October 2008


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Two-pronged plan to attack prediabetes

Until recently, internists had very little guidance on how to treat prediabetes and reduce the risk of the full-blown disease. The most recent advice: Treat it early, with simple lifestyle changes.

Alaska primary care crisis is tip of the iceberg

When the safety net us already stretched, losing even one internist can leave a community in crisis.

Patients band together to research conditions, themselves

The next wave of online patient web sites allow patients to compare treatments and results, pulling together data that looks and acts like a research study despite its source.

CMS demo aims to help seniors stay healthy, independent

CMS is partnering with private companies to address multiple health risk factors that contribute to senior's chronic diseases.

Alaska's shrinking primary care pool reflects national crisis

A digest of this month's issue, including Alaska's shrinking primary care pool, the rising epidemic of prediabetes, and other issues of note.

Time neither heals nor absolves after romantic involvement

Considering a sexual relationship with a former patient, however brief the doctor's visit, raises issues after a romantic break-up.

Genes have influence over whether you smoke, quit or die

Genes dictate which patients smoke, quit and die from the habit. Genomics can provide small victories that will make a difference in many lives.

A broken leg offers a first-hand look at health care reform

Finding treatment for a broken leg while overseas offers a first-hand look at health care reform in America.

The ‘central fiscal challenge’ the candidates aren't discussing

None of the presidential candidates are discussing health care cost containment, setting up reform as an issue doomed to fail after the election.

Hospitals work with admitting doctors on documentation

Hospitals are working more closely with their admitting physicians to make them aware of the need for better documentation on pre-existing conditions.

Efficient docs make for happier patients

ACP's Center for Practice Improvement and Innovation suggests simple tips for creating a more efficient practice and happier patients, in turn.

Doctor-moms compare notes on raising kids and saving lives

Doctors who are also mothers compare notes on raising kids and saving lives at the Mothers in Medicine Web site.

Presidential candidates quiet on one health issue: abortion

The presidential candidates are steering away from the abortion issue, but a ballot issue in South Dakota keeps the issue alive in voter's minds.

Actavis recalls more than 60 generics, six flu vaccines OK'd

The latest recalls, warnings, label changes and approvals from the Food and Drug Administration.

Arthritis most common cause of slowed activity

An increasing percentage of adults experience limitation of activity as they age.

Put words in our mouth

ACP Internist conducts a cartoon caption contest monthly through its e-newsletter, ACP InternistWeekly. Readers suggest captions for different cartoons and can vote online for their favorites to help select a winner, who receives a prize.

Call for spring 2009 Board of Governors resolutions

The deadline for submitting new resolutions to be heard at the April 2009 Board of Governors Meeting is Friday, February 20, 2009.

Test yourself case study: hepatic mass

ACP Internist has brought back its MKSAP quiz. This popular feature was so heavily requested by our readers that we're restoring it in our print edition and ACP Internist Weekly e-mail updates.