EMphasis Newsletter - December 2025

DECEMBER 2025

President's Message

This holiday season I’m reminded of what I’m professionally most grateful for: each of you. Don’t get me wrong; things like dentistry with lidocaine, modern ambulances (as opposed to those station wagon jobs), and exam gloves (thank goodness) are near the top of my list for too many serious and humorous reasons to list here. Ultimately, though, they aren’t as impactful for me as the comradery, support, growth and partnership I have with my colleagues in EM. We all know that this career encompasses the entire gamut of human emotions and conditions and, while rewarding, that it can take a toll. There is great strength in our teamwork and fellowship.

I want to highlight a recent teamwork achievement of a different kind as well. Recently we learned that there was an unanticipated message from state regulators regarding the requirements for resuscitation courses for Physicians working in free-standing Emergency Departments. READ MORE

AJ Kirk, MD, FACEP
TCEP President

CONNECT 2026 Registration is Now Open!

We're excited to announce that registration is NOW OPEN for the highly anticipated TCEP CONNECT 2026 Annual Meeting! This event promises to be a unique and enriching experience, bringing together emergency medicine professionals from diverse backgrounds to explore the latest trends, share insights, and foster connections within the industry. Join us in Rockwall, TX from April 10 - 11, 2026 and grab your registration today.

Call for Board and Councillor Applications

Board and Councillor applications for the 2026–2027 Leadership year are now open! This is your opportunity to shape the direction of TCEP, advocate for your colleagues, and make a meaningful impact on emergency medicine in Texas.

Why Apply?

Shape policy and strategic priorities
Grow your professional network
Develop leadership skills that set you apart

Deadline: January 14, 2026 – Don’t wait; apply today!

APPLY NOW

Legislative Update

This edition covers several important developments shaping emergency medicine and Texas healthcare policy. Highlights include HHSC's new rulemaking effort that could reinstate the board-certified emergency physician exemption for FEMC staffing, key updates on SB 31 implementation and new CME requirements for obstetric emergencies, and other licensure changes affecting EM physicians. The update also previews the finalized candidate field for the March 3, 2026, Texas primaries, featuring several high-profile statewide races. READ MORE.

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Medical Student Committee (MSC) News

As the fall semester wraps up, the TCEP Medical Student Committee has been busy supporting students across Texas and beyond. This year, the MSC hosted 17 virtual events with more than 375 attendees.

We're also excited to launch a new peer-to-peer "PS Series" to help students navigate key milestones on the path to residency, with the first session on January 6. We'll hear from MS4's on Navigating Away Rotations and VSLO.

Plus, applications are now open for the Medical Student Representative position on TCEP's Board of Directors. This is a great chance to get involved! READ FULL UPDATE.

Andrew Flanagan, MSC Chair

Application Deadline Next Month: Submit Your Research!

Got research worth sharing? The call for abstracts for TCEP’s 2026 Annual Research Forum in only open for a few more weeks! Showcase your work, earn recognition, and join us at CONNECT 2026 in Rockwall, TX, where winners will be honored at the Annual Business Meeting and Awards Luncheon.

SUBMIT YOUR RESEARCH

NEW PS Series for Medical Students - Gain first hand insights

The PS Series is designed to give medical students practical, insider perspectives on key milestones in their training. Each session features experienced peers and professionals sharing strategies, lessons learned, and actionable advice to help you navigate critical steps—from away rotations and VSLO applications to transitioning into residency. Whether you’re planning your next move or refining your long-term goals, these sessions will equip you with the tools and confidence to succeed.

Open to all medical students, the first virtual event is January 6, 2026, from 7:30 - 8:30 p.m.

In the News

CMS Adopts ACEP's Boarding Measure in Major Win for Emergency Care

(Emergency Physicians, 11/21) The Emergency Care Access & Timeliness measure was developed and supported by ACEP members. The measure is included in the CY 2026 OPPS final rule and will require hospitals to more accurately track and publicly report how long admitted patients are boarded in the ED. READ MORE

ACH Transfer Saves You

Save money and support ACEP/TCEP by paying your dues via ACH (electronic check)! This new option helps reduce credit card fees, allowing more funds to go toward advocacy and member benefits. New and renewing members can choose ACH during the application process, and current members on auto-renew or installments can update their payment method anytime in the "Payment Methods" section of My Account.

Malpractice Case Study

Emergency medicine claims typically involve diagnostic errors. In this case study, a patient was improperly triaged. When a claim was filed, TMLT quickly went to work and won a clear, decisive victory at trial. READ MORE

Unlock your next career opportunity with our job listings!

Discover a wide range of job opportunities tailored to your skills and aspirations at our Career Center. Whether you're looking for your next big break or a fresh start, our comprehensive listings have something for everyone. Start exploring today!

EXPLORE YOUR CAREER OPPORTUNITIES