#AAFP

[iheartvmt]

Handsome boy keeping me company while I work on my Cat-Friendly certificate 💚🐾🤓

[familydocblog]

USPSTF and AAFP Preventive Screenings by Sex and Age

Photo by Sarah Howell on Pexels.com Here are the recommended screening tests by age group for females according to the USPSTF and AAFP: Female Ages 18-39 Blood pressure measurement: at least every 2 years (USPSTF) Cholesterol screening: at least once every 5 years starting at age 45, or starting at age 20 for individuals with increased risk for heart disease. [USPSTF] Chlamydia and gonorrhea…

[profrjharvey]

New Post has been published on https://sydneyentclinic.com/richard-harvey/2024/05/03/facial-plastic-surgeons-are-otolaryngologists/

Facial Plastic Surgeons are otolaryngologists

Our society has been advocating for the regulatory body in Australia (AHPRA) to recognize the inherent training of all otolaryngologists in facial plastic surgery. In fact, otolaryngologists are one of, if not the main, providers of facial plastic surgical care to the Australian Community. However, in response to the complaints of a minority of plastics surgeons,  we assume under some false sense of turf-protection, AHPRA has interpreted the national law in a way that prevents otolaryngologists accurately advertising their skills and training. Otolaryngologists are proud of their unique training and even when they make their primary specialist training clear and unambiguous, AHPRA still has issue with us using the term “facial plastic surgeon’.

This is personal for me, as I often need to reconstruct the nose, teeth, upper jaw, face and forehead as part of my work to remove tumours and reconstruct noses. But closer still, I had a brother-in-law who struggled to see the right specialists due to the inability of otolaryngologists to clearly advertise their training. My brother’s general practitioner was also equally confused. This story was reported on February 7th, 2024 in a publication “Strict rules leave patients confused�� from the Australian press: https://apple.news/ABUS6ztxDRzC8FJHUm17itQ

  Otolaryngologists are ‘facial plastic surgeons’ and need to ensure that the Australia public know that when they seek expertise and training from a surgeon skilled in this area, then otolaryngologists should be identifiable.

My colleagues published an outstanding history of facial plastic surgeons in the AJO recently and can be downloaded here.

  Otolaryngologists (OHNS) have “as good” or better understanding of head,neck and facial anatomy than any other speciality group

  There are no other speciality groups that cover the knowledge, anatomy, understanding of disorders and the surgical management of conditions of the Head, Neck and Face as OHNS.

  There are 8 modules in the OHNS curriculum, 3 deal with Universal professional skills, patient management & social determinants of health.  All the 5 surgical modules are focused on Head, Neck and Face.

  Otolaryngologists are one of main contributors to facial plastic and reconstructive surgery societies around the world

International Federation of Facial Plastic Surgery Societies (IFFPSS) is an organization that represents and supports facial plastic surgeon societies around the globe

Key to certification is: Have earned prior certification by the National Examining Body in Otolaryngology/Head and Neck Surgery or Plastic Surgery.

Facial Plastic Surgery is nationally and internationally recognised, and a well-defined training path,  as a surgical specialty in its own right (https://www.abfprs.org/, https://eafps.org/ , http://www.iffpss.org/) and encompasses many international societies, not limited to:

American Academy of Facial Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery

ASEAN Academy of Facial Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery

Australasian Academy of Facial Plastic Surgery

Canadian Academy of Facial Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery

Colombian Society of Facial Plastic Surgery and Rhinology

Ecuadorian Society of Rhinology and Facial Surgery

European Academy of Facial Plastic Surgery

Facial Reconstructive and Cosmetic Surgery (India) FRCS(I)

Pan Asia Academy of Facial Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery

Taiwan Academy of Facial Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery

The Brazilian Academy of Facial Plastic Surgery

The Korean Academy of Facial Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery

The Mexican Society of Rhinology and Facial Surgery

Venezuelan Society of Rhinology and Facial Plastic Surgery

  Otolaryngologists are one of the main contributors to facial plastic and reconstructive surgery research

  Of the list from Google Scholar on all “plastic” journals includes 3 of the top 20 dedicated to facial plastics and the majority of these by OHNS authors . OHNS contributing significantly  to two others.  Note this list includes everything including maxillofacial, ophthalmic and dermatology, thus the ‘facial plastic surgery’ by OHNS weighting is very large:

  Publication h5-index 1. Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery 63 81 2. Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology 48 66 3. Aesthetic Surgery Journal 46 64 4. Plastic and Reconstructive surgery. Global Open 42 56 5. Journal of Plastic, Reconstructive & Aesthetic Surgery 41 50 6. Aesthetic Plastic Surgery 38 48 7. Dermatologic Surgery 37 49 8. Journal of Craniofacial Surgery 34 47 9. Annals of Plastic Surgery 34 44 10. Clinics in Plastic Surgery 30 43 11. Ophthalmic Plastic & Reconstructive Surgery 30 43 12. JAMA Facial Plastic Surgery 29 40 13. Journal of Reconstructive Microsurgery 28 33 14. Facial Plastic Surgery Clinics 27 37 15. The Cleft palate-craniofacial journal 27 32 16. Microsurgery 25 38 17. Seminars in Plastic Surgery 25 35 18. Facial Plastic Surgery 23 34 19. Journal of cosmetic and laser therapy 23 33 20. Annals of Maxillofacial Surgery 22 40

  There is cross speciality collaboration as general plastic surgeons invite otolaryngologists to speak and provide education at their meetings about facial plastic and reconstructive surgery

  https://aestheticplasticsurgeons.org.au/event/2019-asap-conference/ (Jacono)

https://www.plasticsurgeryhub.com/blogs/asaps-conference-australasian-society-of-aesthetic-plastic-surgeons-annual-conference/ (Davis)

https://www.surgeryforfacialaesthetics.com.au (Jacono) again in 2024

  NSW public hospitals recognize plastic and reconstructive surgery of the head/neck and face as part of the “core” scope of practice for otolaryngologists:

  Model Scope of Clinical Practice – Otolaryngology – Head and Neck Surgery

  Core training includes: “plastic and reconstructive surgery of the nose, face and ears along with the skin of the head and neck”

  https://www.schn.health.nsw.gov.au/files/attachments/final_model_socp_for_otolaryngology_1.1_-_26_sep_2023_0.pdf

  The father of modern day facial plastic surgery is Sir Howard Gillies – an otolaryngologist from New Zealand

  The Australia Society of Plastics Surgeons list him as such in their book(1):

“Outstanding among surgeons who honed their skills at that time was Harold Delf Gillies, an ear nose and throat surgeon originally from New Zealand, who would eventually become known as ‘the father of plastic surgery’.

This is why the field of “facial plastic surgery” is entrenched in otolaryngology both in Australia and internationally.

  Sir Howard Gilles, the recognised father of facial plastic surgery and the subsequent discipline of plastic surgery, was an otolaryngologist

  Sir Howard Gilles, is the recognised father of facial plastic surgery and his understudy Benajamin Rank established contemporary Australian Plastics Surgery as its own discipline.(2)

  The otolaryngology surgery curriculum is dedicated to surgery of the head/neck and face

  All 5 surgical competencies of the ONHS curriculum deal with surgery of the head/neck and face. In the OHNS curriculum,  one section is entiurely dedicated to “Facial Plastic (and reconstructive) Surgery” but all sections have plastic and reconstructive components to their subjects.

  Plastic surgeons attend events by otolaryngologists to learn about facial plastic surgery

  Plastics surgeons are one of the main groups of attendees that register for the AAFPS events:

https://www.aafps.com.au/education/

In North America and Europe, Plastics and Otolaryngologists work together to provide the education, trained and care in facial plastic surgery.

Other examples of different surgical groups working together include “Spine Surgeons” who have contributions  from both orthopaedic and neurosurgical trained surgeons. Another example is “Hand Surgeons” who come from both plastics and orthopaedic training background.

Otolaryngologists see plastic surgeons and maxillo-facial surgeons as collaborators in the provision of care to the Australian community and not as competitors. This collaboration is what will provide outstanding care to the Australian public.

  The American college of surgeons, Royal College of Surgeons England and the Royal Australasian College of Surgeons recognise that otolaryngologists are trained in facial plastic surgery

  For the American College of Surgeons: “Head and neck oncology and facial plastic and reconstructive surgery are also fundamental areas of expertise for the otolaryngologist.”

(https://www.facs.org/for-medical-professionals/education/online-guide-to-choosing-a-surgical-residency/guide-to-choosing-a-surgical-residency-for-medical-students/faqs/specialties/#:~:text=The%20American%20College%20of%20Surgeons,surgery%2C%20otorhinolaryngology%2C%20pediatric%20surgery%2C)

For the Royal College of Surgeons England: “ENT surgeons also deal with cancers in this region of the body. Many will undertake plastic and reconstructive work on the face”

https://www.rcseng.ac.uk/careers-in-surgery/trainees/foundation-and-core-trainees/surgical-specialties/

Royal Australasia College of Surgeons – have multiple statements including the attached media release : “Facial cosmetic surgical procedures are also a component of surgical training in Ear, Nose and Throat Surgery (Otolaryngology Head & Neck Surgery (OHNS)).” (https://www.surgeons.org/News/media-releases/College-of-Surgeons-welcomes-review-of-cosmetic-surgery)

And RACS media statements about poorly trained ‘cosmetic practitioners’ usually includes plastics and OHNS equally represented (https://www.surgeons.org/en/News/media-releases/Media-statement-from-RACS-and-specialty-societies-on-cosmetic-surgery)

Figure below: The structure of surgical training and societies in Australia (the specialist societies (ASPS and ASOHNS are responsible for training):

      Beasley M. Australian Society of Plastic Surgeons 1971-2021. Hornsby, Australia: Ice Cold Publishing; 2022.

Solish MJ, Roller JM, Zhong T. Sir Harold Gillies: The Modern Father of Plastic Surgery. Plast Reconstr Surg. 2023;152(1):203e-4e.

[felinefractious]

🐱 F1 HP Bengal [Bengal Cat Terms] [High Percentage] [AAFP Position Statement: Hybrid Cats]

📸 Michelle Maria [SignatureKats]

🎨 Black Silver Rosetted Tabby

[usafphantom2]

F-15E Strike Eagles assigned to the 94th Fighter Squadron fly in formation with Arctic allies and partners during Arctic Challenge Exercise 2023. AAFP

@kadonkey via X

[uvaldecomputerrepairsstuff]

MACHINIST B450 Motherboard AMD Processor Dual-channel DDR4 Memory AM4 Mainboard M.2 NVME (Supports Ryzen 5500 5600 5600G CPU)

Hign-concerned Chemical: none RAID Supported: no Processor compatibility: AMD Others Ports: M.2 Usage Scenario: Audio & Video,Office,Video Production,others Special Function: none Onboard Connectors & Header: 24-pin Main Power Connector,CPU Fan Connector(s),AAFP Connector Back I/O Ports: 1x RJ45 Support USB Type: USB 2.0,USB 3.0 Onboard LAN: 1x RJ45 Audio Channels: 5.1 SATA…

[gablesmedbill]

The Benefits of Using Medical Billing and Coding Software for Your Practice

As a healthcare provider, managing your practice's financials can be a daunting and time-consuming task. With the ever-changing landscape of medical billing and coding, it can be challenging to keep up with the latest updates and regulations while also ensuring accurate and timely reimbursements. That's where medical billing and coding software comes in. In this blog post, we will explore the benefits of using such software for your practice and how it can improve your overall financial management.

Streamlined Billing Process

One of the most significant advantages of using medical billing and coding software is the streamlined billing process it offers. With traditional paper billing, there is a high risk of human error, which can lead to claim denials and delays in reimbursements. However, with the use of software, all billing and coding processes are automated, reducing the chances of errors and ensuring accuracy. This not only saves time but also improves the efficiency of your practice's billing process.

According to a study by the Medical Group Management Association (MGMA), practices using medical billing and coding software saw a 65% decrease in claim rejection rates compared to those using manual billing methods. This shows the significant impact that software can have on the billing process, leading to increased revenue and reduced administrative burden.

Increased Revenue and Cash Flow

In addition to streamlining the billing process, medical billing and coding software can also help increase revenue and cash flow for your practice. By automating the billing process, software can help reduce the time between submitting a claim and receiving payment. This means that your practice can receive reimbursements faster, leading to improved cash flow.

Moreover, software also helps identify any coding errors or missed charges, ensuring that your practice receives the full reimbursement it is entitled to. According to a survey by the American Academy of Family Physicians (AAFP), practices using medical billing software saw an average increase of 7% in revenue. This increase can be attributed to the software's ability to catch coding errors and streamline the billing process, leading to fewer denied claims and increased reimbursements.

Compliance with Regulations

The healthcare industry is heavily regulated, and non-compliance can result in hefty fines and penalties. With the use of medical billing and coding software, your practice can ensure compliance with all regulations, including HIPAA and ICD-10 codes. This is because the software is regularly updated to reflect any changes in regulations, reducing the risk of non-compliance.

Additionally, software also helps with accurate coding and documentation, which is crucial for compliance and avoiding audits. According to a survey by the Healthcare Billing and Management Association (HBMA), practices using medical billing software had a 60% lower chance of receiving an audit compared to those using manual billing methods. This further emphasizes the importance of software in ensuring compliance and avoiding potential penalties.

Cost Savings

Many healthcare practices outsource their medical billing to third-party companies, which can be costly. However, with the use of medical billing and coding software, your practice can save on outsourcing fees and reduce overhead costs. This is because the software automates many billing and coding processes, reducing the need for manual labor.

According to the MGMA, practices using medical billing software saw a 40% reduction in billing-related labor costs. This cost savings can be reinvested into other areas of your practice, leading to overall financial growth.

Expertise and Support

Medical billing and coding software often come with expert support and resources to help your practice navigate the ever-changing healthcare landscape. This can include training on how to use the software, updates on regulations and coding changes, and assistance with any issues or questions that may arise. This support can be invaluable, especially for smaller practices that may not have the resources to hire a dedicated billing and coding expert.

Conclusion

In conclusion, using medical billing and coding software can bring numerous benefits to your practice, including streamlined billing processes, increased revenue, compliance with regulations, cost savings, and expert support. With the constantly evolving healthcare industry, it is essential to stay ahead of the game and utilize the latest technology to improve your practice's financial management.If you are looking for a medical billing expert in South Florida, look no further than Gables Medical Billing.

Our team of professionals is dedicated to providing top-notch medical billing and coding services to help your practice thrive. Contact us at 305-928-1945 or visit our website at Gables Medical Billing to learn more about our services and how we can help your practice succeed. Outsource your medical billing to us today and experience the benefits of using medical billing and coding software for your practice.

[mcatmemoranda]

Initial Preventive Physical Examination (IPPE) | AAFP

[profrjharvey]

New Post has been published on https://sydneyentclinic.com/richard-harvey/2024/05/03/facial-plastic-surgeons-are-otolaryngologists/

Facial Plastic Surgeons are otolaryngologists

Our society has been advocating for the regulatory body in Australia (AHPRA) to recognize the inherent training of all otolaryngologists in facial plastic surgery. In fact, otolaryngologists are one of, if not the main, providers of facial plastic surgical care to the Australian Community. However, in response to the complaints of a minority of plastics surgeons,  we assume under some false sense of turf-protection, AHPRA has interpreted the national law in a way that prevents otolaryngologists accurately advertising their skills and training. Otolaryngologists are proud of their unique training and even when they make their primary specialist training clear and unambiguous, AHPRA still has issue with us using the term “facial plastic surgeon’.

This is personal for me, as I often need to reconstruct the nose, teeth, upper jaw, face and forehead as part of my work to remove tumours and reconstruct noses. But closer still, I had a brother-in-law who struggled to see the right specialists due to the inability of otolaryngologists to clearly advertise their training. My brother’s general practitioner was also equally confused. This story was reported on February 7th, 2024 in a publication “Strict rules leave patients confused” from the Australian press: https://apple.news/ABUS6ztxDRzC8FJHUm17itQ

  Otolaryngologists are ‘facial plastic surgeons’ and need to ensure that the Australia public know that when they seek expertise and training from a surgeon skilled in this area, then otolaryngologists should be identifiable.

My colleagues published an outstanding history of facial plastic surgeons in the AJO recently and can be downloaded here.

  Otolaryngologists (OHNS) have “as good” or better understanding of head,neck and facial anatomy than any other speciality group

  There are no other speciality groups that cover the knowledge, anatomy, understanding of disorders and the surgical management of conditions of the Head, Neck and Face as OHNS.

  There are 8 modules in the OHNS curriculum, 3 deal with Universal professional skills, patient management & social determinants of health.  All the 5 surgical modules are focused on Head, Neck and Face.

  Otolaryngologists are one of main contributors to facial plastic and reconstructive surgery societies around the world

International Federation of Facial Plastic Surgery Societies (IFFPSS) is an organization that represents and supports facial plastic surgeon societies around the globe

Key to certification is: Have earned prior certification by the National Examining Body in Otolaryngology/Head and Neck Surgery or Plastic Surgery.

Facial Plastic Surgery is nationally and internationally recognised, and a well-defined training path,  as a surgical specialty in its own right (https://www.abfprs.org/, https://eafps.org/ , http://www.iffpss.org/) and encompasses many international societies, not limited to:

American Academy of Facial Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery

ASEAN Academy of Facial Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery

Australasian Academy of Facial Plastic Surgery

Canadian Academy of Facial Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery

Colombian Society of Facial Plastic Surgery and Rhinology

Ecuadorian Society of Rhinology and Facial Surgery

European Academy of Facial Plastic Surgery

Facial Reconstructive and Cosmetic Surgery (India) FRCS(I)

Pan Asia Academy of Facial Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery

Taiwan Academy of Facial Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery

The Brazilian Academy of Facial Plastic Surgery

The Korean Academy of Facial Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery

The Mexican Society of Rhinology and Facial Surgery

Venezuelan Society of Rhinology and Facial Plastic Surgery

  Otolaryngologists are one of the main contributors to facial plastic and reconstructive surgery research

  Of the list from Google Scholar on all “plastic” journals includes 3 of the top 20 dedicated to facial plastics and the majority of these by OHNS authors . OHNS contributing significantly  to two others.  Note this list includes everything including maxillofacial, ophthalmic and dermatology, thus the ‘facial plastic surgery’ by OHNS weighting is very large:

  Publication h5-index 1. Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery 63 81 2. Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology 48 66 3. Aesthetic Surgery Journal 46 64 4. Plastic and Reconstructive surgery. Global Open 42 56 5. Journal of Plastic, Reconstructive & Aesthetic Surgery 41 50 6. Aesthetic Plastic Surgery 38 48 7. Dermatologic Surgery 37 49 8. Journal of Craniofacial Surgery 34 47 9. Annals of Plastic Surgery 34 44 10. Clinics in Plastic Surgery 30 43 11. Ophthalmic Plastic & Reconstructive Surgery 30 43 12. JAMA Facial Plastic Surgery 29 40 13. Journal of Reconstructive Microsurgery 28 33 14. Facial Plastic Surgery Clinics 27 37 15. The Cleft palate-craniofacial journal 27 32 16. Microsurgery 25 38 17. Seminars in Plastic Surgery 25 35 18. Facial Plastic Surgery 23 34 19. Journal of cosmetic and laser therapy 23 33 20. Annals of Maxillofacial Surgery 22 40

  There is cross speciality collaboration as general plastic surgeons invite otolaryngologists to speak and provide education at their meetings about facial plastic and reconstructive surgery

  https://aestheticplasticsurgeons.org.au/event/2019-asap-conference/ (Jacono)

https://www.plasticsurgeryhub.com/blogs/asaps-conference-australasian-society-of-aesthetic-plastic-surgeons-annual-conference/ (Davis)

https://www.surgeryforfacialaesthetics.com.au (Jacono) again in 2024

  NSW public hospitals recognize plastic and reconstructive surgery of the head/neck and face as part of the “core” scope of practice for otolaryngologists:

  Model Scope of Clinical Practice – Otolaryngology – Head and Neck Surgery

  Core training includes: “plastic and reconstructive surgery of the nose, face and ears along with the skin of the head and neck”

  https://www.schn.health.nsw.gov.au/files/attachments/final_model_socp_for_otolaryngology_1.1_-_26_sep_2023_0.pdf

  The father of modern day facial plastic surgery is Sir Howard Gillies – an otolaryngologist from New Zealand

  The Australia Society of Plastics Surgeons list him as such in their book(1):

“Outstanding among surgeons who honed their skills at that time was Harold Delf Gillies, an ear nose and throat surgeon originally from New Zealand, who would eventually become known as ‘the father of plastic surgery’.

This is why the field of “facial plastic surgery” is entrenched in otolaryngology both in Australia and internationally.

  Sir Howard Gilles, the recognised father of facial plastic surgery and the subsequent discipline of plastic surgery, was an otolaryngologist

  Sir Howard Gilles, is the recognised father of facial plastic surgery and his understudy Benajamin Rank established contemporary Australian Plastics Surgery as its own discipline.(2)

  The otolaryngology surgery curriculum is dedicated to surgery of the head/neck and face

  All 5 surgical competencies of the ONHS curriculum deal with surgery of the head/neck and face. In the OHNS curriculum,  one section is entiurely dedicated to “Facial Plastic (and reconstructive) Surgery” but all sections have plastic and reconstructive components to their subjects.

  Plastic surgeons attend events by otolaryngologists to learn about facial plastic surgery

  Plastics surgeons are one of the main groups of attendees that register for the AAFPS events:

https://www.aafps.com.au/education/

In North America and Europe, Plastics and Otolaryngologists work together to provide the education, trained and care in facial plastic surgery.

Other examples of different surgical groups working together include “Spine Surgeons” who have contributions  from both orthopaedic and neurosurgical trained surgeons. Another example is “Hand Surgeons” who come from both plastics and orthopaedic training background.

Otolaryngologists see plastic surgeons and maxillo-facial surgeons as collaborators in the provision of care to the Australian community and not as competitors. This collaboration is what will provide outstanding care to the Australian public.

  The American college of surgeons, Royal College of Surgeons England and the Royal Australasian College of Surgeons recognise that otolaryngologists are trained in facial plastic surgery

  For the American College of Surgeons: “Head and neck oncology and facial plastic and reconstructive surgery are also fundamental areas of expertise for the otolaryngologist.”

(https://www.facs.org/for-medical-professionals/education/online-guide-to-choosing-a-surgical-residency/guide-to-choosing-a-surgical-residency-for-medical-students/faqs/specialties/#:~:text=The%20American%20College%20of%20Surgeons,surgery%2C%20otorhinolaryngology%2C%20pediatric%20surgery%2C)

For the Royal College of Surgeons England: “ENT surgeons also deal with cancers in this region of the body. Many will undertake plastic and reconstructive work on the face”

https://www.rcseng.ac.uk/careers-in-surgery/trainees/foundation-and-core-trainees/surgical-specialties/

Royal Australasia College of Surgeons – have multiple statements including the attached media release : “Facial cosmetic surgical procedures are also a component of surgical training in Ear, Nose and Throat Surgery (Otolaryngology Head & Neck Surgery (OHNS)).” (https://www.surgeons.org/News/media-releases/College-of-Surgeons-welcomes-review-of-cosmetic-surgery)

And RACS media statements about poorly trained ‘cosmetic practitioners’ usually includes plastics and OHNS equally represented (https://www.surgeons.org/en/News/media-releases/Media-statement-from-RACS-and-specialty-societies-on-cosmetic-surgery)

Figure below: The structure of surgical training and societies in Australia (the specialist societies (ASPS and ASOHNS are responsible for training):

      Beasley M. Australian Society of Plastic Surgeons 1971-2021. Hornsby, Australia: Ice Cold Publishing; 2022.

Solish MJ, Roller JM, Zhong T. Sir Harold Gillies: The Modern Father of Plastic Surgery. Plast Reconstr Surg. 2023;152(1):203e-4e.

[felinefractious]

1. Classic Tabby

[Source: Metatron Eyes Maine Coons]

2. Marbled Tabby

[Source: BangkokCats]

3. Mackerel Tabby

[Source: FI*RuusuLinnan Ingrid]

4. Braided Tabby

[Source: Brindle Way Toygers]

5. Spotted Tabby

[Source: NitroKatz Savannahs]

6. Rosetted Tabby

[Source: Liberty Bengals]

7. Ticked Tabby

[Source: King Size]

8. Servaline Tabby

[Source: Akilah Cat] [AAFP Position Statement: Hybrid Cats]

[tregomountainear]

Rural Communities Face Primary Care Physician Shortage 

by Liz Carey, The Daily YonderApril 22, 2024 A new study from the American Academy of Family Physicians’ Robert Graham Center (AAFP), co-funded by the Milbank Memorial Fund and The Physicians Foundation, has found that communities across the country are struggling to meet the demand for primary care physicians, as well as to retain those physicians in their communities. While it’s difficult all…

[alejandrocuriel]

An Introduction to Health Disparities in the United States

The American Academy of Family Physicians (AAFP) represents the needs and interests of approximately 130,000 family physicians, residents, and students. Its focus is on providing education and professional development opportunities designed to advance the industry and improve patient outcomes. Since its founding in 1947, AAFP has developed many programs and projects, including the EveryONE Project.

Administered through the AAFP’s Center for Diversity and Health Equity and funded through AAFP Foundation grants, the EveryONE Project was designed as a resource to help medical professionals progress in areas of health equity, particularly regarding America’s complex medical history with black and brown bodies. The project aims to address health disparities in the United States.

A health disparity can be defined as a measurable and preventable difference between the approach to care for patients experiencing the same disease or injury, resulting in a greater burden for one of the parties. Similarly, health disparities can prevent a socially disadvantaged individual or community from accessing optimal health services.

Health disparities can impact certain populations for many different reasons. Households in lower economic brackets or the country's most remote regions, for example, often lack access to affordable and reliable medical services. Race, ethnicity, and gender can also result in a patient assuming a greater burden of disease or injury. Education, disability, and sexual orientation are a few additional factors that can play into health disparities.

Health disparities may or may not represent an intentional decision on the part of the care provider. The United States has a complex history that has resulted in a highly uneven distribution of wealth, social capital, political influence, and environmental resources. This distribution prevents medical professionals from providing each American with individualized care at the level of quality they deserve.

Black Americans consistently face disparities in both health care and health outcomes, resulting in a cycle of elevated health costs, higher uninsured rates, and worsening patient outcomes. In 2024, black Americans had an average life expectancy of 72.8 years compared to 77.5 years for white Americans. Any medical professional or insurance carrier that denies a person care or coverage based on their race violates several laws, including the Civil Rights Act.

Health disparities can also result from cultural and physiological ignorance, which may stem from unchecked biases. Black women are four to five times more likely to die during pregnancy compared to white women, per the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Unconscious bias training could prove helpful in this area, as Ana Langer of the Women and Health Initiative points out that black women are being overlooked and undervalued by modern medicine.

A famous example involves tennis great Serena Williams, who gave birth to her first child in 2017 via cesarean. Williams experienced numerous health problems following the delivery and described symptoms to her nurse, who allegedly replied, “I think all this medicine is making you talk crazy.” In reality, Williams had developed a near-fatal pulmonary embolism that severely delayed her return to tennis.

Black Americans are also at a higher risk for many serious health conditions, including heart disease, and are chronically under-treated for pain. To learn more about how AAFP promotes diversity and works to eliminate health disparities in America, please visit aafp.org.

[chaya-mga2022mi6011]

Why a game about cat adoption?

As I mentioned in a previous post, I had to adopt my cat on a very unexpected day. I never imagined nor had any plans to adopt a cat at the moment, which made it very challenging at first to suddenly figure out how to take care of her. The vet appointments, the bills, cat food, the litter, making sure she gets along with my dog, the responsibilities that would come with her for the next 8 years, etc were not at all what went through our minds when we first adopted her. It was mostly an "Omg cute cat! LET'S TAKE HER IN!!".

Which, yes, the thought itself of adopting a stray cat was admirable, but after talking to my friends and other people who also had cats, I realized we all shared the same mutual mindset of "Omg cute cat! LET'S TAKE HER IN!!" before adopting our cats.

That made me realize, at the same time, how important it is to understand what you're really signing up for before adopting a pet. Realizing these and considering the environment you live in, the commitment, your financial situation, etc would actually end up benefiting both you and your pet.

This was what inspired me to design a board game that would not only promote cat adoption but also promote being a more responsible cat parent.

.

After doing research into cat adoption I also found out that according to the World Health Organization (WHO), there are a higher number of stray cats than stray dogs. The Ecology Global Network estimates that the world has between 600 million to 1 billion cats without homes.

In the United States, the American Academy of Family Physicians (AAFP) estimates that there are between 70 and 100 million free-roaming, abandoned, and feral cats.

About 37% of cats entering shelters are adopted, 41% are euthanized, and less than 5% of cats who come in as strays are returned to their owners.

According to the People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals, there are between 60 million and 100 million stray cats in the U.S. They are usually the offspring of cats who were lost or abandoned by their owners, and they grow up not socialized to humans. Because a female cat can become pregnant as young as 16 weeks of age and go on to have two or three litters a year, the stray cat population -- and the problems associated with it -- grows and perpetuates. In seven years, a single female cat and their kittens can produce 420,000 more cats.

Stray cats often live on the street, eat from trash cans; face infection, disease, and an endless cycle of pregnancy; and suffer extremes in treatment and weather. The life of a stray, or abandoned cat is often short, sometimes lasting for just two or three years.

Through research, I realized that providing these cats a safe refuge with food and shelter is the biggest help they could ask for. It is all they want and desire along with your love and affection. And by sharing your home with them, you can not only take care of their needs but also save their lives.

.

Board games reach a huge diverse audience, including families, friends, and individuals of different ages and backgrounds. So I decided that combining entertainment with a meaningful message about the importance of cat adoption would have a broader positive impact on awareness.

This game will not only promote cat adoption to save these abandoned cats’ lives but also educate people on what they need to consider before adopting a cat. This will also bring out the considerations and responsibilities that come with being a cat parent, and prepare anyone for a rewarding journey of owning a cat.

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MACHINIST X99 Motherboard Kit X99 MR9A PRO MAX Set with Xeon E5 2680 V4 CPU LGA 2011-3 DDR4 16 GB RAM Combo Four Channel

  Hign-concerned Chemical: None RAID Supported: no Processor compatibility: Intel Xeon Scalable,Intel Core Ports: M.2 Usage Scenario: Gaming,Audio & Video,Office,others Special Function: none Onboard Connectors & Header: 24-pin Main Power Connector,CPU Fan Connector(s),AAFP Connector Back I/O Ports: 1x RJ45,PS/2 Combo Support USB Type: USB 2.0,USB 3.0 Onboard LAN: 1x RJ45 Audio…

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Most Effective Strategies for Alleviating Physician Burnout

A content provider contributes to a positive atmosphere in a bustling healthcare practice. As a physician, you encounter numerous challenges that divert your attention from what you enjoy most – caring for your patients. It is undoubtedly a reality that burnout poses a significant threat, given the responsibilities such as EHR reporting, substantial use tasks, diminishing reimbursement, overseeing billing and collection, managing staff, and marketing for your practice.

By addressing crucial yet time-consuming tasks, you not only enhance your job satisfaction but also foster stronger commitment from your staff and improve overall productivity. Minimizing the time spent on administrative obligations allows you to see more patients daily, ultimately aiding in the growth and profitability of your practice.

Best Solutions to Reduce Physician Burnout

One effective strategy for saving time is the efficient management of your staff. Consider implementing the following best practices:

Institute a daily huddle:

Improve teamwork, productivity, and communication by conducting a brief 15-minute team meeting each day.

Discuss current cases and address any challenges or concerns.

Allocate resources for the day, creating a schedule, allocating resources, and planning patient requirements based on identified areas for process improvement.

Problem resolution for current cases:

Address issues or areas identified for process improvement.

Resolve problems through strategic allocation of resources and create plans to enhance efficiency.

Focus on one metric at a time, establish improvement goals, and monitor performance toward achieving those goals.

Staff appreciation:

Keep meetings concise, limiting them to 15 minutes for efficiency.

If unnecessary, consider skipping the meeting to respect everyone's time.

Build the Right Team

To enhance patient care and expand the practice, consider incorporating a nurse practitioner (NP) or physician assistant (PA) into the team. According to the AAFP, expanding the workforce with a PA or NP can be achieved by offering extended hours, incorporating additional chronic disease management procedures, or expanding into specialty service fields. These practitioners can contribute to preventive care, disease management, prescription writing, chronic disease care, and fulfilling regulatory requirements such as data collection for quality payment programs.

To ensure optimal results, it is crucial to delegate tasks effectively among medical doctors, NPs, and PAs, allowing them to work to the fullest extent of their licenses. For additional tips on employee management and eliminating common time-wasters to enhance care and reduce physician burnout, refer to the complimentary guide, "Optimizing Your Care Delivery Workflow to Save Time and Enhancing Revenue."

Visit United Medical Billing Solutions to explore how we assist independent medical practices.

[doctorvaughan]

THE 2024 Primary Care Code

Most group practices will add thousands in revenue monthly with the G2211 code. Listen for details. Here is a great link from the AAFP.