The family physician cares for the whole person and the whole family. Training in this specialty teaches one to care for all aspects of the patient no matter what age, sex, or illness. The Family Physician’s Creed is:
I am a Family Physician, one of many across this country. This is what I believe: You, the patient, are my first professional responsibility, whether man, woman or child, ill or well, seeking care, healing or knowledge. You and your family deserve high quality, affordable health care including treatment, prevention and health promotion. I support access to health care for all. The specialty of family practice trains me to care for the whole person, physically and emotionally, throughout life, working with your medical history and family dynamics, coordinating your care with other physicians when necessary. This is my promise to you.
Because of their versatility, family doctors are excellent primary care physicians. They are able to diagnose and treat many different problems and refer to specialists when needed. They provide continuous routine medical and preventive healthcare. Family doctors may also perform minor surgical procedures in the office. These may include excision of small skin lesions such as warts, opening drainage of a small abscess, and even suturing (sewing up) minor lacerations like cuts. In addition, some also take additional training to perform procedures such as a colonoscopy.
Everyone should have a family doctor as their primary health care source and resource. You will be guaranteed the most comprehensive care and compassion you deserve. Join the Family Medicine revolution!
Best health!
Mostrando entradas con la etiqueta Healthy People 2020. Mostrar todas las entradas
Mostrando entradas con la etiqueta Healthy People 2020. Mostrar todas las entradas
miércoles, 11 de junio de 2014
miércoles, 28 de mayo de 2014
Health News Anemia
Have you noticed that there is a health news deficiency in television programming? In 24 hours of TV observance, mostly redundant repetition, health news rarely got repeated or even mentioned. In addition, health stories seemed to stem from some person's misfortune rather than their health challenge. As many times as the story is repeated, rarely, if ever, is there a clue about what you could do if it happened to you.
Within a 24 hour period health commercials comprised more health information than actual broadcasts. If you wanted to know about the daily health news like the current blood shortage or the worldwide Ebola outbreak, you will hear about it from someone, or read about it on line before it becomes old news on TV, if at all.
Of course there are newsworthy things going on in health and medicine - everyday. Drug recalls, disease outbreaks, new disease research, and public health hazards infect our communities daily. Local news may mention it, and is more likely to carry health news you can actually use as well as local resources to help you out.
Medical information on TV is limited and stagnating. Sixty seconds on the news. Two minutes on the talk show after commercials on prescription medication. Outdated show on this channel, and outdated repeat on that channel in between the new show. Watch some on this channel then click and click to different channels to connect your medical news for today. Channel surfing can become quite cumbersome with a low yield within 24 hours. Excluding taped health shows the daily intermittent health news infusion averages less than one hour.
Health and medical coverage on TV is surely lacking in this consumer driven health conscious society. We can watch as much sports, cartoons, movies, news as we want, but we still have to piece together our medical news and supplement it with the written word, and spoken word of health care providers. Solution: health channels. The television is one of the most used sources by which folks get their news and information. It is certainly a way to get and give health information. The most used information source is one of the least used for health and medicine in general. Dedicated health channels and more daily health news would make us even healthier and richer. Transfuse STAT!
Within a 24 hour period health commercials comprised more health information than actual broadcasts. If you wanted to know about the daily health news like the current blood shortage or the worldwide Ebola outbreak, you will hear about it from someone, or read about it on line before it becomes old news on TV, if at all.
Of course there are newsworthy things going on in health and medicine - everyday. Drug recalls, disease outbreaks, new disease research, and public health hazards infect our communities daily. Local news may mention it, and is more likely to carry health news you can actually use as well as local resources to help you out.
Medical information on TV is limited and stagnating. Sixty seconds on the news. Two minutes on the talk show after commercials on prescription medication. Outdated show on this channel, and outdated repeat on that channel in between the new show. Watch some on this channel then click and click to different channels to connect your medical news for today. Channel surfing can become quite cumbersome with a low yield within 24 hours. Excluding taped health shows the daily intermittent health news infusion averages less than one hour.
Health and medical coverage on TV is surely lacking in this consumer driven health conscious society. We can watch as much sports, cartoons, movies, news as we want, but we still have to piece together our medical news and supplement it with the written word, and spoken word of health care providers. Solution: health channels. The television is one of the most used sources by which folks get their news and information. It is certainly a way to get and give health information. The most used information source is one of the least used for health and medicine in general. Dedicated health channels and more daily health news would make us even healthier and richer. Transfuse STAT!
viernes, 2 de agosto de 2013
White Coat Hypertension: Is it Really High Blood Pressure?
Is it really high blood pressure or is it the white coat? White coat hypertension is a term that refers to high blood pressure (HBP) when you visit your doctor or other health care provider. It is normal during other times. Are you really hypertensive if this is the case? Do you really need the DASH diet and medication?
High blood pressure is defined as three consecutive blood pressure readings at or above 140/90, or one reading above 160/100. These readings are most commonly obtained when you visit your doctor which can be from one time to several times a year. Needless to say the preparation and anxiety that go with doctor's appointments is enough to make any one's blood pressure go up normally! Getting ready and getting there can surely create this effect, but is this enough to make a diagnosis of high blood pressure when your blood pressure checks weekly or daily are normal?
HBP monitoring by patients outside the doctor's office may prove that white coat hypertension is what it is. Normal readings outside the health setting in your everyday environment are more accurate and real. By tracking your own blood pressure at home you may find that your blood pressure is normal most of the time. You can also see what makes it abnormal, too, and avoid or decrease these things. If it stays consistently high without white coats, treatment with diet and medicine may be indicated.
Best health!
High blood pressure is defined as three consecutive blood pressure readings at or above 140/90, or one reading above 160/100. These readings are most commonly obtained when you visit your doctor which can be from one time to several times a year. Needless to say the preparation and anxiety that go with doctor's appointments is enough to make any one's blood pressure go up normally! Getting ready and getting there can surely create this effect, but is this enough to make a diagnosis of high blood pressure when your blood pressure checks weekly or daily are normal?
HBP monitoring by patients outside the doctor's office may prove that white coat hypertension is what it is. Normal readings outside the health setting in your everyday environment are more accurate and real. By tracking your own blood pressure at home you may find that your blood pressure is normal most of the time. You can also see what makes it abnormal, too, and avoid or decrease these things. If it stays consistently high without white coats, treatment with diet and medicine may be indicated.
Best health!
sábado, 13 de julio de 2013
Internet Information and Your Health
Health information once obtained from bought or borrowed hard copy books, magazines, and papers is now available on your computer in seconds. Many studies have shown that the Internet is rapidly becoming the main source of health information for patients and health care providers around the world. This has made it a tool of preventive medicine individually and globally. Many are able to "pre-diagnose" themselves and maintain wellness by the time they seek medical care. This makes for a shorter differential diagnosis dilemma for your doctor; thereby, shortening the time for correct diagnosis and treatment.
Health literacy on line also includes abundant applications for your smart phone and computer, interactive social media, and websites from health providers and institutions. One of the most interactive and informative is Twitter. Lists such as these for doctors, http://bit.ly/2XWKw29 and medical/health http://bit.ly/2GWkbvH contain lots of information that links directly to sources. Most of these include websites as well as individual snippets of information called "tweets". Searches for specific health information can also be done using the internal search box.
While the Internet may help diagnose, it far from replaces your doctor's advice. Use it as a health literacy tool to educate yourself. Check out "What the Internet Does for You and Your Health" http://bit.ly/a3RAjw for more health literacy lessons. Best health!
Health literacy on line also includes abundant applications for your smart phone and computer, interactive social media, and websites from health providers and institutions. One of the most interactive and informative is Twitter. Lists such as these for doctors, http://bit.ly/2XWKw29 and medical/health http://bit.ly/2GWkbvH contain lots of information that links directly to sources. Most of these include websites as well as individual snippets of information called "tweets". Searches for specific health information can also be done using the internal search box.
While the Internet may help diagnose, it far from replaces your doctor's advice. Use it as a health literacy tool to educate yourself. Check out "What the Internet Does for You and Your Health" http://bit.ly/a3RAjw for more health literacy lessons. Best health!
domingo, 28 de octubre de 2012
Your Weight: When Less is More
Here are some things YOU can do to lose weight and keep it off sensibly:
Healthy weight is always great. It is one time when less is more.
Best health!
- Make good eating habits part of your life long health maintenance plan. Avoid yo-yo dieting. This often results in recurrent weight gain - each time!
- Learn good eating habits.
- Eat small portions. Five small meals a day will be less caloric and give you more energy with less hunger.
- Enjoy foods you like that may more unhealthy less frequently.
- Exexrcise routinely. Frequent intervals of 10 minutes 2 to 3 times a day a few times a week is adequate. Start slow like with five minutes for first week. This will help encourage a positive attitude and more activity.
Healthy weight is always great. It is one time when less is more.
Best health!
domingo, 21 de octubre de 2012
Healthcare Deja Vu Come True?
As health care access decreases and costs increase, we must look ahead to improving it for everyone. In 2011 employers paid an average of $11,000 for employees and their families, while yearly insurance premiums rose from $13,000 to $15,000. The following is an excerpt from "Building an American Healthcare System" released in 2002 when the average premium paid by employers was $6500. While proposing ways to decrease cost and access, one is able to see that good healthcare can be deja vu come true.
One stop shopping for medical care is in order. By having more clinics, easy access to care will help people to get what they need in a timely manner. Waiting to see the doctor is one of the reasons our health care is out of control. The Public Health facilities will be a setting in which health care providers will employed and compensated as in the private sector. It will be just as prestigious to work for the Public Health as the private sector. In addition, permanent protection of physician incomes can be guaranteed by the government much like the recent ruling in Britain (British Medical Journal, April 5, 2003). The concept of second rate, low paying health care for the low income associated with Public Health Service must be changed and amplified. We must be proud to work for our country’s health system, and to obtain top notch health services! In this set up, the uninsured are insured and objectives of the Fair Care to the Uninsured Act of 2003 will be met. This is very important. Those without insurance are sicker, die younger and receive less care for many conditions. The risk of illness increases the longer one is without insurance.
More emphasis from the USPHS for education, prevention and screening, eldercare, disabled care, chronic condition care/ chronic multisystem illness (CMI), health awareness, and education is needed. The Public Health clinic will evolve from the barely visible building or little trailer in the field to highly visible, easily accessible structures. Vacant malls and warehouse buildings can be bought and transformed to mini-medical facilities that provide it all. Pre-existing clinics in the area can be merged, or remain as satellite facilities. The goal is to have health care at every corner much like the neighborhood convenience store. The era for traveling 100 miles to your doctor, waiting half a day or more only to spend the average 5 minutes with your health care provider must cease.
Minnesota has set up a system that covered about 95% of its residents under 65 in 2001 (86% in 2000). It uses government and private insurance together to achieve insurability. "Approaching Universal Coverage: Minnesota’s Health Insurance Plans" by Debra Chollet & Lori Achman of Mathematica Research Policy, Inc.states that it has been successful at serving "all populations in need at all levels of income". Coverage is included for the "medically uninsurable" like the person with chronic multisytem disease, or pre-existing conditions. Its GAMC and MA plans includes coverage for expenses that occurred in the 3 months prior to application, and do not have premiums or co-pays. Minnesota's programs have been, or are currently used in other states, and can be used to help lay the foundation for health care uniformity. The Commonwealth Fund has several publications that look at other states' health systems, and universal health coverage.
The effort to consolidate the American health system is a priority. Karen Davis' summary, "Time to Change: The Hidden Cost of a Fragmented Health Insurance System", states that the present system "is not up to the challenge of ensuring a healthy and productive nation because it is 'fragmented' ". The focus of her summary exemplifies how lack of uniform health services costs more with less results.
Attention must also be placed on employer health provisions. In 2002 companies spent an average of $6500 per person for health care. This does not include the patients' out of pocket payment for services. The pages of uncovered services listed in many insurance handbooks grows longer. About 41 million employed by small business pay directly for services at prices compatible with the Medicare and Medicaid models. Through the leadership of the Public Health Service all businesses are uninsured primarily because it is unaffordable. Congress is presently looking at a concept called an Association Health Plan (AHP) as part of the Small Business Health Fairness Act. This would allow small business owners to offer large corporation health discounts. It would also be uniform nationwide. The AHP is in use in some states, and has come and gone in some. Last year 16 states closed down 48 AHP plans. This would be a great opportunity to "phase in" national coverage. As employer health programs are phased out, patients should be offered the option to obtain national insurance. Each person preventive and screening will be done without charge. Eventually this will lead to a healthier people, and health system at a much lower cost.
One stop shopping for medical care is in order. By having more clinics, easy access to care will help people to get what they need in a timely manner. Waiting to see the doctor is one of the reasons our health care is out of control. The Public Health facilities will be a setting in which health care providers will employed and compensated as in the private sector. It will be just as prestigious to work for the Public Health as the private sector. In addition, permanent protection of physician incomes can be guaranteed by the government much like the recent ruling in Britain (British Medical Journal, April 5, 2003). The concept of second rate, low paying health care for the low income associated with Public Health Service must be changed and amplified. We must be proud to work for our country’s health system, and to obtain top notch health services! In this set up, the uninsured are insured and objectives of the Fair Care to the Uninsured Act of 2003 will be met. This is very important. Those without insurance are sicker, die younger and receive less care for many conditions. The risk of illness increases the longer one is without insurance.
More emphasis from the USPHS for education, prevention and screening, eldercare, disabled care, chronic condition care/ chronic multisystem illness (CMI), health awareness, and education is needed. The Public Health clinic will evolve from the barely visible building or little trailer in the field to highly visible, easily accessible structures. Vacant malls and warehouse buildings can be bought and transformed to mini-medical facilities that provide it all. Pre-existing clinics in the area can be merged, or remain as satellite facilities. The goal is to have health care at every corner much like the neighborhood convenience store. The era for traveling 100 miles to your doctor, waiting half a day or more only to spend the average 5 minutes with your health care provider must cease.
Minnesota has set up a system that covered about 95% of its residents under 65 in 2001 (86% in 2000). It uses government and private insurance together to achieve insurability. "Approaching Universal Coverage: Minnesota’s Health Insurance Plans" by Debra Chollet & Lori Achman of Mathematica Research Policy, Inc.states that it has been successful at serving "all populations in need at all levels of income". Coverage is included for the "medically uninsurable" like the person with chronic multisytem disease, or pre-existing conditions. Its GAMC and MA plans includes coverage for expenses that occurred in the 3 months prior to application, and do not have premiums or co-pays. Minnesota's programs have been, or are currently used in other states, and can be used to help lay the foundation for health care uniformity. The Commonwealth Fund has several publications that look at other states' health systems, and universal health coverage.
The effort to consolidate the American health system is a priority. Karen Davis' summary, "Time to Change: The Hidden Cost of a Fragmented Health Insurance System", states that the present system "is not up to the challenge of ensuring a healthy and productive nation because it is 'fragmented' ". The focus of her summary exemplifies how lack of uniform health services costs more with less results.
Attention must also be placed on employer health provisions. In 2002 companies spent an average of $6500 per person for health care. This does not include the patients' out of pocket payment for services. The pages of uncovered services listed in many insurance handbooks grows longer. About 41 million employed by small business pay directly for services at prices compatible with the Medicare and Medicaid models. Through the leadership of the Public Health Service all businesses are uninsured primarily because it is unaffordable. Congress is presently looking at a concept called an Association Health Plan (AHP) as part of the Small Business Health Fairness Act. This would allow small business owners to offer large corporation health discounts. It would also be uniform nationwide. The AHP is in use in some states, and has come and gone in some. Last year 16 states closed down 48 AHP plans. This would be a great opportunity to "phase in" national coverage. As employer health programs are phased out, patients should be offered the option to obtain national insurance. Each person preventive and screening will be done without charge. Eventually this will lead to a healthier people, and health system at a much lower cost.
martes, 16 de octubre de 2012
Health Education Affects Your Health & Care
Care systems can be set up based on the prevalence of disease and proven preventive measures. For instance, heart disease kills about 1 million/ year, and about 1.5 million hospitalizations occur as a result. We can build on existing programs that focus on guidelines and evidence-based data for the most prevalent conditions, and implement them in our clinics. The USPSTF is dedicated to this type of service. The USPSTF recently found evidence that early detection (with bone density tests), and treatment of osteoporosis in women without symptoms reduced the risk of fractures. Globally speaking, the recent World Cancer Report by WHO has found that cancer may rise by 50% by 2020. One third of these can be prevented. That is very significant! The following table lists (British Medical Journal, March 29, 2003) the costliest conditions to treat.
Alongside the USPHS is the HHS which has in place the ACHI, Association for Community Health Improvement. This group focuses on communities
networking together for better health. It is in 42 states (D.C. and Canada), and is composed of people from different areas of medicine. This is a valuable resource to use in developing health system uniformity because it is almost nationwide, at the local community level, and very diversified. HHS has 300 programs that help in "protecting the health of all Americans and providing essential human services". The Medicare program is the largest health insurer in the nation. In April 2003 HHS had a national
summit, "Steps to a Healthier USA: Putting Prevention First" that addressed prevention and promotion of healthy lifestyles. Funds ($15 million) for “Healthy
Communities” will help communities do their part. The ODPHP works to promote disease prevention and healthy living. Their program, Healthy People 2010* is "the prevention agenda for the Nation". It outlines health objectives for the Nation.
Providing more health information is vital. TV is the most powerful, and most accessed way to get information. Almost everybody watches TV, has a TV, and talks about what is on TV (even if they say they don't watch TV you can be sure you will be asked, "Did you see on TV..."). In addition to public service announcements, more television programming on health issues can be added to the daily schedule on existing channels. Eventually Public Health TV will be available with daily medical news, and basic health information. After all, we have 24-7 dedicated channels for theology, sports, news, finance, cartoons, and music, to name a few, yet basic health programming is still in its infancy.
More basic health information should be available. Health TV channels now tend to focus on lifestyle changes (cooking, exercise, etc.), and reality shows focusing on emergencies, patient procedures, etc.. In the news media there is an occasional mention of the latest outbreak of the disease of the month, and maybe a mention of a profound medical study. This is good, but there is a need for more basic information programming that lets me know about this hypertension that I have, or the headache that won’t go away, or what doctor should I see for what I have. We need to know all the risks and complications as well as the different treatments for what we have so a more informed decision can be made. Like going on the Internet, or to a textbook, there will be a program that addresses a particular health concern. A daily health news show highlighting the latest medical developments is greatly needed. The Internet provides such information.
There are webcasts on the Internet that are becoming more accessible for professionals and the public. Some managed care providers have treatment guidelines for enrollees and doctors to view on their websites. The mantra for the 21rst century will be, "If
doctors don't educate themselves, patients will educate them". Most people have a TV so what better place to start. In the future, computers will be in almost every home, too. With the Internet patients are able to access the same information as their doctor.
Providing educational materials that are easy to read and understand, i.e. at the lowest grade level possible, are essential, and key. This includes audio and visual learning - books, television, tapes, CDs, computer - as well as direct teaching. This is available
on the Internet with health sites just for kids like www.kidshealth.org and www.bam.gov . Health literacy systems can be of more use for distance learning technology via webcast teleconferences, and television programming. Learning in the home is effective and convenient.
Let your health home schooling begin!
*now Healthy People 2020
|
The 15 costliest treatments (and number of people with diagnosis) in 1997 Cancer $46bn (9 million) Trauma $44bn (37 million) Mental disorders $30bn (20 million) Diabetes $20bn (10 million) Hypertension $18bn (27 million) Cerebrovascular disease $16bn (2 million) Osteoarthritis $16bn, (16 million) Pneumonia $16bn (4 million) Back problems $13bn (13 million) Kidney disease $10bn (2 million) Endocrine disorders $10bn (18 million) Skin disorders $9bn (20 million) |
Alongside the USPHS is the HHS which has in place the ACHI, Association for Community Health Improvement. This group focuses on communities
networking together for better health. It is in 42 states (D.C. and Canada), and is composed of people from different areas of medicine. This is a valuable resource to use in developing health system uniformity because it is almost nationwide, at the local community level, and very diversified. HHS has 300 programs that help in "protecting the health of all Americans and providing essential human services". The Medicare program is the largest health insurer in the nation. In April 2003 HHS had a national
summit, "Steps to a Healthier USA: Putting Prevention First" that addressed prevention and promotion of healthy lifestyles. Funds ($15 million) for “Healthy
Communities” will help communities do their part. The ODPHP works to promote disease prevention and healthy living. Their program, Healthy People 2010* is "the prevention agenda for the Nation". It outlines health objectives for the Nation.
Providing more health information is vital. TV is the most powerful, and most accessed way to get information. Almost everybody watches TV, has a TV, and talks about what is on TV (even if they say they don't watch TV you can be sure you will be asked, "Did you see on TV..."). In addition to public service announcements, more television programming on health issues can be added to the daily schedule on existing channels. Eventually Public Health TV will be available with daily medical news, and basic health information. After all, we have 24-7 dedicated channels for theology, sports, news, finance, cartoons, and music, to name a few, yet basic health programming is still in its infancy.
More basic health information should be available. Health TV channels now tend to focus on lifestyle changes (cooking, exercise, etc.), and reality shows focusing on emergencies, patient procedures, etc.. In the news media there is an occasional mention of the latest outbreak of the disease of the month, and maybe a mention of a profound medical study. This is good, but there is a need for more basic information programming that lets me know about this hypertension that I have, or the headache that won’t go away, or what doctor should I see for what I have. We need to know all the risks and complications as well as the different treatments for what we have so a more informed decision can be made. Like going on the Internet, or to a textbook, there will be a program that addresses a particular health concern. A daily health news show highlighting the latest medical developments is greatly needed. The Internet provides such information.
There are webcasts on the Internet that are becoming more accessible for professionals and the public. Some managed care providers have treatment guidelines for enrollees and doctors to view on their websites. The mantra for the 21rst century will be, "If
doctors don't educate themselves, patients will educate them". Most people have a TV so what better place to start. In the future, computers will be in almost every home, too. With the Internet patients are able to access the same information as their doctor.
Providing educational materials that are easy to read and understand, i.e. at the lowest grade level possible, are essential, and key. This includes audio and visual learning - books, television, tapes, CDs, computer - as well as direct teaching. This is available
on the Internet with health sites just for kids like www.kidshealth.org and www.bam.gov . Health literacy systems can be of more use for distance learning technology via webcast teleconferences, and television programming. Learning in the home is effective and convenient.
Let your health home schooling begin!
*now Healthy People 2020
How Health Education Affects Your Health
Over the long term prevention saves lives and money. Preventive care should have a primary focus from cradle to grave. Studies to prove its efficacy in combination with evidence-based guidelines deserve attention. A study to determine if the history and physical exam, lab tests, body scan, and other diagnostic tests helps in the prevention, diagnosis, and treatment of disease would probably show us better overall outcomes as well as less cost than if the conditions were not detected early.
EDUCATION BEGINS AT HOME. Public education begins at home, in schools, and in the community (e.g. medical facilities, church, stores). Education focused on self management of asthma has been shown to improve clinical outcomes (British Medical Journal, June 2003). Basic medicine should start formally at the preschool level. Thereafter, basic classes in medicine and interactive education such as a student presenting a medical project, or volunteering in a medical capacity, should also be available. This can be used as education credits in high school and college. Our children are our future and our inspiration. Let's see their medical visions for America’s health system today!
EDUCATION SHOULD BE FREE. In Qatar this is the case. Incidentally, health care is free there, too. They have developed a relationship with several of our medical schools, and have actual campuses. Let’s build on this, and in turn study with them to see how we can make our system better...and free. We live in a nation where many choose military service to get a free education. This is an enormous commitment to make for something everyone is entitled to.
Modifying the education process hopefully will provide more doctors, and make more want to be doctors. Funding a study on the correlation of the length of medical training with quality of job performance after training would tell if three years of medical
school be as good as four. If so, this will lead to earlier entry into the actual job as doctor with less cost for university and student = more appealing for people to seek this as their occupation = more doctors, and other health care workers. It should be easier for a health care worker to "upgrade" to a doctor. For example, a physician assistant that wants to be a doctor should not be expected to study another four years. The high cost for education becomes a large debt to be paid back on a lower salary while training. The cost for medical school is approaching $100,000*. An option is to expand the scope of practice for health providers that are experienced with clinical skills near the physician level to provide the same services. These will be the "diagnosticians".
The IOM report "Health Professions Education: A Bridge to Quality" (April 2003), has found that health care professionals "are not being adequately prepared to provide the best and safest medical care possible, and there is insufficient assessment of their ongoing proficiency". They propose that the education process will be focused on five areas: delivery of patient-centered care, working as a team member that is interdisciplinary, use of evidence- based protocols, the application of quality measures, and the use of IT. Oversight by groups that license, accredit, and certify will be used to improve education for health providers. New standards that accurately assess proficiency of skills are being developed and used. As this is developed, the licensing system should be addressed to ensure uniformity. It would make sense for health care professionals to have one license for practice in all states. Standards for licensing should be the same in all states. This allows for a seamless integration of health provider service and care, as well as a more effective use of these services. Like providers, patients should be able to obtain medical care in any state. That way a patient has the choice of going anywhere in the USA if they are unable to get the care they need in a timely manner in their state of primary residence. The European Union will allow patients to seek free medical care in any of the countries in its union effective 2004 (Canadian Medical Association).
As the population ages there will be a greater need for those with more experience in geriatrics, and chronic multisystem illness. Medical schools and the federal government will need to increase focus in this direction. The CDC notes that the people over 65 years old will increase from 35 to 70 million by the year 2030.
Baby boomers start retiring in 2011. This is about 12% of
population increasing to 20%. The Alliance for Aging estimates a need for 36,000 geriatricians (now there are about 9,000 with an estimated drop to 6,000 by 2004). Changes in the medical education process must be made to increase the overall number of qualified health care workers necessary to provide for all.
by J. L. Richardson, M.D.
excerpt from "Building An American Health System", 2003
*average debt for medical school in 2010 was $158,000 http://bit.ly/RA0QQZ
EDUCATION BEGINS AT HOME. Public education begins at home, in schools, and in the community (e.g. medical facilities, church, stores). Education focused on self management of asthma has been shown to improve clinical outcomes (British Medical Journal, June 2003). Basic medicine should start formally at the preschool level. Thereafter, basic classes in medicine and interactive education such as a student presenting a medical project, or volunteering in a medical capacity, should also be available. This can be used as education credits in high school and college. Our children are our future and our inspiration. Let's see their medical visions for America’s health system today!
EDUCATION SHOULD BE FREE. In Qatar this is the case. Incidentally, health care is free there, too. They have developed a relationship with several of our medical schools, and have actual campuses. Let’s build on this, and in turn study with them to see how we can make our system better...and free. We live in a nation where many choose military service to get a free education. This is an enormous commitment to make for something everyone is entitled to.
Modifying the education process hopefully will provide more doctors, and make more want to be doctors. Funding a study on the correlation of the length of medical training with quality of job performance after training would tell if three years of medical
school be as good as four. If so, this will lead to earlier entry into the actual job as doctor with less cost for university and student = more appealing for people to seek this as their occupation = more doctors, and other health care workers. It should be easier for a health care worker to "upgrade" to a doctor. For example, a physician assistant that wants to be a doctor should not be expected to study another four years. The high cost for education becomes a large debt to be paid back on a lower salary while training. The cost for medical school is approaching $100,000*. An option is to expand the scope of practice for health providers that are experienced with clinical skills near the physician level to provide the same services. These will be the "diagnosticians".
The IOM report "Health Professions Education: A Bridge to Quality" (April 2003), has found that health care professionals "are not being adequately prepared to provide the best and safest medical care possible, and there is insufficient assessment of their ongoing proficiency". They propose that the education process will be focused on five areas: delivery of patient-centered care, working as a team member that is interdisciplinary, use of evidence- based protocols, the application of quality measures, and the use of IT. Oversight by groups that license, accredit, and certify will be used to improve education for health providers. New standards that accurately assess proficiency of skills are being developed and used. As this is developed, the licensing system should be addressed to ensure uniformity. It would make sense for health care professionals to have one license for practice in all states. Standards for licensing should be the same in all states. This allows for a seamless integration of health provider service and care, as well as a more effective use of these services. Like providers, patients should be able to obtain medical care in any state. That way a patient has the choice of going anywhere in the USA if they are unable to get the care they need in a timely manner in their state of primary residence. The European Union will allow patients to seek free medical care in any of the countries in its union effective 2004 (Canadian Medical Association).
As the population ages there will be a greater need for those with more experience in geriatrics, and chronic multisystem illness. Medical schools and the federal government will need to increase focus in this direction. The CDC notes that the people over 65 years old will increase from 35 to 70 million by the year 2030.
Baby boomers start retiring in 2011. This is about 12% of
population increasing to 20%. The Alliance for Aging estimates a need for 36,000 geriatricians (now there are about 9,000 with an estimated drop to 6,000 by 2004). Changes in the medical education process must be made to increase the overall number of qualified health care workers necessary to provide for all.
by J. L. Richardson, M.D.
excerpt from "Building An American Health System", 2003
*average debt for medical school in 2010 was $158,000 http://bit.ly/RA0QQZ
miércoles, 22 de agosto de 2012
Health Care Fiscal Physical
Back in 2002 healthcare experts made it apparent that our healthcare system was unable to serve everyone. Analysis of the situation is outlined below.
Fiscal discipline is a must. Every penny should be accounted for. In 2003 health care spending is projected to be about $1.6 trillion. In 2000 it was about $1.3 trillion (13% of GDP) compared to $73 billion (7% of GDP) in 1970. Health spending costs for 2001 were 37% for hospital outpatient, 28% for physician services,21% for prescriptions, and 14% for hospital inpatient. According to the American Hospital Association (AHA), hospitals provided $21.5 billion in uncompensated care in 2001; however, the government pays for most of health care. About 20 -30% is administrative, much being attributed to redundancy and overhead costs ("Government Share of Health Care Expenditures" by Asaf Bitton, James Kahn, M.D., M.P.H. from University of California, San Francisco - March 5, 2003, msJAMA). The CMS
estimate for 1999 government health spending is 45.2% ($548 billion). The elderly, disabled, low-income children, and some low-income adults are covered by government. Medicare and Social Security gets 7% of this amount. This is expected to double in 10 years. The average monthly health insurance premium for an individual is $255 ($3060/yr.), while that of a family is $663 ($7956/yr.) which represents a 12% increase from 2001 to 2002.
The forecast for 2004 federal budget is a record $2.7 trillion. Payroll taxes comprise 38% of the federal revenue. Taxes collected for 2003 are expected to be about $1.9 trillion (Congressional Budget Office, CBO, current budget projection report, March 7, 2003 - (www.cbo.gov). Projected health spending for 2003 is $1.6 trillion. This is over half of the budget! Furthermore, the Office of Management & Budget forecasts that the federal government will run a deficit of about $316 billion for fiscal year 2003 reaching $385 billion for 2004. This is projected to decrease in 2005 with forward projections of a $10 billion surplus by 2012. The
government debt is actually an estimated $6.4 trillion (about
$70,000/ family).
So where does this leave health costs? The HHS expense alone for 2002 is greater than the deficit ($460 billion). The majority of this ($375 billion) is for the CMS. For 2004 the projected expense for HHS is expected to be $500 billion. Other basic government allotment proposals for 2004 are: $400B for Medicare prescription program (over 10 years); $35B for uninsured (federal and state funds); $5 B for SCHIP; $2B for FDA; $60B to Dept of Defense (about $15B for aid to other nations, $21B for military health care); part of estimated $20B to rebuild Iraq (starting with a $2.5B down payment this year). There is $9 billion of “other”. There is an extra $80B approved for war costs ($62.4B to Pentagon, $4B for domestic security, $2.2B for state and local law enforcement and emergency workers; $7.9 foreign aid; $1.1B for Jordan; $1B for Israel; $1B for Turkey; “and money for Afghanistan, the Philippines and Colombia”). This includes $2.9B for airlines (many have filed for bankruptcy or are on the verge in spite of funds given after 9/11), and "for other projects pushed by lawmakers". This is money for use up to the end of the fiscal year ending 9/30/03. What are these "other" projects ($16M for SARS research and $142 M for smallpox vaccine program are $158M of this $2.9B) ? Not included in this is extra 26 weeks of unemployment for employees which was requested by some lawmakers.
So what attention will health care get if a person is unable to get a stipend to live off of while seeking employment? All of this should be itemized and accounted for with more priority given to health and well being. How much can we expect to get for our ailing health system with these other "priorities"? Perhaps much of it can be put on the backburner, while more monies are allotted for remodeling the American health care system to provide health care for all.
Excerpted from "Building An American Health System" (2003) by J. L. Richardson, M.D.
Fiscal discipline is a must. Every penny should be accounted for. In 2003 health care spending is projected to be about $1.6 trillion. In 2000 it was about $1.3 trillion (13% of GDP) compared to $73 billion (7% of GDP) in 1970. Health spending costs for 2001 were 37% for hospital outpatient, 28% for physician services,21% for prescriptions, and 14% for hospital inpatient. According to the American Hospital Association (AHA), hospitals provided $21.5 billion in uncompensated care in 2001; however, the government pays for most of health care. About 20 -30% is administrative, much being attributed to redundancy and overhead costs ("Government Share of Health Care Expenditures" by Asaf Bitton, James Kahn, M.D., M.P.H. from University of California, San Francisco - March 5, 2003, msJAMA). The CMS
estimate for 1999 government health spending is 45.2% ($548 billion). The elderly, disabled, low-income children, and some low-income adults are covered by government. Medicare and Social Security gets 7% of this amount. This is expected to double in 10 years. The average monthly health insurance premium for an individual is $255 ($3060/yr.), while that of a family is $663 ($7956/yr.) which represents a 12% increase from 2001 to 2002.
The forecast for 2004 federal budget is a record $2.7 trillion. Payroll taxes comprise 38% of the federal revenue. Taxes collected for 2003 are expected to be about $1.9 trillion (Congressional Budget Office, CBO, current budget projection report, March 7, 2003 - (www.cbo.gov). Projected health spending for 2003 is $1.6 trillion. This is over half of the budget! Furthermore, the Office of Management & Budget forecasts that the federal government will run a deficit of about $316 billion for fiscal year 2003 reaching $385 billion for 2004. This is projected to decrease in 2005 with forward projections of a $10 billion surplus by 2012. The
government debt is actually an estimated $6.4 trillion (about
$70,000/ family).
So where does this leave health costs? The HHS expense alone for 2002 is greater than the deficit ($460 billion). The majority of this ($375 billion) is for the CMS. For 2004 the projected expense for HHS is expected to be $500 billion. Other basic government allotment proposals for 2004 are: $400B for Medicare prescription program (over 10 years); $35B for uninsured (federal and state funds); $5 B for SCHIP; $2B for FDA; $60B to Dept of Defense (about $15B for aid to other nations, $21B for military health care); part of estimated $20B to rebuild Iraq (starting with a $2.5B down payment this year). There is $9 billion of “other”. There is an extra $80B approved for war costs ($62.4B to Pentagon, $4B for domestic security, $2.2B for state and local law enforcement and emergency workers; $7.9 foreign aid; $1.1B for Jordan; $1B for Israel; $1B for Turkey; “and money for Afghanistan, the Philippines and Colombia”). This includes $2.9B for airlines (many have filed for bankruptcy or are on the verge in spite of funds given after 9/11), and "for other projects pushed by lawmakers". This is money for use up to the end of the fiscal year ending 9/30/03. What are these "other" projects ($16M for SARS research and $142 M for smallpox vaccine program are $158M of this $2.9B) ? Not included in this is extra 26 weeks of unemployment for employees which was requested by some lawmakers.
So what attention will health care get if a person is unable to get a stipend to live off of while seeking employment? All of this should be itemized and accounted for with more priority given to health and well being. How much can we expect to get for our ailing health system with these other "priorities"? Perhaps much of it can be put on the backburner, while more monies are allotted for remodeling the American health care system to provide health care for all.
Excerpted from "Building An American Health System" (2003) by J. L. Richardson, M.D.
miércoles, 8 de agosto de 2012
Health Books: Healing Reading
Reading good health books is a great way to improve your health and well being. The best books help you care for your health and encourage as well as teach. The following books are recommended primarily because they teach you things you can do for yourself that you can incorporate in your lifestyle to make it healthier.
Merck Manual for Health & Aging
by Merck
Savvy Patient Toolkit
by Margo Corbett
Why, Charlie Brown, Why? A Story About What Happens When a Friend Is Very Ill
by Charles M. Schulz
The Empowered Patient
by Elizabeth Cohen
What's Wrong with Me? The Frustrated Patient's Guide to Getting an Accurate Diagnosis
by Lynn M. Dannheisser & Jerry M. Rosenbaum M.D.
YOU: The Owner's Manual
by Mehmet Oz, M.D. & Michael F. Roizen. M.D.
Inner Pulse
by Marc Siegel. M.D.
Healing Back Pain
by John E. Sarno, M.D.
Living Well with Chronic Fatigue Syndrome
by Mary J. Shomon
New Choices in Natural Healing
by Doug Dollemore & Bill Gottlieb
Patient Handbook to Medical Care: Your Personal Health Guide
by J. L. Richardson, M.D.
Merck Manual for Health & Aging
by Merck
Savvy Patient Toolkit
by Margo Corbett
Why, Charlie Brown, Why? A Story About What Happens When a Friend Is Very Ill
by Charles M. Schulz
The Empowered Patient
by Elizabeth Cohen
What's Wrong with Me? The Frustrated Patient's Guide to Getting an Accurate Diagnosis
by Lynn M. Dannheisser & Jerry M. Rosenbaum M.D.
YOU: The Owner's Manual
by Mehmet Oz, M.D. & Michael F. Roizen. M.D.
Inner Pulse
by Marc Siegel. M.D.
Healing Back Pain
by John E. Sarno, M.D.
Living Well with Chronic Fatigue Syndrome
by Mary J. Shomon
New Choices in Natural Healing
by Doug Dollemore & Bill Gottlieb
Patient Handbook to Medical Care: Your Personal Health Guide
by J. L. Richardson, M.D.
sábado, 14 de julio de 2012
Patient Handbook to Medical Care: Your Personal Health Guide is written for patients by a medical doctor "to inform and educate patients about medical care". Health maintenance, prevention, early detection, and early treatment are the foundation for great health.
This Writer's Digest International Self-Published Book Award winner informs patients about
basic medical care. By reading this how-to reference book you will learn:
This Writer's Digest International Self-Published Book Award winner informs patients about
basic medical care. By reading this how-to reference book you will learn:
- how to keep a medical diary
- how to get your medical records
- how to document your complete medical history
- what the physical exam should include
- about preventive tests and when to get them
- about tests your doctor orders
- about specialists and other medical providers
- about health care plans and coverage
- how to seek quality health services.
lunes, 19 de marzo de 2012
What Your Blood Tests Really Mean
When the doctor orders blood tests (also called lab tests, blood profile/ panel), she or he is checking for certain things. The most common tests are CBC (complete blood count), basic complete blood panel, and UA (urinalysis). The CBC checks the body’s WBCs (white blood cells) and RBCs (red blood cells). In the lab the cells are examined for size, shape, and number. The WBCs may tell if you may have some type of infection or leukemia(cancer of the white cells). The RBCs carry oxygen to the rest of the body. This is done by hemoglobin, which is carried inside the RBCs. Some inherited diseases, such as sickle cell
anemia and thallassemia, can be identified by abnormal RBC shape and size. Also included in the CBC is a platelet count. Platelets are cells that help your blood to clot, for instance to stop the bleeding after a flesh wound.
The basic complete blood panel measures many different things. Included in these tests are:
Other tests than those listed may be checked depending on your history and physical exam. Be sure you are scheduled for a return visit to follow up on all tests. Some doctors’ offices will also let you know by phone or mail, especially if there is an abnormal test that must be checked before your next appointment.
Your symptoms, the doctor’s physical findings, and blood test results are what the doctor looks at when deciding the next tests that need to be done. This and any additional tests may be used for screening, diagnosis of conditions, and for ongoing management of disease once it is present.
anemia and thallassemia, can be identified by abnormal RBC shape and size. Also included in the CBC is a platelet count. Platelets are cells that help your blood to clot, for instance to stop the bleeding after a flesh wound.
The basic complete blood panel measures many different things. Included in these tests are:
• Na = sodium
• Cl = chloride
• K = potassium
• Mg = magnesium
• Glc = glucose (sugar)
• Ca = calcium (bone mineral)
• PO4 = phosphate (bone mineral)
• BUN = blood urea nitrogen (kidney)
• Cr = creatinine (kidney)
• SGOT = serum glutamic oxaloacetic transaminase (liver)
• SGPT = serum glutamic pyruvic transaminase (liver)
• GGT = gamma glutamyl transferase (liver)
• Alk phos = alkaline phosphatase (liver, bone primarily—also gallbadder)
• Fe = iron
• TIBC = total iron binding capacity
• transferrin = iron
• uric acid = checks gout
• chol = cholesterol (fat)
• LDL = low density lipoprotein (“bad” cholesterol)
• HDL = high density lipoprotein (“good” cholesterol)
• TG = triglycerides (fat)
Blood panels may differ from lab to lab. The above tests make up the basic chemistry panel. This should be part of a routine checkup. Some panels may include more tests than those listed above. The urinalysis (UA) may or may not be included, but it is important. Urine tests are able to check for infection, sugar, blood, protein, and many other things. Additional tests that may be ordered by the doctor for preventive screening will depend on your symptoms, diagnosis, family history, and age. Some of these tests are:
• PSA = prostate specific antigen (prostate cancer test)
• TSH = thyroid stimulating hormone (thyroid function)
• T4 = thyroid hormone (thyroid hormone level)
• B12 = vitamin B12
• folate = B vitamin
The Pap smear test and stool for occult blood (blood in stool that cannot be seen with the
naked eye) should also be performed. The Pap smear is a test for females that checks for cancer of the cervix. The stool test, also called Hemoccult test, checks for blood in the stool, which may indicate bleeding from the bowels secondary to cancer, ulcers, or other serious conditions. Other tests than those listed may be checked depending on your history and physical exam. Be sure you are scheduled for a return visit to follow up on all tests. Some doctors’ offices will also let you know by phone or mail, especially if there is an abnormal test that must be checked before your next appointment.
Your symptoms, the doctor’s physical findings, and blood test results are what the doctor looks at when deciding the next tests that need to be done. This and any additional tests may be used for screening, diagnosis of conditions, and for ongoing management of disease once it is present.
sábado, 12 de noviembre de 2011
Making the Most of Your Doctor Visit
When you go to your doctor or health care provider, you should be prepared. This is one way you can be sure that your doctor visit focuses on your most important health issues. The following suggestions will help you get the most out of your doctor vist.
Click on "Comments" below to add your tips or ask questions.
*medical history form http://www.mypatienthandbook.com/
- Be on time.
- Make a list of things you want to talk to your doctor about. Update the list before each visit. This way you will be able to keep track of what has been discussed, and what needs to be discussed. Try to talk about the most important things first especially those that need immediate attention. Each time you go for your visit, you can refer to your list and take up where you left off. Be sure to express your immediate concerns first. We all know how short a doctor visit can be.
- Make a written or typed medical history* to take with you, especially if this is your first visit to a new doctor. Make a copy for you and your doctor. You both will be able to refer to it as needed. This will save valuable time, and give you and your doctor more time to talk instead of flipping through your medical record. It can be difficult trying to "remember" what test or procedure you had 10 years ago.
- Get copies of your medical records from all your doctors. "The medical record is the cornerstone of keeping track of everything pertaining to your health." You will be able to check the accuracy of your records, and bring any errors or absent information to your doctor's attention. Let your doctor know about anything you do not understand, or if there is something you are unable to read due to legibility. It is surprising to see how many doctors are often unable to read their own handwriting.
- Take advantage of the time your doctor takes looking through your medical chart during your visit by taking your own notes especially questions. As much as 1/3 of your visit time can be consumed by this alone.
- Allow each other to talk without interruption.
- Bring a trustwothy companion.
Click on "Comments" below to add your tips or ask questions.
*medical history form http://www.mypatienthandbook.com/
sábado, 13 de agosto de 2011
Is the Doctor Really "In"?
Dear Patient,
It has indeed been a privilege and wonder to take care of you and your family. Due to unforeseen circumstances, we must vacation indefinitely so we can find the best solutions for cost effective health care. Our budgets are lean as well and get leaner as more patients drop out to do self care or go to emergency rooms, public health clinics, or stand in "lotto" lines to get get health care from traveling clinics.
We must campaign for your healthcare and our salary. Routine sequential cuts for reimbursement by Medicare and Medicaid are taking its toll. Insurance companies demand more time with less pay as well. Now that the healthcare bill requiring each and every one of you to have insurance has been repealed. Self pay is an option, but you must have food and shelter first. Less money in, more money out.
Due to lack of campaign funds and time for raising necessary monies to do so, we are using and pooling our resources. We wish to provide you with continuity of care, but we must also find ways to keep a roof over our heads and food on the table. Many of my fellowess and fellow physicians are supplementing our income as well through other occupations.
Thank you for allowing me to care for you and the family. We are true believers that great health is true wealth; however, you must have money to keep it.
Best health,
Dr. Feelgood
P. S. Check out Patient Handbook to Medical Care: Your Personal Health Guide via links in the right column. Get a heads up and start checking yourself and your family.
It has indeed been a privilege and wonder to take care of you and your family. Due to unforeseen circumstances, we must vacation indefinitely so we can find the best solutions for cost effective health care. Our budgets are lean as well and get leaner as more patients drop out to do self care or go to emergency rooms, public health clinics, or stand in "lotto" lines to get get health care from traveling clinics.
We must campaign for your healthcare and our salary. Routine sequential cuts for reimbursement by Medicare and Medicaid are taking its toll. Insurance companies demand more time with less pay as well. Now that the healthcare bill requiring each and every one of you to have insurance has been repealed. Self pay is an option, but you must have food and shelter first. Less money in, more money out.
Due to lack of campaign funds and time for raising necessary monies to do so, we are using and pooling our resources. We wish to provide you with continuity of care, but we must also find ways to keep a roof over our heads and food on the table. Many of my fellowess and fellow physicians are supplementing our income as well through other occupations.
Thank you for allowing me to care for you and the family. We are true believers that great health is true wealth; however, you must have money to keep it.
Best health,
Dr. Feelgood
P. S. Check out Patient Handbook to Medical Care: Your Personal Health Guide via links in the right column. Get a heads up and start checking yourself and your family.
jueves, 28 de julio de 2011
Letter to the President: Code Blue! Get Crash Cart STAT!
Dear Mr. President,
Please be aware that the doctors of this great nation are finding it near impossible to care for our patients, your people. Our patients are literally dying as the debt crisis looms in limbo for way too long. We are trying to avoid our patients demise, but with almost 1/2 of our population, especially seniors and kids, on Medicare and Medicaid this is already a major problem. Further cuts would be detrimental to us and our patients, your constituents.
Quality of care and proper treatment is near impossible especially with the physician shortage. Medicare and Medicaid should be increases to help us provide, instead of being cut again and again. Payment delays are unacceptable. This statement from the American Academy of Family Practice (Payment Delays Resulting From Debt Ceiling Impasse Are Possible, AAFP Warns http://ow.ly/1dZzY0 ) details the problems as does the letter sent to you and in June by AAFP Board Chair Lori Heim, M.D., who said, "If any budget proposal is to restrain the growth in health care spending, it must also support programs that build the family physician and primary care workforce, pay for quality and outcomes of medical care, and ensure that everyone has access to that care." http://bit.ly/pFjeE7 This is a code blue! Can you imagine not getting paid for your hard work? Or getting sued because you lacked?
The worriation of this debt disease is infecting our people in many obvious ways. I see those on limited incomes with no less than five chronic conditions struggle to keep food on the table and a roof over their heads as their health expenses become obliviously unaffordable. We all know what happens then. Chronic medical care that could have been avoided incurs, and we all pay, especially the patient and doctor.
As we strive for a Healthy People 2020, it is looking bleak. Though Congress has the purse strings, the buck stops with you. Eliminate this unnecessary worriation that has gone too far and too long causing more anxiety, suicide, and worsening of overall health for many.
As family physicians on the forefront of patient care, the burden rests with us to do our best. The most you and Congress can do is resolve the present debt crisis. If this was was your doctor treating you and your family, such delay would be unacceptable most likely leading to adverse outcomes. Everyone must do their job as if someone's life depended on it. Much too often it does, especially for patients and doctors.
Thank you, Mr. Obama.
Best regards,
Dr. Richardson
Please be aware that the doctors of this great nation are finding it near impossible to care for our patients, your people. Our patients are literally dying as the debt crisis looms in limbo for way too long. We are trying to avoid our patients demise, but with almost 1/2 of our population, especially seniors and kids, on Medicare and Medicaid this is already a major problem. Further cuts would be detrimental to us and our patients, your constituents.
Quality of care and proper treatment is near impossible especially with the physician shortage. Medicare and Medicaid should be increases to help us provide, instead of being cut again and again. Payment delays are unacceptable. This statement from the American Academy of Family Practice (Payment Delays Resulting From Debt Ceiling Impasse Are Possible, AAFP Warns http://ow.ly/1dZzY0 ) details the problems as does the letter sent to you and in June by AAFP Board Chair Lori Heim, M.D., who said, "If any budget proposal is to restrain the growth in health care spending, it must also support programs that build the family physician and primary care workforce, pay for quality and outcomes of medical care, and ensure that everyone has access to that care." http://bit.ly/pFjeE7 This is a code blue! Can you imagine not getting paid for your hard work? Or getting sued because you lacked?
The worriation of this debt disease is infecting our people in many obvious ways. I see those on limited incomes with no less than five chronic conditions struggle to keep food on the table and a roof over their heads as their health expenses become obliviously unaffordable. We all know what happens then. Chronic medical care that could have been avoided incurs, and we all pay, especially the patient and doctor.
As we strive for a Healthy People 2020, it is looking bleak. Though Congress has the purse strings, the buck stops with you. Eliminate this unnecessary worriation that has gone too far and too long causing more anxiety, suicide, and worsening of overall health for many.
As family physicians on the forefront of patient care, the burden rests with us to do our best. The most you and Congress can do is resolve the present debt crisis. If this was was your doctor treating you and your family, such delay would be unacceptable most likely leading to adverse outcomes. Everyone must do their job as if someone's life depended on it. Much too often it does, especially for patients and doctors.
Thank you, Mr. Obama.
Best regards,
Dr. Richardson
jueves, 27 de enero de 2011
Free Health Advice - Would You Dare?
In these days of rising costs on everything, health care may be seen as "optional" unless free or discounted. Many healthcare providers are often asked (especially at parties!) for free advice on and off the Internet.
Would you use free health advice from a doctor, nurse, or other medical provider? http://twtpoll.com/r/s16vcz
Would you use free health advice from a doctor, nurse, or other medical provider? http://twtpoll.com/r/s16vcz
miércoles, 22 de diciembre de 2010
Healthy, Wealthy and Wise
Prevention and wellness.
Transform America to a wellness society.
Wellness and prevention are missing...make them a centerpiece of healthcare reform.
Promote wellness and prevent disease.
Transition from sick care to a true health care system.
Preventing illness and staying well are as important as curing illness.
Wellness and disease prevention are as important to your health as early detection and treatment. If we incoporate this into our healthy lifestyle agenda, we will stay on the right path to Healthy People 2020, the nation's health promotion and disease prevention program. Wellness, health maintenance, prevention and early detection will make you healthier, wealthier, and wiser!
by J. L. Richardson, M.D., family medicine doctor and author of Patient Handbook to Medical Care: Your Personal Health Guide, a premiere health guide that helps you and your health care team take the best care of you.
Tweet with Dr. Richardson
Patient Handbook Website
Transform America to a wellness society.
Wellness and prevention are missing...make them a centerpiece of healthcare reform.
Promote wellness and prevent disease.
Transition from sick care to a true health care system.
Preventing illness and staying well are as important as curing illness.
Wellness and disease prevention are as important to your health as early detection and treatment. If we incoporate this into our healthy lifestyle agenda, we will stay on the right path to Healthy People 2020, the nation's health promotion and disease prevention program. Wellness, health maintenance, prevention and early detection will make you healthier, wealthier, and wiser!
by J. L. Richardson, M.D., family medicine doctor and author of Patient Handbook to Medical Care: Your Personal Health Guide, a premiere health guide that helps you and your health care team take the best care of you.
Tweet with Dr. Richardson
Patient Handbook Website
miércoles, 24 de febrero de 2010
Medical TV: Where is the Health News Channel?
This was written three years ago, but is still relevant.
Medical information on TV is limited and stagnating. Sixty seconds on the news. Two minutes on the talk show after commercials on prescription medication. Outdated show on this channel, and outdated repeat on that channel in between the new show. Watch some on this channel then click and click to different channels to connect your medical news for today.
Remember the crawler at the bottom of the screen. Oh, you missed that there was a bird flu outbreak in Pakistan today, and that HPV vaccines will be required for teen women and men. These are the ways we learn about some of the most important news we should know. It concerns our health and public safety.
If only we had a dedicated medical TV CNN (instead of just Dr. Sanjay Gupta’s excellent show on early weekend mornings, or his occasional special). You know, like the sports channels by sport, the cartoon channels by age (and now one for the boomers!), the movie channels, government channels, and on and on. Where is the “MTV” of medical channels? Discovery Health has been carrying the TV health media for years. There should be more!
The TV box is probably the most used medium by which folks get their news and information. It is certainly a way to get information to people. The most used information source is one of the least used by the cutting edge medical field. This was noted in my research paper, “Building an American Health System”, in 2002. This is 2007, and it’s pretty much the same, maybe even less.
A medical TV channel (actually several would be optimal) would be great! A daily health news show would be a great start towards 24-7 medical TV. Envision yourself clicking to the heart channel, or to programs with content about specific diseases. You could learn more about that high blood pressure you are trying to control, and how you can monitor it at home. Topics on maintaining good health, and prevention of disease would be a click away. And if you missed a show, it would be shown again and again.
Health and medical coverage on TV is surely lacking in this consumer driven health conscious society. We can watch as much sports, cartoons, movies, news as we want, but we still have to piece together our medical news and supplement it with the written word, or health care providers’ spoken word. And radio.
Great health is true wealth. Medical TV would make us even richer.
by J.L. Richardson, MD, family medicine physician, patient advocate and caregiver, and author of Patient Handbook to Medical Care: Your Personal Health Guide,
http://www.mypatienthandbook.com/
www.twitter.com/MD4U
Medical information on TV is limited and stagnating. Sixty seconds on the news. Two minutes on the talk show after commercials on prescription medication. Outdated show on this channel, and outdated repeat on that channel in between the new show. Watch some on this channel then click and click to different channels to connect your medical news for today.
Remember the crawler at the bottom of the screen. Oh, you missed that there was a bird flu outbreak in Pakistan today, and that HPV vaccines will be required for teen women and men. These are the ways we learn about some of the most important news we should know. It concerns our health and public safety.
If only we had a dedicated medical TV CNN (instead of just Dr. Sanjay Gupta’s excellent show on early weekend mornings, or his occasional special). You know, like the sports channels by sport, the cartoon channels by age (and now one for the boomers!), the movie channels, government channels, and on and on. Where is the “MTV” of medical channels? Discovery Health has been carrying the TV health media for years. There should be more!
The TV box is probably the most used medium by which folks get their news and information. It is certainly a way to get information to people. The most used information source is one of the least used by the cutting edge medical field. This was noted in my research paper, “Building an American Health System”, in 2002. This is 2007, and it’s pretty much the same, maybe even less.
A medical TV channel (actually several would be optimal) would be great! A daily health news show would be a great start towards 24-7 medical TV. Envision yourself clicking to the heart channel, or to programs with content about specific diseases. You could learn more about that high blood pressure you are trying to control, and how you can monitor it at home. Topics on maintaining good health, and prevention of disease would be a click away. And if you missed a show, it would be shown again and again.
Health and medical coverage on TV is surely lacking in this consumer driven health conscious society. We can watch as much sports, cartoons, movies, news as we want, but we still have to piece together our medical news and supplement it with the written word, or health care providers’ spoken word. And radio.
Great health is true wealth. Medical TV would make us even richer.
by J.L. Richardson, MD, family medicine physician, patient advocate and caregiver, and author of Patient Handbook to Medical Care: Your Personal Health Guide,
http://www.mypatienthandbook.com/
www.twitter.com/MD4U
jueves, 27 de agosto de 2009
5 Medical Money Savers
Here are five medical money savers to help you spend your health dollars wisely.
Great health is true wealth!
J.L. Richardson, MD, family medicine expert, is the author of the award winning, Patient Handbook to Medical Care: Your Personal Health Guide.
- Keep weight stable. It is the healthy thing to do. This will save on grocery and clothing expenses. Long term savings on medical expenses.
- Get prescription meds in bulk quantity of 100 versus thirty day supply especially if you are paying for your meds.Buy nonprescription medical items in bulk when on sale. You will be amazed at your savings when you buy a six to twelve month supply on sale. This tip is also effective for emergency preparedness.
- Check with your state provisions for health care. Many states have low cost insurance plans available. Check what your state has to offer by contacting the state health agency.
- Talk with your doctor by phone, fax, and email to save on the cost of an office visit payment. Just think about the number of office visits you have been to where all you did was talk (after waiting for a long while). Save your time and money.
- For blood pressure checks, get yourself a home blood pressure monitor. Call in your readings. Many doctors will discover that your blood pressure is actually stable when the stress of the doctor's white coat is absent. For diabetics, a home glucometer is very useful for monitoring blood sugar.
Great health is true wealth!
J.L. Richardson, MD, family medicine expert, is the author of the award winning, Patient Handbook to Medical Care: Your Personal Health Guide.
jueves, 26 de marzo de 2009
In US 80% Happy with Health Care
Poll on healthy health care. Are you satisfied with yours?
http://www.healthcarebs.com/2009/03/24/80-happy-with-their-health-care/
http://www.healthcarebs.com/2009/03/24/80-happy-with-their-health-care/
Suscribirse a:
Entradas (Atom)
