By Dr. Patricia Ares-Romero

As physicians, we are entrusted with safeguarding the health and well-being of our patients. But beyond the examination room, our advocacy extends to the broader policies that shape the practice of medicine. Every day, physicians across Miami-Dade County and beyond face complex regulatory and legislative challenges that affect the care we provide. Prior authorization processes delay treatment, the expansion of scope of practice threatens patient safety, and retroactive denials from insurance companies can leave physicians unpaid for care already delivered.

These issues are compounded by broader concerns—wrongful damages in malpractice cases, inadequate Medicare and telehealth reimbursements, corporate influence in healthcare decisions, and an ever-growing shortage of physicians. These are not just political talking points. They are real issues that affect the way we practice and, ultimately, the care our patients receive.

This is why physician participation in the general elections is not just a civic duty—it is an imperative. As the Dade County Medical Association (DCMA), a physician-led organization, we are dedicated to advocating for physicians and the patients we serve on these critical issues. Founded in 1903, the DCMA has, for over a century, provided leadership and guidance for physicians as they navigate an evolving medical landscape. Our role as a convener, advocate, and influencer is essential in ensuring that the interests of South Florida’s medical community are heard at the local and state levels.

But for our voice to resonate, we need every physician to exercise their right to vote. The power to elect leaders who understand and support the practice of medicine is in our hands. Healthcare policies that affect prior authorization, scope of practice, Medicare reimbursement, and telehealth reimbursement are shaped by the legislators we vote into office. It is our responsibility to ensure that those who represent us—whether in Tallahassee or Washington, D.C.—are aware of the unique challenges we face. This election cycle, I urge every physician to become informed, engaged, and proactive. Your participation in the democratic process not only impacts the practice of medicine but also strengthens our collective ability to advocate for our patients. The DCMA continues to fight for policies that protect physicians’ autonomy and ensure patients have access to quality care. From addressing retroactive denials and advocating for fair reimbursement to countering corporate medicine’s growing influence, we are your voice. But we need your participation to ensure that voice remains strong.

For over a century, the DCMA has been at the forefront of protecting the integrity of our profession. We have navigated our members through pandemics and regulatory upheavals. Today, we face new challenges, but with the same spirit of leadership and resilience that has carried us through the decades.

I encourage all physicians to not only stay informed about the issues but also actively participate in shaping the future of our healthcare system. Voting is one of the most powerful tools we have to effect change. Let us use it wisely to ensure that our profession—and our patients—thrive.

Together, we can continue the great legacy of the Dade County Medical Association as an advocate and force of integration across South Florida. Let us continue to build on the strength of our collective voice and ensure that physicians remain central to the healthcare conversation.

Dr. Patricia Ares-Romero is President, Dade County Medical Association, Inc.