President's Column: 3rd Quarter 2024
The annual scientific meeting in New Orleans marked a significant milestone for me as I officially assumed the role of president of the UHMS. It is with great honor and enthusiasm that I address you as the newly inducted president of our esteemed society after the passing of the gavel ceremony at the Annual Scientific Meeting (ASM) on June 14th. My journey to the position of president has been profoundly shaped by my experiences and the exemplary leadership of our past president, Peter Witucki, MD under whom I had the privilege of serving as president-elect for the past two years. His dedication and vision have set a high standard, and I am committed to building upon his legacy.
Our Annual Scientific Meeting began with the pre-courses on June 12th and continued through June 15th. The meeting was extremely successful, with a record number of attendees and abstract presentations. Feedback from all attendees was phenomenal. The vibrant discussions, innovative research presentations, and camaraderie among our members at the meeting were truly inspiring. It reaffirmed my belief in the importance of our collective efforts in advancing the field of undersea and hyperbaric medicine.
As I assume my new role, I am both humbled and enthusiastic. I’m eager to continue fostering an environment of collaboration and innovation, ensuring that our society remains at the forefront of medical advancements and evidence-based patient care. Our field is rapidly evolving, and it is essential that we stay adaptable and forward-thinking to meet the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead.
One of my primary goals is to enhance our educational initiatives, providing more resources and support for seasoned practitioners and those new to our specialty. I also aim to strengthen our national presence, membership, and global presence. We will continue fostering national and international partnerships that will benefit our members and the communities we serve. This year will also mark a strengthened relationship with the Aerospace Medical Association (AsMA), the association from which our Society was initially born. We will conduct our ASM in conjunction with AsMA for the next five years, beginning in Atlanta on June 2nd, 2025. Our combined meetings with AsMA in the past have been so successful that the UHMS mutually made the decision in conjunction with AsMA board members to combine the meetings. Our previous conjoint meetings have greatly benefitted both societies.
I encourage all physicians, nurses, technologists, researchers, and students, to actively participate in our society's activities and share their insights and expertise. Together, we can make significant strides in our mission to advance the science and practice of undersea and hyperbaric medicine.
Thank you for your trust and support. I look forward to serving as your president and working alongside each of you to continue moving our society forward.
Warm regards,
Owen O’Neill