By Adriana Bonansea-Frances, MD
On June 14, 2025, I had the distinct honor of becoming the seventh female president of the Miami-Dade County Medical Association (MDCMA). Leading a 122-year-old organization rooted in advocacy, professionalism, and service is both humbling and inspiring. As I reflect on the first half of my term, I am proud of the progress we have made, and energized by the work still ahead.
From the beginning, my goals as president have been clear: to strengthen physician advocacy, foster collaboration across specialties, promote prevention and accurate medical information, and expand engagement among physicians, residents, and medical students. These priorities have guided our efforts over the past several months.
Advocacy has been central to MDCMA’s work this year. Our physicians have actively participated in legislative gatherings, advocacy meetings, and the annual Tallahassee fly-in, ensuring that policymakers hear directly from those delivering care. We have spoken out on issues that affect both physicians and patients, including wrongful death damages, scope of practice, administrative burdens, and public health policy. Notably, MDCMA physicians participated in roundtables discussing water fluoridation, emphasizing evidence-based prevention, and issued a statement addressing the ending of vaccine mandates in Florida, reinforcing the importance of science, public trust, and informed decision-making.
Engaging the next generation of physicians has been another highlight of the year. We have seen increased participation in the MDCMA Resident and Medical Student Research Competition, as well as strong attendance at resident-focused educational and networking events. These initiatives are critical to cultivating future physician leaders and encouraging trainees to remain engaged in organized medicine.
Our membership growth reflects this renewed energy. Despite the many demands on physicians’ time, MDCMA has experienced an increase in membership, signaling a shared recognition that unity matters. Organized medicine remains one of our most powerful tools to advocate effectively and sustainably.
Supporting women physicians has also remained a priority. Through Women in Medicine programs and professional networking events, MDCMA has created spaces for mentorship, leadership development, and connection. These gatherings reinforce that community and collaboration are essential in today’s healthcare environment.
My own journey with MDCMA began quietly years ago, encouraged by leaders who believed in the importance of showing up. That lesson continues to guide me. Change does not happen all at once, but through steady, collective effort. As we move into the second half of this term, I remain committed to building on this momentum, strengthening advocacy, expanding outreach, and supporting physicians at every stage of their careers.
If we take meaningful steps forward today, we leave a stronger foundation for those who lead tomorrow.
Dr. Adriana Bonansea-Frances is President of the Miami-Dade County Medical Association.
