FEBRUARY 2026

President's Message

We are well into the new year now and many new things are happening!  We are ramping up for CONNECT, our annual conference focused on bringing us together to share ideas, discuss challenges (and, more importantly, solutions) and learn from each other. This year it will be in a new city (Rockwall, a suburb of the DFW metroplex) on the lakefront. I’m excited about the conference and seeing all of you!

Another new thing to take note of is our requirement by the Texas Medical Board for an educational module (pursuant to SB31). In its current form it is quite manageable and I recommend taking it as soon as possible. You can find it by logging in to your TMB profile and following the link to the presentation. There is no charge and there is some very good clarifying information in it!

Also new was our visit to El Paso for our Board meeting!  We had a productive meeting and really enjoyed visiting the medical center and the local culture. We hosted a networking reception and had the opportunity to visit with Medical Students, Resident Physicians and local Emergency Physicians to hear their thoughts and perspectives. It is our priority to represent all Emergency Medicine across the state, and we look forward to continuing this engagement.

I look forward to seeing you at CONNECT26!!

AJ Kirk, MD, FACEP
TCEP President

 
 

Meet the 2026-27 Board of Directors and Councillor Candidates

Election season is here! TCEP is proud to introduce this year’s candidates for the Board of Directors and Council. Visit our Meet the Candidates page to review their statements and learn about their vision for TCEP. Join us for the Meet the Candidates Reception at CONNECT on Friday, April 10, from 7 – 7:45 p.m. Voting will take place April 11, 2026, during the Annual Business Meeting at CONNECT 2026.

Time is Running Out - Secure Your Spot at CONNECT!

Join your colleagues at CONNECT, the premier annual conference hosted by the Texas College of Emergency Physicians - but don't wait. The housing deadline is fast approaching, and discounted rooms at the Hilton Dallas/Rockwall are nearly gone.

This is your chance to connect with emergency medicine leaders, gain actionable insights, and recharge alongside peers in Rockwall. Miss the housing cutoff, and you may miss the convenience, savings, and onsite experience that make CONNECT truly impactful.

Lock in your housing today-before the deadline closes on March 19.

Thanks to our Sponsors!

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Take Your Leadership To The Next Level With TLAF

Are you ready to lead the future of emergency medicine? The TCEP Leadership and Advocacy Fellowship (TLAF) offers a unique pathway to grow as a leader, advocate, and become a changemaker in our specialty.

Through this immersive experience, fellows gain practical skills in leadership development, health policy advocacy, and organizational strategy - equipping you to make a meaningful impact within the practice, your community, and the profession at large.

"TLAF was transformative for me. It strengthened my leadership skills, expanded my network across Texas, and taught me how to protect the way we practice emergency medicine in the state through meaningful advocacy. I’d recommend it to any physician ready to grow and make a bigger impact." - Robert Rosillo, MD, FACEP

Don't just practice emergency medicine - lead it forward! Apply today and take the first step toward unlocking your leadership potential! Application deadline is March 26, 2026.

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Legislative Update

During the interim period between legislative sessions, the Lieutenant Governor assigns interim charges directing Texas Senate committees to study key policy issues, hold hearings, and recommend legislation before the 90th Legislature begins. Initial priorities include property tax relief, government oversight, infrastructure and grid security, limiting foreign influence, and cultural/legal issues, with more charges forthcoming. READ MORE.
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Resolv Healthcare

Boost your financial performance with proven RCM solutions for emergency medicine. Since 1996, we’ve combined smart tech and personalized service to maximize collections, reduce denials, and improve cash flow. Get fast insights and expert support—so you can focus on care.

Medical Student Committee (MSC) News

We’re excited to share that our first two PS Series were a great success, with strong participation across both sessions - thanks to everyone who joined!

If you haven't already registered for TCEP CONNECT, there's still time! Designed for medical students passionate about emergency medicine, this immersive experience invites you to engage with Texas EM residency programs, participate in interactive hands-on skills training, and take part in meaningful discussions that will prepare you for residency.  

We hope to see you there and look forward to another strong year of involvement and leadership!

Andrew Flanagan, MSC Chair

Call for Volunteers!

Help shape the future of emergency medicine in Texas by volunteering for one of TCEP’s committees. As a volunteer, you’ll have the opportunity to lend your voice to important conversations, support your fellow emergency physicians, and contribute to meaningful progress in the field. It’s a chance to share your expertise, expand your professional network, and enhance your CV – all while making a real impact within our state. Submit your committee interest form by March 25, 2026 and get involved today! READ MORE

In Memoriam: Dr. David Morgan

TCEP respectfully honors the life and legacy of David Morgan, MD, FACEP, a distinguished physician, educator, and mentor in emergency medicine. We extend our deepest condolences to his family, colleagues, and all who were privileged to know him. READ MORE.

In the News

How Texas Represents a Paradox in Rural Health Transformation Funding

Becker's Hospital Review; 2/13/26) Texas will receive $281 million in first-year Rural Health Transformation funding - the largest total but among the lowest per resident (~$66) due to its large rural population and formula emphasizing equal state allocations over population. Only a small share is strictly need- or population-based, creating wide per capital disparities nationwide. READ MORE

Emergency Physician with Grit Takes Charge as Houston's New Health Boss

(Hoodline; 2/9/26) Houston's new public health boss has logged plenty of nights under fluorescent ED lights. READ MORE

TMB Vendor Clarifies CME Documentation Requirements

Texas Medicine Today; 2/19/26) Vendor CE Broker is partnered with the Texas Medical Board (TMB) for the CME e-tracking mandate rolling out this fall. Both certificates and transcripts of completion can be submitted to their platform. READ MORE

March 3 Primaries

Texas will hold its 2026 primary elections on March 3. Primary results will determine each party’s nominees for the November general election. Voters will decide key statewide races, legislative and congressional seats, State Board of Education positions, and numerous judicial offices. Check out the 2026 Texas March primary ballot.

ACEP/EMRA Statement on ACGME's Emergency Medicine Program Length Decision

The American College of Emergency Physicians and the Emergency Medicine Residents' Association support the decision by the Accreditation Council for Graduate Medical Education to defer the decision on changes to the training requirements for ACGME-accredited emergency medicine residencies. READ MORE

GETAC Committee Appointments Announced

Several members of the Texas College of Emergency Physicians have been appointed or reappointed to the Governor’s EMS and Trauma Advisory Council, which provides guidance and recommendations on the development and implementation of rules for the Texas Emergency Healthcare System. Members include Drs. Elizabeth Fagan, Mark Sparkman, Russell Baker, Richard Bradley, Erin Lincoln, Jessica Wentling and William Wright. Read full press release.

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.

Join Concord, a physician-owned and operated organization

Concord Medical Group is a physician-owned and operated ER Management Organization with an established network of hospital partners throughout Texas. Dr. Kyle Sheets founded Concord in 2001 to meet the needs of emergency departments and we are actively hiring qualified providers to join our team! LEARN 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!

Calendar of Events

March 19, 2026
Hotel cut-off for CONNECT
More info

March 25, 2026
Volunteer Applications Due
More info 

March 26, 2026
TCEP Leadership & Advocacy Fellowship (TLAF) Applications Due
More info 

April 10-11, 2026
CONNECT Annual Meeting
Rockwall, TX
More info

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   Phone: (512) 306-0605

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