cost and insurance coverage. They also highlight the importance of long-term, individualized care, the role of mental health, and the need to recognize obesity as a chronic, relapsing...
info_outlinePOMA DOes...
In this episode of POMA DOes…, Tyler Burke, POMA’s Senior Director of Government Affairs, sits down with Jake Brennan and Colin Whitney from the American Osteopathic Association (AOA) to unpack the “One Big Beautiful Bill Act.” They break down how this sweeping legislation will affect osteopathic medicine—from medical student loans and repayment options to changes in Medicaid coverage and the downstream impact on patients and physicians. Key Takeaways: Major shifts to medical student loans begin in July 2026, including the end of Graduate PLUS loans, stricter limits on...
info_outlinePOMA DOes...
In this episode of POMA DOes…, POMA Foundation Chair John Kalata, DO, talks with Foundation Board Member Pamela Goldman, DO, about how the Foundation supports osteopathic students, residents, physicians, and communities across Pennsylvania. From scholarships and wellness grants to CME funding and community impact grant programs, they highlight the many ways the Foundation advances the osteopathic profession. Key Takeaways: The Foundation supports physicians and residents through continuing medical education, Resident Wellness Grants, and OMT table donations. It invests in...
info_outlinePOMA DOes...
In this episode of POMA DOes…, Sayed Arian, DO, a third-year Family Medicine resident at the Lehigh Valley Health Network, talks with his co-residents Haidar Alwaeli, MD, Joseph Oveh, MD, and Mahvesh Shabbir, MD, about the realities facing interns and residents. They share practical advice, lessons learned, and strategies for thriving during the transition from medical student to practicing physician. From navigating health systems and managing time to overcoming imposter syndrome and maintaining balance, this conversation offers practical insight and encouragement for residents at every...
info_outlinePOMA DOes...
In today’s episode of POMA DOes… POMA President-Elect Angela Zawisza, DO, talks with emergency medicine physicians Robert Tomsho, DO, and Holly Stankewicz, DO, about essential summer safety tips. From water sports to biking and boating, they share prevention strategies, highlight common warm-weather injuries, and address the dangers of hot car deaths. Key Takeaways: Protect Yourself: Helmets, pads, and safety gear prevent serious injuries and save lives—start the habit early. Stay Water Wise: Teach kids to swim, wear life jackets, and skip alcohol when boating or swimming. ...
info_outlinePOMA DOes...
In this episode of POMA DOes…, POMA President Dr. George Wolters, DO, talks with Tyler Burke, Senior Director of Government Affairs, about the rapid growth of Certified Registered Nurse Practitioners (CRNPs) in healthcare and recent efforts to expand the CRNP scope of practice. They discuss national trends and the policy debate in Pennsylvania, referencing the following Bloomberg investigations: Key Takeaways: Gain insight into how the scope of practice for CRNPs has evolved over time. Explore the differences between previous and recent legislative proposals related to scope...
info_outlinePOMA DOes...
In this episode of POMA DOes…, Certified Financial Planners Nicholas Mengel and Kevin Grant of MSMF Wealth Management introduce medical students and physicians to the fundamentals of financial planning. They address key topics and common questions, from investment basics to managing competing priorities. POMA is proud to share this educational content to support personal and professional financial well-being. Key Takeaways: • Gain a clear understanding of core investment concepts, including account types, terminology, and strategies. • Learn about market volatility and how to align your...
info_outlinePOMA DOes...
In today’s episode of POMA DOes…, join Angela Zawisza, DO—POMA President-Elect and POMA Foundation board member—as she celebrates the next generation of osteopathic physicians. On behalf of POMA and the POMA Foundation, Dr. Zawisza congratulates recent graduates from Pennsylvania’s colleges of osteopathic medicine, as well as those completing their residency training. You’ll also hear messages from osteopathic physicians across the state as they welcome and encourage the newest members of the profession. Key Takeaways: POMA and POMA Foundation leadership congratulate recent...
info_outlineEpisode Summary:
In today’s episode of POMA DOes… we sit down with the planning committee for the POMA District 8 Winter Seminar to highlight this year’s event. The 2025 conference offers something for everyone - top notch osteopathic medical education and opportunities for self care and wellness. In-person participants can experience immersive learning experiences, have opportunities to connect and network, and enjoy downtime with family. Virtual participants can participate in real-time and have their questions and comments addressed by our expert faculty and interact with colleagues in our virtual chatroom. Start the new year with POMA District 8 and join us January 23-26, 2025. We can't wait to see you!
Key Takeaways:
- POMA District 8 hosts the best medical conference in Western Pennsylvania! Join us January 23-26, 2025 for the POMA District 8 38th Annual Winter Seminar!
- The 2025 District 8 Conference offers something for everyone - high quality, affordable osteopathic education, opportunities to participate in-person or virtually, forums to connect and network.
- Start the new year with 24 hours of Category 1-A AOA and AMA PRA Category 1 credit.
- Don’t miss out on a great experience - register today at www.poma.org/pomad82025
Find Us:
Online: https://www.poma.org/
Email: poma@poma.org
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/POMADOs
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/pomados/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/pennsylvania-osteopathic-medical-association/
Twitter: http://www.twitter.com/POMA_DOs
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@pomados
App Store: search Pa. Osteopathic Medical Assoc.