Articles tagged with Family Medicine
Postpartum depression affects women differently than anticipated, with factors including societal expectations and stigma surrounding mental illness. Dr. Frankhouser's autoethnographic study aims to raise awareness and promote understanding, encouraging physicians to provide compassionate care and support.
A new study found that disappearance of heart murmur while standing reliably rules out pathologic heart murmurs. The test, using an acoustic-based stethoscope, has a high predictive positive value and specificity, but poor sensitivity.
The journal's Autumn 2017 issue features original research articles on mental health problems due to community violence exposure and overnight pulse oximetry for screening obstructive sleep apnea. Other topics include smoking cessation counseling accuracy and adult-onset celiac disease in primary care.
A Norwegian study reveals that general practitioners lack cultural competency when dealing with patients from diverse backgrounds. Researchers emphasize the need for mandatory cultural training in medical education to address these gaps.
A new study published in PLOS ONE has found that women are at a significantly higher risk of dying in the first year after a heart attack compared to men. The researchers analyzed data from over 4,100 patients and found that women were 1.5 times more likely to die within this timeframe.
A daily five-minute conversation that focuses on hospitalized patients' overall well-being and medical symptoms significantly improved their satisfaction with medical care. Patients who received BATHE showed a high degree of satisfaction and rated their medical care as excellent.
The Summer 2017 issue of Family Medicine and Community Health Journal focuses on various topics in family medicine, including prostate-specific antigen testing, health-related quality of life, and breast cancer tumor grade. The journal features six original research articles and one China Focus article.
Men who are physically active in mid-life are nearly three times as likely to be active 20 years later. Sport participation in midlife is key to maintaining physical function and self-efficacy into older age.
The University of Arizona Center for Integrative Medicine launched an online curriculum to train family medicine residents in integrative medicine. The 200-hour program improved residents' medical knowledge and clinical utility, with a high completion rate despite busy schedules.
Family physicians are well-qualified to treat addiction due to their focus on relationships, communities, and team-based care. Primary care physicians must be responsible for the initial and longitudinal care of patients with substance use disorders, and specialized services must be widely available and accessible.
A widespread telehealth project in Brazil has reduced wait times for specialty consultations, while solo practices use patient-entered data to supercharge self-management. These innovations expand primary care access and enhance patient engagement.
Residents reflect on patient struggles, joys, and future goals to cultivate inner lives and balance professional and personal selves. Writing reflections helps physicians integrate their emotions, spirituality, and clinical expertise.
Ambiguous losses in physicians' roles can cause stress and grief, which contributes to burnout if not acknowledged. A proposed solution is supporting physicians in addressing their grief, rather than focusing on resilience training.
US medical expenditures increased by 47% between 1996-1997 and 2011-2012, driven largely by prescription drug use. Expenditures rose in most categories except primary care physicians and home health care, with the largest increases seen in specialty physicians, emergency department visits, and prescribed medications.
A new study found that nearly half of seniors in Ontario who visited a family doctor for a non-bacterial infection received an unnecessary antibiotic prescription. The majority of prescriptions were for broad-spectrum antibiotics, which are associated with increased risk of adverse outcomes and antibiotic resistance.
This special issue explores various topics in family medicine, including cancer treatment decision-making, palliative care, and patient-centered care. Research articles highlight the importance of providers' assessment, awareness, and discussion of patient preferences for their participation in their own care.
A recent study published in the Canadian Family Physician journal reveals that more than half of Canadian family doctors are using outdated manual devices to measure blood pressure, resulting in inaccurate diagnoses. This can lead to unnecessary medication and increased healthcare costs.
New research finds automated blood pressure monitoring over 30 minutes significantly reduces the number of patients meeting criteria for antihypertensive medication. This technique yields lower blood pressure readings than routine office measurements, helping to avoid overtreatment.
A study published in the Annals of Family Medicine found that in-office automated blood pressure monitoring over 30 minutes significantly reduced the number of patients who met criteria for antihypertensive medication regimes. The technique, known as OBP30, yielded lower blood pressure readings than routine office blood pressure readings.
A recent study published in Annals of Family Medicine found that oral and topical antibiotics have no meaningful benefit for milder clinically infected eczema in children. Topical corticosteroids and emollient treatment led to rapid resolution of symptoms.
Poor primary care coordination affects 1 in 3 patients globally, with the US having the highest rate. The study found that US patients reported similar levels of poor care regardless of insurance status or health conditions.
Researchers found no decline in primary care availability despite the millions of newly insured individuals. Appointment rates and wait times remained stable or increased slightly in some states, supporting the possibility that primary care capacity was sufficient to absorb the new patients.
A study found that family medicine physicians are unprepared to intervene with male patients known to have perpetrated intimate partner violence (IPV). Researchers from Boston University School of Medicine and Public Health conducted interviews with primary care physicians who reported experiences with such cases. The findings highligh...
A study published in Health Affairs found that Medicare Advantage plans are paying more for patients with higher risk scores, despite no evidence of increased illness. The payment method could result in overpayments of $200 billion over the next decade.
The Winter 2016 issue features three original research articles, two review articles, a commentary article, a narrative analysis article, and two China Focus articles addressing sociocultural challenges in engaging black sub-Saharan African communities in HIV prevention programs. Other articles discuss the relationship between mothers'...
This special issue highlights research on child health, maternal health, sedentary lifestyle, and healthcare systems in 22 countries. The studies investigate various topics such as the impact of globalization, cultural influences, and public health challenges.
Researchers discovered that inadequately hydrated obese individuals tend to have a higher BMI, suggesting water intake plays a crucial role in weight management. The study also highlights the importance of staying hydrated for overall health regardless of body mass index.
This study reveals a significant increase in prediabetes prevalence among healthy-weight adults over 18 years, highlighting the need for revised screening recommendations. Additionally, inadequate hydration is linked to higher BMI and obesity rates, suggesting drinking more water could be an effective tool against the obesity epidemic.
Researchers from UNC Lineberger Comprehensive Cancer Center argue that existing treatments are more effective than e-cigarettes in helping people quit smoking. They also highlight concerns about professional ethics and the need for stronger regulatory oversight.
Researchers found that men with localized prostate cancer often underestimate their life expectancy without treatment and overestimate the benefits of surgery or radiation. This can lead to overtreatment, decisional regret, and decreased post-treatment quality of life. A recent study published in the Annals of Family Medicine suggests ...
A special issue of Family Medicine and Community Health explores care, disease management and sociobehavioral interventions in China and Australia. The featured work includes an original research article on the critical importance of sense-making and values-congruent partnerships between GPs and patients following stroke.
A study by Michigan Medicine researchers found that many medical schools fail to comply with the Americans with Disabilities Act, making it difficult for prospective students with disabilities to find information and access accommodations. The researchers call on schools to reexamine their policies and improve compliance.
Research studies examine the viability of small, solo family practices in rural areas, finding they often provide vital care. Large independent primary care groups are also shown to be attractive options for physicians and patients, offering resources and autonomy while reducing costs.
A study found that newly trained family physicians intend to provide a broader range of healthcare services, including prenatal care and inpatient care. The researchers suggest that these differences may be due to limited practice support or employer constraints rather than generational changes.
Researchers tested intensive multifaceted interventions to reduce Potentially Inappropriate Prescribing (PIP) in older patients, finding significant reductions in PIP. A systematic review also found transitional care interventions for congestive heart failure patients reduced readmission and emergency department visits. Additionally, m...
This special issue examines cancer screening, treatment, survivorship, access to care, and global health. Research articles investigate colorectal cancer screening, patient perceptions of stool DNA-based testing, financial barriers to specialty care for uninsured patients, and the role of primary health care in China's reform.
Research reveals that women outnumber men in 7 medical specialties, with the highest representation in pediatrics and obstetrics/gynecology. However, significant disparities remain in black and Hispanic trainee numbers compared to the U.S. population.
A new study from the University of Michigan Health System found that electronic prompts and reminders resulted in significant increases in Tdap vaccine uptake among patients aged 11-64. The system improved vaccine rates by 76% for adults and 85% for adolescents, compared to 59% in similar-aged groups without automated prompts.
A new study suggests that a change in the recommended Pap smear schedule for young women under 25 may have dramatically lowered the chances of getting tested for chlamydia. With the addition of a reminder system, clinic visits led to increased chlamydia screenings among this age group.
Erectile dysfunction is linked to a higher risk of undiagnosed diabetes. Additionally, a study found that ACA Medicaid expansion increased demand for primary care services. Furthermore, sleep apnea may increase the risk of developing panic disorder, while changes in cervical cancer screening guidelines resulted in decreased chlamydia s...
The Macy Foundation has awarded a grant to create a comprehensive curriculum on refugee health education at Georgetown University Medical Center. The curriculum will focus on culturally competent care for patients from around the world, addressing key issues such as cultural practices, risks and conditions affecting refugees.
Patients aged 9-26 are more likely to get HPV vaccinated after receiving reminders via electronic health records during appointments. The study found that these prompts significantly increased vaccination rates, especially among young African-American women.
Research finds that family physicians with a broader scope of practice have patients with 10-15% lower costs and fewer hospitalizations. The study suggests comprehensiveness in family medicine is both measurable and important for bending the cost curve and achieving the nation's Triple Aim.
Carlos Moreno, M.D., M.S.P.H., is recognized for his contributions to family medicine education at UTHealth Medical School. He has been awarded the F. Marian Bishop Leadership Award for his efforts to enhance the credibility of family medicine in academic settings.
A special issue in Academic Medicine explores 'professional identity formation' and its implications for preventing burnout. The issue offers insights into guiding students through the process, which is not always intuitive, and highlights the importance of reflective writing in developing a strong professional identity.
A UCLA study found that 77% of California physicians understand the basics of the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act, with 59% supporting it. The survey also revealed a correlation between doctors' political affiliations and medical specialties.
Boston Medical Center researchers highlight the need for improved funding and support for social and public health programs to address healthcare disparities among young African-American men. Effective interventions beyond medical care are crucial to addressing social determinants of health.
Researchers develop two swallowing techniques to ease pill swallowing in patients with and without difficulties. Continuity of care is associated with reduced mortality, morbidity, and healthcare expenses in patients with chronic conditions.
A new study by the University of Michigan found that one in five men in the US report violence towards their spouses or partners, with warning signs including irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) and insomnia. The study suggests that male aggression can be identified through routine health care visits and could potentially be intervened upon.
The Illinois Medicaid primary care case management program, implemented in 2006, was associated with substantial savings, reductions in inpatient and emergency care, and improvements in quality measures. The programs promoted preventive care, reduced redundancy of services, and improved chronic disease management.
Experts argue that UK family doctors should embrace email services to improve patient access to primary care. However, concerns have been raised about the safety and efficacy of this approach, with some arguing that it may widen health inequalities and delay critical responses.
A new survey of North Carolina doctors reveals concerns over the increasing number of requests to assess patients' competency for concealed weapons permits. Many physicians feel uncertain about their ability to make such assessments, leading to worries about the doctor-patient relationship and potential ethical consequences.
A study by St. Michael's Hospital found that nearly 75% of Ontarians with diabetes did not receive all recommended tests due to doctor payment models. Capitation models led to better care for patients, while traditional fee-for-service models resulted in lower quality care.
Research suggests that improving family doctor access during standard working hours could reduce the demand for out-of-hours primary care services. By offering more appointments during regular surgery hours, this approach might be more effective than extending opening hours.
Researchers found an estimated 9 million people with diabetes and 5.6 million people with coronary artery disease are not receiving statins, highlighting a concerning trend driven by high cholesterol. Statin use is often associated with reduced cardiovascular risk, regardless of cholesterol levels.
A recent study found that a large majority of Albertans, 63%, support mental health screening during pregnancy. The survey also showed that 72.7% of women of child-bearing age favour postpartum screening, which jumped to 88.5% among this demographic.
Research found azithromycin and levofloxacin therapies associated with higher mortality risks compared to amoxicillin. Levofloxacin use also linked to increased serious arrhythmia risk. Only one quarter of primary care patients with mild cognitive impairment progress to dementia within three years, according to study.
A national survey of primary care physicians found they often experience uncertainty in ordering and interpreting clinical laboratory tests, with missing results and confusing report formats being major challenges. Physicians reported that improved electronic decision-support tools and access to lab personnel would help reduce this unc...
Researchers found self-rated health to be a strong predictor of depression risk in patients with recent depressive symptoms. Family physicians can assess self-rated health using a simple question and integrate indirect methods to explore treatment expectations, promoting collaborative relationships and improved antibiotic prescribing.
A University of Michigan Health System study found that prenatal group visits for expectant Japanese women who discussed childbirth and baby care topics with peers felt less anxious and better prepared. The groups allowed women to connect on a personal level, share experiences, and take control of their pregnancy.