AS WE ENTER the month of May, our thoughts often turn to Mother’s Day, the end of the school year for our children, prom night for our youth, Memorial Day, and the fast-approaching summer break. Perhaps lesser known than these staples of the month, however, is National Nurses Week, which is happening May 6-12. During this week, hospitals, doctor’s offices, organizations, colleagues, and friends across the country are taking time to recognize these essential members of the healthcare community.
Likewise, inside the pages of Central Florida Health News this month, stories will give you insight into this field of specialty as well as honor some of our very own nurses in the community. On behalf of the Polk County Medical Association, I’d like to take a moment to share our gratitude for all the local nurses in the field who devote their time, knowledge, energy, and passion to those in need. We encourage you to find time this month to show appreciation for your family healthcare nurses. Sometimes, a simple “thank you” and a kind smile can make all the difference!
In addition to the Nursing Tribute stories in this edition, you’ll also find a very informative column from Dr. Ulyee Choe, a Polk County Medical Association member and the director of the Florida Department of Health in Polk County. In the Medical Advice column this month, Dr. Choe brings to light the risks of Human Papillomavirus (HPV), and the importance of prevention and getting vaccinated. If you have a child or teenager, then this is a must-read column.
As always, the physicians of the Polk County Medical Association are here to help you live a safe and healthy life, so we hope you enjoy this special edition of Central Florida Health News magazine.
Sincerely,
ARVIND B. SONI, MD
Director of Radiation Oncology
St. Joseph’s Hospital, BayCare Health System
President, Polk County Medical Association