Say Hello to Dr. Briceland!
Meet Daniel Briceland, MD
This month, the ArMA member in the spotlight is Dr. Daniel Briceland, who practices ophthalmology in Sun City West. Currently, Dr. Briceland is a clinical assistant professor at the University of Arizona College of Medicine in Phoenix. Additionally, he is the Chairman of the Ophthalmic Mutual Insurance Company's (OMIC) Board of Directors.
A fierce advocate and physician leader, Dr. Briceland has a long history of involvement in organized medicine. Earlier this year, Dr. Briceland was named president-elect of the American Academy of Ophthalmology (AAO), a national organization with over 30,000 members. He has also been very involved in organized medicine at the state level; Dr. Briceland has been an ArMA member for over 20 years and has served on ArMA's Board of Directors, Legislative and Government Affairs Committee, and the Arizona Medical Political Action Committee's (ArMPAC) Board of Directors.
Learn more about Dr. Briceland and his accomplishments below! 👇
What is the one accomplishment you're most proud of?
After nearly three decades of working in advocacy at the state and federal levels, I have had the privilege of representing AAO in almost half of our state capitols. It's been an incredible privilege to advocate for the principles of high-quality, accessible care for all, which ultimately affects millions of patients across our country — a much greater impact than the care I have provided patients in my practice!
Additionally, I have been an advocate for our Veterans Affairs (VA) and Indian Health Service (IHS) ophthalmology patients on the federal level. Both of these health care systems have required significant attention over the past decade due to disparities in access and investment.
How did you come to live in Arizona?
I am originally from upstate New York, and I attended medical school at the University of Rochester. I settled in Arizona directly after completing residency training when my wife Susan was assigned to Luke Air Force Base as an OB-GYN. We quickly adapted to the opportunities of the beautiful Southwest as avid hikers and bikers.
What prompted you to become involved in organized medicine?
I realized that our profession was heavily influenced by legislation, regulation, insurance contracts, hospital bylaws, and boards very early in my career. The only way to amplify our voices and those of our patients is through our state and federal medical associations. Together, we can not only correct the misdirected health care policies but frame the future of high-quality, accessible care.
Why is ArMA important to you and your colleagues?
I believe that physicians have a responsibility to advocate for their patients since they are uniquely positioned to understand the complex nature of our healthcare system and discrepancies in the care provided. Organized medicine helps us fulfill this responsibility.
