August 26, 2025
As summer draws to a close, I am encouraged by the progress PALTmed has already made this year in advocating for our members and advancing the field of post-acute and long-term care (PALTC). At our July Board of Directors meeting, we focused on developing a new strategic plan—one that reflects our constant reevaluation of member needs in education, certification, networking, business, and advocacy.
A New Election Process
As part of that commitment to greater member involvement, we are excited to launch our redesigned election process that gives all members the opportunity to vote for PALTmed leadership! Beginning in January, we will be posting candidate information on the website, including statements of interest, videos, photos, and CVs.
In February, we will host a virtual town hall where you can meet the candidates, hear one-minute introductions, and listen to their individual responses to three strategic questions about PALTmed’s future. The town hall will also detail how the House of Delegates (HOD) will continue in its function as a policy-making body for PALTmed and describe ways that members can get more involved. After that, we will open the balloting for two weeks, and announce the results to the membership. This is an important step forward in transparency, engagement, and member-driven leadership.
CMD Certification Simplified
The Board recently approved an important policy change: Removing the two-year prerequisite of serving as a medical director before pursuing CMD certification. This decision makes CMD certification more accessible while maintaining its rigor and value. It reflects our commitment to supporting members earlier in their careers, ensuring they gain the knowledge and recognition needed to succeed in PALTC leadership.
I want to thank the Certification Council for its thoughtful recommendations and our Board for its decisive action. This change will also help colleagues meet new regulatory requirements in Florida, where CMD certification has been written into law, positioning PALTmed as the leader in setting professional standards for medical directors nationwide.
CMS Initiatives in 2025
PALTmed continues to work with the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) to ensure the unique needs of PALTC are represented in upcoming IT modernization efforts. We are advocating for greater EHR interconnectivity, streamlined reporting, and reduced redundancy—all aimed at reducing staff burden and improving patient care, especially in facilities with limited digital infrastructure.
Save the Date: PALTC26
Mark your calendars! The PALTC26 Annual Conference will be held March 26–28, 2026, in Anaheim, CA. This event is always a highlight of the year, bringing together colleagues for professional development, networking, and community. We encourage you to join us—consider making it a family trip as we gather for learning, growth, and connection!
Looking Ahead
Thank you for your continued support of PALTmed. Leading this organization and working alongside so many dedicated professionals remains one of the great honors of my career. Together, we are advancing excellence in PALTC, strengthening leadership, and shaping the future of our field. There are new volunteer opportunities to participate in Assisted Living and AI/Innovations Workgroups. Please consider joining if you have expertise, interest, and vision! I look forward to continuing this important journey with you.
