Miss Smith seeks Alaska medical board position to improve patient trust and care

A passionate call for improved medical oversight in Alaska emerged during a recent Senate Health and Social Services meeting, as Miss Smith, a physician assistant with a rich background in healthcare, expressed her desire to serve on the state medical board. With a dual degree in biomedical science and athletic training, and experience working alongside top orthopedic surgeons, Smith has dedicated her career to providing quality care, particularly in underserved communities.

In her testimony, Smith highlighted the challenges faced by Alaskans in accessing trustworthy medical care, stating, "I'm sick and tired of being sick and tired," a sentiment echoed by many of her patients. She emphasized the need for a medical board that prioritizes patient safety and evidence-based practices, aiming to restore trust in the healthcare system.

Senator Tobin engaged Smith on her understanding of the medical board's oversight responsibilities, including licensure and continuing education requirements. While Smith admitted she lacks direct experience in medical board operations, she underscored her commitment to patient safety and her proactive approach to evaluating licensure applications. She detailed her intent to thoroughly investigate any red flags in applications, ensuring that safety concerns are addressed before granting licenses.

Smith's approach to medicine, particularly in functional and regenerative practices, focuses on treating the root causes of health issues rather than masking symptoms with pharmaceuticals. She noted that her practice does not require a DEA registration, as she emphasizes non-pharmaceutical treatments to avoid the negative side effects commonly associated with pain medications.

As the meeting progressed, the committee opened the floor to public testimony, indicating a continued commitment to engaging community voices in discussions about healthcare in Alaska. Smith's testimony stands as a pivotal moment in the ongoing conversation about improving healthcare access and quality in the state, with her potential appointment to the medical board promising a fresh perspective on patient-centered care.