PAs and Malpractice Risks: A PA's Perspective
I have heard some physicians use malpractice risks as a reason to not work with PAs. Here's how I respond.
Solving Problems that Arise Due to EHR Use
How can we combat some of the problems that are arising due to EHRs? Here’s my prescription.
Can EHRs Be Secure and Fast?
The EHR at my facility takes three separate login steps to get into the record to document a patient encounter or retrieve information. Is there a better way?
Support for PAs Grows Among Patients, State Regulators
Recent research indicates that PAs can improve the healthcare system, and recent policy changes help ensure that they have the opportunity to do so.
The Inspiring Way One PA Has Made a Big Difference
We are often so overwhelmed with our everyday practice problems that it can be difficult to remember the bigger picture. Here's a reminder.
Survey Reveals Patients' Perspectives on EHRs
We seem to always talk about the EHR from the perspectives of healthcare providers. But what do patients think of EHRs?
As Parents Age, Health Providers Face Unique Challenges
As a PA, I routinely help families cope with illness and debilitation of a loved one, but it is much harder to be objective with your own parent.
The Deep-Rooted Link Between PAs and the Military
The PA profession has evolved significantly since 1967, but the influence of our military brethren and the debt of honor we owe them is not forgotten.
Step 1 in Preparing for Ebola: Remain Calm
I would be lying if I said I would not be scared if confronted with an Ebola patient, but that's all the more reason to actively pitch in and prepare.
Study: PAs Good for Patients, Good for Practices
A new national poll not only validates physician assistant care, but verifies what I've known about my profession for years.
Governors Association Prioritizes PA Training, Education
It is gratifying to see the National Governors Association come to the realization that PAs can help solve patient access problems.
Supervision vs. Collaboration in Physician-PA Teams
Having good practice environments in every state for physician-PA teams is good for our patients and good for physicians.
Important Considerations When Adjusting to EHR Updates
Understanding the bigger picture can help ease the transition when your EHR system is changed or updated.
Five Great Things Physicians Should Know About Physician Assistants
The physician assistant profession is booming due to the unique strengths it brings to the healthcare system and healthcare teams.
Why Pay for Performance is Not a Good Motivator for Physicians, PAs
Quality of patient care is paramount, and I hope that the powers that be really think about realistic solutions to improving it.
New Law Creates New Healthcare Provider: An Assistant Physician
A new Missouri law creates a licensed healthcare provider called an “assistant physician.” What this means for physicians and the healthcare system.
Use of EHRs in Hospital Systems Carries Patient Safety Concerns
While use of an EHR has clear benefits to patients the technology is still in its infancy and can threaten patient safety in certain situations.
New Physician Assistant Definition Reflects Evolving Profession
The scope of practice of new PA graduates today is quite different than it was decades ago.
A Team Approach to Patient Care is Critical During Medical Emergencies
The lessons that I have learned throughout my career as a paramedic and physician assistant have reinforced the value of team-based practice.
Speech Recognition and EHRs: Pros and Cons
Speech recognition software can ease the transition to EHRs, but medical practices must take some important considerations.
Studies Show that Physician Assistants Boost Physician Compensation
The significant value of physician/physician assistant teams is confirmed by a recently published MGMA report.
Determining Appropriate Attire for Physicians, Physician Assistants
Infectious disease experts recently issued guidance on healthcare personnel attire. Here's what they recommended, and why.
Small Things, Like Checklists, Make a Big Difference in Patient Care
Sometimes the simplest ideas are the most powerful change agents in improving the quality and consistency of medicine.
Why Bill O'Reilly Got it Wrong About Physician Assistants
Physicians must join physician assistants (PAs) in addressing misconceptions and misinformation about the PA profession.
Preparing for EHR Implementation Challenges, Benefits
Medical practices and hospitals must support their aging healthcare providers who may face the biggest challenges during EHR implementations.
Four Burn Prevention Tips for Practices to Share with Patients
Physicians, physician assistants, and other healthcare professionals have a unique opportunity to help prevent burn injuries.
VA Modernizes the Way Physician Assistants Practice in Four Ways
A recent directive from the Department of Veterans Affairs enhances PA autonomy while strengthening team and collaborative practice.
Flu Vaccines for Healthcare Providers the Right Thing to Do
Despite the controversy, it is important for all healthcare providers to get their own flu shot to control the epidemic and aid patients.
AAFP Statement 'Undermines' the Foundation of Team-Based Care
Physicians have a vast amount of knowledge and training, but there is no need to create fences between members of healthcare teams to demonstrate this point.
Don't Omit Physician Assistants When Planning Healthcare's Future
In looking at reforming healthcare, we need to increase the productivity of all members of the care team, including physician assistants.