News

Legislative Champion Dr. Amish Shah Launches Congressional Campaign

Physician, state legislator, and ArMA member Dr. Amish Shah announced his candidacy for U.S. Congress on April 3. With over 15 years of experience as an emergency physician and three successful terms in the legislature, Dr. Shah looks to continue supporting physicians and patients by running for Arizona’s First Congressional District (CD1). Dr. Shah is a healthcare champion with integrity, compassion, and invaluable experience. Click here to read his announcement. To learn more about his congressional candidacy, please visit amishforarizona.com. 

ArMPAC’s 2022 General Election Voter Guide

Arizona’s 2022 General Election is right around the corner! Tuesday, October 11 is the last day to register to vote in the State General Election, which is taking place on Tuesday, November 8. With your time at the ballot box rapidly approaching, the Arizona Medical Political Action Committee (ArMPAC) is making it easier than ever before to stay informed on which candidates have vowed to support the physician community. Take a moment to meet this election cycle’s ArMPAC-endorsed candidates by reviewing our newly-published 2022 General Election Voter Guide. With ArMPAC’s voter guide in hand, you can feel confident that your vote will support a strong future for health care policy.

Every one of our spotlighted candidates has committed to protecting the practice of medicine at the Arizona State Capitol. You will find that our list features a diverse, bipartisan group of voices, including physicians, nurses, teachers, veterans, and first-generation Americans. Together, they can fight for the betterment of medicine in Arizona and work across the aisle to protect patients’ access to high-quality care.

Incumbents:

Arizona House of Representatives

Representative Judy Schwiebert – LD2
Representative Judy Schwiebert is Arizona’s best choice for LD2. Her deep-rooted ties to Arizona’s education and strong belief in a healthy Arizona make her an ideal voice to speak for the physician community in Arizona.

“I believe Arizonans should have access to quality affordable healthcare, regardless of pre-existing conditions. I will work to allow consumers to buy into AHCCCS, the state’s Medicaid agency, increasing the program’s bargaining power to reduce premiums for everyone.” Learn more about Rep. Schwiebert »

Representative Justin Wilmeth – LD2
Representative Justin Wilmeth is dedicated to a future of good health care policy that benefits physicians and their patients.

“Between his life experiences and education, Justin has proven to be an adept state legislator. He first won election to the House in 2020. In only one term at the Arizona House of Representatives, he was the prime sponsor of 18 bills that were signed into law.” Learn more about Rep. Wilmeth »

Representative Amish Shah – LD5
As the strongest voice for physicians at the Arizona State Capitol, Representative Shah understands how to communicate the unique needs of medicine. Rep. Shah is an ArMA member and the 2022 recipient of ArMA’s Distinguished Service Award.

“I am a physician who works all over Arizona in our Emergency Departments. Every day, I take care of people without any regard for their ability to pay. Many are in the ER because they have nowhere else to go, but the ER cannot provide comprehensive care… I stand for ALL AMERICANS to have comprehensive and high-quality healthcare with ease of access.” Learn more about Rep. Shah here »

Representative David Cook – LD7
Representative David Cook believes in a healthy Arizona for all. He has a unique perspective on rural Arizona and recognizes the need for better access to food, water, and medicine.

“In his first two terms, he has established himself as a leader on issues that relate to ranching, agriculture, rural issues, water, and education. He has also been a vocal leader on the issue of transportation and infrastructure and has led the fight to bring increased funding for roads and bridges to our part of the state.” Learn more about Rep. Cook here »

Representative Melody Hernandez – LD8
Representative Melody Hernandez is one of the few representatives who is actively serving the health care needs of her community. As an active paramedic and having worked in emergency medical services for over seven years, Rep. Hernandez speaks to ensure that all Arizonans have access to the services they need.

“Her experiences fighting to protect and uplift others has reinforced why stronger access to healthcare, public education, jobs, and housing is essential to building strong families and a strong economy – and that’s what she will continue to fight for at the Capitol.” Learn more about Rep. Hernandez here »

Representative Jennifer Pawlik – LD13
Representative Jennifer Pawlik is Arizona’s best choice for LD13. Rep. Pawlik is committed to not only protecting the practice of medicine but is committed to educating the public on why medicine needs protecting.

“We must also encourage preventive care, so that small problems don’t become worse. We must equip people to make smart choices about their own health and well-being.” Learn more about Rep. Pawlik here »

Representative Chris Mathis – LD18
As a professor of health care law at the University of Arizona, Representative Chris Mathis knows what’s best for LD18. Rep. Mathis has a robust knowledge of healthcare policy, making him an asset to physicians and all health care professionals.

“A Professor of Practice at the University of Arizona’s James E. Rogers College of Law and Arizona Education Association member, Chris teaches classes on Health Care Law & Policy and Aging. He formerly served as Director of Policy & Communications at the Healthcare Markets & Regulation (HMR) Lab at Harvard Medical School and as Southern Arizona Coordinator for the Flinn-Brown Fellows Civic Leadership Program.” Learn more about Rep. Mathis here »

Arizona State Senate

Representative Steve Kaiser – LD2
Representative Steve Kaiser is passionate about serving the unique needs of his district, the very community he grew up in. As the Vice-Chair of the House Health and Human Services Committee, Rep. Kaiser has been an asset to the healthcare community.

“Steve believes the district needs a leader who understands the principles that make a thriving economy, a safe state, and strong families.” Learn more about Rep. Kaiser here »

Senator Christine Marsh – LD4
Senator Christine Marsh believes in a future where the doctor-patient relationship is respected and protected. That’s why her election to the Arizona State Senate is absolutely necessary to create a healthy future for all Arizonans.

“Arizona is facing a physician shortage and I will advocate for new policy and expanded programs that will help retain graduate medical professionals in our state and strengthen our hospital system.” Learn more about Sen. Marsh here »

Representative Mitzi Epstein – LD12
Representative Mitzi Epstein has always held the same principles in her service to her district. Committed to protecting the practice of medicine in Arizona, Rep. Epstein is the best choice for LD12.

“Our state Legislature decides which rights and protections we have – and which we don’t. The Arizona Legislature has the power to protect our rights but only with the right people in office.” Learn more about Rep. Epstein here »

Senator T.J. Shope – LD16
Senator T.J. Shope is the best-prepared candidate to protect and advocate for Arizona physicians in LD16. Sen. Shope has honorably served on the Senate Health Committee and has a history of standing for legislation that stands for physicians. 

“His commitment to finding real solutions to real problems is obvious, and those who know him recognize his strong work ethic, bright mind, and dedication to the people of his community.” Learn more about Sen. Shope here »

New Candidates:

Arizona House of Representatives

Selina Bliss – LD1
Meet Selina Bliss, ArMPAC’s new candidate endorsement for LD1. Bliss has an impressive and extensive health care background as a nurse at Yavapai Regional Medical Center and a teacher at Yavapai College. Her deep understanding of the health care community will be an asset at the legislature.

“The most effective government is government closest to the people… The strength of our nation lies with the individual and that each person’s dignity, freedom, ability, and responsibility must be honored.” Learn more about Selina Bliss here »

Cathy Ransom – LD1
Cathy Ransom brings all the right skills to the table. Ransom has worked in the world of health care and has been a strong advocate for domestic violence awareness.

“We can also improve the health of Arizonans through community health centers, which have a proven track record of success in increasing population health. Having professionals share knowledge and train citizen volunteers can help everyone better understand how to care for themselves and their family.” Learn more about Cathy Ransom here »

Matt Gress – LD4
Matt Gress is committed to working on both sides of the aisle to promote policies that better the health care community in Arizona. Gress has a unique perspective on finance and budgeting.

“Here in Arizona, Matt has served as a faculty associate at Arizona State University and as a budget analyst at the Arizona State Capitol, learning exactly where our tax dollars go.” Learn more about Matt Gress here »

Laura Terech – LD4
Laura Terech will stand up for physicians when elected to the House and will fight to see a healthier Arizona for all.

“After a career as an elementary school teacher in the Pendergast Elementary School District, I turned to community organizing, knowing we must make structural changes to how and when Arizona invests… “ Learn more about Laura Terech here »

Lorena Austin – LD9
Lorena Austin will be an excellent advocate for the physicians of LD9. Austin is passionate about affordable and responsible healthcare and is committed to protecting the House of Medicine in Arizona.

“The Arizona Health Care Cost Containment System (AHCCCS) is one of the best-run Medicaid programs in the nation. It is imperative that we build on that success by allowing every Arizonan to affordably buy into the program.” Learn more about Lorena Austin here »

Seth Blattman – LD9
Seth Blattman wants to see Arizona ranked #1 in health care spending. Blattman’s history of honesty and support for physicians makes him Arizona’s ideal candidate for LD9.

“Near last in the nation in education and healthcare spending. Career politicians facing ethics investigations. An economy that still lags behind other states we compete with. This isn’t what we voted for.” Learn more about Seth Blattman here »

Patty Contreras – LD12
Patty Contreras has always committed to supporting good public health policy. As an advocate for physicians, Contreras will protect the practice of medicine to support a healthy future for patients.

“I want to continue to serve the public as an elected official to help make policy that will benefit our constituents and all Arizonans.” Learn more about Patty Contreras here »

Stacey Travers – LD12
Stacey Travers will stand up for the best interest of physicians in LD12. Inspired by the toll the COVID-19 pandemic has taken on members of the health care community, Travers is fighting to support those who have kept Arizona safe.

“We need to prioritize healthcare policy here in Arizona. The pandemic has taken a human toll on our state. The state administration has failed to implement a coherent strategy and uses funds as a political football. I will continue to work for vital support for Arizona’s recovery and make healthcare accessible to all.” Learn more about Stacey Travers here »

Julie Willoughby – LD13
As an experienced ER Nurse, Julie Willoughby is well prepared to advocate for the needs of the patients and healthcare providers alike.

“Early treatment and therapeutics have always been key to good patient outcomes and care of our community members. I believe a provider should be able to prescribe the medication that their medical expertise deems appropriate for their patients.” Learn more about Julie Willoughby here »

Keith Seaman – LD16
Keith Seaman is a lifelong educator but has seen firsthand the needs of the health care community as the husband of a nurse who served patients for over 30 years in Arizona hospitals. He knows how important it is for people to have robust access to healthcare and affordable prescriptions. Seaman is Arizona’s best choice for LD16.

“Every Arizonan should have access to health care that includes affordable prescription drugs. I will help expand access to care when I am elected to the state house.” Learn more about Keith Seaman here »

Nancy Gutierrez – LD18
With a history of leadership and advocacy for a better Arizona, Nancy Gutierrez is the right call for LD18. Gutierrez is dedicated to bringing scientifically sound policy to the table that addresses the needs of physicians and patients.

“There is money in the Arizona budget to fund healthcare for women and children who can’t afford insurance.” Learn more about Nancy Gutierrez here »

Arizona State Senate

Eva Burch – LD9
Eva Burch has served the East Valley as an emergency room nurse since 2012 and has seen firsthand how disparities in access to care impact individuals, families, and communities. Eva will advocate for a more inclusive Arizona that works for all. 

“Eva knows that with the right legislation and the right distribution of resources, we can create healthier communities by expanding access to preventative healthcare and lowering the cost of prescription drugs. We must also expand access to KidsCare and make sure our seniors receive the Social Security benefits they paid into throughout their lives.” Learn more about Eva Burch here »

Priya Sundareshan – LD18
Priya Sundareshan is Arizona’s best choice for LD18. Sundareshan will be an advocate for the physician community and will work hard to ensure a healthier future for the next generation of Arizonans.

“I know we need more science-based decision-making in politics, especially when it comes to preserving our beautiful state for future generations. As a mother of two small children, I want my children and all children to inherit a sustainable world and sustainable Arizona.” Learn more about Priya Sundareshan here »

Voting continues to be the most powerful tool for democracy. Arizona.Vote makes it easy to research candidates, find polling locations, and request an early voting ballot by October 28. Visit your best voting resource today »

Not sure which district you live in? Find your legislative district here »

At the end of the day, ArMPAC’s top priority is to support candidates who support you. Aid ArMPAC in supporting physician-friendly candidates by making a contribution today »

Elections 103: Maricopa County Text Updates

Have you ever wondered if your election ballot was verified and counted? Maricopa County residents can receive text updates on the status of their ballot from start to finish. Want to receive texts for the general election in November? Text the letters “EV” to 628683. You will receive a link to subscribe to text and emails from the Maricopa County Recorder’s office. Once you register, you will receive a confirmation text that you have signed up to receive alerts. Throughout election season, you can text “EV” to 628683 and receive the most recent update on your ballot.

This article was originally published by Eryn Streeter for the Arizona Medical Association (ArMA) on Friday, August 5, 2022. 

Elections 102: Candidate Names on a Primary Election Ballot

Have you ever noticed that candidate names listed on a primary election ballot are not always in alphabetical order? Any ballot category that has two or more candidates running for an office will have names rotated so each candidate’s name appears equally at the top. Rotating names provides the opportunity for each candidate to be exposed to the same number of voters as their competitors. In Maricopa County, there are over 19,000 ballot styles for the primary election alone. 

This article was originally published by Eryn Streeter for the Arizona Medical Association (ArMA) on Thursday, July 28, 2022. 

Elections 101: Ballot Measure Numbers

Did you know the actual ballot measure number has a specific meaning about the measure? Initiatives and referendums can range from 100 all the way through 400.

Ballot measures that begin with a one are Constitutional amendments. Any proposed amendment to the Constitution must be approved by voters and can be introduced by a voter initiative or legislative referendum. Proposition 105 (1998), which prohibits the legislature from amending citizens’ initiatives, is a well-known example of a constitutional amendment. Measures that begin with a two are citizen initiatives. As you may recall, in 2020, voters had two citizen initiatives: Proposition 207 which legalized recreational marijuana, and Proposition 208 which imposed a tax surcharge on certain income brackets for education funding.

Ballot measures beginning with a three are legislative referendums. In this instance, if sufficient signatures are gathered to demonstrate that voters are not supportive of a newly enacted law, the voters will have the opportunity to override the legislature’s law.  Finally, propositions beginning with a four are bond or budget override, or it is a local government issue. The Peoria Unified School District, for example, referred an override to the ballot in 2020 that would authorize a 13 percent maintenance and operations budget override continuation. 

This article was originally published by Eryn Streeter for the Arizona Medical Association (ArMA) on Friday, July 22, 2022. 

ArMPAC Announces 2022 Primary Election Candidate Endorsements

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

The Arizona Medical Political Action Committee (ArMPAC) is pleased to announce its 2022 primary election candidate endorsements for Arizona’s State House of Representatives and Senate. Comprised of physicians across Arizona and led by an 18-member Board of Directors, ArMPAC is a nonpartisan political action committee that supports candidates for office who understand the challenges physicians face today.

2022 Incumbent Endorsements Include:

Arizona House of Representatives

• Rep. Amish Shah, MD — LD5
• Rep. Chris Mathis — LD18
• Rep. Joel John — LD25

Arizona Senate

• Sen. Tyler Pace — LD9
• Rep. Speaker Russell “Rusty” Bowers — LD10
• Rep. Joanne Osborne — LD29

New candidates

Arizona House of Representatives

• Selina Bliss — LD1

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About Arizona Medical Political Action Committee

The Arizona Medical Association Political Action Committee (ArMPAC) is the nonpartisan PAC for the Arizona Medical Association (ArMA), the largest organization in the state representing the interests of physicians. ArMPAC endorses candidates who support Arizona physicians and the patients they care for and is committed to the highest quality of healthcare for all Arizonans. For more information, visit www.ArMPAC.org and follow ArMPAC on Facebook and Twitter.

In the Limelight: Dr. Michael Huether

ArMPAC’s donor in the limelight this month is Dr. Michael Huether, who practices dermatology at the Arizona Skin Cancer Surgery Center in Tucson. A native of South Dakota, Dr. Huether was an undergraduate at the University of South Dakota and received his medical doctorate from the University of Iowa College of Medicine. After receiving his medical degree, Dr. Huether completed training at Yale’s New Haven Hospital and interned at Mayo Clinic Hospital in Scottsdale.

Dr. Huether’s expertise lies in the surgical treatment of skin cancer, and he has been a private practice physician for more than 20 years. What’s more, Dr. Huether is a long-standing ArMA member with nearly 30 years of experience with the organization. We’d like to recognize Dr. Huether for his generosity and congratulate him on being a Grand Canyon Level contributor! Thank you for your dedication to ArMPAC and organized medicine.

Click here to meet ArMPAC’s other donors.

In the Limelight: Dr. Jennifer Hartmark-Hill

ArMPAC’s donor in the limelight this month is Dr. Jennifer Hartmark-Hill. A true beacon of compassion, Dr. Hartmark-Hill is a Mayo Clinic-trained family medicine physician, an alum of the University of Arizona (UA) College of Medicine – Phoenix, and a medical educator. She currently wears many hats, serving at UA as the Director of Faculty Instructional Development Programs, Director of Narrative Medicine, Director of Longitudinal Clinical Experience, and Director of the Patient-Centered Care Curriculum.

Among countless other accolades, Dr. Hartmark-Hill is a Gold Humanism Award recipient for her care for vulnerable populations, including outreach to patients experiencing homelessness through Street Medicine Phoenix. She has a long-standing track record of service and leadership across organizations in Arizona, including the Arizona Medical Association (ArMA). Currently, Dr. Hartmark-Hill is ArMA’s President-Elect.

Click here to meet ArMPAC’s other donors.