September 2013


Cutaway computer artwork showing the internal and external structure of an influenza flu virus particle virion The virion consists of RNA ribonucleic acid colored spheres genetic material surr

Keep up with vaccine recommendations

New vaccines and their recommendations have added complexity and made it tough to stay current. For patients, the extra costs can be prohibitive. Learn how to stay abreast of the requirements and engage patients on the issue.

Dismissing patients always a last resort

Stopping the physician-patient relationship can be seen as abandonment if not done properly.

Communication skills vital to cancer conversations

Cancer patients want information, but not in a way that makes them lose hope. Effective shared decision making and risk communication strategies can help.

Diabetes debates defy easy resolution

An ever-changing knowledge base without clear consensus makes diabetes management especially challenging.

How to handle talking politics with patients

While physicians should not inflict their political opinions on patients, how this plays out in the exam room depends on the doctor.

Will U.S. physicians swim or sink in changing health care waters?

Health care reform, pricing transparency and the movement away from fee-for-service payments mean the times are changing for American medicine.

Letters to the Editor

Readers respond with challenges to the need for Maintenance of Certification, debate on the value of accountable care organizations and electronic health records, and a self-reflection on why one reader became a physician.

New vaccines, recommendations can make keeping up a chore

This issue includes stories on vaccination, handling difficult patients, and communicating about cancer care.

CMS considers codes for additional non-face-to-face services

New codes will allow billing for the complicated and far-reaching services that are provided as part of chronic complex care.

Practice Tips: Planning ahead for successful PQRS participation

A new online registration tool may help internists avoid looming penalties by helping them to enroll in the Physician Quality Reporting System.

New hot flash treatment approved, olmesartan label changed

This regulatory update covers approval of the first nonhormonal treatment for hot flashes associated with menopause, a label change for olmesartan causing intestinal problems, and more.

Candidates announced for Board of Governors Chair-elect Designee

Two candidates are seeking election as Chair-elect Designee of the Board of Governors.

Obituary

ACP notes the passing of Robert H. Moser, MD, MACP, a former executive vice president of the College.

MKSAP Quiz: 3-month history of hand pain

A 46-year-old woman is evaluated for a 3-month history of pain and swelling of the hands, dyspnea, and wheezing. She has no other pertinent personal or family medical history. She takes naproxen as needed for pain relief. Following a physical exam and laboratory studies, what is the most appropriate diagnostic test to perform next in this patient?.

Chromosome is where the heart is

ACP Internist's puzzle feature challenges readers to seek answers to clues placed horizontally in rows to reveal an answer written vertically.