Drug overdose deaths fall for sixth straight month Oct. 23, 2018
While annual U.S. drug overdoses have been rising for nearly four decades, Stat reports the number of fatal drug overdoses nationwide has fallen for six consecutive months. Nevertheless, public health experts warn against drawing any firm conclusions from the data. Opioids continue to drive the bulk of overdose deaths, but deaths from cocaine and stimulants are rising.
In a few short weeks, learn to lead with the PAFP Oct. 22, 2018
The PAFP's first-ever Leadership Institute event is right around the corner! On Nov. 2, explore various aspects of leadership, from successful planning to the importance of mentorship. You'll develop more effective communication skills, learn more about the business aspects of family medicine, and become a source of knowledge and inspiration. Join us!
Health insurance often fails to prevent financial ruin Oct. 19, 2018
The most basic function of health insurance is to ensure patients have affordable access to care, but a recent report suggests it fails at this task. The New York Times reports a survey of nearly 1,500 Americans, including some of the country's most seriously ill, has found more than a third of respondents spent all or most of their savings while sick.
Deadline approaching: Apply for a PAFP leadership position! Oct. 18, 2018
The PAFP is currently seeking applicants to serve in various leadership positions, but you only have until Dec, 31, 2018 to apply! PAFP board and committee members develop policy and make decisions that keep the organization at the forefront of the specialty. Apply here to use your individual talents and unique perspective to guide the PAFP into the future!
ABFM to pilot new MOC testing option in 2019 Oct. 17, 2018
The American Board of Family Medicine (ABFM) has announced a pilot program to begin in January 2019 that will assess the value and feasibility of a longitudinal assessment option to the 10-year secure examination. Physicians who are current with continuous certification and are due to take the examination in 2019 would be eligible to participate in the pilot.
Family physicians have huge impact on Pa. economy Oct. 16, 2018
Family physicians provide tremendous economic benefits to Pennsylvania, according to a recent study. The 2018 AMA Economic Impact Study found family medicine contributed $9.4 billion in direct and indirect economic output and generated 57,276 direct and indirect jobs. All Pennsylvania physicians combined accounted for more than 10 percent of the state’s economic output.
PAFP past-president wins AAFP Board seat Oct. 15, 2018
The PAFP is pleased to congratulate Dennis Gingrich, MD of Hershey on his election to the American Academy of Family Physicians (AAFP) Board of Directors! Gingrich, a past-president of the PAFP, pledged during his campaign to bridge the tradition of family medicine with its future, and we have every confidence he will do so on the AAFP Board. Dr. G, you make Pennsylvania proud!
PAFP-supported POLST legislation clears Pa. Senate Oct. 5, 2018
The PAFP, for several years, has been working with the Pennsylvania Medical Society (PAMED) and 26 other health care and advocacy groups on clarifying the legal framework of the Pennsylvania Orders for Life Sustaining Treatment (POLST) directives. Senate Bill 623 (Sen. Yaw – Lycoming) passed the Senate on Oct. 1, 47-1, aided by PAFP advocacy. Please click here for details.
Employee health insurance deductibles rise 4.5% Oct. 4, 2018
Deductibles in for workers in employer health plans continue to rise. CNBC reports a new study by the Kaiser Family Foundation has found the average deductible is up to $1,573 this year, a 4.5 percent increase from 2017. The PAFP is urging the Pennsylvania legislature and Gov. Tom Wolf to pass direct primary care (DPC) legislation to combat this issue; a press release is forthcoming.
In one month ... learn to lead with the PAFP Oct. 3, 2018
Next month, the Pennsylvania Academy of Family Physicians is recommitting itself to fostering the unique skills and talents of its members. The PAFP Leadership Institute provides members with the tools to be influential community leaders and advocates of family medicine. Registry for PAFP Leadership Institute events is separate from other PAFP events - click here to join us!
Happy birthday to PAFP President O'Gurek Oct. 2, 2018
The Pennsylvania Academy of Family Physicians would like to wish a very happy birthday to PAFP President David O'Gurek, MD! Dr. O'Gurek is assistant professor in the Department of Family and Community Medicine at Temple University’s Lewis Katz School of Medicine. We truly appreciate his leadership. Read Dr. O'Gurek's latest Keystone Physician column here!