Dear MDAFP Members,
As we step into 2026, I find myself reflecting on the incredible journey we've shared this past year, and my heart is full of gratitude for each of you. Serving as your executive director continues to be one of the greatest joys of my professional life, and 2025 has reminded me why I love this work so much.
What a year it has been! Together, we've accomplished so much. We successfully advanced our legislative priorities in Annapolis, strengthening our voice for family medicine and the patients you serve. Our advocacy efforts resulted in meaningful policy changes that will benefit your practices and Maryland families for years to come. Those legislative wins included funded payment rates for E&M codes at 99% of Medicare, funding for loan repayment to physicians who agree to serve for two years in under-served areas, AHEAD Model implementation and more. Our Annual Meeting and Winter Refresher brought together members from all over the state, creating connections and sharing knowledge that strengthens our entire community. And watching our residents and medical students grow into passionate advocates for family medicine? That never gets old.
But beyond the programs and initiatives, what truly moved me this year was witnessing the resilience and compassion you showed every single day. You showed up for your patients during challenging times. You mentored the next generation. You supported one another. You are a reminder why family physicians are the cornerstone of quality healthcare in Maryland.
As we look toward 2026, I'm excited about what we'll build together. We're entering the final 2 years of our strategic plan with momentum and clarity about our mission, to support Maryland family physicians in their efforts to promote equity and optimize the health of our State’s patients, families and communities. We have meaningful work ahead and will continue to advocate for you in the legislature, expand our educational programming, secure a stable, growing workforce and ensure that family medicine remains at the forefront of healthcare innovation in Maryland. The opportunities before us are tremendous, and I know that with this incredible community, we're ready to seize them.
To our nearly 1,500 members, thank you for the privilege of serving you. Thank you for your dedication to your patients, your communities, and this specialty we all love. And thank you for the energy and ideas you bring to our Academy. You inspire me every day.
Cheers to another year of working side by side, supporting one another, and making a real difference in the lives of Maryland families. I can't wait to see what we'll accomplish together in 2026.
