The Verdict

Send a textIn the latest episode of MLMIC's podcast, "The Verdict," host Tammie Smeltz sits down with true champions of community health, Sheila Austin, R.N. from Emmaus Ministries and two dentist volunteers, Stephen Streiff, D.D.S. and Gerald Danaher, D.D.S. This powerful conversation dives deep into the incredible mission of Emmaus Ministries: providing essential dental care to the underserved population in Syracuse, New York.For many in our communities, access to quality dental care remains a significant barrier, leading to preventable pain and long-term health issues. Sheila shares compelling insights into the challenges faced by those without insurance or sufficient resources, and how Emmaus Ministries steps in to fill that critical void.The podcast discusses the compassionate approach taken by Emmaus to all their guests, powered by dedicated volunteers and a commitment to making a real difference in people's lives. Listen to learn about the scope of their services, the impact they're making and the inspiring dedication behind their work. This episode is a must-listen for anyone interested in dental outreach, community support and the vital role dental care plays in overall well-being.Dentists interested in volunteering at St. Marianne Cope Health Services can reach out to the clinic manager, Teresa Metallo, at 315-961-3067 or visit their website here.

Send a textThe Verdict: Inside Med Mal Defense - Careers, Challenges & Calling the Next GenerationJoin host, Tammie Smeltz, RPLU, as she chats with Roy Kaufman, Esq., a distinguished partner at Rubin Paterniti Gonzalez Rizzo Kaufman.In this episode, Roy shares fascinating stories from his decades-long career in medical malpractice defense. He also offers valuable insights and information for young attorneys considering a path in this specialized field of law.Attorneys interested in a career in medical malpractice defense can contact Roy directly at 516-340-1083 or [email protected].

Send a textJoin host Tammie Smeltz, RPLU, as she chats with Dawn Wilno, President of Core Association Partners, the Association Management Partner of the NYMGMA, and the organization’s acting Executive Director. Dawn shares details on several spring seminars scheduled throughout the next two months, as well as what to look forward to at the Annual Conference in June.If you would like to attend any of the spring seminars or join the NYMGMA visit their website or contact Dawn directly at 844-333-5511 or via email at [email protected].

Send a textWhat's the latest from the New York State Dental Foundation? Host Tammie Smeltz, RPLU, chats with Dr. Loren Baim and Executive Director Stacy Mcilduff about their Annual Brunch on May 31st at the Marriott Uniondale (11:30 a.m.) and their critical focus on HPV awareness and prevention within the dental community.Anyone interested in attending the brunch can visit the Foundation’s website or contact Stacy Mcilduff directly at 518-689-2772.

Send a textJoin host Tammie Smeltz, RPLU, as she discusses practical strategies for creating a healthcare environment where LGBTQ+ patients feel safe, respected and welcomed.

Send a textJoin host Tammie Smeltz, RPLU, as she explores MLMIC's CME+ programs with Risk Management Attorney, Brian Felton, Esq.In this episode, we shine a spotlight on a valuable resource for our policyholders: MLMIC's CME+ programs. Brian Felton, Esq. is a key figure in the development and implementation of these educational offerings. During this podcast we discuss the history of MLMIC’s CME+ programs, our proactive risk management course and explore a couple of our most sought-after courses.Brian Felton can be reached directly at 518-786-2883 or [email protected].

Send a textJoin host Tammie Smeltz, RPLU, as she explores MLMIC's risk management services with Senior Risk Management Consultant Shelly Kriete, BS, CPHQ, CPHRM, highlighting the Organizational Risk Management Assessment.

Send a textDuring this podcast, Host Tammie Smeltz, RPLU shares a case study discussing the importance of timely and accurate communication of test results during pregnancy. The case study shows the devastating consequences of failing to report critical information, such as abnormal test results, and how these failures can lead to an allegation of wrongful birth.

Send a textDuring this podcast, Host Tammie Smeltz, RPLU, sits down with Committee Member Dr. Amy Bryan, Committee Peer Assistant Coordinator Dr. Robert Herzog and director of Dental Practice Support Jacqueline Donnelly to discuss the New York State Dental Association (NYSDA) Committee on Substance Use Disorder and Well-Being.Dentists, family members or patients who wish to learn more about the program can contact Jackie Donnelly directly at 518-689-2750, Dr. Robert Herzog at 716-830-3055 or Dr. Amy Bryan at 716-807-4131.Donations to the Sullivan Fund can be made here. Checks can be mailed to the New York State Dental Foundation at 20 Corporate Woods Blvd., Ste. 602, Albany, New York 14221. Please note on the check that the donation should be made on behalf of the Sullivan Fund.

Send a textDuring this podcast, Host Tammie Smeltz sits down with Stacy McIlduff, Executive Director of the New York State Dental Foundation, to chat about Giving Toothday and the Foundation’s fundraising efforts for 2025.Dentists interested in creating a fundraising campaign or making a donation for Giving Toothday can do so here.For additional information about Giving Toothday or the New York State Dental Foundation, contact Stacy McilDuff at [email protected].

Send a textDuring this podcast, Host Tammie Smeltz sits down with Kathy Harth, Assistant Vice President of Claims to discuss a complex case involving a sedentary patient with chronic conditions who developed a deep vein thrombosis and pulmonary embolism. Kathy provides insights on the relationship between the patient’s medical history and the development of her deep vein thrombosis and provides takeaways regarding the importance of treating patients within the standard of care.

Send a textAre you ready to dive into the world of Value-Based Care? Join Host Tammie Smeltz, RPLU, for the latest episode of The Verdict, MLMIC’s podcast, as she sits down with Dr. Salvatore Volpe to discuss the intricacies and advantages of this patient-centric healthcare model!Don’t miss this opportunity to gain a deeper understanding of value-based care and its impact on the future of healthcare!

Send a textJoin Host Tammie Smeltz, RPLU for a thought-provoking episode of MLMIC’s podcast, The Verdict, as she delves into the topic of healthy aging and aging in place with Dr. Salvatore Volpe. Dr. Volpe discusses the challenges of aging in place, and the role of the healthcare provider in supporting seniors’ well-being.Don’t miss this opportunity to gain valuable insights into treating the elderly population.

Send a textIn this exclusive interview on The Verdict, Host Tammie Smeltz, RPLU, sits down with renowned expert Dr. Salvatore Volpe, the author of the groundbreaking book "Health Informatics." Join us as we delve into the fascinating world of data-driven healthcare and learn the importance of a team-based approach to patient care.Don't miss this opportunity to gain a deeper understanding of health informatics and its impact on the medical industry.

Send a textJoin host Tammie Smeltz, RPLU, on "The Verdict" as we delve into the world of MSSNY's Peer-2-Peer (P2P) Program for physicians in New York. Our guest, Dr. Frank Dowling, shares his insights on MSSNY's P2P Program, a valuable resource for physicians facing challenges and seeking guidance. Learn how this program connects physicians with peers who understand the unique pressures of the medical profession, offering a safe space for support, empathy and perspective.

Send a textJoin Host, Tammie Smeltz, RPLU for an exclusive conversation with Heather Lopez, Vice President of MSSNY's Payment & Practice Division. In this thought-provoking podcast, Heather will share her insights on the current state of healthcare payments, emerging trends and the challenges facing medical practices. Discover how MSSNY is working to advocate for fair reimbursement and supporting physicians in navigating the complexities of the healthcare payment landscape. Don't miss this informative and engaging episode!

Send a textDuring this episode, Host Tammie Smeltz, RPLU sits down with Dr. Chad Gehani to discuss the Queens County Dental Society's upcoming event, World's Fair of Dentistry. Dr. Gehani also shares his inspiring story as a practicing dentist originally from India and provides advice for new dentists, as well as dental residents and students.

Send a textDuring this podcast, Host Tammie Smeltz sits down with Dr. Eliscar-Hewett of the Second District Dental Society. Dr. Eliscar-Hewett shares her experience as a new dentist and discusses a few fun events the Second District Dental Society offers new-to-practice dentists. She also talks about the importance of securing dental professional liability insurance coverage with MLMIC.

Send a textDuring this podcast, Host Tammie Smeltz shares a case study discussing the importance of proper documentation when treating patients with sulfa allergies and the risk of “curbside consultations.” 

Send a textDuring this podcast, Host Tammie Smeltz sits down with Kathy Harth, Assistant Vice President of Claims to discuss an interesting case involving a bladder injury after a total abdominal hysterectomy. Kathy provides several take-aways regarding the importance of proper documentation on informed consent and the patient-physician relationship.

Send a textDuring this podcast, Host Tammie Smeltz chats with the new Executive Vice President of the Medical Society of the State of New York (MSSNY), Dr. Thomas Lee. Dr. Lee discusses his incredible history as a practicing neurosurgeon in New York. He provides insights regarding short and long term goals for MSSNY and shares his feelings as to why it's important for physicians to set aside time to volunteer at a not-for profit.

Send a textDuring this podcast Host Tammie Smeltz sits down with Moe Auster, Esq. and Marc Craw, Esq. as they provide a detailed overview of the Grieving Families Act and how it will impact the physicians in New York.

Send a textDuring this podcast, Host Tammie Smeltz chats with Loretta Ponesse, Executive Director of the New York Chapter of the American College of Physicians (NYACP). Loretta and Tammie discuss the NYACP’s Annual Scientific Meeting including the Doctor’s Dilemma and Poster Competition.Loretta also talks about the NYACP’s dedication to diversity and shares the many benefits of joining the NYACP.

Send a textDuring this podcast, Tammie Smeltz sits down with  Dr. Jerome Cohen, President of the Medical Society of the State of New York, to discuss his role in organized medicine and his passion for tort reform. Dr. Cohen shares stories about his history as a practicing gastroenterologist and provides insights for new physicians beginning to practice in New York.

Send a textWelcome to Season 2 of The Verdict. During this podcast, Dr. John Lombardo shares impactful stories about his career in medicine and his role as Chief Medical Officer of MLMIC Insurance Company. Our discussion also includes MLMIC's relationship with The Medical Society of the State of New York which spans almost 50 years and our new MLMIC/MSSNY Preferred Savings Program available to qualifying physicians.

Send a textIn this episode, Assistant Vice President of Claims, Kathy Harth, discusses a case that went to trial involving a failure to properly treat multiple fractured fingers resulting in deformity and loss of use of the hand.

Send a textDuring this episode, Content Marketing Manager Tammie Smeltz speaks with Lucia Acosta-Castillejo and Susan Bartl-Conley of the Monroe County Medical Society. They discuss the upcoming Ask the Carrier Conference in Rochester New York and other exciting events scheduled in Rochester during 2024. Lucia provides insights on the number of benefits physicians receive when becoming a member of the Medical Society of the State of New York and their local county medical society.

Send a textDuring Part 2 of this podcas, Host Tammie Smeltz, Donnie Richman, Esq., Nancy May-Skinner, Esq. and Mia VanAuken, Esq. discuss advice for young women as they start their legal career. The legal team also shares stories about their go-to activities to stay balanced! 

Send a textDuring Part One of this podcast, Host Tammie Smeltz chats with Donnie Richman, Esq., Nancy May-Skinner, Esq. and Mia VanAuken, Esq. about their experience, history and unique roles within MLMIC Insurance Company.

Send a textDuring this episode, Dr. Maranga and  Host Tammie Smeltz chat about “Scrubs and Stilettos” an annual conference offered through the Suffolk County Dental Society. Dr. Maranga also provides advice for the next generation of female dentists and shares ways to cultivate work-life-balance.

Send a textAs we continue to celebrate Women's History Month, Host Tammie Smeltz and Dr. Maria Maranga chat about her experience as a mentor to dental students and residents. They discuss the increasing amount of female dentists in the workforce and the benefits of joining the American Dental Association, the New York State Dental Association and your local dental society. Dr. Maranga also shares stories about her leadership roles with the Suffolk County Dental Society and the New York State Dental Society.

Send a textDuring this episode,  Host Tammie Smeltz sits down with three influential female leaders at MLMIC Insurance Company.  Lisa, Daniela and Ellen exchange stories about their experience in the insurance industry and share advice for young women starting their career!

Send a textWelcome to the first episode of MLMIC's The Verdict. During this episode CEO Mike Schoppmann, Esq. and our host, Tammie Smeltz, discuss the history of MLMIC Insurance Company,  the legal landscape in New York State and the benefits of joining your state and local medical societies.