On this episode of ACEP Frontline, Ryan Stanton discusses the growing national conversation surrounding the corporate practice of medicine (CPOM) and Oregon’s landmark SB 951 legislation. Using the recent PeaceHealth news in Eugene as a backdrop, Dr. Stanton breaks down what CPOM means, why states are increasingly examining corporate influence in healthcare, and how Oregon lawmakers, led by Ben Bowman, crafted one of the strongest physician autonomy laws in the country. The episode explores the intent behind the legislation, including protecting independent medical judgment, preserving the physician-patient relationship, and limiting non-clinical interference in care decisions. Dr. Stanton also highlights the role of the Oregon Chapter of the American College of Emergency Physicians and emergency physicians in shaping the discussion, while examining the broader implications these legislative efforts may have for emergency medicine, healthcare access, staffing models, and physician-led patient care nationwide.

In this episode of ACEP Frontline, we sit down with Dr. David Carlberg to discuss eosinophilic esophagitis (EoE), an increasingly recognized inflammatory condition of the esophagus that can present with food impactions, difficulty swallowing, chest discomfort, and chronic reflux-like symptoms. Dr. Carlberg breaks down the underlying causes of EoE, including the role of allergic and immune-mediated responses, while highlighting the importance of recognizing the condition in both pediatric and adult patients presenting to the emergency department. The conversation also explores diagnostic considerations and current management strategies ranging from dietary modifications and proton pump inhibitors to topical steroids and endoscopic interventions. The episode wraps with a reminder for emergency physicians to check out the ACEP POC Smart Phrase on EoE for practical bedside guidance and streamlined documentation support.

Supported by Sanofi.

In this episode of ACEP Frontline, we sit down with Dr. Aaron Kuzel from the University of Louisville to discuss one of the most pressing challenges in healthcare today, protecting and expanding access to emergency care in rural America. From hospital closures and workforce shortages to increasing healthcare deserts across the country, rural communities continue to face growing barriers to timely emergency treatment. Dr. Kuzel shares his perspective on the critical role emergency physicians play in ensuring high-quality, lifesaving care regardless of a patient’s ZIP code. The conversation explores why physician-led emergency care matters, the unique challenges facing smaller and rural emergency departments, and how advocacy at the state and national level is essential to preserving access for vulnerable populations. We also dive into the role of organized emergency medicine through American College of Emergency Physicians and how advocacy efforts are shaping policies focused on patient safety, workforce development, reimbursement, and sustainable rural healthcare systems. Whether discussing boarding, transfer delays, or maintaining specialty access in underserved regions, this episode highlights why emergency medicine remains the healthcare safety net for communities large and small. It’s a timely and important conversation about the future of emergency care, and the ongoing fight to ensure every patient has access to physician-led emergency medicine when they need it most.