Two ACMS Physicians Receive Prestigious Honors for Medical Excellence

This month is rich with health awareness efforts from Heart Month to National Kidney Month, spotlighting the importance of prevention, education, and community health. No surprise that two Allegheny County Medical Society (ACMS) members were recognized with awards, noting their accomplishments and contributions to the Western Pennsylvania medical community: Dr. Stanley Marks, Chairman of the […]

AMA National Advocacy Conference Recap

By Sara Hussey, MBA, CAE Washington, DC | February 23–25, 2026 In late February, I joined physician leaders from across the country in Washington, DC for the American Medical Association National Advocacy Conference (NAC). The conference brings together organized medicine to share frontline experiences, strengthen advocacy skills, and elevate physician voices on policies that protect […]

Creative Voices in Medicine – Dr. Najya A. Williams

Creation Story By Najya A. Williams, MD – Family Medicine PGY-1 Our annual photo contest has long been a popular tradition and a great way for physicians to share their creative side. With that spirit in mind, the ACMS Bulletin is introducing a new section dedicated to highlighting the artistic talents of our members. As […]

Protecting Safe Access to Medical Care in Allegheny County

Update (March 2026): On March 10, 2026, Allegheny County Council passed an ordinance limiting cooperation between county employees and U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE). The measure restricts the use of county resources for federal immigration enforcement activities, except where required by law or court order, reinforcing that immigration enforcement is a federal responsibility. While […]

ACMS Legislative Town Hall Highlights Key Healthcare Policy Issues

ACMS Legislative Town Hall Highlights Key Healthcare Policy Issues By: Sara Hussey, MBA, CAE – ACMS Executive Director On March 3, ACMS members gathered virtually for a Legislative Town Hall to discuss several policy issues shaping healthcare in Pennsylvania. Maintaining safe and reliable access to medical care remains the top advocacy priority for many physicians. […]

Ensuring Physicians Have a Voice: Dr. Richard Hoffmaster Leads ACMS Advocacy Efforts

Richard Hoffmaster, MD, serves on the Board of Directors of the Allegheny County Medical Society (ACMS) as the 2026 President-Elect and Chair of the ACMS Advocacy Task Force. His leadership efforts help ensure that physicians have a meaningful seat at the policymaking table. “As chair of the ACMS Advocacy Task Force, which we created just […]

The Risks of Rolling Back Vaccine Recommendations

Why the CDC’s Recent Changes Endanger Public Health By: Raymond Pontzer, MD Protecting Our Communities: Vaccines Save Lives Vaccines represent one of the most effective tools humanity has ever deployed in the fight against infectious diseases. Over decades, robust immunization programs have all but eradicated illnesses that once crippled entire populations. As such, any step […]

Scholarships That Quietly Strengthen Patient Care in Allegheny County

Scholarships That Quietly Strengthen Patient Care In Allegheny County By: Melanie Mayer You support patient care every day. You also support the systems that keep patient care moving. One part of that work starts long before a patient enters an exam room. It starts with the people training to deliver care here. The ACMS Foundation […]