Public Health | Montgomery County Medical Society (MD)

Summer Health Watch

A thermometer shows high temperatures over blurred sunshine, and a chalkboard sign in grass reads Beware of Ticks, warning about the risks of ticks in warm weather.

July and August bring two of the most consistent clinical challenges of the year — heat-related illness and tick-borne disease. Both are preventable, both are underdiagnosed, and both are worth a proactive conversation with your patients before they show up in your exam room. Heat-Related Illness: Know the Spectrum Heat-related illnesses range from mild presentations…

Sunscreen Tips from Your Board-Certified Dermatologist

Lawrence J. Green, M.D., FAAD Clinical Professor of Dermatology, George Washington University School of Medicine Past President, Montgomery County Medical Society Dr. Green explains, in three easy steps, the best way to take care of your skin this summer. The article and infographic at the bottom can be repurposed for use with your patients. 1.…

36 Years of the ADA: What It Means for Your Practice

Graphic with symbols for sign language, hearing, mobility aid, and wheelchair on a teal background. Large white text reads ADA at 36, marking the 36th anniversary of the Americans with Disabilities Act.

This Sunday, July 26, marks the 36th anniversary of the Americans with Disabilities Act — a milestone worth noting, especially because several new compliance deadlines affecting physician practices have either just passed or are right around the corner. Under Title III of the ADA, medical offices and hospitals are classified as “public accommodations,” which means…

Maryland Reaches 9 Measles Cases in 2026: What Physicians Need to Know

A map of Maryland with red virus icons connected by lines, symbolizing the spread of illness across different regions of the state, on a blue background with faint medical crosses.

Maryland has confirmed nine measles cases in 2026, including a cluster of five Central Maryland residents identified this week after out-of-state travel. Nationally, the CDC is tracking more than 2,260 confirmed cases across 42 jurisdictions, a pace that could surpass last year’s 33-year record before the summer ends. Imported cases are reaching practices across the…

The Heat is On: Resources for Patients to Stay Safe This Summer

Text Summer Heatwave Safety over a bright sun with clouds. A thermometer with a sun icon shows high temperature, emphasizing heatwave safety awareness.

The Independence Day heat wave was not just uncomfortable. It was a mass casualty event in slow motion. More than 470 heat-related emergency room visits were recorded during the week of June 28 through July 4 — more ER visits in that single week than in the entire heat period since May. Statewide, there had…

The Quiet Crisis Affecting LGBTQ+ Physicians and Their Patients

Bold black text reads LGBTQ HEALTH CARE above a series of overlapping rainbow-colored arcs, including traditional and transgender pride flag colors, symbolizing LGBTQ inclusivity in healthcare.

We’re closing MCMS Pride Month coverage for June 2026 with the research that sits underneath everything else we’ve shared this month. Two studies published in the past year document what’s happening to LGBTQ+ people in medicine right now, on both sides of the exam room. The picture isn’t good, and it has practical implications for…

Population Health and Readmission Prevention

Wooden figures of various sizes and colors representing people are arranged on a softly lit surface, casting long shadows. The figures stand together in groups, symbolizing diversity and community.

Isha Misra, M.D. MCMS Public Health Committee Co-Chair Hospital readmissions pose a significant challenge for the US healthcare system. Each year, about 3.8 million patients are readmitted within 30 days of discharge, generating over $50 billion in hospital costs. Research demonstrates that about 27% of readmissions are potentially preventable. Preventable readmissions are indicative of gaps…

Help Expand Access to Specialty Care in Montgomery County

Graphic with the heading ACCESS TO CARE and six blue medical icons representing heart monitoring, respiratory system, kidneys, lung protection, eye care, and medication.

Farhana Arastu, MPP Programs and Public Policy Director, MCMS Thousands of Montgomery County residents face barriers to accessing specialty care due to limited insurance coverage, financial challenges, or lack of access to specialists. Physicians can make a meaningful difference by participating in one of several programs designed to connect patients with needed specialty services. Project…

Environmental and Public Health Update: Navigating PFAS, Global Pathogens, and Local Action

Kisha N. Davis, MD, MPH, FAAFP Health Officer, Montgomery County, Maryland First, I want to extend my heartfelt thanks to the Medical Society for honoring me with the Public Health Advocacy Award at the annual meeting. This recognition truly reflects our shared commitment to safeguarding the health of all Montgomery County residents, and I am…

Maryland’s Chronic Disease Benchmarks: Where the Gaps Are and What Physicians Can Do

Wooden blocks with health-related icons, including a virus, syringe, mask, shield, and hand washing, are arranged over the Maryland state flag.

Maryland’s 2026 State Health Improvement Plan sets specific, measurable targets for five priority health areas through 2029. The chronic disease section is the most directly relevant to day-to-day clinical practice, and the numbers reveal some significant gaps worth knowing. Cancer Screening Is Lagging Only 49.3% of Maryland adults ages 45-75 have received a recommended colorectal…