28 more Pennsylvanians die from flu Feb. 22, 2018
The Pennsylvania Department of Health reports 28 more Pennsylvanians died last week from the flu or complications of the virus. According to the Morning Call, that brings this flu season's death toll to 135 statewide. More than 3,000 Americans have died from the flu or flu-related complications since the flu season began in October; 19,000 Americans have been hospitalized.
Prior authorizations delay care 98 percent of time: study Feb. 21, 2018
A survey of PAFP members has found that prior authorizations delay patient care nearly 98 percent of the time. "Along with many other barriers to the patient-physician relationship, prior authorization requirements by health insurers have become overly burdensome" and often jeopardize patient care, said PAFP President Edward Zurad, MD. Click here for the full press release.
Demand outpaces supply for medical marijuana in Pa. Feb. 20, 2018
There is an early shortage of medical marijuana products in Pennsylvania, reports the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette. The Pittsburgh area, which has one cultivation facility and two dispensaries, is feeling the pressure of high demand. Six dispensaries opened in the state last week to dispense the products; Philly.com explains which products are available, including oils and resins.
View PAFP leadership nominees online Feb. 14, 2018
At the PAFP's Annual Business Meeting, Friday, March 2, PAFP members will be voting on a new slate of leaders. Each candidate has submitted a biography and a short answer to the question, "How will your skills and experience make the PAFP a stronger partner for all members?" Click here for a list of nominees, the position they're running for, their biography, and question response.
Flu virus continues to spread throughout U.S., Pa. Feb. 13, 2018
The 2017-18 influenza season continues to be one of the worst on record. The Pennsylvania Department of Health updates its flu statistics weekly and reports that flu activity remains widespread throughout the state. Please remember to urge your patients to get the flu shot, and to stay home from work or school if they have flu-like symptoms!
Pa. seeking more doctors for medical marijuana program Feb. 12, 2018
At this time, 355 Pennsylvania doctors are approved to certify patients for Pennsylvania's medical marijuana program. According to TribLive, roughly 300 more are registered to undergo a four-hour training course that would certify them to recommend the treatment. Last month, Physician General Rachel Levine called for additional doctors to register for the program.
Congratulations to 2018 Family Physician of the Year Michael Gaudiose, MD Feb. 9, 2018
The Pennsylvania Academy of Family Physicians is pleased to announce the winner of its 2018 Family Physician of the Year award, Michael Gaudiose, MD of Chambersburg, Franklin County! Gaudiose practices at Dunham Army Health Clinic at the U.S. Army War College in Carslisle, Cumberland County. Click here to read more about Dr. Gaudiose and his history of practicing family medicine!
Excela Health Latrobe wins ACGME award
Feb. 6, 2018
The PAFP congratulates Excela Health Latrobe for winning the ACGME and Arnold P. Gold Foundation Dewitt C. Baldwin, Jr. Award, which recognizes exceptional residency and fellowship programs. We visited Excela Health Latrobe in our Summer-Fall 2015 issue of Keystone Physician - click here to read the story.
Americans fear medical bills as much as health issues
Feb. 5, 2017
More than half of Americans believe that getting a medical bill they can't afford is just as bad as getting a serious illness. According to The Motley Fool, a new report shows 53 percent fear the price as much as the health care issue itself; in fact, one in 10 Americans says a high bill is worse than getting a grave disease.
Urge the Pa. Senate to support DPC Feb. 4, 2017
Pa. House Bill 1739 and Senate Bill 926 would improve access to direct primary care (DPC) by recognizing, protecting, and defining these arrangements as outside the scope of state insurance regulations, allowing patients and physicians to contract for care. Click here to use the AAFP's Speak Out tool and take action!