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In this Issue:
- GOVERNOR’S MESSAGE
- AND THE WINNERS ARE…
- WELLNESS CORNER
- UPCOMING ACTIVITES
- Become an ACP Fellow (FACP®)
- GET INVOLVED
Edwin A. Alicea, MD, FACP, ACP Governor
GOVERNOR’S MESSAGE
This holiday season, the ܼˮ̳ celebrates the extraordinary empathy, proficiency, and commitment of Internal Medicine Doctors. You provide hope and healing to patients and their families daily, often during their most vulnerable moments. Your unwavering commitment to care strengthens communities and inspires us all.
Our chapter has had many achievements this year. We continue to be a chapter of excellence. Participation in our activities exceeded our expectations, and the quality of our annual meeting was extraordinary. Thanks to our Council members, who have been our success pillar.
I don't want to close this year without announcing the magnificent news that we already have a new Governor-elect designee, Dr. Milton Carrero. Thanks to the chapter's members who participated in the election. This coming year will be one of preparation and onboarding for Dr. Carrero to eventually take the reins and be my successor when my term as governor ends in 2026. I want to thank Dr. Francisco Díaz Lozada for his participation as a candidate, and I know he will be an indispensable resource for the future years of our chapter.
Wishing you a joyful holiday season filled with peace, gratitude, and well-deserved rest. May the new year bring you and your family health, happiness, and continued success in your vital role as a healer and advocate for your patients and their families.
AND THE WINNERS ARE…
Over 150 attendees participated in this year's Clinical Vignettes & Research Abstracts Competition & 2024 Doctor's Dilemma®, held on October 5, 2024, at the Embassy Suites, Isla Verde. This year, we had 56 abstracts accepted, divided into ten oral presentations, 46 clinical vignette posters, and five research posters. The 2024 Abstract Bookis available on for your reference. Special thanks to Dr. Hilton Franqui, chair of the Scientific Committee, the Puerto Rico Chapter Scientific Committee members, and the judges for their contribution to the success of this event.
Congratulations to all the winners!
Research Poster:
Luis Colón González – San Lucas Hospital, Ponce
Comparing outcomes among radial vs. femoral access in percutaneous coronary intervention in ST-elevation myocardial infarction
Clinical Vignette Posters:
3rd Place
Gretchen Estrada – HURRA
(Sun)Burned by Merkel Cell Carcinoma: A presentation of multiple primary skin lesions in the upper extremity with associated metastatic disease
2nd Place
Manuel del Rio – VA Caribbean Healthcare System
Exposing the Obscured: The Role of Erythromycin in Unveiling Gastric Cancer Concealed by Residual Food
1st Place
Jerry Cruz Rodriguez – Univ. Central del Caribe
Effective Control of Pancreatitis-Related Gastric Varices Through Splenic Artery Embolization: A Case Report
Dr. Jerry Cruz Rodríguez
Oral Presentations:
3rd Place
Manuel del Rio – VA Caribbean Healthcare System
Between Beats and Visions: A Rare Case of a Left Atrial Myxoma Masquerading as Cranial Nerve Palsy
2nd Place
Maria Pestana – University District Hospital
Complexity in Disseminated Mpox Infection: A Case Report Highlighting Multisystem Involvement
1st Place
Kimberly Pagán – Mayaguez Medical Center
“From Brain to Heart, When Moyamoya Strikes”: A Rare Case Presentation
Dr. Kimberly Pagán
2024 Doctors Dilemma Competition Winners!
University District Hospital Team
- Dr. José Hernández
- Dr. Victor Mendoza
- Dr. Gabriela Rodríguez
WELLNESS CORNER
Embracing Wellness this Holiday Season: A Time for Reflection, Gratitude, and Balance
Luzimar Conaway Mediavilla, MD, FACP Wellness Chapter Champion / ܼˮ̳ of Puerto Rico
As we celebrate the holiday season, it's a perfect time to reflect on the past year, spread joy, and express gratitude for all the blessings in our lives. Amid the festivities, prioritizing wellness is key to staying balanced, energized, and ready to embrace the new year. Here are some thoughtful tips to help you stay happy and healthy during this special time of year:
- Maintain Healthy Habits – Stay active by incorporating movement into your daily routine. Enjoy a nourishing diet, savor the holiday treats in moderation, and aim for at least 7 hours of restful sleep each night.
- Take Time for Yourself – Recharge by practicing mindfulness through yoga, meditation, or simply spending time in nature. These moments of stillness help reduce stress and bring clarity during the busy season.
- Plan for the Year Ahead – Use this time to reset and set realistic goals for the coming year. A little planning now can set you up for a positive and fulfilling year ahead.
- Eat Mindfully – Savor the flavors of the season by eating slowly and mindfully. This practice allows you to fully enjoy your meals while keeping your health in check.
- Manage Your Finances – Set a budget for holiday gifts and events to avoid unnecessary stress. Planning helps prevent last-minute shopping and overspending, making the season more joyful and less stressful.
- Connect with Loved Ones – The holidays are a time to nurture relationships. Make time to connect with family and friends, whether in person or virtually, and create meaningful memories.
- Practice Gratitude – Take a moment to reflect on your gratitude and share your appreciation with others. A simple thank-you can brighten someone's day and strengthen bonds.
At the heart of the Wellness Committee of the Puerto Rico Chapter is the belief that true wellness comes from creating a balance between our professional responsibilities and well-being. As we wrap up this year, let's commit to bringing that balance into the new year, ensuring our health and happiness thrive.
UPCOMING ACTIVITES
- “Life in Balance: Sleep, Obesity, and Active Living” educational program sponsored by the Chapter's Wellness Committee. Saturday, February 8, 2025
- Ground Round: The Evolving Role of GLP-1 Agonists in the Treatment of Obesity and Diabetesby Dr. Myriam Allende, MD, FACE, MACP / February 11, 2025 / 8:00 AM Virtual and In-Person at the UPR Medical Science Campus
- Puerto Rico Chapter 2025 Annual Meeting March 6-8, 2025, at the Sheraton Convention Center in San Juan, PR 19 CME, including a pre-course: The Puerto Rico Board of Licensing and Medical Disciplines Requirements for Physician's License Recertification for 2023-2025. More information and registration here!
- Chapter Reception @ April 3-5, 2025, in New Orleans, LA. Our reception will be at the New Orleans Marriott on April 4th, 2025.
Become an ACP Fellow (FACP®)
ACP Members are encouraged to review the requirements for advancement to Fellowship of the ܼˮ̳. Do not hesitate to contact us for information at rinavega@rivsmarketing.com.
GET INVOLVED
- Get involved with the ACP activities and participate in our mission for education and service in Internal Medicine.
- Your attendance will contribute to the success of our activity and our ACP Puerto Rico Chapter!
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Editorial Committee:
Edwin Alicea, MD FACP
Mrs. Rina Vega
Luzimar Conaway, MD, FACP