In this episode of POMA Does…, Angela Zawisza, DO, POMA President-Elect, hosts a lighthearted, holiday-themed conversation inspired by The 12 Days of Christmas. From homemade foods to unexpected gifts, the episode highlights the memorable—and sometimes unbelievable—ways patients have shown their appreciation for their physicians.

If you've ever received a gift from a patient that made you laugh, hesitate, or shake your head, this episode is for you.

We wish everyone a wonderful holiday season and a happy New Year!

Find Us:

• Online: https://www.poma.org/

• Email: poma@poma.org

• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/POMADOs

• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/pomados/

• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/pennsylvania-osteopathic-medical-association/

• X: http://www.x.com/POMA_DOs

• YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@pomados

In this episode of POMA DOes…, we sit down with members of the planning committee for the POMA District VIII Winter Seminar to preview the many reasons to attend in January at Seven Springs. This year's program features a wide range of educational topics, required CME credits—including patient safety and child abuse—and two hands-on skill-building opportunities: an OMM workshop and an ultrasound workshop. Beyond the classroom, Seven Springs offers a truly family-friendly setting. Attendees can enjoy tubing, ski lessons, and bowling, along with discounted spa services, lift tickets, and ski rentals. The conference also includes fun networking receptions, games, a residency fair, wellness walks, and even therapy dogs. It's the perfect chance to brush up on skills, reconnect with colleagues, and bring the family along for a winter getaway. Join us January 22–25, 2026—you won't want to miss it!

Key Takeaways:

• POMA District VIII hosts a top-notch medical conference in Western PA — join us January 22–25, 2026, for the 39th Annual POMA District VIII Winter Seminar!

• The 2026 event features diverse educational topics, required CME credits, and hands-on OMM and ultrasound workshops.

• Enjoy a family-friendly environment with discounted spa services, lift tickets, ski rentals, and more.

• Mix, mingle, and reconnect with colleagues during fun networking receptions.

• Make the most of the experience— register at www.poma.org/pomad82026

Find Us:

• Online: https://www.poma.org/

• Email: poma@poma.org

• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/POMADOs

• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/pomados/

• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/pennsylvania-osteopathic-medical-association/

• X: http://www.x.com/POMA_DOs

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@pomados

In this episode of POMA DOes..., POMA Past President Joseph Zawisza, DO, speaks with third-year resident Alvin Soto-Soto, MD, about his work on a health literacy initiative aimed at improving diabetes management among Latino patients in Reading, Pennsylvania. He discusses common misconceptions, cultural factors, and communication barriers that often complicate diabetes care, and explains how bilingual education, small-group discussions, and culturally sensitive outreach can enhance patient understanding and engagement. Dr. Soto-Soto also highlights the importance of individualized care and adaptable treatment goals.

Key Takeaways:
• Health literacy is essential to effective diabetes management. Widespread misconceptions about insulin, glucose monitoring, and disease progression make clear, bilingual education a critical part of care.

• Cultural context and effective communication are vital. Awareness of dietary traditions, language barriers, and generational beliefs enables clinicians to offer realistic, empathetic guidance, especially during holidays and family-centered events.

• Personalized care leads to better outcomes. Monitoring A1C levels, glucose readings, and patient logs supports progress and allows physicians to tailor goals to individual needs.

Find Us:

• Online: https://www.poma.org/

• Email: poma@poma.org

• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/POMADOs

• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/pomados/

• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/pennsylvania-osteopathic-medical-association/

• X: http://www.x.com/POMA_DOs

• YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@pomados