Employment and Contract Considerations for Family Physicians in the Era of COVID-19 -- FPM
Feb 1, 2021 - Family physicians may encounter unfamiliar employment challenges in the short-term, but long-term job prospects remain promising.
Family Practice Management : Articles
https://www.aafp.org/fpm/2021/0100/p11.html
Encouraging Signs in Washington for Family Medicine
There’s reason to hope that the incoming administration is ready to recognize primary care’s importance as it works to improve vaccination efforts and health care policy as a whole.
AAFP News : In the Trenches : Blogs
https://www.aafp.org/news/blogs/inthetrenches/entry/20210121itt-newadministration.html
Telemedicine II: What We’ve Learned So Far
This spring our new physician bloggers told us about their experiences with implementing telemedicine. Several months later, we asked for an update regarding their lessons learned.
AAFP News : Fresh Perspectives: New Docs in Practice | AAFP News Blog : Blogs
https://www.aafp.org/news/blogs/freshperspectives/entry/20201203fp-telehealth.html
Topic Collections -- FPM
Nov 11, 2020 - FPM editors' choice of best available content for family physicians.
Family Practice Management : Topic Collections
https://www.aafp.org/fpm/topicModules/viewAll.htm
Outpatient Management of COVID-19: Rapid Evidence Review - American Family Physician
Oct 15, 2020 - Common presenting symptoms of coronavirus disease 2019 include fever, dry cough, shortness of breath, and fatigue. However, patients may have a wide range of symptoms representing a spectrum of mild to severe illness. Symptoms in children tend to be milder and may include fever, cough, ...
American Family Physician : Article
https://www.aafp.org/afp/2020/1015/p478.html
Sorry, Boss, I Can't Guarantee Your Worker Is COVID-free
With asymptomatic spread of COVID-19 and the potential for false-negative tests, Allison Edwards, M.D., questions the utility of providing doctor’s notes for patients returning to work in this Fresh Perspectives blog post.
AAFP News : Fresh Perspectives: New Docs in Practice | AAFP News Blog : Blogs
https://www.aafp.org/news/blogs/freshperspectives/entry/20201007fp-covidnote.html
Would Medicare for All Be the Most Beneficial Health Care System for Family Physicians ...
Oct 1, 2020 - Expansion of Medicare or private insurance would not address the deeper problems in our health care system.
American Family Physician : Editorials: Controversies in Family Medicine
https://www.aafp.org/afp/2020/1001/p392.html
House Calls - American Family Physician
Aug 15, 2020 - The demand for house calls is increasing because of the aging U.S. population, an increase in patients who are homebound, and the acknowledgment of the value of house calls by the public and health care industry. Literature from current U.S. home-based primary care programs describes ...
American Family Physician : Article
https://www.aafp.org/afp/2020/0815/p211.html
Transitioning to Direct Primary Care -- FPM
Aug 1, 2020 - Imagine practicing medicine without all the administrative burdens related to billing insurance. Here’s how one physician made the switch.
Family Practice Management : Articles
https://www.aafp.org/fpm/2020/0700/p29.html
Understanding Value-Based Payment: A Primer for Family Physicians -- FPM
Aug 1, 2020 - Public and private payers are transitioning away from fee-for-service and emphasizing value-based payment models. This supplement from the American Academy of Family Physicians describes what you need to know about the transition and how it may affect you and your practice.
Family Practice Management : Articles
https://www.aafp.org/fpm/2020/0700/p25.html
Ten Tips for Cultivating Patience During Uncertain Times -- FPM
Aug 1, 2020 - It’s easy to feel impatient with ourselves and others these days. But research suggests impatience can be bad for our health. Here’s a better way to respond.
Family Practice Management : The Last Word
https://www.aafp.org/fpm/2020/0700/p43.html
Considering direct primary care? Here are five tips to get started -- FPM
Interest in DPC was growing even before the pandemic took a chunk out of fee-for-service revenues. If you’re among those interested in the model, here are five tips for making the switch.
Family Practice Management : Quick Tips : FPM Home
https://www.aafp.org/journals/fpm/blogs/inpractice/entry/dpc_online_resources.html
Pandemic Exposes Flaws in Health Care Payment System
The COVID-19 pandemic has exacerbated the many challenges that the fee-for-service system presents to primary care. In this In the Trenches blog post, AAFP Senior Vice President of Advocacy, Practice Advancement and Policy Stephanie Quinn examines what needs to change.
AAFP News : In the Trenches : Blogs
https://www.aafp.org/news/blogs/inthetrenches/entry/20200623itt-payment.html
CMS opens Direct Contracting alternative payment program applications -- FPM
The Center for Medicare and Medicaid Innovation has opened applications for its Direct Contracting program.
Family Practice Management : Getting Paid : FPM Home
https://www.aafp.org/journals/fpm/blogs/gettingpaid/entry/direct_contracting_portal.html
Snorkeling or Paralysis: An FP's Strange Experience With COVID-19
Ryan Neuhofel, D.O., M.P.H., explains how the pandemic has forced him to try some unconventional things, including new approaches to personal protective equipment, in the FPs on the Front Lines blog.
AAFP News : FPs on the Front Lines: Meeting the Challenge | AAFP News Blog : Blogs
https://www.aafp.org/news/blogs/fpsonfrontlines/entry/20200602fl-newapproaches.html
How Do We Talk About the Worst-case Scenario?
Against the backdrop of a pandemic, Allison Edwards, M.D., ponders the best way to broach the subject of end-of-life care with a relatively young patient panel in the Fresh Perspectives blog.
AAFP News : Fresh Perspectives: New Docs in Practice | AAFP News Blog : Blogs
https://www.aafp.org/news/blogs/freshperspectives/entry/20200520fp-endoflife.html
Carpe Diem: It's Time to Fix Our Broken Health Care System
AAFP Senior VP for Advocacy, Practice Advancement and Policy Shawn Martin writes in this In the Trenches blog post that the current health crisis presents an opportunity to drastically improve the U.S. health care system.
AAFP News : In the Trenches : Blogs
https://www.aafp.org/news/blogs/inthetrenches/entry/20200414itt-fixsystem.html
COVID-19: FP Searches for Supplies, Information and Lessons
As COVID-19 spreads across the country, Allison Edwards, M.D., describes the difficulty and frustration of preparing for the pandemic in this Fresh Perspectives blog post.
AAFP News : Fresh Perspectives: New Docs in Practice | AAFP News Blog : Blogs
https://www.aafp.org/news/blogs/freshperspectives/entry/20200320fp-ppesearch.html
One thing every physician can do to help change health policy -- FPM
Physicians, who see firsthand the effects poor health policy can have on a community, can be a powerful voice to help bring about change. Here’s how.
Family Practice Management : Quick Tips : FPM Home
https://www.aafp.org/journals/fpm/blogs/inpractice/entry/health_policy_change_tip.html
Get the Most Out of Your AAFP Membership
Academy members receive exclusive products, programs, services and discounts totaling more than $4,000 in savings each year. In this Leader Voices Blog post, AAFP President Gary LeRoy, M.D., highlights some perks you might not be aware of.
AAFP News : AAFP Leader Voices | AAFP News Blog : Blogs
https://www.aafp.org/news/blogs/leadervoices/entry/20200101lv-membervalue.html
Reflections on a Decade of Change
Positive and sometimes negative, the 2010s saw massive shifts in health policy. In this In the Trenches blog post, AAFP Senior Vice President of Advocacy, Practice Advancement and Policy Shawn Martin looks back at the issues he thinks made the biggest impact.
AAFP News : In the Trenches : Blogs
https://www.aafp.org/news/blogs/inthetrenches/entry/20191210itt-lookback.html
In Business -- Including Health Care -- Someone Has To Pay
A group of physicians recently spoke out about their institution's aggressive collections tactics. Allison Edwards, M.D., asks in this Fresh Perspectives post whether anyone will follow their lead in standing up for patients regarding skyrocketing costs in the U.S. health care system.
AAFP News : Fresh Perspectives: New Docs in Practice | AAFP News Blog : Blogs
https://www.aafp.org/news/blogs/freshperspectives/entry/20191209fp-collections.html
The Right-Sized Patient Panel: A Practical Way to Make Adjustments for Acuity and ...
Dec 1, 2019 - Do you have the right number of patients on your panel? Here’s a process and a spreadsheet for calculating and adjusting your panel based on actual patient behavior.
Family Practice Management : Articles
https://www.aafp.org/fpm/2019/1100/p23.html
How Much Will This Cost, Doc?
Allison Edwards, M.D., writes in this Fresh Perspectives blog post that CME can arm physicians with new approaches to treatment, but too often discussions leave out the aspect of cost and value.
AAFP News : Fresh Perspectives: New Docs in Practice | AAFP News Blog : Blogs
https://www.aafp.org/news/blogs/freshperspectives/entry/20191126fp-cost.html
It Started With One Question: What Is High-value Care?
Health policy wonk Kyle Leggott, M.D., and direct primary care physician Allison Edwards, M.D., debate the flaws and potential fixes of our health care system in this wide-ranging QandA.
AAFP News : Fresh Perspectives: New Docs in Practice | AAFP News Blog : Blogs
https://www.aafp.org/news/blogs/freshperspectives/entry/20191008fp-highvaluecare.html
Social Media Influencers or FPs: Who Do Patients Trust?
Michael Richardson, M.D., writes in this Fresh Perspectives blog post that physicians can overcome the spate of false and misleading health reports that consumers find on social media by emphasizing the doctor-patient relationship.
AAFP News : Fresh Perspectives: New Docs in Practice | AAFP News Blog : Blogs
https://www.aafp.org/news/blogs/freshperspectives/entry/20190903fp-socialmedia.html
Direct Primary Care: A Snapshot
Direct primary care family physician Allison Edwards, M.D., reflects in this Fresh Perspectives blog post on insights from the AAFP's DPC Data Brief and offers a path for the movement to grow thoughtfully.
AAFP News : Fresh Perspectives: New Docs in Practice | AAFP News Blog : Blogs
https://www.aafp.org/news/blogs/freshperspectives/entry/20190820fp-dpcsnapshot.html
Residency Grad Thanks His Best Teachers -- His Patients
In this Fresh Perspectives blog post, recent graduate Kyle Leggott, M.D., reflects on one of the most difficult tasks of his residency training: saying goodbye to his patients.
AAFP News : Fresh Perspectives: New Docs in Practice | AAFP News Blog : Blogs
https://www.aafp.org/news/blogs/freshperspectives/entry/20190812fp-thankpatients.html
Find Joy in Practice -- Physician Health First
Find tools and resources to help you reignite your joy in practice and passion for medicine.
Membership : Member Benefits
https://www.aafp.org/membership/benefits/physician-health-first/find-joy-in-practice.html
Fight Burnout Causes -- Physician Health First
Find advocacy stories, tools, and resources to fight the causes of physician burnout, including a broken health care system and increased administrative complexities.
Membership : Member Benefits
https://www.aafp.org/membership/benefits/physician-health-first/fight-burnout-causes.html
Celebrating Disruptive Innovators in Primary Care
In his latest In the Trenches blog post, AAFP Senior Vice President for Advocacy, Practice Advancement and Policy Shawn Martin spotlights four family physician leaders who found innovative ways to improve care.
AAFP News : In the Trenches : Blogs
https://www.aafp.org/news/blogs/inthetrenches/entry/20190806itt-disrupters.html
Reaping Benefits (and Avoiding Pitfalls) of Social Media
After recent research showed the effect one negative social media post can have on a doctor's credibility, we asked our new physician bloggers how -- and why -- they use social media. This Fresh Perspectives blog post presents their responses.
AAFP News : Fresh Perspectives: New Docs in Practice | AAFP News Blog : Blogs
https://www.aafp.org/news/blogs/freshperspectives/entry/20190710fp-socialmedia.html
Data in (Direct) Primary Care: Striking the Right Balance
In this Fresh Perspectives blog post, Allison Edwards, M.D., writes that the health care system has done a poor job of measuring quality overall, but says that direct primary care can start over with a blank slate.
AAFP News : Fresh Perspectives: New Docs in Practice | AAFP News Blog : Blogs
https://www.aafp.org/news/blogs/freshperspectives/entry/20190624fp-dpcmeasures.html
FPs Steer the AAFP With Plenty of Ways to Influence Course
AAFP President John Cullen, M.D., explains how AAFP policy is set by members who represent a wide scope of opinions about the best ways to advance family medicine.
AAFP News : AAFP Leader Voices | AAFP News Blog : Blogs
https://www.aafp.org/news/blogs/leadervoices/entry/20190605lv-governance.html
Family physician pay goes up, satisfaction with pay goes down -- FPM
An annual survey of physician compensation shows a healthy gain for physicians. How do you compare?
Family Practice Management : Getting Paid : FPM Home
https://www.aafp.org/journals/fpm/blogs/gettingpaid/entry/2019_compensation.html
Surveys: Physician Salaries Are Increasing, Burnout Persists
AAFP Senior Vice President for Advocacy, Practice Advancement and Policy Shawn Martin writes in the latest In the Trenches blog post that findings from a pair of Medscape surveys on compensation and burnout offer a mix of good and bad news.
AAFP News : In the Trenches : Blogs
https://www.aafp.org/news/blogs/inthetrenches/entry/20190416itt-docsurveys.html
Objection! Can We Bring Order to Documentation and Billing?
Have you ever seen a lawyer documenting everything said during court? Neither has Allison Edwards, M.D., who ponders in this Fresh Perspectives blog post whether doctors could learn something about how attorneys document -- and bill for -- their work.
AAFP News : Fresh Perspectives: New Docs in Practice | AAFP News Blog : Blogs
https://www.aafp.org/news/blogs/freshperspectives/entry/20190405fp-billing.html
Practical Strategies to Achieve Your Health Policy Goals -- FPM
Apr 1, 2019 - As a physician, you can have a powerful voice in bringing about change in your community. Here’s how to go about it.
Family Practice Management : Articles
https://www.aafp.org/fpm/2019/0300/p20.html
High-deductible Plans Give 'Prevention' a New Meaning
Robert Raspa, M.D., writes in this Leader Voices Blog post that high-deductible plans are causing patients to delay needed care, which leads to more costly urgent care later.
AAFP News : AAFP Leader Voices | AAFP News Blog : Blogs
https://www.aafp.org/news/blogs/leadervoices/entry/20190401lv-hdhp.html
Tracks
Attend one of the seven tracks being offered at the 2020 AAFP Family Medicine Experience (FMX) Conference: Chicago, October 13-17.
Events : Family Medicine Experience (FMX) Virtual
https://www.aafp.org/events/fmx/cme/opportunities/tracks.html
2020 CME Session Topics
View the CME topics that will be discussed at the 2020 AAFP Family Medicine Experience (FMX) Conference: Chicago, October 13-17.
Events : Family Medicine Experience (FMX) Virtual
https://www.aafp.org/events/fmx/cme/opportunities/session-topics.html
Take Note of Growing Demand for Subscription Services
Consumer Reports recently advised consumers that direct primary care could save them money and improve their care. Allison Edwards, M.D., makes the case for the subscription model in this Fresh Perspectives blog post.
AAFP News : Fresh Perspectives: New Docs in Practice | AAFP News Blog : Blogs
https://www.aafp.org/news/blogs/freshperspectives/entry/20190222fp-subscriptioncare.html
Shift Health System's Focus From Profit to Prevention
Leonard Reeves, M.D., writes in this Leader Voices Blog post that a single-payer system reserved for primary care would put the focus on keeping people healthy rather than on treating illness.
AAFP News : AAFP Leader Voices | AAFP News Blog : Blogs
https://www.aafp.org/news/blogs/leadervoices/entry/20190221lv-change.html
Beat the Clock: Why I Chose Direct Primary Care
Allison Edwards, M.D., writes in this Fresh Perspectives blog post that the limitations of the 12-minute patient visits she experienced as a resident inspired her to start her own direct primary care practice.
AAFP News : Fresh Perspectives: New Docs in Practice | AAFP News Blog : Blogs
https://www.aafp.org/news/blogs/freshperspectives/entry/20190115fp-whydpc.html
No Margin, No Mission: Better Physician Pay = Better Patient Care
AAFP Senior Vice President for Advocacy, Practice Advancement and Policy Shawn Martin outlines six areas of focus where the Academy's advocacy work is aimed at improving payment for primary care.
AAFP News : In the Trenches : Blogs
https://www.aafp.org/news/blogs/inthetrenches/entry/20190108itt-betterpayment.html
Physician Leaders Can't Wait for Squeaks to Turn Into Clunks
Gary LeRoy, M.D., writes in this Leader Voices Blog post that the AAFP must listen to its members' urgent concerns while also pursuing the long-term needs of family medicine.
AAFP News : AAFP Leader Voices | AAFP News Blog : Blogs
https://www.aafp.org/news/blogs/leadervoices/entry/20190102lv-listening.html
High-deductible Plans Shouldn't Endanger Continuity of Care
AAFP Senior Vice President for Advocacy, Practice Advancement and Policy Shawn Martin addresses the need for continuity of care among patients with high-deductible health plans.
AAFP News : In the Trenches : Blogs
https://www.aafp.org/news/blogs/inthetrenches/entry/20181218itt-hdhp.html
Let's Get Drug Pricing Under Control
Allison Edwards, M.D., writes in this Fresh Perspectives blog post that it's high time we find a fix for the drug pricing system that we've grown too accustomed to.
AAFP News : Fresh Perspectives: New Docs in Practice | AAFP News Blog : Blogs
https://www.aafp.org/news/blogs/freshperspectives/entry/20181126fp-drugprices.html
The Votes Were Cast. What Does It Mean for Family Medicine?
AAFP Senior Vice President for Advocacy, Practice Advancement and Policy Shawn Martin sets the stage for an analysis of the 2018 midterm elections and looks at Wall Street's growing interest in health care.
AAFP News : In the Trenches : Blogs
https://www.aafp.org/news/blogs/inthetrenches/entry/20181120itt-postelection.html
State Legislative Conference Offers Insight Into 2019's Top Issues
AAFP Senior Vice President for Advocacy, Practice Advancement and Policy Shawn Martin offers highlights from the Academy's annual State Legislative Conference.
AAFP News : In the Trenches : Blogs
https://www.aafp.org/news/blogs/inthetrenches/entry/20181106itt-elections.html
Why We Need More Physician Entrepreneurs
In an era of increasing physician employment, Allison Edwards, M.D., explains why she chose to open her own practice and why she thinks others should, too.
AAFP News : Fresh Perspectives: New Docs in Practice | AAFP News Blog : Blogs
https://www.aafp.org/news/blogs/freshperspectives/entry/20181030fp-entrepreneurs.html
How to Excel at Access -- and Why It Matters -- FPM
Oct 1, 2018 - Patients do better and cost less when they have ready access to primary care, but could your practice be thinking about access all wrong?
Family Practice Management : Articles
https://www.aafp.org/fpm/2018/0900/p27.html
The Illogical Cost of Care: Why Do We Stand for It?
Allison Edwards, M.D., and colleagues banded together to erase more than $1 million of patients' medical debt. But for others, cost and lack of transparency lead to financial crisis. Learn more in this Fresh Perspectives blog post.
AAFP News : Fresh Perspectives: New Docs in Practice | AAFP News Blog : Blogs
https://www.aafp.org/news/blogs/freshperspectives/entry/20180821fp-carecost.html
Rural Locums Provide Balance for Urban Doc
Mixing rural locum tenens shifts with her urban direct primary care practice keeps Allison Edwards, M.D., balanced and allows her to work at the full breadth of her training.
AAFP News : Fresh Perspectives: New Docs in Practice | AAFP News Blog : Blogs
https://www.aafp.org/news/blogs/freshperspectives/entry/20180806fp-locums.html
Opportunities, Not Incentives, Drive PCPs to Do Better
In his final Fresh Perspectives blog post, Ryan Neuhofel, D.O., M.P.H., writes that policymakers should abandon the carrot-and-stick approach to payment schemes and give physicians time to provide better care.
AAFP News : Fresh Perspectives: New Docs in Practice | AAFP News Blog : Blogs
https://www.aafp.org/news/blogs/freshperspectives/entry/20180720fp-opportunity.html
Managing the Vacuum of Freedom After Residency
After being told what their next steps should be for years, graduating residents now get to choose their own path. Allison Edwards, M.D., writes in this Fresh Perspectives blog post that they shouldn't panic.
AAFP News : Fresh Perspectives: New Docs in Practice | AAFP News Blog : Blogs
https://www.aafp.org/news/blogs/freshperspectives/entry/20180626fp-endtraining.html
AAFP Survey Reveals DPC Trends
As we prepare for the annual Direct Primary Care Summit, AAFP Senior Vice President for Advocacy, Practice Advancement and Policy Shawn Martin shares the results of the AAFP's recent survey related to DPC.
AAFP News : In the Trenches : Blogs
https://www.aafp.org/news/blogs/inthetrenches/entry/20180619ITT_DPC.html
Medicare looks to contract directly with physicians and suppliers -- FPM
The Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services is investigating a new payment model that would directly contract with Medicare providers and suppliers.
Family Practice Management : Getting Paid : FPM Home
https://www.aafp.org/journals/fpm/blogs/gettingpaid/entry/Medicare_looks_to_contract_directly_with_physicians.html
Compensation is up for family physicians -- FPM
Family physicians saw their annual compensation increase an average of 5 percent over last year, reflecting an industrywide rise in physician pay.
Family Practice Management : Getting Paid : FPM Home
https://www.aafp.org/journals/fpm/blogs/gettingpaid/entry/Compensation_is_up_for_family_physicians.html
Congress Needs to Hear From FPs -- Here's Your Chance
AAFP President-elect John Cullen, M.D., reports from Capitol Hill, where the Academy's Board of Directors recently had dozens of meetings with legislators and congressional staff.
AAFP News : AAFP Leader Voices | AAFP News Blog : Blogs
https://www.aafp.org/news/blogs/leadervoices/entry/20180302lv-hillvisits.html
Part I: Sharing Our Legislative, Regulatory Priorities for 2018
AAFP Senior Vice President for Advocacy, Practice Advancement and Policy Shawn Martin outlines the AAFP's priorities for 2018 regarding payment reform and practice transformation.
AAFP News : In the Trenches : Blogs
https://www.aafp.org/news/blogs/inthetrenches/entry/20180206ITT_Priorities.html
Childhood Bullying: Implications for Physicians - American Family Physician
Feb 1, 2018 - Childhood bullying is common and can lead to serious adverse physical and mental health effects for both the victim and the bully. In teenagers, risk factors for becoming a victim of bullying include being lesbian, gay, bisexual, or transgender; having a disability or medical condition ...
American Family Physician : Article
https://www.aafp.org/afp/2018/0201/p187.html
Your Family Medicine Practice Is Whatever You Make It
A new physician survey prompted our bloggers to reflect on their scope of practice and how they've tailored their work to fit the needs of their patients and their own interests.
AAFP News : Fresh Perspectives: New Docs in Practice | AAFP News Blog : Blogs
https://www.aafp.org/news/blogs/freshperspectives/entry/20180116fp-scope.html
AAFP Payment Model Wins Committee's Support
In this In the Trenches blog post, AAFP Senior Vice President for Advocacy, Practice Advancement and Policy Shawn Martin outlines an AAFP payment model that recently won the support of an HHS committee, and he reviews the health care challenges awaiting Congress.
AAFP News : In the Trenches : Blogs
https://www.aafp.org/news/blogs/inthetrenches/entry/20180109ITT_PTAC.html
New Year, Same Issues. Why Does Health Care Cost So Much?
We asked our new physician bloggers what issues concern them for their practices and patients in 2018. The cost of care to patients tops the list.
AAFP News : Fresh Perspectives: New Docs in Practice | AAFP News Blog : Blogs
https://www.aafp.org/news/blogs/freshperspectives/entry/20180102fp-newyear.html
Technology Tools and Trends for Better Patient Care: Beyond the EHR -- FPM
Oct 1, 2017 - From remote monitoring of chronic diseases to virtual assistants in the exam room, technology will improve practice.
Family Practice Management : Articles
https://www.aafp.org/fpm/2017/0900/p28.html
Health Care Debates Don't Have to Be Heated
Politicians discussing health care policy could take a lesson from a couple of family physicians who recently debated the merits of the direct primary care model without resorting to insults.
AAFP News : Fresh Perspectives: New Docs in Practice | AAFP News Blog : Blogs
https://www.aafp.org/news/blogs/freshperspectives/entry/20170829fp-debate.html
Putting Patients at the Center of My 'Clinic of the Future'
Ryan Neuhofel, D.O., M.P.H., wanted more than just a bigger space for his new clinic. He wanted it to help patients feel more comfortable and more engaged.
AAFP News : Fresh Perspectives: New Docs in Practice | AAFP News Blog : Blogs
https://www.aafp.org/news/blogs/freshperspectives/entry/putting_patients_at_the_center.html
It's Complicated: What We Wish Legislators Knew About Health Care
Health care truly is complicated. We asked our new physician bloggers what policymakers need to understand if they're going to help create a better system.
AAFP News : Fresh Perspectives: New Docs in Practice | AAFP News Blog : Blogs
https://www.aafp.org/news/blogs/freshperspectives/entry/it_s_complicated_what_we.html
AAFP News - May 15, 2017 - American Family Physician
May 15, 2017 - Selected policy and health issues news briefs from AAFP News.
American Family Physician : AAFP News: AFP Edition
https://www.aafp.org/afp/2017/0515/p614.html
Go Ahead, I'm Listening
From your comments on AAFP News stories and blog posts to responses to annual surveys, the Academy is listening. Senior Vice President for Advocacy, Practice Advancement and Policy Shawn Martin outlines how to make your voice heard.
AAFP News : In the Trenches : Blogs
https://www.aafp.org/news/blogs/inthetrenches/entry/go_ahead_i_m_listening.html
AHCA Won't Help Patients Who Need It Most
We asked our new physician bloggers how the American Health Care Act would affect their patients. Most said the legislation would hurt the poor, the elderly and the disabled.
AAFP News : Fresh Perspectives: New Docs in Practice | AAFP News Blog : Blogs
https://www.aafp.org/news/blogs/freshperspectives/entry/ahca_won_t_help_patients.html
End-of-Life Care: Managing Common Symptoms - American Family Physician
Mar 15, 2017 - Physicians should be proficient at managing symptoms as patients progress through the dying process. When possible, proactive regimens that prevent symptoms should be used, because it is generally easier to prevent than to treat an acute symptom. As swallowing function diminishes, ...
American Family Physician : Article
https://www.aafp.org/afp/2017/0315/p356.html
I'm Standing Up for Direct Primary Care
Ryan Neuhofel, D.O., M.P.H., knows legislators won't significantly improve our health care system on their own. Success requires persistent grassroots advocacy, and family physicians need to be a part of that.
AAFP News : Fresh Perspectives: New Docs in Practice | AAFP News Blog : Blogs
https://www.aafp.org/news/blogs/freshperspectives/entry/i_m_standing_up_for.html
The State of Family Medicine: 2017 -- FPM
Feb 1, 2017 - With tremendous change taking place in health care, the mood among family physicians is anxious, but there are reasons to be hopeful.
Family Practice Management : Articles
https://www.aafp.org/fpm/2017/0100/p26.html
No, I'm Not 'Settling' for Family Medicine
Lauren Abdul-Majeed writes that misconceptions about family medicine are toxic for medical students and negatively affect an already inadequate primary care workforce.
AAFP News : AAFP Leader Voices | AAFP News Blog : Blogs
https://www.aafp.org/news/blogs/leadervoices/entry/no_i_m_not_settling.html
Direct Primary Care Is a Sensible Workforce Solution
John Bender, M.D., M.B.A., writes that contrary to misconceptions, the direct primary care model is an ideal strategy to ensure our nation has a robust family medicine physician workforce in the long run.
AAFP News : AAFP Leader Voices | AAFP News Blog : Blogs
https://www.aafp.org/news/blogs/leadervoices/entry/direct_primary_care_is_a.html
Screen for Alcohol Abuse During Holiday Season
The holidays aren't happy for many Americans. Lynne Lillie, M.D., writes that now is an excellent time to screen for alcohol abuse.
AAFP News : AAFP Leader Voices | AAFP News Blog : Blogs
https://www.aafp.org/news/blogs/leadervoices/entry/screen_for_alcohol_abuse_during.html
Old Issues, New Year: A Look Back (and Ahead)
AAFP Senior Vice President for Advocacy, Practice Advancement and Policy Shawn Martin reflects on some key health care issues from 2016 and looks ahead to the new year.
AAFP News : In the Trenches : Blogs
https://www.aafp.org/news/blogs/inthetrenches/entry/old_issues_new_year_a.html
FPs Can Shape Social Determinants of Health Outside Clinic
Social factors can influence health more than medical advances. Stewart Decker, M.D., writes that family physicians have the perspective and influence needed to address social determinants of health beyond the exam room.
AAFP News : AAFP Leader Voices | AAFP News Blog : Blogs
https://www.aafp.org/news/blogs/leadervoices/entry/fps_can_shape_social_determinants.html
Is Direct Primary Care the Solution to Our Health Care Crisis? -- FPM
Oct 1, 2016 - While attempting to solve one problem, DPC may be exacerbating other serious problems in our health care system.
Family Practice Management : Opinion
https://www.aafp.org/fpm/2016/0900/p10.html
In Defense of Direct Primary Care -- FPM
Oct 1, 2016 - Direct primary care will continue to grow because it empowers price transparency, quality, and patient satisfaction.
Family Practice Management : Opinion
https://www.aafp.org/fpm/2016/0900/p12.html
Beating the Prior Authorization Blues -- FPM
Oct 1, 2016 - Getting insurer approval for treatment can take hours out of your week. Here are some ways to reduce the pain.
Family Practice Management : Articles
https://www.aafp.org/fpm/2016/0900/p15.html
The Unexpected Challenge of Motivational Interviewing -- FPM
Oct 1, 2016 - Successful use requires us to change our thinking about ourselves.
Family Practice Management : From the Editor
https://www.aafp.org/fpm/2016/0900/p9.html
2016 Family Medicine Experience
Talk a walk through the 2016 Family Medicine Experience (FMX) with videos produced in advance and on site.
Events : Family Medicine Experience (FMX) Virtual
https://www.aafp.org/events/fmx/about/past-future/2016fmx.html
Physicians Making Eye Contact with Patients Is Important - Letters to the Editor - ...
Sep 15, 2016 - ...doctors, all of whom talk to me over their shoulders while tapping computer keys or stand behind the protection of a scribe. Only my direct primary care physician sits and looks me in the eye when we are talking. ROBERT B. TAYLOR, MD, FAAFP Portland, Ore. E-mail: taylorr@ohsu.edu...
American Family Physician : Letter
https://www.aafp.org/afp/2016/0915/p418a.html
Our Country Is Hungry for the Message of Family Medicine
After more than 200 days on the road, AAFP President Wanda Filer, M.D., M.B.A., reflects on a whirlwind of meetings with legislators, policymakers, payers, media and medical students.
AAFP News : AAFP Leader Voices | AAFP News Blog : Blogs
https://www.aafp.org/news/blogs/leadervoices/entry/our_country_is_hungry_for.html
Employment Contracts for Family Physicians in an Evolving Market -- FPM
Aug 1, 2016 - A review of the broad market trends can help you evaluate the specifics of your contract.
Family Practice Management : Articles
https://www.aafp.org/fpm/2016/0700/p28.html
Prior Authorization Call Shows Inefficiency, Absurdity of Process
Family physicians waste hours each and every week on prior authorizations. Ryan Neuhofel, D.O., M.P.H., recorded one such call to illustrate the inefficiency of the process.
AAFP News : Fresh Perspectives: New Docs in Practice | AAFP News Blog : Blogs
https://www.aafp.org/news/blogs/freshperspectives/entry/prior_authorization_call_shows_inefficiency.html
AAFP Showing Strong Support for DPC
The direct primary care model (DPC) is a patient-centered model that eliminates much of the administrative burden associated with modern primary care practice. AAFP Senior Vice President for Advocacy, Practice Advancement and Policy Shawn Martin highlights how the Academy is supporting ...
AAFP News : In the Trenches : Blogs
https://www.aafp.org/news/blogs/inthetrenches/entry/aafp_showing_strong_support_for.html
Rural Recruiting, Retention Proves Daunting
Rural Recruiting, Retention Proves Daunting
AAFP News : AAFP Leader Voices | AAFP News Blog : Blogs
https://www.aafp.org/news/blogs/leadervoices/entry/rural_recruiting_retention_proves_daunting.html
Compensation for family physicians rises in new survey -- FPM
Compensation for family physicians rises in new survey
Family Practice Management : Getting Paid : FPM Home
https://www.aafp.org/journals/fpm/blogs/gettingpaid/entry/compensation_for_family_physicians_rises.html
FMX On Demand
Maximize your time at the 2018 AAFP Family Medicine Experience (FMX). FMX On Demand is your online library of the 25 most popular FMX sessions. Earn a year's worth of credit!
Events : Family Medicine Experience (FMX) Virtual
https://www.aafp.org/events/fmx/cme/opportunities/on-demand.html
Report: PCMH Improves Quality, Reduces Cost
A recently published report found that advanced primary care practices built on the principles of the patient-centered medical home improve quality and reduce the cost of health care. AAFP Senior Vice President for Advocacy, Practice Advancement and Policy Shawn Martin has the details.
AAFP News : In the Trenches : Blogs
https://www.aafp.org/news/blogs/inthetrenches/entry/report_pcmh_improves_quality_reduces.html
Should We Reject Unvaccinated Patients?
Should We Reject Unvaccinated Patients?
AAFP News : Fresh Perspectives: New Docs in Practice | AAFP News Blog : Blogs
https://www.aafp.org/news/blogs/freshperspectives/entry/should_we_reject_unvaccinated_patients.html
Telehealth Is Family Medicine’s Next Big Opportunity
Telehealth Is Family Medicine’s Next Big Opportunity
AAFP News : AAFP Leader Voices | AAFP News Blog : Blogs
https://www.aafp.org/news/blogs/leadervoices/entry/telehealth_is_family_medicine_s.html
Cloudy With a Chance of Misdiagnosis
Cloudy With a Chance of Misdiagnosis
AAFP News : Fresh Perspectives: New Docs in Practice | AAFP News Blog : Blogs
https://www.aafp.org/news/blogs/freshperspectives/entry/cloudy_with_a_chance_of.html
Physician Burnout: Its Origin, Symptoms, and Five Main Causes -- FPM
Oct 1, 2015 - Burnout is everywhere, buy you can't fight an enemy unless you recognize it.
Family Practice Management : Articles
https://www.aafp.org/fpm/2015/0900/p42.html
Questions About DPC? FMX Sessions Offer Answers
Questions About DPC? FMX Sessions Offer Answers
AAFP News : Fresh Perspectives: New Docs in Practice | AAFP News Blog : Blogs
https://www.aafp.org/news/blogs/freshperspectives/entry/questions_about_dpc_fmx_sessions.html
Eye on the Ball: Overreliance on EHRs Can Bring Disaster
Eye on the Ball: Overreliance on EHRs Can Bring Disaster
AAFP News : Fresh Perspectives: New Docs in Practice | AAFP News Blog : Blogs
https://www.aafp.org/news/blogs/freshperspectives/entry/eye_on_the_ball_overreliance.html