The ISMA submitted this letter  (Holcomb-COVID-Letter_FINAL.pdf) to the Governor on March 19, 2020 asking him to take several steps to maximize telemedicine flexibility, increase access to covid-19 testing, and address healthcare workforce issues.  They are also talking to the payers about telemedicine coverage. 

The first case of COVID-19 in Indiana has been announced: a Marion County resident who contacted Community Health in Indianapolis. As a result, Gov. Eric Holcomb has declared a public health emergency, which will allow the state to access federal funding to support Indiana’s efforts. This “isolated case” is an adult who had recently returned after traveling to Boston. The patient has been in isolation with no contact with any other patients.

To read the release from the Indiana State Department of Health on this case of COVID-19, go here.

ISMA recently launched its COVID-19 Resources Page to ensure Indiana physicians have the most relevant and up-to-date information on the virus. Check this page often for the most recent information Indiana physicians need to know.

The Marion County Public Health Department wanted the share their free diabetes program with us.  Below is information about their program that you can share with your patients and a class schedule for 2020.  

The Marion County Public Health Department offers the ABCs of Diabetes self-management program.  The program is accredited by the American Association of Diabetes Educators (AADE) for continuing to meet the National Standards for Diabetes Self-Management Education Programs.  Individuals with pre-diabetes and diabetes are provided with training in self-management skills in order to improve their health related quality of life.  The ABCs of Diabetes program is presented free of charge.  Individuals enrolled in the program participate in a pre-assessment, four educational classes, group medical nutrition as well as a one-on-one consultation with a registered dietitian, a post-assessment with a registered nurse, and a two-month follow up. Client registration is required for the classes and can be done by telephone at (317) 221-2094 or online at marionhealth.org/diabetes.

If your patient attends our program, you will receive a letter outlining which classes they attended and whether or not they met with our dietitian and nurse. We will also include a copy of the behavior change goals your patient set at the end of the program. We hope this communication gives you the opportunity to commend your patient for taking positive steps to improve their wellbeing and encourage them to achieve their goals. Enclosed is the 2020 class brochure outlining upcoming classes, an order form for additional brochures, and an 11x17 poster that can be used in your office. Please feel free to fax over the order form or put your request in an email to diabetes@marionhealth.org. Thank you for providing this valuable resource to your patients.

ABCs of Diabetes Class Schedule.pdf

Stacie Hurrle, BS

Diabetes Health Educator

Marion County Public Health Department

3838 North Rural Street

Indianapolis, IN 46205

317.221.2104 office

317.221.3114 fax

On November 7, at the suggestion of an IMS member, all candidates were invited to provide a brief bio and/or 250-word statement if they wished.  They were NOT required to do so as part of their candidacy.  If you would like to read about the candidates that have been able to submit information you can do so here: 2020 Candidate Info.pdf

As candidates submit statements, I will be updating the document so you may want to check back.  Last update 11/25/2019 at 8:13 am  

IMS Tracking Sheet 2019 Resolution Tracking Sheet FINAL.xlsx

ISMA Final Document All 2019 Resolutions_Final.docx

Board Meeting Information 

https://www.ismanet.org/ISMA/About_Us/Public_Policy/Submit_Resolution/ISMA/About_Us/Submit_Resolutions.aspx?hkey=948c13be-ea43-43df-a558-843e21d0f3d1

Full Presentation from the Board Meeting 

SSP.pdf