Summer 2026
H EA LT H SY ST EMS S ERVING L A N CAST ER C O U NTY WEIGH IN ON
Challenges to Public Health
A PHYSICIAN’S PERSPECTIVE ON THE PITT
EMERGING PARADIGMS IN CANCER CARE
BY JAMES L. MEDINA, MD, FACEP
BY LENA DUMASIA, MD
DISCOVER
Your new digital gateway to the latest WellSpan advances. With articles, research updates and exclusive insights tailored for physicians, MacroScope is our new content platform to inform and inspire. We look forward to sharing medical innovations, clinical research and new technologies that will empower and inform your professional journey. • Stay up to date: Keep abreast of the latest developments across various specialties. • Gain insights: Benefit from expert analyses and studies that can directly impact your practice. • Expand your network: Connect with other experts shaping the future of healthcare.
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contents SUMMER 2026
2025/2026 Board of Directors OFFICERS Robin M. Hicks, DO President UPMC Supportive Care & Palliative Medicine
PERSPECTIVES
Health Systems Serving Lancaster County Weigh in on
Challenges to Public Health
Sarah Eiser, MD Immediate Past President Penn Medicine Lancaster General Health Physicians Lancaster Physicians for Women
p. 24
Christopher R. Scheid, DO President-elect UPMC Senior Care
David J. Gasperack, DO Vice President WellSpan Health
James M. Kelly, MD Treasurer Penn Medicine Lancaster General Health Physicians Family Medicine Lincoln
Best Practices 6
Penn Medicine LG Health Offers New Treatment Option for Overactive Bladder: Implantable Tibial Nerve Stimulation
10 New MRI Machine at UPMC Lititz Provides Advanced Imaging and 36% More Room for Enhanced Patient Care and Comfort
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Penn State Health Lancaster Medical Center Reduces Wait Times for Radiology Services While Maintaining High Quality Standards
12 WellSpan Health Expands Orthopedic Care in Lancaster County: Two New Locations, Growing Subspecialty Access
Lena Dumasia, MD Secretary Lancaster Cancer Center
DIRECTORS Mitchell B. Crawford, DO | WellSpan Philhaven Stacey S. Denlinger, DO | Highlands Family Practice Laura H. Fisher, MD | Lancaster Family Allergy Abby Geletzke, MD | UPMC Breast Health Associates Carey Hung, DO | Resident, UPMC Lititz Hayley A. Kong, MD | Resident, Lancaster General Hospital
Karen A. Rizzo, MD, FACS | Lancaster Ear Nose and Throat, LLC
Danielle Rubinstein, DO | Penn Medicine Lancaster
In Every Issue
General Health Physicians Geriatrics
Daniel J. Schlegel, MD, MHA, FAAFP | Penn State Health Middletown
Alison N. Schuster, MD, Resident | Lancaster General Hospital
EDITORS
4
President’s Message
20 Patient Advocacy
5
Legislative Updates
24 Perspectives
14 Healthy Communities
29 News & Announcements
Dawn Mentzer Beth E. Gerber Lancaster City & County Medical Society
Stacey S. Denlinger, DO UPMC Wound and Hyperbaric Center
Lancaster Physician is a publication of the Lancaster City & County Medical Society (LCCMS). The Lancaster City & County Medical Society’s mission statement: To promote and protect the practice of medicine for the physicians of Lancaster County so they may provide the highest quality of patient-centered care in an increasingly complex environment.
Content Submission The Lancaster Physician magazine welcomes recommendations for editorial content focusing on medical practice and management issues, and health and wellness topics that impact our community. However, we only accept articles from members of the Lancaster City & County Medical Society. For more information or submission suggestions, please email bgerber@lancastermedicalsociety.org.
Hoffmann Publishing Group is the official publisher of the Lancaster City & County Medical Society’s Lancaster Physician magazine. FOR ADVERTISING OPPORTUNITIES CONTACT: Ad Sales, Sales@HoffPubs.com, 610-685-0914 x715 © 2026 All rights reserved. No portion of this publication may be reproduced electronically or in print without the expressed written permission of the publisher.
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President’s Message
Hello Lancaster County, This will be my final message as the LCCMS president! They say, “time flies,” and it sure seems to go by faster and faster every year!
Sarah Eiser, MD Penn Medicine Lancaster General Health Physicians Lancaster Physicians for Women
This summer, the magazine will feature articles about the biggest challenges and issues in public health in Lancaster County and how the health systems are addressing them. We will also cover new dietary guidelines (the new food pyramid!), where we stand in the cancer battle, and how realistic is the television show, The Pitt.
You’re proud to be a physician. Support the organization dedicated to serving you and your passion.
You’ll also get the latest on PAMED’s Physician Unionization Taskforce and other legislative updates. And of course, our regular features are back: health system Best Practices, LCCMS Member Spotlight, Frontline Group Spotlight, a physician’s Passion Outside of Practice, and a Restaurant Review.
United we are stronger and can work together to make a positive impact in Lancaster County medicine and beyond.
It has been a pleasure serving in this role, and I wish you all continued health and happiness.
If you aren’t already a member, we hope you’ll consider a membership investment in LCCMS.
Thank you,
-SE
Scan the QR code below to learn more.
LCCMS CALENDAR OF EVENTS PAMED House of Delegates Friday, October 23 - Sunday, October 25 Hershey Lodge (hybrid event)
Holiday Social & Foundation Benefit Saturday, December 5, 6:30 - 10 p.m. Lancaster Country Club
Visit lancastermedicalsociety.org
Wondering how to keep up with important LCCMS and PAMED news and updates? Follow us on Facebook at
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www.facebook.com/LCCMS
www.instagram.com /lancastermedicalsociety
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Visit our website at www.lancastermedicalsociety.org
Summer 2026
LEGISLATIVE UPDATES SUMMER 2026 The Pennsylvania General Assembly met in session throughout most of April and the first week of May, and after some time out, it returned in June for the annual budget push. As expected, the legislative agenda thus far has been dominated by elections. The gubernatorial election will take place this November, as will all 203 PA House seats and 25 of the 50 PA Senate seats. The results of Pennsylvania’s May 19 primary election officially set the stage for several highly competitive congressional and statewide races heading into November 2026. While most incumbents in closely watched races successfully advanced through their primaries, the election solidified a number of matchups that are expected to draw significant national attention. Among the most closely watched races were Pennsylvania’s 1st, 7th, and 10th Congressional Districts, all of which are expected to remain key battlegrounds in the fight for control of the U.S. House of Representatives. In PA-10, incumbent Congressman Scott Perry (R) advanced to face former news anchor Janelle Stelson (D) in a highly anticipated rematch following one of the closest congressional races in the Commonwealth during the last election cycle. In PA-7, incumbent Congressman Ryan Mackenzie (R) advanced and will face Democrat Bob Brooks in another competitive Lehigh Valley race. Meanwhile, Congressman Brian Fitzpatrick (R) advanced in PA-1 and will face Democrat Bob Harvie in Bucks County, continuing what is expected to be one of the nation’s most closely watched suburban congressional contests. The primary also featured a notable openseat race in Philadelphia’s 3rd Congressional District, where State Representative Chris Rabb secured the Democratic nomination following Congressman Dwight Evans’ retirement announcement. The outcome drew national attention as part of broader conversations surrounding the future direction
of Democratic leadership and progressive policy priorities.
Senate in April, and was signed into law as Act 12 of 2026.
At the statewide level, Governor Josh Shapiro (D) and Treasurer Stacy Garrity (R) both advanced, officially setting the stage for Pennsylvania’s gubernatorial race in November.
PAMED is continuing to monitor and advocate on key issues, including:
For PAMED members, the outcomes of these races are significant because the individuals elected in November will likely shape policy conversations surrounding health care access, physician workforce challenges, scope of practice, public health funding, medical liability, Medicare and Medicaid policy, and health care affordability at both the state and federal levels. As the general election cycle continues, PAMED’s Government Relations team will continue monitoring developments relevant to the practice of medicine and patient care across the Commonwealth. Given the election environment, the Republican-controlled Senate and the Democratic-controlled House have moved several bills in 2026 that have no chance of passing the other chamber but are intended to send political messages to the electorate. The General Assembly has also positioned bills for the negotiations that are a necessary element of reaching an agreement on the annual budget. PAMED has been advocating for two bills that were supported by PA ACOG and were recently signed into law: Midwives – Senate Bill 507 (Brown), a bill that would update provisions in the Medical Practice Act of 1985 regarding the practice of midwifery to include licensing certified midwives. The bill passed the Senate in October, the House in April, and was signed into law by the Governor as Act 14 of 2026. Midwives – House Bill 1251 (Curry), a bill that would allow midwives to refer patients for physical therapy and allow physical therapists to accept such referrals for conditions within the midwife’s scope of practice. The bill passed the House last December, the
Maternal Health – House Bill 1088 (Steele) and House Bill 1234 (Mayes), legislation requiring both private and government-provided health insurance to cover blood pressure monitors for pregnant or postpartum patients, passed the House and are awaiting consideration in the Senate. PAMED supports these bills and is advocating for passage. Private Equity – There has been significant legislative interest in getting something done on regulating the involvement of private equity in health care. Numerous bills have been introduced, and public hearings have been held on this issue in both the House and Senate. To date, only House Bill 1460 (Borowski) has moved, passing the House last summer. That bill was referred to the Senate Institutional Sustainability and Innovation Committee, which continues to work on the issue but does not appear ready to move legislation at this time. PAMED supports this bill and is asking for its passage. Scope of Practice – PAMED remains vigilant on all scope of practice legislation and continues to advocate for physician-led team-based care. Senate Bill 25 (Bartolotta) and House Bill 739 (Guenst) on independent practice for nurse practitioners, House Bill 1000 (Frankel) on prescriptive authority for psychologists, and Senate Bill 197 (Brown) on physical therapist direct access are just some of the scope of practice bills on which we are actively engaged. PAMED opposes these bills. Artificial Intelligence (AI) Use in Health Care – PAMED continues to watch several bills that address the use of AI in health care. Thus far, only House Bill 1925 (Venkat) has seen some movement, but there seems to be a real desire to do something on this issue. PAMED supports this bill.
For more information about any of the items mentioned above, please visit the Advocacy Section of PAMED’s website at
www.pamedsoc.org/advocacy LANCASTER
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pr ctices ALSO IN THIS SECTION • Penn State Health Lancaster Medical Center Reduces Wait Times for Radiology Services While Maintaining High Quality Standards • New MRI Machine at UPMC Lititz Provides Advanced Imaging and 36% More Room for Enhanced Patient Care and Comfort • WellSpan Health Expands Orthopedic Care in Lancaster County: Two New Locations, Growing Subspecialty Access
PENN MEDICINE LG HEALTH OFFERS NEW TREATMENT OPTION FOR OVERACTIVE BLADDER Implantable Tibial Nerve Stimulation
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or patients living with overactive bladder and urinary incontinence, daily life can become a series of calculated decisions—mapping out bathrooms, limiting outings and food choices, and coping with the anxiety of symptoms that can strike without warning. For some, existing treatments offer relief. For others, options have been limited.
south-central Pennsylvania—of a tibial nerve stimulation device, introducing a minimally invasive therapy that expands options for patients whose symptoms persist despite standard care.
Now, Penn Medicine Lancaster General Health (LG Health) is offering a new alternative. In March 2026, urogynecologist Lauren Witmer, DO, performed the first implantation—the first in
Building on Proven Therapy The newly introduced device delivers targeted electrical stimulation to the tibial nerve near the ankle—part of a neural pathway that
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The procedure represents both a clinical advancement and a natural evolution of therapies already in use.
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communicates with the bladder. By modulating those signals, the therapy helps regulate bladder activity and reduce urgency urinary incontinence, a common symptom of an overactive bladder.
About the size of a small stick of gum, the device is placed just above the ankle during a brief outpatient procedure performed under local anesthesia. Once implanted, it delivers scheduled stimulation sessions several times per week, with settings tailored to each patient.
“This technology is something we’re already doing, but in different ways,” Witmer said. LG Health has long offered posterior tibial nerve stimulation (PTNS), a non-implantable therapy delivered through weekly office visits, as well as sacral neuromodulation, which involves a surgically implanted device near the sacrum. The new implantable tibial device bridges those approaches—providing continuous therapy without the need for frequent in-office treatments. “For patients, it removes the burden of coming in weekly and monthly,” Witmer said. “It’s an implantable version of something that already works.” About the size of a small stick of gum, the device is placed just above the ankle during a brief outpatient procedure performed under local anesthesia. Once implanted, it delivers scheduled stimulation sessions several times per week, with settings tailored to each patient. A Simple Procedure, Carefully Introduced Although the procedure itself is relatively straightforward, LG Health has approached its introduction with deliberation. “We don’t tend to jump into new technology too quickly,” Witmer said. The surgical technique reflects that balance of innovation and caution. After marking the placement site, a small incision about one centimeter in length is made to create a narrow channel for the device, and the device is placed in the small pocket created under the skin. The process requires only a small care team and can ultimately be transitioned to an office-based setting. “It’s a very simple procedure compared to many of the surgeries we do,” said Witmer, who regularly performs complex robotic pelvic reconstructive operations. But the impact on patients can be significant.
joins other third-line options, such as bladder Botox injections and sacral neuromodulation, giving patients a broader range of choices. Importantly, the implant’s minimally invasive nature makes it an option for individuals who may not be candidates for more extensive surgery or general anesthesia. Early Results and Patient Experience Initial outcomes have been encouraging since the initial procedure was introduced on March 11, 2026. Patients are typically seen one week after implantation and followed closely as device settings are adjusted to optimize results. “It can start working right away, or it may take some time,” Witmer said. “It’s more of a marathon than a sprint.” The recovery process is relatively brief. Patients are advised to limit pressure and movement around the implant site in the early days following the procedure, but most return quickly to normal routines. The device itself is designed to last up to 15 years. Patient interest has been strong, particularly given the convenience of the approach. The surgery is done under local anesthesia, and patients do not have to come back for additional treatments.
Expanding Access for a Growing Need Overactive bladder and incontinence are among the most common conditions treated in urogynecology, particularly as the population ages and patients remain active later in life. Yet many individuals delay seeking care, sometimes due to embarrassment or competing priorities.
Advancing Urogynecologic Care in Lancaster County The addition of this therapy to LG Health’s urogynecology program is part of a broader effort to expand access to specialized care locally and provide customized care to match each individual’s needs. The program now includes multiple providers and continues to grow alongside patient demand.
“Some patients don’t want to leave the house because they can’t stay dry,” Witmer said. “And many wait a long time before addressing it.”
As LG Health continues to introduce new therapies and refine existing ones, the goal remains consistent: improving quality of life for patients whose conditions often go untreated.
The new therapy is designed for patients who have not achieved sufficient relief through first- and second-line treatments, including dietary changes, pelvic floor physical therapy, and medications. It
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For those living with an overactive bladder, that can mean something as simple as the confidence to leave home without hesitation.
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Best Practices
Chief MRI technologist Marcie Myers administers MRI contrast to a patient during an exam at Penn State Health Lancaster Medical Center.
Penn State Health Lancaster Medical Center Reduces Wait Times for Radiology Services WHILE MAINTAINING HIGH QUALITY STANDARDS
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hen a patient needs an imaging test, a long wait can cause stress and delay potentially life-extending treatment. At Penn State Health Lancaster Medical Center, referring providers and patients can receive the answers they need without unnecessary delays. The radiology team has expanded scheduling access and streamlined workflows to ensure quick turnarounds for imaging tests, while maintaining high-quality standards. Meeting Growing Demand Demand for imaging services has grown steadily since Lancaster Medical Center opened in 2022. In response, the hospital expanded its hours for outpatient imaging to better accommodate patients’ scheduling needs. Imaging services are now available with flexible early morning, evening, and weekend appointments. Hours vary by service.
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“Many people can’t take time off work or get a ride to the hospital during the week, so our weekend hours make a big difference,” said Patrice DiMaio, Penn State Health East Region imaging director.
“Being efficient isn’t our only goal. We pride ourselves on being as accurate and careful as we can.”
The increased appointment availability has resulted in shorter wait times. Outpatient MRIs are typically scheduled within a week or two of referral, and in some cases, as little as four days. Outpatient CT scans can often be scheduled within a day or two of referral.
— Dr. James Baer, Radiologist and Director of Radiology at Lancaster Medical Center
“If someone can come here and receive their test a week or two earlier than they would elsewhere, that can eliminate some of the anxiety associated with waiting for results,” DiMaio said. Penn State Health has also standardized imaging protocols across the health system, making it easier for physicians to analyze images taken at different locations. For patients, the standardized protocols help ensure a consistent experience no matter which hospital they visit, said DiMaio. Early feedback has been positive.
The practice is structured so radiologists have reasonable targets for their output. Although they work quickly, they have the time they need to perform accurate evaluations and are not required to read studies at an uncomfortably fast pace, Baer said. Ongoing peer reviews help radiologists maintain the highest standards of practice.
Rapid Interpretation and Reporting Patients benefit not only from quick access to a scanner at Lancaster Medical Center, but also from fast results.
“We have a really good team of radiologists who want to do the best by the patient and the ordering physician,” he said. “One of the most valuable things physicians can do when they send a study over is give us a thorough clinical history. That helps us deliver the most useful report possible.”
“We have extremely quick turnaround times for image interpretation,” said Dr. James Baer, radiologist and director of radiology at Lancaster Medical Center, who is known to colleagues and patients as “Austin.” Stat studies are interpreted by radiologists in an average of 13 minutes. Routine imaging is read in approximately 50 minutes on average. In the emergency department, speedy results help patients get the care they need sooner—whether that means urgent treatment or a timely discharge instead of hours in the waiting room. For outpatient tests, patients often receive results within a day or two, a timeline that both patients and physicians appreciate, Baer said. Patient satisfaction scores for the Radiology Department at Lancaster Medical Center average 93%. “At many hospitals nationwide, patients wait one to three weeks to have their study interpreted, which is not a safe practice,” Baer said. “While the images are sitting on a list waiting to be read, there might be pathology with potentially serious consequences if not identified in a timely manner.” A Commitment to Quality In addition to reducing wait times, the imaging and radiology staff at Lancaster Medical Center have consistently maintained high-quality standards.
Chief MRI technologist Marcie Myers, left, and technologist Cara Miller review scans at Penn State Health Lancaster Medical Center.
“Being efficient isn’t our only goal,” Baer said. “We pride ourselves on being as accurate and careful as we can.”
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Best Practices
The SIGNA Artist Evo, a new advanced MRI machine at UPMC Lititz, features extra space to reduce patients’ feelings of claustrophobia and stress during scans.
New MRI Machine at UPMC Lititz PROVIDES ADVANCED IMAGING AND 36% MORE ROOM FOR ENHANCED PATIENT CARE AND COMFORT
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ndergoing an MRI can be a scary and claustrophobic experience for many patients. However, thanks to advancements in technology, patients can experience less stress during this widely used imaging study. UPMC Lititz has introduced a new 70 cm wide-bore MRI machine that offers patients more space and provides advanced imaging features and capabilities to help guide diagnostic and treatment plans.
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This new equipment, the SIGNA Artist Evo, features GE’s AI technology, which supports high-quality scans with improved speed and efficiency. According to GE, the 70 cm bore widens the cross-section by 36%, giving patients extra room during their scan, which may reduce claustrophobia-related exam discontinuation by up to 90%, while improving overall patient comfort and accessibility.
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Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) is a noninvasive, safe, and painless test that uses magnetic fields and radio waves to generate two- and three-dimensional images of the inside of the body.
“While echocardiograms and stress tests are excellent firstline tools, cardiac MRI provides a deeper, more precise evaluation of the heart.”
An MRI can be used to help: • Diagnose internal injuries or conditions. • Determine if current medications or treatments are working.
— Kunal N. Bodiwala, MD, Cardiologist at the UPMC Heart and Vascular Institute
• Detect tumors, vascular disease, internal bleeding, and infections. “The new MRI machine is an exciting investment in the health of our community,” said Kayla Kettering, director, Imaging Services at UPMC Lititz. “The advanced capabilities of this equipment will allow us to offer new diagnostic services that serve our patients and physicians.” The first of such programs is the recent launch of prostate MRI services, expanding diagnostic offerings in men’s health and oncology. Advanced prostate imaging is used to identify areas within the prostate that may be suspicious for clinically significant prostate cancer. Prostate MRI is most commonly performed following an elevated PSA or other concerning clinical findings. MRI findings are categorized using the PI-RADS scoring system, with PI-RADS 3–5 lesions carrying an increasing likelihood of clinically significant cancer. This imaging helps determine which patients may benefit from biopsy and enables more precise, targeted tissue sampling. “Today, prostate MRI is widely accepted as the standard of care in the evaluation of patients with an elevated PSA,” said Sriharsha Talluri, MD, UPMC urologist in Central Pa. “It has been shown to be clinically superior to biopsy alone for detecting clinically significant prostate cancer.” Patients with reassuring MRI findings may be able to avoid biopsy altogether, while those with suspicious lesions can undergo targeted biopsies with higher yield for clinically significant disease.
• Evaluate cardiac structure and function. • Detect coronary artery disease through stress imaging. • Diagnose a wide range of cardiac conditions. This advanced cardiac MRI technology provides faster scans and clearer images to more accurately diagnose cardiac abnormalities such as myocardial injury, inflammation, fibrosis, cardiomyopathies, and congenital heart disease. These advancements enhance patient comfort and may reduce the need for additional testing or more invasive procedures. “While echocardiograms and stress tests are excellent first-line tools, cardiac MRI provides a deeper, more precise evaluation of the heart,” says Kunal N. Bodiwala, MD, cardiologist at the UPMC Heart and Vascular Institute in Central Pa. “The American Heart Association recommends considering cardiac MRI for appropriate patients with reduced ejection fraction following echocardiographic evaluation. With advanced cardiac MRI, we can more accurately diagnose certain types of heart conditions.” Referrals for a cardiac MRI include patients who have previously suffered a heart attack and/or are experiencing: • Chest pain, shortness of breath, or syncope.
“This technology also helps reduce the detection of low-risk cancers that may never require treatment and supports more personalized management strategies, including active surveillance when appropriate,” Dr. Talluri added.
• Cardiomyopathy (heart muscle disease).
This new machine will also have cardiac MRI capabilities beginning this fall, which will further strengthen cardiovascular imaging services in Lancaster County.
• Congenital heart disease.
For patients with cardiovascular disease, early detection and timely intervention are essential. Cardiac MRI allows providers to:
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• Ventricular arrhythmias, or rhythm disorders originating in the ventricles.
• Cardiac masses or intracardiac thrombus. The advanced capabilities of this MRI machine will benefit both patients and providers in Lancaster County and beyond.
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Best Practices
WellSpan Orthopedics – Granite Run, along with WellSpan Orthopedics – Ephrata (not pictured), brings expanded orthopedic care options to Lancaster County patients.
WellSpan Health Expands Orthopedic Care in Lancaster County TWO NEW LOCATIONS, GROWING SUBSPECIALTY ACCESS
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ellSpan Health is expanding orthopedic care in Lancaster County with locations in Ephrata and Manheim Township. WellSpan Orthopedics – Ephrata and WellSpan Orthopedics – Granite Run extend WellSpan’s comprehensive ecosystem of subspecialized orthopedic surgeons and integrated support teams, giving patients more local options for specialty musculoskeletal care, including foot, ankle, and spine. Sports medicine, joint, and hand and shoulder/elbow specialties will be joining in late 2026 and early 2027.
patients farther from home or piece together care with multiple specialists. “It means a great deal to care for patients in the community to help bring this level of orthopedic care to Lancaster County,” says Kerri L. Bell, MD, a fellowship-trained orthopedic foot and ankle surgeon. Simplifying Access to Care for Complex Musculoskeletal Conditions and Injuries WellSpan’s clinics in Lancaster County offer the advanced procedures and evidence-based treatments patients expect from larger centers, but patients can get that care in a setting that’s easier to access. WellSpan Orthopedics – Ephrata and WellSpan
For referring providers, the expansion creates a more direct path to coordinated, multispecialty orthopedic care. Local providers can connect their patients to dedicated WellSpan orthopedic specialists at the locations through a single referral, without having to send
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Orthopedics – Granite Run both offer walk-in clinics, on-site X-ray, ultrasound-guided injections, physical therapy/rehabilitation, and direct coordination with WellSpan Health’s pain management services. This model gives patients a single destination for evaluation, imaging, nonoperative treatment, and follow-up care after surgery.
For referring providers, the expansion addresses a common clinical dilemma: deciding which orthopedic subspecialist to refer patients to. WellSpan Health’s model simplifies that choice and supports continued coordination after the referral is placed.
Services include orthopedic urgent care for acute muscle, bone and joint injuries, and trauma—from lacerations and sprains to dislocations and fractures. The orthopedic teams also manage chronic pain, arthritis, and overuse musculoskeletal conditions. “At these locations, we evaluate patients and guide them through appropriate conservative measures,” says Kenan Aksu, DO, a fellowship-trained orthopedic spine surgeon. “If they’re not getting back to where they want to be, we discuss surgical options.” Most surgeries are performed at WellSpan Ephrata Community Hospital, including orthopedic spine procedures, where stateof-the-art technology supports specialized, patient-specific care. WellSpan Good Samaritan Hospital in Lebanon is also an option to treat patients quickly. Patients can also receive care at WellSpan Outpatient Center at CityGate, a 34,000-square-foot facility in the heart of Lancaster County offering personalized, state-of-theart specialty care.
system, referring providers’ notes, imaging, and medication histories are already visible to the orthopedic team, and consultation notes are automatically shared back. Secure provider-to-provider messaging through the system allows direct, HIPAA-compliant collaboration without phone tag or faxed records.
A Personalized Path to Recovery With a nonoperative-first approach, the team works closely with each patient to understand their goals—and what’s keeping them from reaching them—before deciding on treatment options. For example, the team recently treated an athlete with chronic ankle instability after several years of repeated sprains. Physical therapy, rest, ice, and compression usually heal a first-time sprain, but the ankle continued to give out, and imaging showed torn ligaments that hadn’t healed. After discussing the options of continuing conservative management or doing surgical repair, the patient chose surgery. They’re now rehabilitating with the goal of returning to soccer. That same measured approach also guides the practice’s spine care, which includes minimally invasive spine surgery, a capability that has not been widely available in Lancaster County. Recently, a patient who had undergone conventional spine surgery several years earlier and later developed worsening symptoms related to spinal instability and curvature was evaluated and found to be an ideal candidate for a minimally invasive procedure with two small incisions, allowing them to go home the same day. A Single Referral Path for Providers For referring providers, the expansion addresses a common clinical dilemma: deciding which orthopedic subspecialist to refer patients to. WellSpan Health’s model simplifies that choice and supports continued coordination after the referral is placed. Because the practices operate within WellSpan Health’s electronic health record
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Healthy Communities
A PHYSICIAN’S PERSPECTIVE ON THE PITT: DOES IT APTLY DEPICT THE REALITIES OF EMERGENCY MEDICINE?
JAMES L. MEDINA, MD, FACEP
Lancaster Emergency Associates, LTD
HOW REALISTIC IS THE TELEVISION DRAMA SERIES THE PITT? As an emergency medicine physician at Lancaster General Hospital, I think I’ve been asked this question multiple times by many different people. The short answer is, not since the show ER, which also starred Noah Wyle, aired from 1994 to 2009, has a TV show done as good a job of depicting what life is really like in an emergency department (ED). Now, I’ll be honest up front, I’ve only watched the
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first season of The Pitt, but I think they did an excellent job. It didn’t surprise me when I found out that the main medical consultant for the show was an emergency medicine physician with more than 30 years of clinical experience. The Pitt is not the show to watch if you’re looking for the next Dr. McDreamy to marry the new young nurse or want to see someone disarm a bomb (that somehow got inside a patient) in the operating room. But if you want medical realism, The Pitt has that in abundance. In the 15-hour shift spread out across Season 1, you get a little bit of everything. Right out of the gate, there was a cardiac arrest, and the show never looked back from there. Viewers get to experience the good, the bad, and the ugly that is the specialty of emergency medicine. From long wait times in the waiting room and the boarding of patients in the department, to the struggles of patients without insurance and those who can’t speak English, to individuals
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experiencing homelessness and those suffering a mental health crisis—the show has it all. It addresses real-world problems that emergency departments deal with daily. Just like the restaurant Denny’s back in the day, we don’t need locks on the doors because we are never closed. When there is a medical/mental health/social issue, and you don’t know where to turn, look no further than your local ED, which is there for you 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, 365 days a year.
The Pitt sheds light on what truly is the backbone of what an ED is all about. You can train and plan and prepare, but when your shift starts, you really have no idea what awaits you in the next patient room or on the next stretcher coming off the ambulance. When your phone rings and it’s EMS looking for medical command, you never know what you will be facing—is it a trauma, stroke, ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI), or a combative patient who needs sedation? Yes, we take care of shootings, stab-
superheroes (at least I don’t consider myself one), I do work with some amazing individuals. We are all just human beings working together as a team in the emergency department, and everyone in the entire hospital is trying to do their best to help as many people as we can with the resources available to us at any time. If watching The Pitt allows others to see what is happening behind the scenes in a busy ED and impels them to give us a little grace and patience, I’ll take that as a win.
I particularly enjoyed the final scene of Without spoiling anySeason 1 when Dr. Robby thing for those who haven’t and the rest of his ED crew had a chance to watch decompressed in the park Season 1 of The Pitt, I can I was asked if I think there is value across the street from the tell you that you really get hospital with a beer at the in a show like The Pitt exposing the the opportunity to see it all, end of their busy shift. It’s from anaphylaxis to mercuinner workings of an ED to others. moments like those when ry toxicity and everything you realize the bonds you Without a doubt, absolutely, the in between: sepsis, trauma, develop with everyone you fentanyl overdose, hair answer is “yes.” work with on a typical tourniquet, heart attack, shift—your fellow phypsychotic break, caregiver sicians; consultants; the stress, organ donation, advanced practitioners; extracorporeal membrane bings, car accidents, and heart attacks, too. nurses; EMS; respiratory therapists; patient oxygenation (ECMO), miscarriage, schizoBut sometimes our job involves challenges care assistants; unit clerks; behavioral health phrenia, and sexually transmitted diseases. such as finding a safe place for Grandma, liaisons; case managers; phlebotomy, radiology And then there are incidents of leaving against who lives alone with no family nearby and and ultrasound techs; pharmacists; security; medical advice, stroke, burns, gastrointestinal is too weak to get out of bed without falling. registration; language services; chaplains; bleeding, intracranial bleeds, measles, and environmental services; and all the other That’s us. even a mass casualty event that we at Penn ancillary and support staff too numerous to Medicine Lancaster General Health train and SO, WHY DO I DO IT? name here. It takes a village. prepare for regularly while praying that we’ll My father was a board-certified emergency never need to use that training. At the end of a day, we reflect on and medicine physician. He worked as a nocturnist celebrate a shift well done, go home, spend Season 1 is an emotional roller coaster, and for 38 years in various emergency departments some time with our loved ones, try to get some you get to experience all the highs and lows. around the county, and my mother was also rest, and prepare to do it all again the next From the heartbreak of parents who lost a in emergency medicine. A now-retired charge day. It really is a family. When a non-medical child to the relief of family members when nurse, she still tries to tell me what to do person asks me what it’s like to work in the whenever she can (once a charge nurse, always another is saved. ED, I don’t feel I ever quite do it justice with a charge nurse). So to say the specialty is in The show even tackled the difficult but real my explanation. And that’s where I’ll give my blood is an understatement. topics of work-related stress and burnout, The Pitt its due. I think it does an excellent I love it. A great piece of advice my father job, almost too good sometimes, of showing and physical assault by disgruntled patients. According to the American Medical Associ- gave me at a young age was, “If you find the organized chaos that a typical shift in the ation and the National Institute of Health, something that you love to do, you’ll never ED can entail. emergency medicine is considered the most have to ‘work’ a day in your life.” He was right. Despite all the stress, heartache, and fatigue stressful medical specialty with the highest I was asked if I think there is value in a show that goes along with working for the last 23 percentage of burnout and was second only like The Pitt exposing the inner workings of to psychiatry as far as experiencing patient an ED to others. Without a doubt, absolutely, years in the second busiest emergency department in the state of Pennsylvania, I consider violence, with nurses and techs enduring the the answer is “yes.” it one of the most rewarding and greatest jobs brunt of physical and verbal assaults. These on the planet. I wouldn’t change a thing (and During the COVID pandemic, there were are real issues that happen daily in emergency am looking forward to watching Season 2 signs in various locations saying things like departments across the country. “Heroes Work Here.” Although we aren’t of The Pitt whenever I can find the time).
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L A N C A S T E R M E D I C A L S O C I E T Y. O R G
Healthy Communities
EMERGING PARADIGMS IN CANCER CARE LENA DUMASIA, MD Lancaster Cancer Center
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ortunately, the modern-day field of oncology has demonstrated extraordinary surges in patient survival alongside complex and transforming demographic trends. Advancements in medical research, a spotlight on the smoking cessation agenda, and early implemented screening protocols have fundamentally transformed modern-day oncology. For many, a cancer diagnosis has evolved from a presumed death sentence into a manageable, long-term chronic condition. 1,2,3,4,5 According to the latest epidemiological data from the American Cancer Society (ACS), survival rates in oncology have reached an all-time high. In the U.S. alone, the overall cancer mortality rate has fallen by 34% since its peak in 1991, preventing an estimated 4.8 million deaths.6 Furthermore, the overall five-year relative survival rate across all cancer types combined has hit a record-breaking milestone of 70%—a significant improvement from the 50% survival rate seen in the 1970s.6 However, despite these dramatic improvements, in 2026, experts project more than 2.1 million new invasive cancer cases and roughly 626,140 deaths in the United States.7 In addition, due to increasing public awareness and early vaccination, the types of cancers that are being diagnosed have shifted.1,2 Malignancies that were traditionally connected to smoking have experienced the sharpest decline in recent times. For example, a decrease in cigarette usage over the past 30 years has resulted in a significant reduction in lung cancer incidence rates.2 Similarly, cervical cancer rates among younger women have fallen dramatically as a result of more recent recommendations for human papillomavirus (HPV) vaccination in younger adults.3 Specifically, newer treatments in the field of oncology, such as immunotherapy, have contributed to dramatic advancements in cancer survival. Immunotherapies that are checkpoint inhibitors (anti PD-1/ PDL-1 therapies, such as Pembrolizumab and Nivolumab) train the patient’s own immune system to identify and kill malignant cells. This has revolutionized the prognosis of previous cancers, such as malignant melanoma, that were not highly sensitive to chemotherapy in the past.8 The five-year survival rate for metastatic melanoma has surged from 15% to over 50% since the advent of immunotherapy.9,10 In addition, tools such as biomarker and genetic testing are being utilized in the oncology arsenal of treatment. These tests allow genetic LANCASTER
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profiling to uncover exact tumor mutations, allowing for highly tailored treatment paths that are more scientifically precise and effective than the traditional, generalized chemotherapy used in the past.2 Historically considered a rapid and absolute death sentence, the prognosis of lung cancer has improved dramatically due to these reasons. It remains the leading cause of cancer mortality worldwide, projected to claim roughly 124,990 lives in the United States this year—surpassing colorectal and pancreatic cancer deaths combined.11 However, its mortality rate is declining faster than any other major cancer type. Over the past decade, lung cancer death rates plummeted by 4.7% annually among men and 3.5% annually among women.2 Concurrently, the national five-year lung cancer survival rate has climbed to a historic 29.7%, a substantial leap from the 15% to 17% rates recorded in the early 2000s.2 For individuals diagnosed at a localized stage, the five-year survival outlook is now a promising 65%.2 This survival surge stems from the rapid clinical utilization of targeted therapies and comprehensive biomarker testing. For non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) harboring specific mutations— such as EGFR or ALK alterations—drugs that are formulated as next-generation tyrosine kinase inhibitors routinely keep the disease at bay for years with minimal side effects. Furthermore, the routine administration of immunotherapies before or after surgical resection has also drastically lowered recurrence rates.12 Another form of revolutionary treatment, Chimeric Antigen Receptor T-cell (CAR-T) therapy, is a medical research breakthrough that is a personalized form of immunotherapy and gene therapy. It involves extracting a patient’s T cells from the blood, reprogramming them in a laboratory to target specific cancer cells, and infusing them back into the patient’s body to act as a personalized drug that recognizes and destroys cancer.13 This is more commonly used in blood cancers such as multiple myeloma, in which the five-year survival rate has doubled from 32% to 62% over the past few decades.14 While the above advancements have improved some cancer diagnoses, colorectal cancer specifically illustrates a contrasting paradigm. There is a global explosion of early-onset cancers (diagnosed in individuals under the age of 50). Incidence rates among women under 50 are now roughly
82% higher than in men of the target age group, driven primarily by breast, thyroid, and most commonly, gastrointestinal tract cancers, such as colon cancer.15 Although colorectal cancer (CRC) incidence has dropped by 45% from its peak in the mid1980s because adults over 65 are routinely undergoing screening colonoscopies, there is a rising severe youth epidemic. CRC incidence is currently increasing by 3% per year among adults aged 20 to 49 and by 0.4% annually among those aged 50 to 64.1 Today, nearly 45% of all new colorectal diagnoses occur in individuals under the age of 65, compared to just 27% in 1995.1 Alarmingly, CRC has officially become the number-one cause of cancer death for men under 50 and the second-leading cause for women under 50 in the United States.1 Because younger adults are rarely suspected of having malignant diseases, three out of four colorectal cases in patients under 50 are diagnosed at an advanced stage (regional or distant spread), often after months of misdiagnosing symptoms like blood in the stool or chronic abdominal pain as hemorrhoids or irritable bowel syndrome.16 The exact systemic drivers behind this phenomenon remain a top priority for global researchers. Beyond traditional modifiable risk factors like obesity, physical inactivity, and diets packed with ultra-processed foods, investigators are examining the disruption of the gut microbiome caused by early-life antibiotic exposure, microplastics, and environmental toxins. To combat this trend, public health organizations have systematically lowered screening age thresholds for aggressive malignancies, catching pre-cancerous cells long before physical symptoms appear.17,18 Specifically for colorectal cancer, major health panels have lowered the baseline screening age for average-risk individuals from 50 to 45.19 In addition, due to our aging population, advanced-stage prostate cancer rates have risen steadily in men.20 Additionally, uterine cancer mortality has experienced a steady increase for over 25 consecutive years, disproportionately impacting Black women due to widening healthcare disparities.21 In terms of oncologic advancements, we now possess modalities in health care that have increased overall five-year survival to momentous outcomes and are converting once-fatal diagnoses into curable or manageable conditions for some people. Yet, the unexplained rise of early-onset LANCASTER
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malignancies serves as a powerful reminder that cancer research needs to continue. Continued progress in the field of oncology will rely heavily on medical research, access to medical care by eliminating systemic racial and economic disparities in healthcare delivery, and through continued screening recommendations.1,22 References 1 American Cancer Society. (2026). Colorectal cancer statistics, 2026. CA: A Cancer Journal for Clinicians, 76(2). Source Link 2 American Lung Association. (2025). 2025 State of Lung Cancer Report 3 https://www.cancer.org 4 World Health Organization. (2026). Colorectal Cancer Fact Sheet. 5 National Cancer Institute. (2026). SEER Cancer Stat Facts: Common Cancer Sites. Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End Results Program 6 Siegel RL, Kratzer TB, Wagle NS, Sung H, Jemal A. Cancer statistics, 2026. CA Cancer J Clin. 2026 JanFeb;76(1):e70043. doi: 10.3322/caac.70043. PMID: 41528114; PMCID: PMC12798275. 7 https://pressroom.cancer.org/cancer-statistics-report-2026 8 Eskandar K. Therapeutic breakthroughs in oncology: Enhancing treatment and management. Can Oncol Nurs J. 2025 Jul 1;35(4):590-605. doi: 10.5737/23688076354590. PMID: 40873601; PMCID: PMC12379890. 9 https://www.cancerresearch.org/ immunotherapy-by-cancer-type/melanoma-cancer 10 Marra A, Scognamiglio G, Peluso I, Botti G, Fusciello C, Filippelli A, Ascierto PA, Pepe S, Sabbatino F. Immune Checkpoint Inhibitors in Melanoma and HIV Infection. Open AIDS J. 2017 Nov 14;11:91-100. doi: 10.2174/1874613601711010091. PMID: 29290886; PMCID: PMC5730951. 11 https://seer.cancer.gov/statfacts/html/lungb.html 12 https://ascopubs.org/doi/10.1200/JCO-25-02822 13 Cellular engineering in oncolog y: principles and applications of CAR-T cell therapy. Blood. 2026;147(8):890-901 14 https://www.cancer.org/cancer/types/multiple-myeloma/ detection-diagnosis-staging/survival-rates.html 15 https://www.cancer.org/research/acs-research-news/cancerincidence-rate-for-women-under-50-rises-above-mens.htm 16 https://www.cancer.org/research/acs-research-news/ colorectal-cancer-drops-in-older-adults-and-rises-inyoung-ones.html 17 Colorectal Cancer Rates Are Skyrocketing in Young Adults — Is Your Lifestyle Putting You at Risk? - Cancer Research Institute 18 Fajkić A, Lepara O, Jahić R, Hadžović-Džuvo A, Belančić A, Chupin A, Pavković D, Sher EK. UltraProcessed Diets and Endocrine Disruption, Explanation of Missing Link in Rising Cancer Incidence Among Young Adults. Cancers (Basel). 2025 Jun 29;17(13):2196. doi: 10.3390/cancers17132196. PMID: 40647494; PMCID: PMC12249071. 19 Colorectal Cancer: What Millennials and Gen Zers Need to Know | News | Yale Medicine 20 h t t p s : / / w w w. h e a l t h l i n e . c o m / h e a l t h - n e w s / prostate-cancer-cases-rising-us-study 21 https://www.cancer.gov/news-events/press-releases/2022/ uterine-cancer-deaths-black-women 22 Jackman JM, Yibrehu B, Doyle A, Alatise OI, Wuraola FO, Olasehinde O, Peter Kingham T. Updates in global oncology: Advancements and future directions. J Surg Oncol. 2024 Jun;129(7):1374-1383. doi: 10.1002/ jso.27633. Epub 2024 Apr 16. PMID: 38624014; PMCID: PMC12507092.
L A N C A S T E R M E D I C A L S O C I E T Y. O R G
Passion Outside of Practice
Ashley Kempsell, MD Penn Medicine Lancaster General Health Physicians Family Medicine–Lincoln
Choral Singing How did you develop an interest in your passion outside of practice? I grew up in a musical family and started piano lessons at an early age, but quickly gravitated toward choral music. Throughout my life and career, it has been a creative outlet and a source of stress relief, as well as a source of friendship and community.
It’s our pleasure to highlight a Lancaster City & County Medical Society member’s “passion outside of practice” in each issue of Lancaster Physician. Beyond their commitment to health care, LCCMS members have many other talents, skills, and interests that might surprise you. In this issue, we’re thrilled to feature Ashley Kempsell, MD, and her passion outside of practice. Would you briefly describe your passion outside of practice for those who might be unfamiliar with it? I have been involved in both choral and individual singing since early childhood, starting with the church choir when I was little, and school choirs in elementary, middle, and high school. In college, I sang with the William and Mary Choir as well as an acapella group, “DoubleTake.” I did take some time away from choral singing while in medical school. During residency, Dr. Stephen Ratcliffe (former residency director at Lancaster General Health), who sang with the Wheatland Chorale, introduced me to the group, and I joined in 2013. I have been singing with the group since then. Wheatland is an auditioned choral ensemble with approximately 45 members. The ensemble performs twice yearly, with concerts at Christmas and in the spring.
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Why is this pursuit special to you? While individual solo singing has its own rewards and challenges, I have enjoyed connecting with others via our shared passion for choral singing and have made many friends whom I may not have otherwise encountered professionally or socially. Choral music has the ability to unite people from all different backgrounds, and my experience while singing with others feels quite spiritual. I enjoy continuing to take time to sing in Wheatland despite the chaos of life as a busy physician and mother because it activates my brain in a completely different way than anything I do at work and enriches and recharges my spirit even when I may be feeling tired or discouraged. What else would you like readers to know about this passion? I would highly encourage anyone with a passion for singing to seek out one of the many opportunities to engage in choral music throughout Lancaster County, including Wheatland’s Festival Singers, a new non-auditioned large community chorus that will perform major choral works with a full symphony.
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Restaurant Review
bread served with cinnamon butter, at no cost to you. Fresh and soft, these rolls often disappear from your basket within minutes. This keeps you warm and busy while you wait for your order. Many guests jokingly say they could make a meal out of those rolls alone. The hand-cut steaks are the highlight of the menu, cooked exactly to order and packed with flavor. The ribeye is especially popular because of its tenderness and rich taste, while the fall-off-the-bone ribs remain another customer favorite. For guests looking for lighter options, meals like grilled chicken and salmon offer the same freshness and quality the restaurant is known for. Beyond the food, the service adds greatly to the experience. Servers remain attentive, upbeat, and patient, even during crowded dinner hours. Drinks are refilled quickly, and meals arrive in good time.
TEXAS ROADHOUSE F
JANE NKECHI NWAFOR, MD
WellSpan Health, Resident
inding a restaurant that delivers both great food and a welcoming atmosphere every single time is not always easy, but Texas Roadhouse has managed to become one of those dependable places people in Lancaster continue to return to. Whether it is a casual dinner after work, a family outing, or a weekend gathering with friends, the restaurant creates an experience that feels warm, lively, and enjoyable from the moment you walk through the door. The first thing most people notice is the atmosphere. The smell of sizzling steaks and freshly baked bread fills the air, country music plays softly in the background, and the staff greets guests with genuine friendliness. Even during busy evenings, the restaurant maintains an energetic but comfortable environment that makes people feel relaxed rather than rushed. It is the kind of environment where conversations flow easily, and laughter can be heard from nearly every table. The food is what truly keeps customers coming back. The staff greets your table with the in-house freshly baked
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Texas Roadhouse has become a preferred spot for my family and me. We go there very often. My husband enjoys the ribeye; I’m a salmon girl. My kids love the fall-off-the-bone ribs, with various sides. The restaurant also has a tradition of celebrating birthdays and other achievements with its “Saddle Celebration.” It’s a little event where the celebrant is called out to sit on a wooden horse, and everyone in the restaurant celebrates them by shouting “yeehaw” on the count of three. I love this! It’s a glorious moment. What makes Texas Roadhouse stand out is its ability to combine good food with good hospitality. It does not try to be overly sophisticated or trendy; it focuses on what matters the most—great food, friendly staff, and an atmosphere where guests simply enjoy themselves. That balance is exactly why it remains one of Lancaster’s favorite dining spots.
Texas Roadhouse 2317 Lincoln Highway East Lancaster, PA 17602 717-394-6161 texasroadhouse.com
L A N C A S T E R M E D I C A L S O C I E T Y. O R G
Patient Advocacy
NEW DIETARY GUIDELINES
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MADELEINE HOFFMAN, MS, RDN, LDN
early with patients can support chronic disease prevention, complement medical management, and potentially delay or reduce the need for pharmacological intervention in some cases.
n January 7, 2026, the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) and U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) released the 2025-2030 Dietary Guidelines for Americans (DGAs). These guidelines are updated every five years, with the goal of guiding public health, clinical counseling, and policy.
FRUITS AND VEGETABLES Like the previous 2020-2025 DGAs, the new guidelines recommend intake of three servings of vegetables and two servings of fruit per day, whether frozen, dried, or canned, with no or very little added sugars.
Clinical Dietitian WellSpan Ephrata Community Hospital
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The revamped website RealFood.gov consists of a full breakdown of the new guidelines, the scientific foundation behind them, a daily servings guide based on calorie level for the general population and life stage-specific guidance, as well as an artificial intelligence tool that can be used to “get answers about real food.”1 These guidelines may signal forthcoming changes to nutrition policy and programs to help make them more accessible to the public, as research has consistently shown that low-income communities, Black communities, and Hispanic communities often face limited access to supermarkets that offer diverse, affordable, and healthy foods.2 The guidelines will ultimately affect school and military meals served, as well as foods available to households relying on SNAP benefits. While MyPlate was previously used as a visual guide on how to portion different food groups as recommended by the DGAs, it has been replaced by a new inverted food pyramid that places greater visual emphasis on whole, minimally processed foods, including protein-rich foods from both plant and animal sources. The key message of the 2025-2030 DGAs is to “eat more real food.”3 The guidelines encourage a dramatic reduction in processed food consumption and reinforce limits on added sugars, including within federal nutrition programs. The DGAs collectively reflect a shift away from the notion that all calories are created equally and toward the importance of food quality. The interdisciplinary health care team plays a key role in helping patients understand and apply the new DGAs within the context of their current lifestyle. The rising burden of cardiometabolic disease further emphasizes the demand for actionable lifestyle counseling in clinical practice. Addressing diet and exercise
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Per the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), in 2019, approximately one in 10 adults were meeting the fruit or vegetable recommendations, noting that differences were found by state, age, sex, race/ethnicity, and income.4 Knowing that a majority of Americans are not meeting these guidelines, it is important for healthcare providers to meet patients where they are. This may include getting patients involved with community resources if they struggle with food insecurity or limited access to fruits and vegetables. Encouraging the use of fruits and vegetables with longer shelf-life, such as the frozen or canned varieties, may be a more cost-effective way for patients to increase their intake. PROTEIN The new DGAs highlight the importance of protein intake, emphasizing quality, nutrient-dense protein sources from both plant and animal foods. While the current Recommended Dietary Allowance (RDA) for protein remains 0.8 g/kg body weight per day, the minimum intake estimated to prevent deficiency, the new DGAs suggest that higher protein intakes of 1.2-1.6 g/ kg body weight per day may provide additional benefits for certain populations, particularly supporting lean body mass, metabolic health, and healthy aging.5 It is noted that these higher intakes should be adjusted as needed based on individual energy needs and clinical context. An important educational message for patients is that protein is just one component of a balanced diet, and that protein sources vary in nutritional quality. The DGAs prioritize whole, minimally processed protein sources such as meat, fish, nuts, seeds, beans, and lentils—while limiting highly processed protein-fortified products, including protein bars and foods with added protein such as chips, granola, and baked goods. Continued on page 22
L A N C A S T E R M E D I C A L S O C I E T Y. O R G
Patient Advocacy
U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) “healthy” claim limits. For FATS AND SODIUM The DGAs continue to emphasize the importance of fat quality in example, grain snacks should not exceed five grams of added sugar per overall dietary patterns. Intake of healthy fats found in olive oil, nuts, seeds, ¾ ounce whole grain equivalent, and dairy snacks such as yogurt should 3 avocado, and fatty fish is encouraged. In addition, the recommendation not contain more than 2.5 grams of added sugar per 2/3 cup equivalent. to limit saturated fat to 10% or less of total daily calories remains. While United States intake data from 2017-2018 indicate that the average daily the 2020-2025 DGAs recommended intake of primarily low-fat or fat- added sugar consumption in both children, young adults, and adults was free dairy products, the new food pyramid features images of whole milk, approximately 17 teaspoons per day (about 68g), with leading sources 8 butter, cheese, and red meat. Monica Reinagel, MS, LDN, and host of the including sugar-sweetened beverages, desserts, and sweet snack foods. The Nutrition Diva podcast, notes that in practice it is difficult to harmonize DGAs also recommend limiting foods and beverages that include artificial these two pieces of advice, as three servings of full-fat dairy reaches the flavors and low-calorie non-nutritive sweeteners. Asking patients what they calorie limit for saturated fat, before adding any additional fat sources typically drink throughout the day is a simple and effective way to identify potential sources of added sugar such as butter or beef in their diet. From there, small, tallow.6 This emphasizes sustainable changes—such as the important role that gradually reducing soda intake or registered dietitians play Physicians play a key role in applying replacing one serving per day with in assisting patients with flavored or sparkling water—can the guidelines by identifying interpreting the guidemeaningfully improve diet quallines and putting them potential nutrition-related concerns ity without creating a sense of into practice, which restriction. during routine clinical encounters may include substitution strategies such as using APPLICATION IN CLINIand facilitating timely referral to olive oil when cooking CAL PRACTICE registered dietitians. in place of butter, as butUltimately, effective applicater contains nearly four tion of the new dietary guidelines times more saturated fat in clinical practice depends on than olive oil. individual assessment, as well as interdisciplinary collaboration. Physicians play a key role in applying The guidelines also maintain the recommendation to limit sodium to the guidelines by identifying potential nutrition-related concerns during less than 2,300 mg per day for the general population, which equates to routine clinical encounters and facilitating timely referral to registered one teaspoon of table salt. Excessive sodium intake is a known risk factor dietitians. Brief screening questions, such as assessing fruit and vegetable for many health complications, including hypertension, stroke, cardiovasintake and reliance on convenience or ultra-processed foods, as well as cular disease, kidney disease, and osteoporosis. Processed and ready-to-eat identifying potential barriers to food access (ex, lack of transportation, foods, currently prominent in the standard American diet, contribute to 75-80% of overall dietary sodium intake in the United States.7 Assessing food insecurity), can help physicians identify patients who may benefit patients’ reliance on convenience foods and encouraging more meals from additional nutrition support. Incorporating these assessments into to be prepared at home are key strategies for reducing excessive sodium clinical practice will help enable more personalized and equitable implementation of the dietary guidelines. exposure and improving overall diet quality. ALCOHOL The 2020-2025 DGAs provided a daily limit for alcoholic beverages, noting that people who choose to drink alcohol should do so in moderation by having no more than two drinks per day for men and one drink per day for women. The new DGAs do not clearly state a limit for alcohol, but more vaguely note that people should consume less alcohol for better overall health. The guidelines do specifically call out groups who should not consume alcohol at all, including individuals who are pregnant, those recovering from alcohol use disorder or having difficulty controlling their alcohol intake, and individuals taking medications or living with medical conditions that may interact adversely with alcohol.3
References 1 USDA, HHS. The 2025-2030 Dietary Guidelines for Americans. https://realfood.gov/ 2 Vadiveloo MK, Gardner CD, Bleich SN, et al. Ultraprocessed Foods and Their Association With Cardiometabolic Health: Evidence, Gaps, and Opportunities: A Science Advisory From the American Heart Association. PubMed. 2025;152(12). doi:https://doi.org/10.1161/ cir.0000000000001365 3 USDA, HHS. Dietary Guidelines for Americans, 2025–2030. https://cdn.realfood.gov/DGA.pdf 4 Lee SH, Moore LV, Park S, Harris DM, Blanck HM. Adults Meeting Fruit and Vegetable Intake Recommendations — United States, 2019. MMWR Morb Mortal Wkly Rep 2022;71:1–9. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.15585/mmwr.mm7101a1 5 USDA, HHS. The Scientific Foundation for The Dietary Guidelines for Americans. https:// cdn.realfood.gov/Scientific%20Report_508.pdf 6 Amidor T. Ask the Expert: Special Edition: The New Dietary Guidelines. Today’s Dietitian Magazine. Published May 5, 2026. Accessed May 14, 2026. https://www.todaysdietitian. com/ask-the-expert-special-edition-the-new-dietary-guidelines/ 7 Hu N, McLean R. Lowering Sodium Intake: Reduction and Substitution for Cardiovascular Health. International Journal for Vitamin and Nutrition Research. 2025;95(3). doi: https:// doi.org/10.31083/ijvnr36289 8 CDC. Get the Facts: Added Sugars. Nutrition. Published January 5, 2024. https://www.cdc. gov/nutrition/php/data-research/added-sugars.html
ADDED SUGAR There is now stronger language in the DGAs discouraging the consumption of added sugar, emphasizing that added sugars are not considered part of a healthy diet pattern. The guidelines provide thresholds for added sugar at meals, stating that one meal should contain no more than 10 grams of added sugar. In addition, snack foods should follow the
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PAMED Unionization Task Force
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AMED’s Unionization Task Force continues to advance its work as it evaluates what role, if any, the organization should play in the evolving landscape of physician unionization. Established by the Board of Trustees in 2024, the task force was initially charged with studying the issue and presenting potential pathways for PAMED’s involvement. After delivering an initial report last spring outlining several preliminary options, the Board asked the task force to continue its efforts and develop more detailed courses of action for future consideration. To build a deeper understanding of the unionization environment, the task force committed to interviewing at least two existing unions. An interview team was appointed, and a structured set of questions was developed to guide meaningful, in depth conversations. The first of these interviews took place in December, offering
valuable insight into how physician unions operate and what models might be relevant for Pennsylvania physicians. Work is now underway to finalize a meeting with at least one additional union, ensuring the Board receives a well-rounded assessment of potential approaches. In parallel, the task force distributed a new survey designed to further explore physician interest in unionization. This survey went to both PAMED members and non-members and will build on the findings of the 2024 statewide survey. By gathering updated data, the task force aims to better understand current sentiment, priorities, and levels of engagement across the physician community. PAMED Past President F. Wilson Jackson, III, MD, Chair of the Unionization Task Force, recently provided an update on the group’s progress. As part of its ongoing work, the task force reviewed the results of
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the earlier statewide survey, which included responses from 3,152 physicians, 73% of whom were not PAMED members. The findings highlighted significant interest in unionization: 52% of respondents expressed interest in joining a union, and 61% indicated they would likely participate in union-related activities if PAMED were to affiliate with a union. Respondents also identified improving working conditions as the top priority for any union effort. The Board of Trustees engaged in a thorough discussion of these results and their broader implications for PAMED’s mission and membership. As a next step, the Board agreed to collaborate with the task force to prepare an informational report for the House of Delegates later this year, ensuring that PAMED’s leadership and members remain informed as this important work continues to unfold.
L A N C A S T E R M E D I C A L S O C I E T Y. O R G
Perspectives
H E A LT H S Y S T E M S S E R V I N G LANCASTER COUNTY WEIGH IN ON
Challenges to Public Health SUSAN SHELLY Writer
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ublic health covers a wide and diverse range of issues and conditions, ranging from food and nutrition to extreme heat to lead contamination. The website of the American Public Health Association lists nearly 40 public health concerns, including immigrant health, polio, mental health, tobacco, health equity, gun violence, and Ebola. Not all public health concerns are global or directly affect every person in the United States, but they do have the capacity to impact the health of certain populations, causing ripple effects among entire communities. Lancaster Physician reached out to the health care systems serving Lancaster County to learn about their major public health concerns and what they’re doing to address them. Representatives from UPMC, Penn Medicine Lancaster General Health, WellSpan Health, and Penn State Health responded.
UPMC UPMC responds to public health challenges based on specific needs within the communities it serves, partnering with schools, faith communities, local Rev. Brenda M. Alton organizations, businesses, and others to identify and implement solutions. Rev. Brenda M. Alton, community health needs assessment and community benefits liaison for UPMC in Central Pa., said the health system bases its efforts on findings of the Community Action Partnership’s community health needs assessment, which is conducted and published every three years. The assessment incorporates input from local community stakeholders and public health experts, and identifies actions and
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implementation plans to improve community health. In putting together the report, UPMC listens to thousands of area residents and dozens of community organizations throughout Lancaster County and central Pennsylvania to identify the community’s most pressing health needs. Alton, who is also UPMC in Central Pa.’s director of community relations/spiritual care, said the health system currently is focusing on two broad, primary health goals for Lancaster County residents. The first, she said, is assuring that everyone is able to access care and navigate existing resources. The second goal is to prevent health problems and promote healthy community-wide living. Addressing these goals includes education and community outreach, increased use of telehealth, better access to mental health services and addiction treatment, access to a mobile screening bus, transportation assistance, and others. “A lot of what we’re doing overlaps in these two areas,” Alton explained. “We’re trying our best to serve the people of our community, and to do that, we need to be able to meet them where they are.” Major efforts by UPMC in Central Pa. focus on the areas of transportation and language services. Rural patients may not have access to reliable transportation, and increased gas prices are of concern to patients with limited resources. And, Lancaster County has residents who speak many diverse languages, increasing the need for human translators and online language programs. “Someone who doesn’t have transportation to an appointment is likely to not show up, which can delay care and make health problems worse,” she said. “And if we’re unable to communicate with a patient, we’re at a dead stop, right there.” Money from UPMC’s Helping Hands Fund helps provide patient transportation when needed, and various translation apps are employed, in addition to human translators.
Community Presence Builds Trust, Promotes Hope Working with organizations and residents to improve accessibility of care and promote healthy community living places, UPMC sends staff out in the community, which increases trust between health care providers and residents, according to Alton. Patients who trust their care providers are more likely to keep appointments, get vaccines for themselves and their children, address mental health concerns, seek addiction treatment, and follow physician advice than those who do not. “When patients trust their doctors and are willing to follow their advice, it helps with a lot of public health challenges,” Alton said. “We can reduce the chances of someone ending up in the emergency room or being admitted to the hospital.” Another important UPMC initiative is its partnership with public schools in Lancaster County. “We are doing our best to get into the schools and let students know about all the health care-related jobs that are available,” Alton shared. “We’re hoping that can put them onto a career path, which can provide purpose and hope.” Young people with hope and goals, she noted, are more likely to interact with their communities in healthy ways and less likely to engage in violence. “We recognize community violence as a major public health issue, and we’re working hard to address it,” she said. The current community health needs assessment for Lancaster County extends through 2028, Alton said, during which time UPMC will continue to seek solutions to issues related to public health. “We’ll keep working on moving the needle in those top areas of need,” she said. PENN MEDICINE LANCASTER GENERAL HEALTH Exposure to lead, water and air quality concerns, and vaccine Dr. Jeffrey Martin hesitancy are significant public health challenges affecting Lancaster County, according to Dr. Jeffrey Martin, chair of the department of family and
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community medicine at Lancaster General Hospital. Penn Medicine Lancaster General Health (LG Health) works with other health care systems serving Lancaster County and various community organizations to educate residents, increase awareness, and reduce the potential impacts of disease, lead poisoning, pollution, and other public health concerns. “We’ve got a lot of organizations looking to address these problems throughout the county,” Martin said. Lead-Free Families Penn Medicine Lancaster General Health in 2021 launched Lead-Free Families to address Lancaster County’s high rates of elevated blood lead levels, which Martin said are among the highest in Pennsylvania. The program provides free testing for residents concerned about lead in their homes and helps to remediate lead hazards if they are present. It’s estimated that about 91,000 homes in Lancaster County are affected, Martin shared, due primarily to lead-based paints that were used until 1978. Lead-Free Families also administers Penn Medicine’s Healthy Homes Program, a federally funded initiative that addresses concerns including mold, allergens, asthma, carbon monoxide, and pesticides. LG Health also works closely with the Partnership for Public Health and the Lancaster Lead Coalition, local organizations formed in 2007 to address issues of public health in four areas: environmental health, communicable diseases, immunizations, and public safety. Air and Water Quality Concerns In addition to concerns regarding lead, Lancaster County has significant issues with its air and water quality, Martin noted. Elevated quantities of ground-level ozone affect residents, resulting in 7.5 official days of unhealthy air in the past year. The county is also susceptible to fine particle pollution (PM2.5) spikes caused by industrial emissions, transportation corridors, wildfire smoke, and trash burning. These pollutants result in poor Continued on page 26
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Perspectives
quality air days, ranking Lancaster County among the worst 20 metro areas in the U.S.
Hospital’s Family Medicine Residency Program who remain in the area after graduation.
Considered harmful air pollutants, ground-level ozone and PM2.5 can affect respiratory health, trigger asthma attacks, reduce lung function, and affect cardiovascular health.
He also praised the work of Lancaster-based Union Community Care, a federally qualified health center that provides a range of health services, and the efforts of health care workers throughout the county who work to address violence, substance abuse, domestic abuse, and health-related social needs. “We have numerous clinics and facilities serving vulnerable populations, which is helpful in our efforts to support public health,” he said.
“Unfortunately, Lancaster County does not have very good air quality, and it’s the very young and very old populations, populations that we have in abundance, that are most affected,” Martin explained. The county is also plagued with water quality challenges, partially caused by the underlying geologic prevalence of limestone, which is porous and allows contaminants to seep into water supplies. The Environmental Protection Agency’s Safe Drinking Water Information System reports that Lancaster County’s drinking water received a D grade, scoring 42.8 out of 100. And about 43% of the county population is served by water systems that tested at or above federal contamination limits for PFAS (so-called “forever chemicals”) that are linked to cancer, immune, liver, and endocrine problems. Vaccine Hesitancy Lancaster County has traditionally had pockets of populations that resist vaccines, Martin noted, increasing the possibility of outbreaks of preventable diseases, such as measles, occurring. Vaccine hesitancy has increased among the general population since the COVID pandemic, along with an overall distrust of the medical and public health system. Several cases of measles were reported in Lancaster County in February and March. “Events that occurred during the pandemic did create some mistrust and cause some people to balk at government instruction,” Martin said. “We’re going to have to work to rebuild that trust.” A Strong Infrastructure of Care Lancaster County is fortunate to have a strong infrastructure of health care, anchored by an extensive family medicine base of more than 400 providers. Many of those providers, Martin said, are products of Lancaster General
Advocating for a Public Health Department Advocates, including the Partnership for Public Health, have been calling for a countywide public health department for years, claiming that such an agency would strengthen the county’s ability to respond to local public health needs. The Bureau of Health of the City of Lancaster serves residents within the city, but public health issues that occur in other parts of Lancaster County are managed at the state level. This approach can limit the involvement of local officials and health care workers in certain decision-making processes, Martin explained. A public health department in Lancaster County would not provide extensive clinical services. Instead, its role would focus on disease prevention, health education, promotion of healthy behaviors, and management of environmental hazards at the local level. “A county health department could help local health leaders make decisions based on full data sets and then work with an understanding of the unique cultural and demographic aspects of Lancaster County,” Martin said. WELLSPAN HEALTH Obesity, according to Dr. Jason Marone, is a complex problem affecting 33% of adults Dr. Jason Marone in Lancaster County and costing the U.S. health care system hundreds of billions of dollars a year. Patients who are obese are at higher risk for conditions including hypertension, elevated cholesterol and triglycerides, type 2 diabetes, sleep apnea, mental health issues, heart disease, stroke, liver and kidney disease, and many types of cancer
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than those who are not obese. The World Health Organization reported that overweight and obesity contribute to at least 2.8 million deaths annually worldwide, and that severe obesity can reduce a person’s life expectancy by up to 14 years. In addition to serious health consequences, obesity produces an economic strain due to increased need for health care services, lost workplace productivity, and higher absenteeism rates. For those and other reasons, Marone, a bariatric medicine specialist and general surgeon at WellSpan Health, qualifies the condition of obesity as a public health issue that carries serious consequences. “Obesity is probably the number one, unrecognized chronic disease,” Marone said. “Treatment of obesity should be part of every patient’s treatment plan.” What Is Obesity and How Is It Treated? Obesity is the condition of having excessive body fat. Generally, Marone explained, there are three classes of obesity. Class 1 obesity occurs when someone has a body mass index (BMI) of between 30 and 35, while class 2 obesity is a BMI between 35 and 40. Class 3 obesity, also known as extreme obesity, is when someone’s BMI is greater than 40. Treatments for obesity may include making dietary changes, increasing activity level, or seeking counseling for mental health support. Medications, including GLP-1 agonists, may be prescribed to promote weight loss, or patients may be referred for bariatric surgery. Marone, who performs about 150 primary bariatric surgeries each year, explained that patients with a BMI of 35 or higher who have comorbidities, such as type 2 diabetes or heart disease, qualify for surgery, as do patients with a BMI of 40 or higher without comorbidities. First performed in the 1980s, bariatric surgery is generally considered safe, although there are risks associated with any type of surgery. Marone said all his surgeries are performed robotically and are minimally invasive, improving healing times and outcomes.
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Patients who undergo bariatric surgery can sometimes forego medications previously needed, according to Marone, and often see dramatic improvements in joint pain, sleep apnea, polycystic ovary syndrome, and other conditions. “It’s pretty amazing what a simple surgery can do,” he said. A “Complex Problem” The problem of obesity and its implications for public health are complicated and far-reaching. Factors contributing to obesity range tremendously and can include health behaviors, stress, medications, genes, economic stability, education, access to healthy foods, environmental factors, and others. “It’s a very complex problem, and a very interesting one,” Marone noted. He advocates for greater accountability for food producers, pharmaceutical companies, and other systems that connect to people’s health. And he urged consumers to get better educated about what they’re consuming and consider all treatment options, if needed, for obesity. Patients should discuss options with their primary care provider, who can direct them to a specialist if needed. As a bariatric surgeon, Marone said, his goal is not to get everyone who is obese into surgery. “Our goal is to get everyone healthy in the way that makes the most sense for them,” he said. PENN STATE HEALTH LANCASTER MEDICAL CENTER Penn State Health is working to address a variety of public Angela Sonon health concerns affecting Lancaster County, ranging from a shortage of mental health care providers to issues concerning workplace safety for health care workers. Angela Sonon, senior vice president and chief operating officer of Penn State Health Lancaster Medical Center, said Penn State Health partners with community organizations, schools, local health organizations, and the Lancaster County Health Advisory Council, of which she is a member, to tackle challenges to public health. Dealing with those challenges, she said, is vital to protecting and improving the health
of the entire Lancaster County community. “We need to assure access to care, coordination of care, and transition of care to make sure everyone receives the medical services they need, while employing our resources wisely,” said Sonon. Addressing Mental Health Services, Obesity A shortage of services for mental health patients is a widespread Dr. Allison Barrett and continuing challenge affecting public health, said Dr. Allison Barrett, interim chief medical officer at Lancaster Medical Center. Without adequate outpatient services, mental health patients often reach a crisis and turn to the emergency department, delaying care while increasing costs. “It’s a very unfortunate situation that’s largely due to inadequate insurance coverage for mental health patients,” explained Barrett. “We have to keep working to be able to get patients the services they need.” Inadequate care for mental health patients has been found to increase the risk of drug use, resulting in overdoses, gun violence, and other threats to public health. Adult obesity is another major public health challenge in Lancaster County and across the country, according to Barrett, demanding high levels of attention. “Obesity is at the top of the pyramid and needs to be fully addressed,” said Barrett, who also serves as director of bariatric surgery. “Adult obesity is a huge public health issue.” She advocates educating children about the value of good nutrition and exercise and giving adults access to all available options for weight loss, including weight loss medications. Declining Trust, Rising Costs, and Workplace Safety A decline in overall trust in the health care system since the COVID pandemic poses additional challenges to public health, according to Sonon. Lancaster County has historically had lower vaccination rates among some populations compared with the national average, and increasing vaccine skepticism poses additional
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threats. Following a measles outbreak in Lancaster County in February, Lancaster Medical Center has been on high alert—screening visitors at the hospital and providing information about all communicable diseases. Barrett said that in a time of rampant misinformation, educating patients is crucial. “It’s really important that physicians continue to lean on real science and impart that information to their patients,” she said. Increasing health care costs also create challenges as health care systems struggle to afford technological advancements and other assets that could improve care but are expensive to implement and operate. Insurance reimbursements for patient care have not kept pace with these rising costs, Sonon said, making it difficult for health systems to keep up. At the same time, Lancaster Medical Center has invested in additional security measures to protect staff as threats against health care workers increase. These include hiring more security officers and implementing duress buttons worn by staff. The duress buttons, which are monitored by GPS, enable the security team to know exactly where staff members are if a problem occurs. Although necessary, increased security measures are expensive, Sonon noted. AI Viewed as a Tool in Addressing Public Health Penn State Health leaders are also exploring when and how to implement artificial intelligence (AI) in their efforts to increase efficiency, assure accessibility of care for everyone who needs it, and best employ available resources, according to Sonon. AI has been particularly beneficial in remote health care, allowing patients who face barriers to care to access it from their homes. “We’re already using AI in a number of ways and expect that will increase, but we’re being deliberate in how it’s implemented,” Sonon explained. “We’re hopeful it can allow us to overcome some of these challenges to public health and to get the right care to the right patient at the right time.”
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Summer 2026
News & Announcements Frontline Spotlight Group
In Memorium: Daniel Paul Kegel, MD Daniel Paul Kegel, MD, age 73, passed peacefully from this life on April 30, 2026. Dan was born on August 17, 1952, and was raised in Lancaster, PA, where he attended Sacred Heart School and Lancaster Country Day School. He graduated from Loyola College in Baltimore, where he met his beloved wife, Regina, to whom he was married for 49 years. Dan went on to earn his Doctor of Medicine degree with honors from Jefferson Medical College, his father’s alma mater.
Lancaster Plastic Surgery Associates Lancaster Plastic Surgery Associates (LPSA), led by board-certified plastic and reconstructive surgeon Dr. Tobias C. Long, is dedicated to providing advanced, evidence-based care to patients throughout Lancaster and Central Pennsylvania. With a commitment to personalized treatment and surgical innovation, the practice blends academic rigor with compassionate, patient-centered care—right here in the community. The practice offers a full spectrum of services across cosmetic, reconstructive, and restorative plastic surgery. Aesthetic and rejuvenation procedures include facelifts (deep plane and sub-SMAS techniques), rhinoplasty (primary, revision), blepharoplasty, brow lifts, neck lifts, breast augmentation/lift/reduction, abdominoplasty, liposuction, and non-surgical options such as neurotoxins and fillers. Reconstructive expertise covers breast reconstruction, post-traumatic repair, hand and upper extremity surgery (including carpal tunnel, trigger finger, and Dupuytren’s), and complex wound care utilizing advanced regenerative techniques and skin substitutes.
What sets LPSA apart is its emphasis on natural-looking results, patient safety, and individualized care. Dr. Long’s educational background in bioengineering, training under internationally recognized surgeons, and extensive research contributions inform his use of the latest techniques, while the practice’s warm, supportive team—including experienced physician assistants, nurses, and staff—ensures patients feel informed and confident throughout their journey. In today’s climate of cyberattacks and fraud, privacy is a top priority; before-and-after photos are available through a password-protected portfolio or during in-person consultations. Located at 1496 Lititz Pike in Lancaster, LPSA is proud to bring high-level plastic surgery expertise to the region, helping patients restore function, enhance confidence, and improve quality of life. As a 100% physician-member practice of the Lancaster City & County Medical Society, it remains deeply committed to serving the local community.
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After completing his residency in Obstetrics and Gynecology at Baylor College of Medicine in Houston, TX, Dan returned to Lancaster County to join his father’s OB/GYN practice. In addition to his surgical expertise, he delivered more than 10,000 babies over his 40+ years of practice. During his career, Dan was on the board of Saint Joseph Hospital, Heart of Lancaster Regional Medical Center, and UPMC Pinnacle Lititz; he also served as chairman of the Department of Surgery at these institutions. Dan devoted his entire career to women’s health. A gifted physician and surgeon, his skill was matched by his easy and compassionate manner. He was loved and respected by his patients, coworkers, and every acquaintance. Dan carried his passion for medicine throughout his life. As much as Dan loved his profession, he loved his family more. He enjoyed and was so proud of his large and extended family, both his and Regina’s. His greatest joys were treasured times traveling with them to Rehoboth, New Hampshire, and Aruba. He loved nothing more than treating his grandchildren to adventures. Dan enjoyed boating, fishing, downhill skiing, water skiing, reading, cars, and taking Sunday drives with his wife. He was blessed with great intellectual curiosity and a deep faith in God. He intuitively focused on the needs of others. Dan was able to speak intelligently on almost any topic. His knowledge of history was incredible, and his storytelling was epic. Dan is survived by his wife, Regina (Schwartz) Kegel; daughters Emily Sonnon and Margaret Kegel; and his grandchildren Levi John Sonnon, Issac Clayton Sonnon, and Lana Danielle Seitz. He is also survived by siblings Dorothy Cullinan (Kevin) of Wellesley, MA; Margaret Szerejko (James) of West Hartford, CT; Mary Kegel (Geoffrey Stankiewicz) of Lancaster, PA; and Felicia Bechtel (Timothy) of Lancaster, PA, as well as many nieces and nephews across the world. He was predeceased by his parents, Charlotte and Eugene Kegel, and his niece Katherine Cullinan.
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News & Announcements Member Spotlight
Joseph Strangarity, MD, FAAFP UPMC Primary Care – Ephrata Where do you practice and why did you settle in your present location or community?
I practiced as a solo family physician for 34 years in Bowmansville with my office in my home. I was blessed to take over for a retiring physician, so I had a built-in clientele from the start. I did hospital, home, and nursing home visits. I did home deliveries, which were very rewarding. Four years ago, for various reasons, I decided to sell my practice and join UPMC. I now work in Brownstown at Schaum’s Corner. We recently hired a physician assistant (PA), so we see patients Monday through Friday.
What do you like best about practicing medicine?
I wanted to be a family physician since I was seven years old, and I am so happy that my dream has been fulfilled many times over. I love seeing patients from the newborn to the centenarian stage. I especially enjoy seeing whole families, from grandparents to their grandchildren, which is exactly why I went into family medicine. I am thankful I have been able to help turn patients’ lives around by treating their chronic diseases and those in acute crises.
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Are you involved in any community, non-profit, or professional organizations? If so, please list the groups.
I belong to the American Academy of Family Practice, Christian Medical and Dental Association, Pennsylvania Medical Society, and Lancaster City and County Medical Society. I attend Manheim Brethren in Christ Church, and my wife and I are involved in several of their community outreach opportunities. I have served on many medical mission trips, most recently with Horizons of Hope to the country of Sierra Leone.
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What are your hobbies and interests when you’re not working?
I love to read, build LEGO, ride bikes, and run. My two favorite races are the Red Rose Run and the Ephrata Firecracker. My wife and I have 17 grandchildren, so our weekends are filled with deciding which event to attend!
For what reason(s) did you become a member of the Lancaster City & County Medical Society, and what do you value most about your membership?
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As a resident of Lancaster County, I love keeping tabs on my fellow county physicians.
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FRONTLINE GROUPS SUMMER 2026 Frontline Practice Groups have made a 100% membership commitment to LCCMS and PAMED. We thank them for their unified support of our efforts in advocating on your behalf and facilitating an environment for physicians to work collaboratively for the benefit of the profession and patients. Avalon Primary Care BestFit Virtual Health + Wellness, PLLC Carter MD Aesthetics Community Anesthesia Associates Community Services Group Conestoga Eye Dermasurgery Center, PC Dermatology Associates of Lancaster, Ltd Dermatology Physicians, Inc DermDox Dermatology Centers, PC – Leola Eye Associates of Lancaster, Ltd Family Eye Group Family Practice Center, PC – Elizabethtown Glah Medical Group The Heart Group of Lancaster General Health Hospice & Community Care Hypertension & Kidney Specialists Lancaster Arthritis & Rheumatology Care Lancaster Cancer Center, Ltd
Lancaster Family Allergy Lancaster Plastic Surgery Associates Lancaster Skin Center, PC LNC Oculoplastics Luz Medicine Manning Rommel & Thode Associates Nemours duPont Pediatrics Lancaster Patient First – Lancaster Penn Medicine Lancaster General Health Care Connections
Penn Medicine Lancaster General Health Physicians Family Medicine Lincoln
Penn Medicine Lancaster General Health Physicians Family Medicine Norlanco
Penn Medicine Lancaster General Health Pennsylvania Specialty Pathology Retina Associates of Lancaster Spencer Phillips, MD
Kristen Bowman student
Hayley A. Kong, MD resident - Lancaster General Hospital
Aizaaz Faiz student
Maria Kostaris, DO resident - Penn State Health Milton S. Hershey Medical Center
Mackenzie Shepherd practice administrator - Family Eye Group Chandra Somerman practice administrator - Hypertension & Kidney Specialists
Kayla M. Moate, DO
Stefany H. Garrity, MD Penn State Health Pediatric Specialties
Jane N. Nwafor, MD resident - WellSpan York Hospital
Alyssa M. Klein, MD Dermatology Associates of Lancaster, Ltd
Austin J. Ressler student
Oliver Klemmer student
Alison N. Schuster, MD resident - Lancaster General Hospital
Gerald J. Valentini, Jr. student Mitchell Watts student Kaitlyn E. Welch student
REINSTATEMENTS Sajeeb Adhikary, MD Penn Medicine Lancaster General Health Physicians Behavioral Health
Hospital
Physicians Thoracic Surgery
New Members
Clara Ford student
Surgical Specialists – UPMC Union Community Care – Lancaster Brightside Union Community Care – Lancaster Downtown Union Community Care – Lancaster SouthEast Union Community Care – Lancaster West End UPMC Breast Health Associates UPMC Ephrata Primary Care, Ephrata UPMC Heart and Vascular Institute UPMC Lititz Wound and Hyperbaric Center WellSpan Family Health – Georgetown WellSpan Family Medicine – West Main St WellSpan Interventional Radiology at Ephrata WellSpan Philhaven – ACT – Lancaster WellSpan Physiatry – Ephrata Community
Thomas F. Krulewski, MD, PhD
Eric I. Finkelstein, MD
Lisa Burkhart practice administrator - UPMC Lititz Wound and Hyperbaric Center
Alina Ivashchuk, DO CHOP at Women & Babies Hospital
David Raubenstine student
Sean J. Sharkey, Jr., MD Penn Medicine Lancaster General Health Physicians Anesthesiology
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Lancaster City & County Medical Society (LCCMS) is your home to help you deal with local and regional health care issues. When you join LCCMS, to network, learn, share ideas, and advocate locally, you also join Pennsylvania Medical Society (PAMED), the voice of Pennsylvania’s physicians, advancing quality patient care, the ethical practice of medicine, and advocating for the patients they serve. PAMED works with the LCCMS to promote physician leadership, education, professional satisfaction, practice sustainability, and the public’s health. To join or renew your LCCMA/PAMED membership, contact PAMED at 800.228.7823 or visit them online at www.pamedsoc.org/join.