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SEPTEMBER / OCTOBER 2025

Articles

The Paradox of Professional Autonomy: Discovering Why More Could Be Less

MARK H. GREENAWALD, JASON E. MARKER

Autonomy isn’t something you either have or don’t have. It’s a continuum, and the optimal amount is a matter of individual preference, risk tolerance, and sustainability.

Four Ways to Prevent Malpractice Lawsuits

MARY KREBS

Prevention requires a multifaceted approach that includes an understanding of malpractice criteria, excellent patient care, clear communication, and meticulous documentation.

How to Write Effective Generative AI Prompts for Family Medicine

KEVIN KINDLER, OLGA KRAVCHENKO, STACY BARTLETT

Effective prompts are key to using many artificial intelligence tools. The sample prompts in this article follow the “four Rs” framework.

Risk Stratification Methods, Use Cases, and Lessons Learned

TIMOTHY L. SWITAJ

The use of patient risk scores allows for more targeted interventions, equitable panel sizes, and efficient resource allocation.

From the Editor

Reflections on Almost a Quarter Century in Practice

JAMES DOMDERA

We often lament change, but it’s the only constant — and it’s not all bad.

Coding & Documentation

CODING & DOCUMENTATION

CINDY HUGHES

Documenting total time for E/M visits | Billing Medicare for influenza vaccines and their administration | Documentation of chief complaint for E/M | Modifier 33 for a preventive service | Apolipoprotein B lab test

Practice Pearls

PRACTICE PEARLS

Have a “new diagnosis” conversation | Translate clinical speak for technology leaders | Ask FPM: Negotiating administrative time

The Last Word

A Bittersweet Transition: Leaving Practice

SARINA SCHRAGER

I know my patients will be in good hands, but it’s hard to accept they’ll no longer be “my” patients.

Funded Educational Content

Starfield AI Summit: Advancing AI and Digital Health to Strengthen Primary Care

KAREN JOHNSON, STEVEN WALDREN

Al has the potential to revolutionize primary care, but success depends on careful planning, robust governance, and a commitment to the core values of primary care.

Influenza, RSV and COVID-19 Vaccines in Primary Care Offices: 2025 Update

As the respiratory illness season ramps up, this brief summary provides context about recent federal vaccine guidance and the AAFP’s recommendations regarding three key immunizations.

Resources

CME Quiz (AAFP members and print subscribers only)

Disclosure: All editors and editorial advisory board members in a position to control content for this activity, FPM journal, are required to disclose any relevant financial relationships. View disclosures.

Advertising: Career Opportunities (PDF)

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