APRIL 2006

A highly efficient practice is within your reach if you’re willing to examine your processes and ruthlessly eliminate waste.

Using a clinical prediction tool at the point of care will help you choose which course is best for your patient.

Who needs an EHR? Software you already have can help you make sure your patients get the care they need.

These ideas will help you deal with the difficult consequences of this common policy.

Patient adherence may depend on the answer to this question, so it must be asked.

Don’t cheat yourself. That’s the health plan’s job.

Redefinition is the first step toward reinvigoration.

FPM letter

FPM letter

Family medicine sees small gains in filling residency positions | Work setting affects physicians' quality of work life | Physicians urged to prepare now for 2006-2007 flu season | Coalition aims to reduce physicians' administrative hassles | 99214s on the rise

List the chief diagnosis code first | Consultation or subsequent care in hospital rehab unit? | New vs. established patients | Acupuncture | Psychotherapy | Managing home INR draws | E/M + trigger point injections | Swing bed stays | When to use 99361

Know when to ask for help | Send reminders for needed lab work | Encourage appropriate dress in your office | ED work and opting out of Medicare | Promote patient education with podcasts | Show your appreciation for your staff

When we invite our patients to be part of the solution, even difficult encounters can become rewarding.