HCMA Talking Points – Reasons to Join the HCMA

• The Hillsborough County Medical Association, Inc., (HCMA) serves as your local voice, addressing issues directly related to the practice of medicine.  We have served as a resource for physicians, patients, and the community since 1895.
• Legislative advocacy and involvement is the most valuable benefit for physicians.  Results occur when county medical association resolutions, vetted by the FMA, are made into law through the legislative process.  A good return on membership investment is demonstrated as battles in the legislative arena are won. 
• Examples: The sweeping medical liability reform bill (HB 479), which passed in 2011, was a direct result of the tireless efforts of HCMA leaders.  The 2008 Managed Care bill (SB 1012), which among other things reduced the "look back" period for managed care companies from 30 months to 12 months was also a direct result of victory beginning here... at the local level by HCMA leaders. 
• HILLPAC (the political arm of HCMA), interviews candidates and supports those favorable to medicine.  Leaders maintain relationships with Hillsborough County legislators by educating them and their aides.  One example is an annual legislative luncheon held prior to the legislative session each year.  
• The MCMS, Inc., Insurance Trust Fund provides group major medical insurance for eligible members' practices, through Florida Blue.  The trust realizes significant savings.  This superb tangible benefit remains a "Tax-Free" benefit as an approved group plan.
• Members are kept informed of pertinent information, deadlines for rules & regulations, updates on governmental mandates, etc., via a monthly E-News.  The HCMA's journal, The Bulletin, and the HCMA website also offer a plethora of information for physicians and their patients.   
• The HCMA offers Educational Seminars for members and their office staff at no cost. 
• Networking Events and informative quarterly Membership Dinner Meetings are offered to members at no cost.
• The HCMA's Benefit Provider Program is uniquely designed for members only.  The program provides value to physicians with discounted products and services that, when utilized, far exceed the cost of annual dues.

For more information, contact:

Debbie Zorian, HCMA Executive Director

(813) 253-0471 or dzorian@hcma.net

January 2016