Educational debt is an intriguing concept; borrowing money to pay for education now that will benefit one later when their degree is earned. In essence, future earnings will compensate for the necessary debt required to achieve that degree and, consequently, those earnings. Unfortunately, the debt load of those graduating from medical schools (well into the six-digit range) is… Read More »
In the past, those who had a transient episode of cerebral ischemia, marked by symptoms that resolved quickly, were informed they had a Transient Ischemic Attack (TIA). Over time, this was translated by the lay population as a “mini-stroke” or “almost a stroke.” And, consequently, these events became minimized as they were deemed “not that bad.” Unfortunately, recent… Read More »
Pharmaceutical costs continue to rise and are increasingly becoming a significant portion of medical spending for care. There have been many attempts to stem this ever-increasing portion of the total cost of care including, increased generic utilization, value-based incentive models, and the use of drug step therapy protocols. Specifically, this latter model requires the administration of specific agents… Read More »
Closing down the country for a year has had consequences on many different areas that may have not initially come to mind. Therefore, in times of crisis, significant learnings may arise if we are open to them and do not revert to previous behaviors and actions. The impact on the residency application process and the final year of… Read More »
As the healthcare industry continues to focus on value (improved quality and service, and decreased cost), understanding the human dynamics of physician healthcare providers will enhance our ability to drive change. Incentives are foundational, however, money is not always the primary motivator. Behavioral Science postulates that different people respond differently to similar incentives. We know there is a… Read More »
During this pandemic, I am blessed to have a son finishing his senior year of college from our home. Candidly, it was fascinating to observe the dynamics of the educational process through a digital platform. It became apparent, rather quickly, that some, but not all professors excelled utilizing the online platforms; and some struggled to hold their student’s… Read More »
Not too long ago, I recall my hospital patients repetitively inquiring, “When can I go home?” Frequently, my response was, “Not a day longer than you need to be here, nor a day shorter.” I was not trying to be audacious, but as many know, an exact time frame was not always possible since a person’s illness, and… Read More »
If one delves back in history, the fundamental component of medical education is focused on holistic care, meaning, caring for those we serve within the context of body, mind, and spirit. In more recent times, the focus has moved to diagnosing and treating the physiologic condition. However, studies have shown a person’s environment, behavior and lifestyle have a… Read More »