I am incredibly honored to be the new president of LUGPA, an organization that is pivotal to the future of independent urology practice. Ensuring a sustainable model for independent physicians is paramount to providing high-quality, affordable urologic care to our patients.

Allow me to introduce myself: I have been with Advanced Urology Institute in Florida—1 of the largest and most respected urology groups within LUGPA—since 1991, and I became its president in 2021. With nearly 35 years of clinical experience in private practice, I have dedicated my career to improving the treatment of urologic conditions, especially the treatment of advanced prostate cancer. I have developed a strong foundation in leadership and in urologic organizations, having served on the LUGPA board of directors for the past 10 years and as a past president of the Florida Urological Society, the Southeastern Section of the American Urological Association, and the American Association of Clinical Urologists.

For my term as LUGPA president, I’ve set a few key priorities that are especially close to my heart, 1 of which is creating opportunities for advanced practice providers (APPs). Nearly 25 years ago, Advanced Urology Institute hired our first urology APP, back when few practices were doing so. We now have more than 45 APPs, and these professionals have reached nearly a 1:1 ratio with Advanced Urology Institute’s urologists. It’s incredible to see how these APPs have enriched our practice, and I’m excited to continue this momentum with a live LUGPA APP summit in 2025.

Second, I want to inspire more people to participate in LUGPA’s advocacy efforts. Whether by pledging financial support or volunteering to attend our “Fly-In” events, your contributions are vital to strengthening our relationships with lawmakers. One of our most important policy initiatives is fixing the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services’ Physician Fee Schedule. That is my (and our) number 1 legislative priority and will continue to be so until it is fixed. The current model is simply unsustainable, so please do get involved. Our work doesn’t just benefit independent urology, it advances the entire field.

Finally, I’m passionate about strengthening collaboration within the larger urology community. My experience in other organizations has shown me the power of working together to bridge gaps, and I’m excited to advance our partnership with Specialty Networks. With so many shared values and constituencies, I believe this collaboration will help us achieve even more in the coming years.