Madigan Healthcare System's Urology Clinic hosted the 58th Annual James C. Kimbrough Urological Seminar for the Society of Government Service Urologists Jan. 15 through 21.
The conference, attended by more than 180 urologists, was held at the Sheraton in Seattle and hosted by Madigan with Maj. (Dr.) Tim Brand as the main project manager for the week-long event.
"It's a great chance to show off your facility and staff when the group comes to your location. Our staff urologists moderate the sessions. It showcases the program that the seminar is held at each year," said Brand.
Urologists from all over the country were welcomed Jan. 15 by Col. Jerry Penner III, Madigan's commander. Some urologists travelled from as far as Japan and Germany to attend. The event's keynote speaker was Dr. Anton Bueschen, who served as the immediate past president of the American Urological Association. Following opening ceremonies, attendees had the option of attending sessions with topics representing the latest technology and developments in Urology. The seminar featured national experts who addressed issues such as laparoscopy, endourology, Stone Disease, reconstructive or trauma surgery, pediatrics and oncology. In addition, a resident competition took place and mock oral boards were held for those preparing for part two of the American Board of Urology certifying examination.
"I found most beneficial the amazing caliber of the speakers present at this year's meeting," said Capt. (Dr.) Jen Gurski, chief resident of Madigan's Urology Clinic. "Not only was it an informative meeting, but quite inspiring to learn that so many prominent urologists had their start in the military system."
Lt. Col. (Dr.) Karen Baker, chief of Madigan's urology clinic, instructed a first-ever for an SGSU conference, a three-hour certification course on scrotal ultrasound. The intent was to provide level two skill verification. The course covered techniques, protocol and findings and featured a hands-on lab and exam. In the end 100 percent of those in attendance passed the exam and were awarded an American Urological Association certification.
"The ultrasound course provided great hands-on training. It served to solidify many of the concepts that Dr. Baker has taught us over the past few years," said Gurski.
Another unique feature of the conference was a presentation by Dr. Richard Jadick, author of On Call in Hell. Jadick, a Marine Corps officer, served in Fallujah in 2004 and wrote the book on his experiences as a battalion surgeon. Jadick served on the front lines in an attempt to save time and lives by being as accessible as possible.
"There is a little more focus on trauma and deployments than what you would find in a typical medical conference," said Bland.
The Kimbrough Seminar is intended primarily for those serving the federal government in any capacity as an urologist including consultants and residents. The seminar focused on disease states and injuries prevalent in the active duty and veteran populations. It serves as a venue for government service urologists to share information pertinent to urologic practice in the battlefield.
"The intent is primarily to provide medical education for urologists, with some field-specific information, but then also some practice aspects that are unique to government urologists," said Brand. "There were a lot of scientific presentations. The membership submitted more than 80 abstracts so there were a lot of great topics covered."
Social Sharing