By Barbara Ficarra, RN, BSN, MPA

From Kevin Pho’s medical blog, KevinMD, a post archived from 2004, Pho talks about the struggles of communication between doctor and patient during the 15 minute office visit.

Pho sites a NY Times article that explains that more than two decades ago, research shows that patients were interrupted 18 seconds into explaining their problem (on average) and less than 2 percent got to finish their explanations.

Pho sites that he sometimes falls into the “interruption trap.” “I think this is a natural progression to our managed care environment. Physicians are compensated by quantity of patients seen, and are kept to a strict schedule – in most cases every 15-minutes.”

Communication, collaboration and respect

After 20 years, not much has changed with the doctor-patient relationship. Doctors and patients still struggle with communication.

Even after 40 years, patients want collaboration and respect.

How Patients Can Help Enhance Communication with Their Doctors

• It is helpful to be prepared and to be empowered. Before you visit with your doctor, write down any questions that you may have. Be well prepared and organized.  Keep your questions very specific.  At the beginning of your visit, let your doctor know that you do have a list of very specific questions that you would like to ask.  By mentioning this in the beginning of the visit, your doctor is now aware that you have questions.  You are giving your doctor a “heads up” so that your doctor can accommodate your questions.
• Bring a trusted friend or family member with you. They can help decipher the information and take notes during the visit.  You can also ask your doctor if it is okay to record the conversation.  This will make it easier for you to have all the necessary information.
• Communicate and collaborate respectfully with your doctor. Present your questions in a clear and succinct manner.  If your doctor interrupts you, or if you feel you are being rushed and you did not get time to ask your questions, calmly and politely let your doctor know that you have specific questions that you would like answered before the office visit ends.
• Listen carefully what your doctor is saying. If you don’t understand something, simply and politely ask your doctor to explain it in simpler terms and if it will help you to remember, take some notes.
• Before leaving the office, make sure you are absolutely clear about all the information you received. It is important that you understand any instructions and the treatment plan given to you.  If any medications are prescribed make sure you understand them exactly.

The doctor/patient relationship is very important

It is imperative that you trust your doctor that you feel comfortable.  Trust, partnership and communication are vital for a vibrant doctor/patient relationship and good patient outcomes.

Your turn

What has been your experience with your visit with your doctor?  Do you feel rushed?  Do you get all your questions answered?  Do you write your questions beforehand?  Do you take notes?  Share your experiences with us, we would love to hear from you.

Similar Posts

Make the Most of the 15 Minute Office Visit with Your Doctor

After 40 Years, Patients Still Crave Attention and Respect

How to be an Empowered Health Consumer

How to Engage Your E-Patients Like a Rock Star

How to Question Doctors and Nurses — Without “Challenging” Them

Patient Engagement Category

By Barbara Ficarra, RN, BSN, MPA

In a recent post I wrote about the unfortunate disbandment of NAMC and provided information about the Association of Health Care Journalists (AHCJ) as a possible alternative for former members to continue in health journalism.

“NAMC folds, qualified members invited to AHCJ” by Pia Christensen, AHCJ member writes about the disbandment and the new membership guidelines that could offer former members the possibility for professional or associate membership.

Additionally, for those health and medical professionals who write and broadcast health news and were not a member of NAMC, the AHCJ may be a good opportunity for you to become involved with a stellar organization.

Take a look and find out if you quality under the new AHCJ membership guidelines.

By Barbara Ficarra, RN, BSN, MPA

First, I’d like to say with a very heavy heart how saddened I am by the news of the disbandment of NAMC…

The National Association of Medical Communicators (NAMC) closes its doors after more than two decades of inspiring health professionals to accurately communicate health and medical information to the public.

NAMC has been spearheading its members in broadcast journalism, but succumbs to the pressures to stay vibrant and says farewell.

Amid cutbacks from pharmaceutical sponsors and the changing landscape of broadcast journalism, NAMC shuts its doors, but new opportunities await for former members.

Bruce Bonanno, MD

President of NAMC Bruce Bonanno, MD has this to say in his message to the members,

“This was supposed to be a farewell message ending my term as president, but now is a much bigger farewell as NAMC is coming to an end as an organization.

I am deeply sorry to have to inform the membership that the board of directors has voted to bring to an end the NAMC organization.

This decision was not taken lightly and everything that could be done to keep this organization viable was done.  This is not a sudden development. The financial viability of the organization has been an issue for about 6 years.  It was severely damaged by the change in the pharmaceutical guidelines for sponsorship several years ago, as was the MCC conference to which NAMC was closely aligned…”

Founding member

Bill Crounse, MD

I asked founding member Bill Crounse, MD, Senior Director, Worldwide Health of Microsoft Corporation and Executive Producer, Health Tech Today, in an email how he feels about NAMC disbanding and how media changed over the years.

I asked him if he feels that the changing landscape of health communication, with social media taking center stage has contributed in part to the demise of NAMC.

Bill Crounse, MD replied,

“As one of the founders I am sad to see NAMC shut its doors.  But as you allude to, the “broadcasting” industry has changed a great deal since NAMC was founded.

There was a time when people depended on television and radio to get needed information about health not supplied by their own healthcare professional.

Those of us who worked during those years, truly enjoyed the “golden” age of broadcasting.  When I delivered my health reports on our network affiliates in Seattle or on ABC News and Lifetime Medical Television, people didn’t have the abundance of choice they have today with the Internet and social media.  Getting information about health is pretty easy these days.  Basically, the motivated patient has all of the scientific literature at his or her fingertips and the ability to tap into the collective wisdom of health professionals and fellow patients around the globe.

Having said that; there is still a need for knowledgeable professionals to share their expertise–only the “channels” have changed.  Although I no longer do work on television, I reach thousands of “viewers” through my blog and on-line video programming.  In many ways, my library of content is more accessible today than in the past.  What I publish now is available (and searchable) almost forever vs. the television spot of the past that was viewed once and then forever lost in the ether of the airwaves.

So, perhaps it was time for the chapter to close on NAMC and for something else to emerge that will guide a new generation of health professionals and journalists on ways to share their knowledge with others.  In my day, only the privileged few were granted access to the airwaves.  Today, anyone with a laptop (or Smartphone) and a connection to the Net, can share his or her wisdom with the world.  So I don’t think we should shed tears for NAMC, but perhaps celebrate the amazing technologies that have emerge that are now making it possible for anyone to connect with people around the world.”

As a board member of NAMC, the decision to say good-bye was not an easy one.  While the majority of the board voted to close its doors, I couldn’t walk away with trying to find a home for its members.  NAMC and the American Medical Association (AMA) which ran the medical communications conferences for many years will always have a special place in my heart.

And, Dr. Crounse eloquently spoke his final words for NAMC, is right, we shouldn’t shed tears for NAMC, but celebrate amazing technologies that emerge to make it possible for people to connect around the world.

We now say farewell to NAMC, and yes, its doors are closed, but like Dr. Crounse says, something else will emerge and guide a new generation of health professionals and journalists to share knowledge with others.

And yes, something else has emerged to guide health professionals in health journalism.   Now, the Association of Health Care Journalists (AHCJ) opens its doors to former members of NAMC.
—

Association of Health Care Journalists (AHCJ) Opens its Doors to Former Members of NAMC

Despite the National Association of Medical Communicators closing its doors after a long stint, the Association of Health Care Journalists welcomes new former NAMC members to continue their quest in health communications.

Here’s my letter to the past and present members of NAMC offering them the possibility to continue their quest in health communications:

Dear NAMC friends,

First, I’d like to say with a very heavy heart how saddened I am by the news of the disbandment of NAMC.  As a board member, I can truly say that I did not favor disbanding an organization that has been in existence for many years with amazing people surrounding it.

I’ll never forget my very first medical communications conference in Washington, D.C., and the NAMC members that I met. The support I have received over the years from NAMC members has been heartwarming. Thank you.

There are too many wonderful people to name.  I can’t tell you how much it has meant to me to have had your support. You are truly an amazing group of professionals and I wish you all the best.

Secondly, I would love to continue to collaborate and share ideas.

As I happen to also be a member of the Association of Health Care Journalists, I spoke with Len Bruzzese, AHCJ’s executive director. Many of you are already familiar with the organization, which works to constantly improve the accuracy and quality of health reporting to the public. AHCJ has a website with great resources, a blog showing some of the latest health coverage, conferences and workshops with top speakers and a listserv where its 1,000-plus members help
each other on a daily basis.

Len pointed out that recent changes to AHCJ’s membership guidelines could allow more former NAMC members – particularly health professionals who also report – to join AHCJ. He said if there are a sufficient number, the AHCJ annual conference could include more sessions of specific interest to us.

I hope you will take a look at what AHCJ has to offer at Healthjournalism.org.

Thank you all for your time.  If you have any questions, please don’t hesitate to contact me , and Len is willing to take questions about AHCJ as well.

Membership guidelines can be found here.

Addendum

I would be remiss if I didn’t mention the kindness extended by Gary Schwitzer, publisher at HealthNewsReview.org and AHCJ member.  I initially contacted Gary to inquire if there was something that could be done to find a place for the former members of NAMC.  He was kind to connect me with Len Bruzzese, executive director of AHCJ.

I am a huge fan of Gary’s and he has offered his expertise here.  I thank him for his kindness.  Gary’s HealthNewsReview blog can be found here.

Update from ACHJ

For more information, please read “NAMC folds, qualified members invited to AHCJ” by Pia Christensen, ACHJ member.

—

The 2009/2010 Board of NAMC bids farewell and wishes former NAMC members all the best in their quest for health communications.

President Bruce Bonanno, MD

Vice President Maria Simbra, MD

Secretary/Treasurer Doug Farrago, MD

Immediate Past President Sandy Gordon Director, Public Relations AAOS

Member at Large Barbara Ficarra, RN, BSN, MPA

Member at Large Stuart Gitlow, MD, MPH, MBA

Member at Large James Keany MD

Member at Large Teresa Knight, MD

By Barbara Ficarra, RN, BSN, MPA

Latest egg recall update

Health officials urge consumers to throw away contaminated eggs or return them to the retailer.

Salmonella, the name of a group of bacteria, is the most common cause of food poisoning in the United States. Usually, symptoms last 4-7 days and most people get better without treatment. But, salmonella can be more serious in older adults, infants, and persons with chronic illnesses. [Source]

Wright County Egg conducted a nationwide voluntary recall of shell eggs on August 13, 2010.   The eggs were packaged under 13 different brand names and distributed nationwide, and on August 20, 2010 the recall was expanded.

According to a press release on the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) website, eggs affected by the latest recall as of August 20, 2010, are distributed under the following brand names: Hillandale Farms, Sunny Farms, and Sunny Meadow in 6-egg cartons, dozen-egg cartons, 18-egg cartons, 30-egg package, and 5-dozen cases. Loose eggs are packaged under the following brand names: Wholesome Farms and West Creek in 15 and 30-dozen tray packs. The loose eggs may also be repackaged by customers.

The recall affecting eggs shipped since May 16, 2010 were sent to food wholesalers, distribution centers and foodservice companies in California, Illinois, Missouri, Colorado, Nebraska, Minnesota, Wisconsin, Arizona, Texas, Georgia, Washington, Oregon, Nevada, Utah, Arkansas, Oklahoma and Iowa.

Recalled Eggs by Brand, Plant Number and Julian Dates

The FDA displays an organized list of recalled eggs with its Brand, Plant Number and Julian dates listed.

List of Recalled Eggs

Recalled Eggs by Brand

• Albertson
• Bayview
• Boomsma’s
• Country Eggs
• Dutch Farms
• Farm Fresh
• Glenview
• Hillandale
• James Farms
• Kemps
• Lucerne
• Lund
• Mountain Dairy
• Nulaid
• Pacific Coast
• Ralph’s
• Shoreland
• Sunny Farms
• Sunny Meadows
• Sunshine
• Sun Valley
• Trafficanda

Reading the Egg Carton

The plant number begins with the letter P, followed by the Julian date.

According the FDA website, “Dates and codes can be found stamped on the end of the egg carton. The plant number begins with the letter “P”, followed by a number (P-1946 in the example below). The Julian date follows the plant number (223 in the example).”

In this photo, the Julian date comes before the plant number.

Please note: There are cartons (as seen in the photo at left) where the Julian number is first, followed by the plant number.

The Egg Safety Center website and the FDA website points out that, “It is important to note that both the plant number and Julian date must match.  If the Julian date does not match the affected plant number than your eggs are not involved in the recall.”

What do Consumers Need to Do to Stay Safe?

Don’t eat recalled eggs. Consumers who have recalled eggs should discard them or return them to their retailer for a refund. Individuals who think they might have become ill from eating recalled eggs should consult their health care providers. If consumers are unsure about the source of their eggs, they are urged not to eat them and to discard them immediately.

While it’s recommended by health officials to throw out or return contaminated eggs to the retailer, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) offers smart and sage advice for information to reduce your risk of a Salmonella Enteritidis infection.

• Keep eggs refrigerated at ≤ 45° F (≤7° C) at all times.
• Discard cracked or dirty eggs.
• Wash hands, cooking utensils, and food preparation surfaces with soap and water after contact with raw eggs.
• Eggs should be cooked until both the white and the yolk are firm and eaten promptly after cooking.
• Do not keep eggs warm or at room temperature for more than 2 hours.
• Refrigerate unused or leftover egg-containing foods promptly.
• Avoid eating raw eggs.
• Avoid restaurant dishes made with raw or undercooked, unpasteurized eggs. Restaurants should use pasteurized eggs in any recipe (such as Hollandaise sauce or Caesar salad dressing) that calls for raw eggs.
• Consumption of raw or undercooked eggs should be avoided, especially by young children, elderly persons, and persons with weakened immune systems or debilitating illness.

Side Note

It’s important to remember that eggs, like meat, poultry, milk, and other foods, are safe when handled properly.  Proper hand washing is important before preparing food and after handling uncooked meat, poultry and eggs. Shell eggs are safest when stored in the refrigerator, individually and thoroughly cooked, and promptly consumed.

Remember to Check Your Egg Carton

If your eggs are recalled they are not safe.  Check the brand of eggs, the plant number and Julian date.  If your eggs are recalled, throw them out or return them to the retailer.

Additional hand washing information

Guess What You Can Do in 15 to 20 Seconds to Keep You Healthy?
Wash Your Hands With Elmo: Stay Healthy, Wash Your Hands!

Sources:

FDA

CDC

FoodSafety.org

Egg Safety Center

Egg Food Safety Frequently Asked Questions

Contact Info:
FDA –
Consumer Inquiries: 888-INFO-FDA
CDC –
800-CDC-INFO
(800-232-4636)
TTY: (888) 232-6348
24 Hours/Every Day

Health 2.0 Fall Agenda Announced, Oct 7-8

Guest Post by Matthew Holt

This week we’ve announced the line up (or the first chunk of it) for the 4th annual Health 2.0 Conference in San Francisco Oct 7-8. The conference is the climax of  Health Innovation Week — a week long series of conferences, meetings, and events highlighting innovation in health care information technology.

Health 2.0 will focus on Search & Content, Communities, the Data Utility Layer, Tools and Unplatforms, case studies of Health 2.0-enhanced delivery reform, and the wider (and unmentionable) context for behavior change. There’s also going to be a whole session with some of the biggest names in technology investing (Brian Roberts from Venrock, Esther Dyson, Mitch Kapor, Lisa Suennen from Psilos, Don Casey from West Wireless Health Institute) discussing new models, and the climax of the Health 2.0 Developer Challenge with Federal CTO Aneesh Chopra and HHS CTO Todd Park handing out the prizes!

You want great keynotes? How about Godfather of Web 2.0 Tim O’Reilly and leading health care futurist Jeff Goldsmith back to back and talking to each other! You want the latest technology demos? We’ll have around 80 handpicked companies showing you the best most innovative technology in our rapid-fire 4 minute format? And tons more in the Exhibit Hall, and the best brand new companies on Launch!

You want to see some incredible new sites and services? At least two major (as in big and very well funded) new Health 2.0 initiatives will be introduced at Health 2.0 but you’ll have to wait a bit for those details.

And then you’ll hear the latest in technology and commentary from the CEOs and senior leaders of Everyday Health, Healthline, HealthCentral, PatientsLikeMe, ACOR, Microsoft, WebMD, Google, Kosmix/RightHealth, Kaiser Permanente and many, many more,  The Health 2.0 Accelerator members will show the latest iteration of their incredible work on modular applications for consumer health. Resilient Network Systems will show you how a coalition of partners are moving health data over the Web in whole new ways. And we’ll have the latest in consumer Wellness 2.0, Health 2.0 in the Doctor’s Office, Health 2.0 Around the World and much much more.

There’s only one place to be this Fall. For more information and to sign up see the Health2Con site. And we’ll be announcing many more speakers and sessions in the coming weeks. Stay tuned!

—
Matthew Holt is founder and publisher of TheHealthCareBlog (THCB)  and co-founder of Health 2.0.