Greetings to all of the FLSSAMT family.

I am looking forward to seeing everyone at the Annual Meeting in Norfolk, Virginia in a few weeks. 

We had our Spring meeting in Orlando on April 15th, and it was so nice to see so many enthusiastic members. We had many CE courses scheduled, but due to unforeseen circumstances, we had to make the difficult decision to cut the meeting short. I want to thank all of the attendees for their understanding and patience. Thank you also to our wonderful board members who worked with the hotel and members to resolve the situation.

We are looking forward to the new season and we would love to have more member participation. Please remember that this is your society and your opinion counts. We organize lectures according to Florida licensure requirements and based on your recommendations. 

We will be having our Fall meeting in the beautiful Southwest area of Florida in Punta Gorda on November 4th, 2023. 

We will also be having elections for Board positions at the Fall meeting, so please start thinking about nominating members for the available positions, more information to follow. 

Thank you for your continued dedication to your patients and your communities, and for representing the healthcare team!

Best regards,
Jose Velasquez MLS, AHI
President, FLSSAMT

Editor's Message

Summer is raging here in Florida and Heat Warnings are being issued around the state to avoid overexposure to sun and heat. Florida is experiencing the hottest year on record to date. According to the Centers for Disease Control, the average number of ER visits for heat-related illnesses has reached 67,000+, 9200+ hospitalizations, and 702 deaths. Be prepared to see more patients with heat-related symptoms and illnesses. Stay well hydrated and limit your own time in the sun. Know the signs of heat exhaustion/stroke, and seek medical attention immediately if you experience any of these symptoms:

High body temperature (above 103°F) Red, hot, and dry skin (no sweating) Rapid, strong pulse Throbbing headache Dizziness Nausea Confusion

Regrettably, our Spring meeting did not go as planned with several venue-related issues that required cancellation at the half-day mark. To those who took time out of their busy schedules, those who came long distances to attend, and all of our speakers, we cannot apologize enough and so appreciate your understanding and words of support. For those who were first-time attendees, this is not our norm, and we hope you will give our meetings another try!

We are excited to announce FLSSAMT’s next Educational and Annual Business Meeting coming up November 4, 2023. It will be a jam-packed day. Not only do we have some amazing speakers and topics planned, but we will be holding elections for Board of Directors positions and Delegates for the 2024 AMT National Business Meeting. If you are interested in running for the Board or wish to be a Delegate at next year’s AMT Business Meeting, please contact us at FLSSAMT.editor@gmail.com.

Speaking of the AMT National Meeting those of you planning to attend this year – be ready for a memorable experience. Great speakers and topics, events, networking, and camaraderie! The AMT National Meetings are always well-planned and enjoyable. I hope to see you there.

Take care of yourself FLSSAMT, and do not forget there are those who could use your compassion and support. So even during your busiest times, do not forget to offer a helping hand to those in need.

Stay safe and, as always, pay It forward FLSSAMT!

Kathleene Hardy, RMA(AMT)
Media Chair