February 2013
Searching for signs of eating disorders
Internists are often the first clinicians to see signs of an eating disorder, with the rapid or extreme changes in weight apparent both in person and from the history recorded in a patient's chart. But primary care clinicians may sometimes be afraid to ask about it because they are unsure how to handle what they might learn.
Don't give up on patient self-management
Time-pressed physicians are adopting a team approach as they grapple with how to help their patients improve their health. Referred to as “patient self-management,” the sometimes time-consuming process can be handled directly or through trained coaches.
Internists play primary role in detecting skin cancer
While it isn't recommended that primary care physicians perform whole-body skin exams for skin cancer, they can and should be alert for skin lesions with malignant features. An easy acronym and other tips and tricks can make the difference.
Heparin labeling changed, non-egg flu vaccine approved
This regulatory update covers changed labeling for heparin and approval of a flu vaccine produced using cultured animal cells.
College continues to evolve to meet its members' needs
The American College of Physicians has changed its governance structure to streamline itself, meet current and future needs of members, and define a strategic plan that positions itself for future successes.
Tallying the fiscal cliff's winners and losers in health care
Congress avoided big tax increases and across-the-board spending cuts##mdash;barely. ACP examines who won and who lost in health care.
How to spot eating disorders in primary care
Learn how doctors can best spot conditions such as anorexia or binge eating, and talk to patients about their eating disorders.
Review Medicare incentive and penalty programs for 2013
Many Medicare programs offer incentives for e-prescribing or quality reporting, or have penalties for failing to comply. Review the many ups and downs of the many programs in place.
What practices need to know about transition care management codes
Two new codes allow for reimbursement for non-face-to-face care when patients transition from an acute care setting back to the community. Learn the fine print of how to properly use these codes.
College Master finds satisfaction in focusing on others
An academic internist describes in her own words her reasons for becoming an internist, and what she'd do if she hadn't become one in the first place.
ACP launches operations in India
The American College of Physicians begins educational programs in India, consisting of guest lectures, training workshops and conferences.
Obituaries
ACP recognizes the passing of S. William Ross, MD, FACP, Arkansas's first hematologist and also a rheumatologist, oncologist and clinical pathologist, who died on Dec. 3, 2012, at the age of 90, and Carlos Moros Ghersi, MD, MACP, former governor for ACP's Venezuela Chapter, who died on Jan. 9, 2013, at the age of 78.
MKSAP Quiz: 2-year history of chest pain
A 35-year-old man is evaluated for a 2-year history of intermittent chest pain that is retrosternal, lasts for seconds to minutes, is unrelated to exertion, and does not radiate. It is occasionally associated with swallowing. Upper endoscopy is normal and a barium swallow is shown. What is the most likely diagnosis?.