Philip J. Huber, Jr., MD
President's Page

I get stopped a lot this year with the question, “How’s the job?” (DCMS President) “Do you suffer from lack of time?” That question gives me pause to reflect on this commitment, and I almost automatically laugh because I have had such opportunity in this job to see folks who really make a commitment to the medical community and health care politics. I am dwarfed by some real heroes right here in Texas. This DMJ issue is paying tribute to just a few, and I’m privileged to assist in this “honorarium.”

Dr. Max Cole died this past month. Dr. Cole and I became acquainted when I was a resident in surgery rotating to Presbyterian Dallas for surgical training in a private setting. I operated with Max Cole a lot. We did all sorts of procedures, and Dr. Cole was first, very nice, second, a very good teacher, and, finally, an accomplished surgeon. What I didn’t know then but would learn over the years was how Max worked tirelessly in medical politics. He carried the standard of excellence in medical care not only in the city and state, but also nationally through his work in the AMA. He always was great to me and took time to teach me, advise me. He had such an interest in our health care system and was such a great leader by example. I miss Dr. Cole. We all will.

The next physician I am pleased to congratulate is Dr. James Rohack, the newly installed president of the AMA. He is a fellow Texan and one who has worked diligently in organized medicine. From serving at the state level with TMA to serving as a delegate to AMA for over 20 years, Dr. Rohack consistently has given his time and energy to represent his peers. He sets a fine example for us to follow, and his Texas roots now at the AMA level will hopefully remind us all of the magnitude of the medical profession, and how we each can play a significant role.

Last, but definitely not least, I am honored to call attention to Dr. Gordon Green, this year’s recipient of the James E. Peavy Memorial Award. Dr. Green is one of a select few who is deserving of such discerning recognition. Dr. Green has made significant contributions to the advancement of public health knowledge by serving in numerous positions of leadership throughout the local public health arena.
All these great leaders remind us how important it is for us to give of ourselves beyond the practice of medicine. We must work together to advance the ideals of health and medicine as well. Whether it be taking our message to the legislators to increase access to health care or volunteering our time to care for the uninsured, we are all here to do more than just our jobs. If not evident by these great men mentioned here, then look around at all your mentors and predecessors. We would not be where we are today without those before us who went the extra mile. Now it’s our turn.

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