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Cruise Conference Planning For Your Association

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Continuing Education, Inc.
University at Sea^™
5700 4th St. N.
St Petersburg, Florida 33703

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Stress Free - Our Cruise Conferences provide a unique, relaxing learning environment.

Family Friendly - Our cruises are fun for the entire family. You will never run out of things to do!

Internal Medicine, Infectious Diseases, Endocrinology, and Diabetes

7-Night Western Caribbean Cruise
Round-trip Ft. Lauderdale, Florida
March 09 - 16, 2025

This conference has already sailed, but that doesn't mean you have to miss the boat! Click here to see our complete schedule of upcoming programs.

<em>Celebrity Ascent</em> — *Celebrity Ascent*

COURSE CREDITS & HOURS

16 AMA PRA Category 1 Credits™
16 ACPE Credits
16.0 Contact Hours
3.5 Hours of Pharmacology for Nurse Practitioners

COURSE FEES

$995.00 for Physicians, Psychiatrists, Pharmacists, & Attorneys

$795.00 for Physician Assistants & Nurse Practitioners

$595.00 for Nurses, Students & Others

TARGET AUDIENCE

Physicians, Physician Assistants, Nurses, Nurse Practitioners, Pharmacists

PROGRAM PURPOSE

Diabetes Medication Updates Primary care clinicians need to understand the differences between different types of diabetes medications and secondary clinical outcomes with many of the pharmacologic categories
- Compare medication options for treating diabetes including secondary clinical outcomes
CKD: Using Cystatin C for eGFR calculation
- Incorporate new strategies for early detection of chronic kidney disease
- Understand background and support for the use of cystatin C
Dementia Diagnosis in Primary Care
- Discuss types of dementia and typical clinical features
- Understand appropriate diagnosis and treatment options
Hospice Referral Criteria Overview
- Reduce confusion in regards to the specific criteria for hospice eligibility
- Discuss hospice philosophy and benefits. Outline disease-specific criteria for hospice qualification
Risk Adjustment Opportunities in Clinical Documentation
- Discuss background and basics of risk adjustment. Review clinical documentation pearls
Weight Loss Medications
- Discuss weight loss options including medical and surgical options
- Discuss clinical outcomes, benefits, and risks of medications
Major Depression for PCPs
- Outline specific diagnostic criteria for major depression
Personality Disorders in Primary Care
- Discuss screening tools and diagnosis of personality disorders
- Discuss clinical characteristics manifested in primary care
Hypertension in African Americans
- Describe the current state of hypertension in African AmericansReview evidence-based practices to improve blood pressure control and reduce health inequities among African Americans
- Discuss key actions that clinicians can take to make significant progress in getting hypertensive patients to control
Hyperaldosteronism - Not Just for Specialists!
- Improve the confidence of primary care clinicians in recognizing hyperaldosteronism in clinical settings
Management of Hypertension in the Frail Elderly
- Provide a framework for clinicians to consider all factors before recommending treatment, and understand where approaches are similar and different than in younger patients
Pre-Operative Assessment for Non-Cardiac Surgery
- Discuss current guidelines for cost-effective and evidenced-based testing to assess risk before surgery
Heart Disease in Women - An Update
- Develop awareness of the various presentations of heart disease in women, and gain an appreciation for limitations of current tests to detect CHD
Can Digital Health Literacy Improve Patient Outcomes?
- Identify gaps in knowledge regarding DHL and empower clinicians to identify their low literacy patients
Hypertension Update - New Clinical Trials, and What They Mean for Clinicians
- Equip the clinician with new approaches to the management of the hypertensive patient
Q & A: Anemia in the Hospitalized Patient
- Discuss the principles of management and diagnosis of the hospitalized patient with anemia using an interactive approach

IMPORTANT INFORMATION

PLEASE NOTE: To attend the conference, participants must book their cruise accommodations through Continuing Education, Inc. This ensures we can provide full conference services and complimentary social amenities to meeting participants and guests. Participants' family and friends are welcome to book within our group allotment to take advantage of our typically excellent rates. Thanks for your cooperation. We look forward to welcoming you aboard!

BIAS FREE CME - No Commercial Support was provided for this CME activity.

Faculty

Kevin Astle, PharmD, BCPS, BCACP, AAHIVP, CDCES

Assistant Professor
Department of Pharmacotherapeutics and Clinical Research
University of South Florida Taneja College of Pharmacy

Kevin Astle, PharmD, BCPS, BCACP, AAHIVP, CDCES is an assistant professor with the University of Taneja College of Pharmacy in the department of Pharmacotherapeutics and Clinical Research. He joined USF in July 2022 from his previous institution, Auburn University Harrison College of Pharmacy in Mobile AL. Dr. Astle graduated from pharmacy school at the University of Florida in 2016 and completed a PGY-1 ambulatory care pharmacy residency with Auburn University Clinical Health Services in 2017.

Dr. Astle’s clinical practice and research interests are in the treatment and prevention of HIV, addressing health disparities in the LGBTQIA+ community, and prevention of cardiovascular disease in people living with HIV. Dr. Astle is passionate about advocacy and policy change regarding healthcare access for sexual and gender minorities and expanding access to healthcare for transgender patients. He is a Board-Certified Pharmacotherapy Specialist, Ambulatory Care Pharmacist, HIV Pharmacist, and Certified Diabetes Care and Education Specialist. In 2021, Dr. Astle was a founding member of RxSHARE, an international collaborative of pharmacists with the mission of improving health care access and education regarding sexual and gender minorities.

David S. Kountz, MD, MBA, MACP

Professor of Medicine
Hackensack Meridian School of Medicine
Nutley, NJ

Dr. David S. Kountz is a Professor of Medicine for the Hackensack Meridian School of Medicine and Co-Chief Academic Officer for Hackensack Meridian Health. He earned his AB at Princeton, MD at SUNY/Buffalo School of Medicine, and MBA at Georgian Court University in Lakewood, NJ. He completed training in Internal Medicine at Hahnemann University Hospital in Philadelphia.

A board-certified internist, Dr. Kountz has had progressive responsibilities in academic medicine as Associate Professor of Medicine at Temple University School of Medicine and Professor of Medicine at Rutgers Robert Wood Johnson Medical School.

Dr. Kountz's research interests include hypertension treatment and guidelines in underserved populations, health literacy, pipeline programs and leadership development. He has authored more than 100 peer-reviewed publications, book chapters, editorials and abstracts, and is a frequent speaker within and outside of his health network on a variety of topics in primary care.

What Participants Are Saying:

This was my first time attending a CME cruise and I truly did not know what to expect. Dr. Broome and Dr. Kountz were both amazing - very professional and friendly. The atmosphere was fantastic. I will definitely return in the future.

Accreditation

	In support of improving patient care, Continuing Education, Inc./University at Sea® is jointly accredited by the Accreditation Council for Continuing Medical Education (ACCME), the Accreditation Council for Pharmacy Education (ACPE), and the American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC), to provide continuing education for the healthcare team.
	Credit Designation for Physicians: Continuing Education, Inc. designates this live activity for 16 AMA PRA Category 1 Credits™. Physicians should claim only the credit commensurate with the extent of their participation in the activity.
	Osteopathic Physicians: This program is eligible for Category 2 credit with the American Osteopathic Association (AOA). US or Canadian Family Physicians: Please let us know if you require AAFP Prescribed Credits.
	Credit Designation for Nurses: Continuiung Education, Inc. designates this continuing nursing education activity for 16 contact hours. Accredited status does not imply endorsement by Continuing Education, Inc./University at Sea® or ANCC of any commercial products displayed or used with an activity. Nurse Practitioners: Can claim either ANCC Contact Hours or AMA PRA Category 1 Credits ^TM as needed. Pharmacology credits are identified on individual activities.
	Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Canada: Through an agreement between the Accreditation Council for Continuing Medical Education and the Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Canada, medical practitioners participating in the Royal College MOC Program may record completion of accredited activities registered under the ACCME’s “CME in Support of MOC” program in Section 3 of the Royal College’s MOC Program.
	College of Family Physicians of Canada (CFPC) The College of Family Physicians of Canada (CFPC) has a reciprocal credit reporting agreement with the American Academy of Family Physicians (AAFP). Prescribed credits can be claimed as the equivalent number of certified credits, and Elective credits can be claimed as the equivalent number of non-certified credits. Members of the CFPC may claim up to 50 credits per five-year cycle from Physician's Recognition Award (PRA) Category 1 credits. Any additional credits are eligible as non-certified credits.
	Credit Designation for Pharmacists: This knowledge-based activity is approved for 16 hours of pharmacy continuing education credit.

ITINERARY

DATE	PORT OF CALL	ARRIVE	DEPART
Sun Mar 09	Ft. Lauderdale, Florida	-	3:30 pm
Mon Mar 10	Bimini, Bahamas	8:00 am	5:00 pm
Tue Mar 11	At Sea - Cruising Meetings 9:00 AM - 12:00 PM, 1:00 PM - 4:00 PM*	-	-
Wed Mar 12	Georgetown, Grand Cayman	8:00 am	6:00 pm
Thu Mar 13	At Sea - Cruising Meetings 9:00 AM - 12:00 PM, 1:00 PM - 4:00 PM*	-	-
Fri Mar 14	Falmouth, Jamaica	7:00 am	3:00 pm
Sat Mar 15	At Sea - Cruising Meetings 8:00 AM - 12:00 PM*	-	-
Sun Mar 16	Ft. Lauderdale, Florida	7:00 am	-
*Tentative course schedule, actual class times may differ.

PORTS OF CALL

Ft. Lauderdale, Florida

As your travel advocates, we view the start of your vacation not as a logistical hurdle, but as the first chapter of your experience. For cruises departing from Fort Lauderdale, we strongly encourage you to treat the city as more than just a transit point. Arriving a day or two early transforms a potentially stressful travel day into a seamless, relaxing prelude to your voyage, and Fort Lauderdale is perfectly suited for this purpose.

Think of it as easing into vacation mode. Flying in the day of your cruise introduces unnecessary risk—a single flight delay or misplaced bag can jeopardize your entire trip. By arriving early, you trade that anxiety for the sophisticated, laid-back ambiance of the “Venice of America.” The city’s primary airport, Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International (FLL), is exceptionally convenient, located just a few miles from both the cruise terminals at Port Everglades and the city's best hotels. A short taxi or rideshare trip will have you checked in and ready to explore in no time.

**Your Pre-Cruise Itinerary Suggestion:**

**Day 1: Canals, Culture, and Cuisine**

After settling into your hotel, your first experience should be the one that defines the city: its waterways. Forget the rental car and embrace the Water Taxi. It’s not just transportation; it’s a brilliant sightseeing tour. As you cruise the 165 miles of inland canals, you’ll glide past stunning waterfront mansions, mega-yachts, and lush tropical gardens. It’s a relaxing and genuinely unique way to get your bearings and appreciate the city’s distinctive character.

Disembark at the stop for Las Olas Boulevard. This is the city’s heart—a beautifully landscaped, pedestrian-friendly thoroughfare lined with independent boutiques, captivating art galleries, and a superb collection of restaurants. It’s the perfect place for a leisurely afternoon stroll, perhaps stopping for a coffee or a cocktail at a sidewalk cafe. For dinner, Las Olas offers a range of options to suit any palate, from the classic Italian fare at Louie Bossi's Ristorante Bar Pizzeria to the upscale American cuisine at Lobster Bar Sea Grille. A celebratory pre-cruise dinner here sets a wonderful tone for the week ahead.

**Day 2: Beachfront Bliss and Natural Wonders**

Dedicate your morning to the iconic Fort Lauderdale Beach. This isn’t a rustic, deserted island; it’s a world-class urban beach, known for its wide, clean stretch of sand and the beautifully designed beachfront promenade. Rent a lounge chair and simply relax, or take a long walk along the signature “wave wall.” The atmosphere is vibrant yet far more relaxed than its southern neighbor, Miami Beach.

For the afternoon, you have two excellent, contrasting options:

1. **Cultural Immersion:** Visit the Bonnet House Museum & Gardens. This historic 1920s estate is a true gem, offering a glimpse into Old Florida’s artistic and whimsical past. The house itself is filled with original art and furnishings, but the real star is the surrounding 35 acres of pristine barrier island habitat, complete with tropical gardens, a hibiscus garden, and even a resident population of monkeys. It’s an accessible, enriching cultural experience that feels a world away from the city bustle.

2. **Wilderness Adventure:** Experience the Florida Everglades. Several reputable operators offer half-day tours that include transportation and an unforgettable airboat ride. Skimming across the “River of Grass” is a thrilling experience, providing a profound sense of this unique ecosystem’s vastness. You’re almost guaranteed to see alligators in their natural habitat, along with a variety of wading birds. It’s a fantastic adventure that provides a dramatic counterpoint to the coastal elegance of the city.

By the time you wake up on embarkation day, you’ll be refreshed, acclimated, and already in a vacation mindset. The short, stress-free transfer to Port Everglades will feel like a simple next step, not a frantic race. Starting your journey this way ensures you board your ship ready to enjoy every moment, and that, in our view, is the foundation of a truly great vacation.

Bimini, Bahamas

Bimini is the quintessential Bahamian outpost, a destination defined more by its brilliant turquoise water and unhurried pace than by a long list of attractions. This is an island for simple, high-quality pleasures. The main draw is undeniably the sea; the clear, shallow waters are ideal for snorkeling, swimming, or simply relaxing on a quiet stretch of sand like Radio Beach. For those seeking a bit more structure, the partially submerged wreck of the SS Sapona offers a popular and accessible snorkeling site.

The heart of the island is Alice Town, a small, walkable village of colorful buildings and local spots. The best way to experience it is to rent a golf cart and explore at your own pace. For a taste of authentic Bimini, seek out a conch stand—like the well-regarded Stuart's or Joe's—for a freshly made conch salad. While here, you can appreciate the island's quiet historical footnotes: it was a favorite fishing escape for Ernest Hemingway and the place where Martin Luther King Jr. found the tranquility to write his Nobel Prize acceptance speech. Bimini offers a genuine, low-key island day focused on sun, sea, and simplicity.

At Sea - Cruising

Georgetown, Grand Cayman

Grand Cayman offers a distinctly polished and pristine version of the Caribbean experience. As a major financial hub, the island feels safe, clean, and exceptionally well-organized, making for a seamless and relaxing day ashore. It’s important to note that this is a tender port; your ship will anchor offshore, and you’ll take a smaller boat to the pier, so be sure to factor that time into your plans.

The island’s reputation is built on two world-class attractions. The first is the legendary Seven Mile Beach, a magnificent crescent of soft, white sand and impossibly clear turquoise water. While it’s no secret, its beauty is undeniable. You can easily grab a taxi from the port and find a public access point or settle in at one of the many beach clubs for the day. The second must-do is Stingray City. This isn't a contrived tourist trap; it's a natural sandbar where southern stingrays have gathered for decades. Standing in waist-deep water as these gentle, graceful creatures glide around you is a truly unforgettable experience.

Beyond these highlights, you can visit the Cayman Turtle Centre, a conservation and education facility that’s particularly popular with families. The town of Georgetown itself is compact and walkable, known for its high-end duty-free shopping, especially for jewelry and watches. While it lacks deep historical architecture, it’s a pleasant place for a stroll and a meal. For a taste of local flavor, find a casual spot for some conch fritters or fresh ceviche before tendering back to your ship.

Falmouth, Jamaica

Falmouth offers a tale of two distinct experiences. The purpose-built cruise port is a modern, clean, and secure village of shops and cafes—a comfortable and familiar starting point. Just beyond its gates lies the authentic, historic town of Falmouth, which boasts some of the Caribbean's best-preserved Georgian architecture. While historically significant, the town can feel intense for independent explorers; we find a guided walking tour is the best way to appreciate its rich past without feeling overwhelmed.

Frankly, Falmouth's greatest strength is its strategic location as a launchpad for Jamaica's iconic North Coast adventures. This is your best port for the classic bamboo raft trip down the gentle Martha Brae River—a truly serene experience just minutes away. It also provides excellent access to the lush Good Hope Estate for zip-lining and river tubing, or for the bucket-list climb up the world-famous Dunn's River Falls. Our advice is to view Falmouth not as the primary destination, but as your well-organized gateway to the quintessential Jamaican experiences you've been dreaming of.

Celebrity Ascent

PLEASE NOTE: To attend the conference, participants must book their cruise accommodations through Continuing Education, Inc. This ensures we can provide full conference services and complimentary social amenities to meeting participants and guests. Participants' family and friends are welcome to book within our group allotment and take advantage of our typically excellent rates. Thanks for your cooperation. We look forward to welcoming you aboard!

Request a Quote online or by voice at 800-422-0711 (US/Can) or direct/int'l tel: +1-727-526-1571.

COMPETITIVE PRICING PROMISE: We Will Match or Beat the Cruise Line’s Fares and Promotional Offers. * Prices displayed below cover the entire cruise and include meals,
nightly entertainment, resort features and all taxes.

Balcony

Concierge Class Stateroom (C2)
Enjoy benefits such as priority check-in, a welcome lunch, and dedicated service throughout your journey. 201 sq. ft. with 42 sq. ft. veranda.

Call: 800-422-0711
and we'll find the best value for you.

Edge Stateroom with Infinite Veranda (E2)
An innovative design that merges inside and outside space, Infinite Verandas allow you to enjoy open-air access to the sea. Bring the outside inside with the touch of a button. Two double beds convertible to King. 201 sq. ft. with 42 sq. ft. veranda.

Call: 800-422-0711
and we'll find the best value for you.

AquaClass Stateroom (A2)
A fully immersive, next-level wellness experience. Dine at your exclusive restaurant, Blu. Plus, you’ll enjoy access to the SEA Thermal Suite, a spa concierge, fitness amenities, and more. 243 sq. ft. with 42 sq. ft. veranda.

Call: 800-422-0711
and we'll find the best value for you.

Balcony Prime AquaClass Stateroom (A1)
A fully immersive, next-level wellness experience, located on the most desirable locations on the ship. Dine at your exclusive restaurant, Blu. Plus, you’ll enjoy access to the SEA Thermal Suite, a spa concierge, fitness amenities, and more. Sleeps 2. 201 sq. ft. with 42 sq. ft. veranda.

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800-422-0711
for Pricing

Balcony Prime Concierge Class (C1)
Meticulously thought-out, these staterooms feature services, amenities, and exclusive events. Prime Concierge Class Staterooms are well-appointed, personal retreats located in the most desirable locations on the ship. 201 sq. ft. with 42 sq. ft. veranda.

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800-422-0711
for Pricing

Balcony Prime Edge Stateroom with Infinite Veranda (E1)
An innovative design that merges inside and outside space, Infinite Verandas allow you to enjoy open-air access to the sea. Bring the outside inside with the touch of a button. Two double beds convertible to King. 201 sq. ft. with 42 sq. ft. veranda.

Call
800-422-0711
for Pricing

Balcony Edge Single Stateroom w/ Infinite Veranda (ES)
Sized for solo travelers, but with a full-size veranda. 142 sq. ft. with 42 sq. ft. veranda.

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for Pricing

Balcony Deluxe Porthole View w/ Veranda (P1)
Centrally-located stateroom with floor-to-ceiling porthole view and private veranda. 201 sq. ft. with 40 sq. ft. veranda.

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for Pricing

Balcony Deluxe Porthole View w/ Veranda (P2)
Centrally-located stateroom with floor-to-ceiling porthole view and private veranda. 201 sq. ft. with 40 sq. ft. veranda.

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800-422-0711
for Pricing

Balcony Sunset Veranda (SV)
The most spacious of all Edge verandas, the Sunset Veranda class is located at the aft of the ship, allowing for stunning sunset views. Two double beds convertible to King. 228 sq. ft. with 89 sq. ft. veranda.

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Outside

Ocean View Stateroom (O2)
Take in the stunning views while you relax in your luxurious stateroom. Two double beds, convertible to King. 200 sq. ft.

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and we'll find the best value for you.

Outside Deluxe Oceanview Stateroom (DO)
With ample living space, bigger bathrooms, and more drawer space, Deluxe Ocean View Staterooms will become your home away from home while on board. 238 sq. ft.

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800-422-0711
for Pricing

Outside Prime Ocean View Stateroom (O1)
Staterooms with a large window and sitting area where you can kick back and relax. Prime Ocean View Staterooms are located in the most-desirable locations on the ship. 200 sq. ft.

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800-422-0711
for Pricing

Outside Panoramic Oceanview Stateroom (PO)
Enjoy ever-changing vistas through floor-to-ceiling windows, plus more space than a standard Ocean View Stateroom. Located forward and mid-ship. 212 sq. ft.

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800-422-0711
for Pricing

Inside

Deluxe Inside Stateroom (DI)
With ample living space, bigger bathrooms, and more drawer space, Deluxe Inside Staterooms will become your home away from home while on board. 202 sq. ft.

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and we'll find the best value for you.

Inside Inside Stateroom (I2)
Two double beds convertible to King, with plentiful storage space in your bathroom and wardrobe. 181 sq. ft.

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800-422-0711
for Pricing

Suite/Deluxe Aqua Sky Suite (AS)
The Aqua Sky Suite offers a blend of wellness, expansive views, and intimate luxury. These large suites feature a king-size bed and a spacious private veranda. The split bathroom features a large spa tub with shower. Aqua Sky Suites offer numerous benefits, including exclusive access to The Retreat, unlimited access to the SEA Thermal Suite, in-suite fitness amenities, and more.