News from the MOA
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PRESS RELEASE
Rockport, Maine — June 5–7, 2026 — The Maine Osteopathic Association (MOA) convened its 115th Annual Convention at the Samoset Resort in Rockport, bringing together osteopathic physicians, healthcare leaders, and medical students from across the state for three days of education, collaboration, and celebration.
The convention offered 21.5 continuing medical education (CME) credits, featuring a wide range of clinical topics including rural health transformation, emergency medicine, lifestyle medicine, women’s health, and public health updates.
A highlight of the weekend is the MOA Awards Ceremony and Reception on Saturday evening June 6th, recognizing outstanding contributions to osteopathic medicine, patient care, and community service throughout Maine.
Celebrating Excellence in Osteopathic Medicine
The MOA proudly recognizes this year’s award recipients for their leadership, dedication, and impact:
Louis Hanson, D.O. Osteopathic Physician of the Year Award
Karen Benezra, DO — Honored for her compassionate, patient-centered care, leadership within the MOA, and commitment to advancing whole-person osteopathic medicine. Dr. Benezra practices Neuromusculoskeletal Medicine in Arundel, Maine.
Roswell P. Bates, D.O. Public Service Award
Christine Blake Smith, DO — Recognized for decades of service in addiction medicine, chronic pain care, and her contributions to public health initiatives locally and nationally. Dr. Christine Blake Smith is the owner and medical director of Portland West Family Practice, where she specializes in comprehensive family medicine, chronic disease management, and addiction care, including leadership of the Maine Opioid Dependency Program, a statewide opioid treatment program which she founded in 2020.
Young Physician of the Year Award
Breanna “Bre” Glynn, DO — Celebrated for clinical excellence, leadership within the MOA, and dedication to mentoring future physicians and serving underserved populations. Dr. Breanna Glynn is a hospitalist at MaineGeneral Medical Center’s Alfond Center for Health in Augusta and is trained in family medicine with additional expertise in neuromusculoskeletal medicine.
Presidential Citation for Student Excellence
Rachelle Mendola, DO— Honored for exceptional leadership, advocacy, and service, including work with underserved communities and advancing student engagement in osteopathic medicine. Dr. Mendola is a recent graduate of University of New England’s College of Osteopathic Medicine Class of 2026. She is continuing her training with a research Fellowship.
In addition, the MOA recognized physicians reaching milestone service anniversaries ranging from 20 to 55 years, honoring their longstanding commitment to patient care and the profession across Maine. Heartfelt comments reflecting on 50 years of practice in the state were spontaneously delivered by Michael Bedecs, DO, a triple board certified physician and the owner and medical director of the Age Management Center of New England in Portland, Maine. Ira Stockwell, DO of Westbrook was honored for his more than 55 years of medical practice in the state.
Investing in the Future of Healthcare in Maine
Through the Maine Osteopathic Educational Foundation (MOEF), the MOA continues its commitment to developing the next generation of physicians. At the Saturday, June 6th ceremony, 2026 scholarship and new Scholars program recipients were recognized.
2026 MOEF Scholarship Recipients
Recipients of the Traditional MOEF Scholarships ($2,500 each) include:
- Jade Lindenau, OMS II
- Labina Faizizada, OMS III
- Miranda Lawell, OMS II
- Jordyn Holbrook, OMS I
Inaugural Maine Osteopathic Scholars Program
The MOA also celebrates the launch of the Maine Osteopathic Scholars Program, supporting early medical students with mentorship and professional development:
- Kylie Muzzall, OMS I
- Erin Cairns, OMS I
All of this year’s recipients are current osteopathic medical students at the University of New England College of Osteopathic Medicine in Portland, ME. These initiatives reflect MOA’s ongoing mission to strengthen Maine’s healthcare workforce, particularly in rural and underserved communities.
A Tradition of Leadership and Innovation
Founded more than a century ago, the Maine Osteopathic Association represents over 1,300 osteopathic physicians dedicated to improving healthcare access, advancing medical education, and promoting whole-person care across the state.
The annual convention not only provides high-quality continuing education but also fosters collaboration among healthcare professionals and reinforces the osteopathic commitment to patient-centered, community-focused care.
Event Highlights
- Opening reception with the University of New England College of Osteopathic Medicine (UNE COM)
- Specialty tracks in emergency medicine and women’s health
- Networking events and exhibit hall
- MOEF fundraising activities supporting scholarships and education
- Family-friendly activities, including a Kids Camp and 5K run/walk
About the Maine Osteopathic Association
The Maine Osteopathic Association (MOA) is a professional organization dedicated to supporting osteopathic physicians through advocacy, education, and leadership development. The organization plays a vital role in advancing healthcare quality and access across Maine.
Media Contact
Amanda Mahan, Executive Director
Maine Osteopathic Association
Phone: 207-623-1101
Email: [email protected]
Immigration Resources from the Maine Medical Community
January 22, 2026*
From the healthcare clinician community to our fellow staff and patients,
Our Associations are committed to ensuring that all Maine patients, regardless of immigration status, have access to safe, timely, high-quality healthcare. Recent news of increased ICE actions in Maine is causing fear and concern. Many individuals in our communities are currently afraid to access healthcare, even when they need it. People are also afraid to show up for work, and these individuals are often the backbone of our hospitals and nursing homes.
As such, we decided it was important to share the following information so practices and clinicians can understand what ICE can and cannot do in health care facilities, so that disruptions to care delivery are mitigated as much as possible and everyone’s rights and safety are respected.
View the Full Press Release Here
STATEMENT: Health Community Urges The United States Department of Health and Human Services and the United States Centers for Disease Control and Prevention to Reconsider Overhaul of Childhood Immunization Schedule
For Immediate Release: Monday, January 5, 2026
Contact: Anne Sedlack ([email protected])
AUGUSTA – This afternoon, the Deputy Secretary of Health and Human Services (HHS), Jim O’Neill, in his role as Acting Director of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), signed a memorandum that directs HHS and the CDC to review and revise the U.S. childhood immunization schedule. The action follows a directive from President Trump to “review international best practices” on vaccination, and consider aligning the U.S. childhood immunization schedule more closely with vaccine recommendations used in other developed countries. The memorandum signals a sharp change from decades of scientific practice and undermines the CDC’s traditional expert-driven advisory process.
The Maine Medical Association is joined by Maine Academy of Family Physicians, Maine Academy of Physician Associates, Maine Chapter of the American Academy of Pediatrics, Maine Osteopathic Association, and Maine Public Health Association in urging the public to continue listening to their clinicians about the importance of vaccinations.
Read the Full Press Release Here
MOA President Featured in NEWS CENTER Maine Coverage on Hepatitis B Vaccine Concerns
(Monday, December 8, 2025) MOA President Kathryn Brandt, DO was featured in NEWS CENTER Maine this week, speaking on behalf of the osteopathic and broader healthcare community about proposed CDC changes to the hepatitis B vaccination plan for newborns.
Dr. Brandt emphasized the seriousness of hepatitis B infection, noting:
“Unfortunately, the most common way that [hepatitis B] shows up is that it doesn't show up until you develop liver failure. It's an absolutely horrible way to go.”
The segment also included University of New England College of Osteopathic Medicine Dean Jane Carreiro, DO, who affirmed that UNE’s curriculum will remain unchanged because “the science hasn’t changed.” Dr. Carreiro encouraged anyone with questions to consult their personal physician.
The story was a result of a press release sent on behalf of a group of Maine healthcare organizations, including the Maine Medical Association, Maine Chapter of the American Academy of Pediatrics, Maine Academy of Family Physicians, and the Maine Nurse Practitioner Association.
Healthcare Clinicians Condemn Decision by Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices to Rescind Recommendation for Universal Hepatitis B Birth Dose
Published on: December 5, 2025
AUGUSTA, ME – The Maine Medical Association is joined by the Maine Academy of Family Physicians, Maine Academy of Physician Associates, Maine Chapter, American Academy of Pediatrics, Maine Nurse Practitioner Association, Maine Osteopathic Association and Maine Section, American College of Obstetricians & Gynecologists to strongly oppose the decision by the Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices (ACIP) to to end the decades-long recommendation that all newborns be immunized at birth against hepatitis B. Since its adoption in 1991, the birth-dose strategy has contributed significantly to a dramatic reduction in hepatitis B infections among children. This policy has been foundational in protecting children from a severe and potentially life-long liver infection.
“Maine’s commitment to equitable healthcare means ensuring every baby, regardless of geography, insurance, or circumstance, receives the same proven protections at birth. Moving away from universal vaccination widens gaps for rural families and those already facing barriers to care. This is a step backward for fairness, access, and the health of Maine’s youngest residents.” Kathryn Brandt, DO, MS.MEdL, President of Maine Osteopathic Association.
Our Associations strongly reaffirm our commitment to evidence-based immunization practices that protect the health of children and the public. And we are prepared to work together to educate families about the importance of the birth dose of Hepatitis B for all Maine children.
Maine Healthcare Associations Call for Renewed Commitment to HIV Prevention and Compassionate Care
Published on: December 1, 2025
AUGUSTA, ME – The Maine Medical Association is joined by the Maine Academy of Family Physicians, Maine Academy of Physician Associates, Maine Chapter, American Academy of Pediatrics, Maine Nurse Practitioner Association, Maine Osteopathic Association, and Maine Public Health Association to strongly oppose the federal government's decision not to commemorate World AIDS Day 2025, particularly as Maine faces its largest HIV outbreak in memory. Every year since 1988, the United States has remembered those who died from AIDS while simultaneously celebrating the significant advances in medicine that have helped prevent infections and allowed people to live longer, healthier, and more productive lives through early detection and appropriate treatments.
STATEMENT: Health Care Community Rejects Vaccine Misinformation and Reaffirms Evidence on Vaccine Safety
Published on: November 21, 2025
AUGUSTA – This week, the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention updated its website with misinformation about vaccines and autism. The Maine Medical Association is joined by the Maine Academy of Family Physicians, Maine Academy of Physician Associates, Maine Chapter, American Academy of Pediatrics, Maine Nurse Practitioner Association, Maine Osteopathic Association, and Maine Public Health Association to affirm: vaccines do not cause autism. This conclusion is supported by decades of rigorous research involving millions of children across multiple countries.
“Misinformation about vaccines is not harmless—it has real consequences,” said Maine Medical Association President James Jarvis, MD. “We cannot allow false claims to jeopardize the progress Maine has made in safeguarding children’s health.”
We are all deeply concerned that federal health agencies are now promoting long-disproven claims that undermine public confidence in lifesaving immunizations. Maine has worked hard to protect our children through evidence-based vaccine policies. We cannot allow misinformation under the guise of the integrity of the US CDC to reverse this progress. Vaccines rank among medicine's greatest achievements. We urge the U.S. CDC to return to its mission of promoting sound science that protects all Americans' health.
Maine Osteopathic Association Celebrates Leadership and Excellence in Medicine at 114th Annual Convention
June 17, 2025
[ROCKPORT, ME] – The Maine Osteopathic Association (MOA) celebrated its 114th Annual Convention June 13–15, 2025, at the Samoset Resort in Rockport. The hybrid event welcomed more than 100 osteopathic physicians, medical students, and guests for continuing medical education, professional development, and a series of celebrations—including the installation of new leadership and recognition of outstanding members of the osteopathic community.
This year’s Convention marked the beginning of a new chapter for the MOA, as Kathryn Brandt, DO was officially welcomed as the Association’s next President. Dr. Brandt is a proud alumna of the University of New England College of Osteopathic Medicine (UNE COM) and a widely respected physician-educator. She is board-certified in Family Medicine and Neuromusculoskeletal Medicine, and has devoted her career to teaching, advocacy, and the integration of osteopathic principles into primary care and chronic disease management. Dr. Brandt has held leadership roles at Maine-Dartmouth Family Medicine Residency and UNE COM, and has served on the MOA Board of Directors since 2017. She now steps into the role of President for a two-year term from 2025 to 2027.
The Association also presented its most prestigious awards at the MOA Awards Ceremony & Presidential Celebration, recognizing individuals whose contributions exemplify the values of osteopathic medicine in Maine.
2025 MOA Award Recipients:
- Distinguished Service Award
Donald V. Hankinson, DO
A pioneer in osteopathic education and clinical leadership, Dr. Hankinson was honored for his lifelong contributions to osteopathic medicine in Maine and beyond. From founding the Division of Osteopathic Medicine at Maine Medical Center to mentoring generations of students at UNE COM, his influence is profound and enduring.
- Louis Hanson, DO Physician of the Year Award
Megan Brewer, DO
Chief Medical Officer at Community Clinical Services in Lewiston, Dr. Brewer was recognized for her compassionate care and fierce advocacy for underserved patients. Her work exemplifies the spirit of osteopathic medicine in challenging, high-need environments.
- Young Physician of the Year Award
Catherine Batz, DO
A family medicine and neuromusculoskeletal specialist in Gardiner, Dr. Batz has quickly become known for her whole-person care, clinical excellence, and meaningful patient relationships.
- Sandra Featherman, PhD Osteopathic Champion Award
Frank Willard, PhD
A legendary Professor of Anatomy at UNE COM, Dr. Willard was honored for his decades of transformative teaching, groundbreaking research, and tireless dedication to advancing osteopathic science and philosophy.
2025 MOEF Scholarship Recipients:
Through its partnership with the Maine Osteopathic Educational Foundation (MOEF), the MOA also awarded four scholarships of $2,500 to exceptional osteopathic medical students:
- Dawson Turcotte, UNE COM – A Skowhegan native dedicated to rural primary care in Maine.
- Joshua Webber, UNE COM – A future physician with strong roots in Maine and a passion for serving underserved communities.
- Emily Caron, UNE COM – Matched into the Rural Track of Maine Medical Center Psychiatry Residency; known for her osteopathic approach to mental health care.
- Isaac Peacock – Matched into Family Medicine at Central Maine Medical Center; deeply committed to hands-on, whole-person care in Maine.
 Additional Highlights:
The Convention featured over 20 hours of AOA Category 1-A CME programming, board elections for both the MOA and MOEF, and live music from the Dani Tribesman Band. Special thanks were given to UNE COM student volunteers and the Maine-Dartmouth OMM team for contributing their energy and expertise throughout the weekend.
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