Table of Contents: Nov 9, 2009
American Medical News vol. 52 no. 24. Posted online Nov. 2, 2009.
Top stories -
Government -
Profession -
Opinion -
Business -
2009 index
Top stories
H1N1 vaccine shortage leaves doctors managing crowds, anxieties
Many physicians are struggling, often in vain, to find H1N1 vaccine or locate alternative sources for patients.
Failed Senate vote clouds future of SGR reform
Doctors hope the House will have more success with a Medicare pay bill and put pressure on the Senate to revisit the issue.
Back to top.
Government & Medicine
Health reform review: The Massachusetts experience
The state's universal insurance program has solved some access issues, but it's not a panacea.
Health reform bills light on medical liability reform
A recent Congressional Budget Office report citing potential savings and revenues from tort reform could breathe new life into the debate.
Higher hospital spending linked to better outcomes
An examination of six California teaching hospitals contradicts conclusions of the Dartmouth Atlas Project.
Government news briefs:
- HHS launches new efforts against medical fraud, identity theft
- Employer health coverage continues to drop
- Settlement reached in Part D lawsuit
Back to top.
Professional Issues
Litigation stress: Being sued is personal as well as professional
Some programs are helping physicians cope.
Smoking bans cut overall heart disease risk
An IOM report highlights how reducing secondhand smoke can lower threats to cardiovascular health.
In the Courts: Disciplinary records relevant in liability case
Professional Issues news briefs:
- New GME journal launched
- Fla. physician hits $189 million lottery jackpot
Back to top.
Opinion
Where to turn for H1N1 information
Physicians need to be armed with facts to calm patient fears and ensure proper treatment and vaccination.
AMA Leader Commentary: AMA's 7 guiding principles for health system reform
Letters:
- Health officials assert vaccine is plentiful; experience says otherwise
Back to top.
Business
Need a practice management system? Here's what to look for
Upgrading, replacing or adopting a practice management system can be difficult. Asking the right questions will ensure you get the right system.
AMA's flu site 1st to link to care after rating symptoms
After patients answer questions online, they can request results be forwarded to their physicians
Health care layoffs already exceed last year's totals
But there is some good news -- the number of job cutbacks is starting to decline.
Health plans owned by doctors, hospitals are disappearing
The loss of smaller, locally owned health plans is one part of broader market consolidation.
Practice Management: Review what expanded ADA means for your practice
Business news briefs:
- Health plan will reimburse physicians for online patient communications
- Health Net introduces Medicare Advantage plan for Hispanic seniors
- Mass. governor urges reforms for small business insurance market
Back to top.
Copyright 2009 American Medical Association. All rights reserved.
