Dr. Lampton: Family is very important to you. Tell us of your family and your day-to-day family life.
Dr. Bryan: Tim and I have been happily married for 24 years, and together we have three wonderful children: Colbie and Kylie, our 13-year-old twin girls, and Conner, our 11-year-old son. Tim serves as the county engineer for Madison County, and our children are thriving at Northwest Rankin Middle School. The girls are passionate about show choir, while Conner is active in both soccer and baseball. We are fortunate to have my dad, Dennis, deeply involved in our daily lives, helping us ensure that the kids are always where they need to be. Our family is the heart of everything I do, and I’m grateful for the love and support that keeps us all moving forward.
Dr. Lampton: Do you have any hobbies or avocations?
Dr. Bryan: In addition to my work in advocacy, I have a range of hobbies that I truly enjoy. I love reading, which allows me to explore new ideas and perspectives. Spending time with my kids, particularly engaging in water sports and swimming, is a cherished part of my life. I also enjoy traveling, which broadens my horizons and offers new experiences. Moreover, my involvement in church activities provides me with a sense of community and purpose. These interests help me maintain a balanced and fulfilling life outside of my professional responsibilities.
Dr. Lampton: Tell us about your path to becoming a physician, and your journey to where you are today.
Dr. Bryan: My path to becoming a physician has been both fulfilling and transformative. Currently, I practice at Flowood Primary Care, which is part of the physician-owned Hattiesburg Clinic. My journey began with a diverse range of experiences across various hospital systems. My involvement with the Mississippi State Medical Association (MSMA) and the American Medical Association (AMA) led me to develop a close relationship with Hattiesburg Clinic. I was drawn to their physician-led model, which emphasizes high-quality care, cost-efficiency, and a focus on combating physician burnout by maintaining autonomy. I admire their proactive approach to policy and leadership, which aligns with my own ideals. I wanted to bring this exemplary model of care to the Jackson area, providing an environment where other physicians can thrive as I have.
As a family physician, my daily work involves providing comprehensive care to patients of all ages. This includes managing chronic conditions, preventive care, and acute issues, all while maintaining a strong focus on patient-centered care. My role is deeply rooted in building long-term relationships with my patients, understanding their unique needs, and working collaboratively to achieve optimal health outcomes.
Dr. Lampton: You are the second member of the Joiner family to serve as MSMA president, following your uncle Dr. Tom Joiner who served from 2011-12. You have called your uncle one of your great mentors. Can you discuss his influence on you and also the role of other mentors, both in medicine and in life?
Dr. Bryan: Yes, I am the second member of my family to serve as MSMA president, following my uncle, Dr. Tom Joiner. His influence on my career has been profound. From a young age, I had the opportunity to work in his private family medicine practice during summers, where I observed his interactions with staff, patients, and the local hospital, as well as his involvement with MSMA. His example inspired me to pursue a career in medicine with a focus on community impact and enjoyment of the profession. Uncle Tom’s mentorship extended beyond professional advice; he guided me to my first Central Medical Society meeting right out of training, emphasizing the importance of engagement in understanding the complexities of medicine. His demeanor, integrity, and commitment to advocacy have been qualities I strive to emulate. As we have both grown in our advocacy and leadership roles, our bond has strengthened, and we continue to support each other in our shared mission to advance the field of medicine.
Dr. Claude Brunson’s mentorship has been instrumental in my development as a leader, both at the national and state levels. His guidance was crucial in shaping my approach to leadership and helping me recognize and build on my inner strengths. Dr. Brunson encouraged me to see beyond my immediate challenges and focus on the broader impact I could make. His insights and support have been invaluable in my journey, inspiring me to develop my leadership skills and effectively contribute to our profession.
Dr. Dan Edney’s mentorship has been pivotal in my understanding and approach to public health and policy development. As our state health officer, his guidance has been invaluable in shaping strategies to achieve our public health goals both within Mississippi and on a national scale. Dr. Edney has been a key advisor in navigating complex public health issues and developing policies that address critical needs. His expertise and support have greatly influenced my approach to advancing health initiatives and advocating for effective solutions.
My mom and dad instilled in me a strong work ethic, compassion for others, innovative problem-solving and to do the right thing. I could not have asked for two better life mentors than my own parents. It was a tremendous loss to me to lose my mother, Marsha, two and a half years ago, to pancreatic cancer.
Dr. Lampton: You helped create a social media network of Mississippi physicians allowing real-time communication via Facebook. This has been very important in energizing the grass-roots physician voices of Mississippi. Discuss how this evolved.
Dr. Bryan: I played a key role in establishing the group, “Physicians For Mississippians” a network for Mississippi physicians, designed to facilitate real-time communication through Facebook. This initiative was driven by the growing epidemic of physician burnout and the need for timely, efficient communication, especially during critical periods like legislative deadlines.
The concept emerged from the recognition that physicians needed a platform where they could quickly share information, seek advice, and mobilize for urgent issues. What started as a practical solution has evolved into a virtual doctors’ lounge. Here, physicians not only discuss professional topics, such as coding questions and legislative updates, but also share personal recommendations, like books and travel tips.
During the COVID-19 pandemic, the network proved invaluable. It became a central hub for the latest updates from the Mississippi State Department of Health, coordinated efforts to set up testing sites, and facilitated the rapid exchange of information critical to our response.
As the needs of our medical community continue to evolve, this platform adapts accordingly, ensuring that Mississippi physicians remain connected, informed, and empowered to address both daily and emergent challenges.
Dr. Lampton: Your leadership as chairman of the MSMA Board of Trustees (BOT) was historically critical, with many things accomplished in the Legislature and with transition occurring in the executive leadership of the association. What do you remember as your major accomplishments leading the MSMA as BOT chairman?
Dr. Bryan: As Chairman of the MSMA Board of Trustees, my tenure was marked by several significant achievements that played a crucial role in the association’s evolution and impact. Those three years were transformative for me personally and professionally.
One of my major accomplishments was managing the transition in our executive leadership early in my term. Just three weeks into my role, I was tasked with overseeing this critical change while simultaneously spearheading the development of key initiatives such as the State Scope of Practice Partnership and the Medicaid Expansion Task Force.
The onset of the COVID-19 pandemic presented an additional challenge, but also an opportunity for impactful leadership. During this time, I led the creation of the MSMA/MSDH COVID Clinical Operations Committee and the MSMA/MHA COVID-19 Update Committee. These efforts were crucial in providing timely updates and coordinating responses to the evolving crisis.
I am particularly proud of the real-time engagement I fostered with physicians and the successful collaboration with both internal and external stakeholders. This engagement was instrumental in addressing critical issues effectively and advancing our goals during a challenging period. These experiences were pivotal in my development as a leader and in strengthening the MSMA’s role in supporting the medical community.
Dr. Lampton: What is your theme this year as MSMA President?
Dr. Bryan: My theme is “Unite, Empower, Lead: Physicians Driving Mississippi’s Health Forward Together.”
Dr. Lampton: What are other goals and challenges you would like to address this year as President? Do you anticipate any significant issues facing us in advocacy at the state Legislature next year? Are there national issues that we as an organization need to address?
Dr. Bryan: As President of the Mississippi State Medical Association, my focus this year will be on several key challenges and goals that are critical to the health of our state and the well-being of our physicians.
State-level advocacy will focus on these four major issues:
Scope of Practice Battles: One of the most pressing issues we anticipate is the ongoing battle over scope of practice. Protecting the integrity of physician-led care is paramount. We must ensure that any expansion of scope for non-physician providers is done with patient safety as the priority, and that it does not compromise the high standard of care that our patients expect and deserve.
Medicaid Expansion and Access to Care: Expanding Medicaid is essential to improving access to care for the most vulnerable in our state. We will continue to advocate strongly for this, as it is a critical step in reducing healthcare disparities and ensuring that more Mississippians receive the care they need.
Strengthening Rural Hospitals: Our rural hospitals are the backbone of healthcare in many communities. Strengthening these institutions through better funding, support, and innovative solutions like telemedicine will be a major focus. We must prevent closures and ensure these hospitals remain viable, as they are often the only source of healthcare for miles.
Improving Health Statistics and Combatting Substance Abuse: Mississippi continues to struggle with some of the worst health outcomes in the nation. Addressing this will require a multifaceted approach, including stronger public health initiatives, better education on preventive care, and targeted efforts to combat substance abuse, particularly the opioid crisis.
National-Level Advocacy will focus on these four major issues:
Medicare Payment Reform: At the national level, we will advocate for Medicare payment reform. The current system is unsustainable and places undue burden on physicians. We need a more predictable and fair payment structure that reflects the value of the care we provide.
Prior Authorization Reform: Prior authorization remains a significant obstacle to timely patient care. We will work with our national partners to push for reforms that reduce administrative burdens and allow physicians to focus on what they do best—caring for patients.
Vaccine Hesitancy: Both at the state and national levels, vaccine hesitancy continues to be a critical public health challenge. We will prioritize efforts to educate the public and dispel myths about vaccines, ensuring that our communities are protected against preventable diseases.
Physician Burnout: Lastly, addressing physician burnout is crucial. The demands on our profession have never been greater, and we must prioritize mental health and well-being for our members. This includes advocating for systemic changes that reduce the pressures leading to burnout and providing support resources for those in need.
This year is a pivotal one for our association, and I am confident that by uniting, empowering, and leading together, we can make significant strides in these areas for the betterment of healthcare in Mississippi and beyond.
Dr. Lampton: You are chair of Mississippi’s AMA delegation. How can the AMA help our struggling profession? What is your role as AMA delegation chair in accomplishing a better day for Mississippi and American physicians?
Dr. Bryan: As Chair of Mississippi’s AMA delegation, my role is both an honor and a responsibility. The AMA can play a crucial role in supporting our struggling profession, and as Chair, I am committed to leveraging this platform to address the challenges faced by physicians in Mississippi and across the nation.
The AMA has a powerful voice in shaping healthcare policy at the national level. We must continue to advocate for reforms that directly impact physicians, such as Medicare payment reform, reducing administrative burdens like prior authorization, and fighting for fair scope of practice laws that protect patient safety and the integrity of physician-led care. By working with our national partners, we can push for these critical changes that will improve the working conditions for physicians and the care we provide.
Physician burnout is also significant issue that the AMA is well-positioned to address. Through the development of resources, programs, and policies aimed at improving physician well-being, the AMA can help create a more sustainable work environment. As delegation chair, I will ensure that Mississippi’s voice is heard in these discussions, advocating for solutions that resonate with the unique challenges our physicians face.
Expanding access to care, particularly through Medicaid expansion and support for rural hospitals, is vital for the health of our communities. The AMA’s advocacy in these areas is essential, and I will work to ensure that our delegation pushes for policies that expand access while also addressing the financial pressures that our healthcare system faces.
The AMA can also help by leading efforts to combat public health challenges, such as vaccine hesitancy and the opioid crisis. These are areas where coordinated, nationwide action is needed, and the AMA’s resources and influence are crucial. As chair, I will focus on aligning our efforts with the AMA’s initiatives to improve health outcomes in Mississippi and beyond.
The strength of our profession lies in our unity. The AMA can help by fostering a sense of community and shared purpose among physicians. It’s crucial that we encourage more physicians to get involved in organized medicine, so our collective voice grows stronger. My role as chair includes inspiring and mobilizing our delegation to actively participate in AMA initiatives, ensuring that we represent Mississippi effectively and contribute to the larger goals of the AMA.
Mississippi faces unique healthcare challenges, from our rural health disparities to the specific needs of our physician workforce. As delegation chair, I am committed to making sure that these issues are brought to the forefront at the national level. We must ensure that national policies consider the diverse needs of states like ours, and that Mississippi’s physicians are well-represented in AMA’s decision-making processes.
The AMA can help our struggling profession by advocating for critical policy reforms, supporting physician well-being, expanding access to care, and leading public health initiatives. My role as chair is to ensure that Mississippi’s concerns and needs are not only heard but acted upon, contributing to a better day for physicians in Mississippi and across the country. Together, we can make meaningful strides toward a stronger, more sustainable healthcare system.
Dr. Lampton: Is there any advice you would give a young Mississippi physician who wants to become engaged and involved in organized medicine? How do you do it in an effective manner, especially considering the time burdens which impact all practicing physicians?
Dr. Bryan: For a young Mississippi physician looking to become engaged in organized medicine, I would offer the following advice:
Start Small, but Start Now: Getting involved in organized medicine doesn’t have to be overwhelming. Begin by attending local medical society meetings or joining a committee that aligns with your interests. This will allow you to get a feel for the issues at hand and start building connections without a huge time commitment.
Find Your Passion: Focus on the issues that matter most to you—whether it’s advocating for patient rights, working on public health initiatives, or addressing physician wellness. When you’re passionate about something, it becomes easier to find the time and energy to get involved.
Leverage Technology and Resources: With the time demands on practicing physicians, efficiency is key. Use online platforms to stay informed and participate in meetings virtually whenever possible. The MSMA and other organizations offer resources that can help you stay engaged without having to be physically present at every event.
Collaborate and Delegate: You don’t have to do it all alone. Work with colleagues who share your interests and delegate tasks when necessary. This not only lightens the load but also fosters teamwork and shared success.
Prioritize Your Involvement: Recognize that being involved in organized medicine is an investment in your career and your profession. It’s about shaping the future of healthcare and ensuring that physicians’ voices are heard. Even with the demands of your practice, carving out time for advocacy and engagement can be one of the most rewarding aspects of your career.
Seek Mentorship: Connect with seasoned physicians who are already active in organized medicine. Their guidance can help you navigate the landscape more effectively and provide insights on how to balance your professional responsibilities with advocacy work.
Advocate for Systemic Changes: Work towards systemic changes that can reduce the overall time burdens on physicians, such as supporting reforms in prior authorization, payment structures, and administrative tasks. By helping to alleviate these pressures, you not only improve your own work-life balance but also make it easier for others to engage.
Remember the Bigger Picture: Ultimately, being involved in organized medicine is about making a difference in the healthcare system for your patients, your community, and your profession. Keeping this broader purpose in mind can help you stay motivated and find the time to contribute, even when your schedule is tight.
Getting involved in organized medicine is a meaningful way to influence change and shape the future of healthcare in Mississippi. Start where you can, stay connected, and remember that every effort counts, no matter how small it may seem.
Dr. Lampton: Is there anything else you would like our MSMA membership to know about their new President?
Dr. Bryan: As your new President of the Mississippi State Medical Association, I want you to know that I am deeply committed to advancing patient care and the practice of medicine in our state. With years of experience and a passion for our profession, I am prepared to lead our association effectively, but I cannot do it alone. My door is always open—I want to hear from you about the issues that matter most to you and your practice. However, the success of our efforts depends on your engagement and participation. Together, we can shape the future of healthcare in Mississippi and ensure that our voices are heard loud and clear. Your involvement is not just welcomed—it’s essential. Let’s unite, empower, and lead together.
