June 2020


Women who are told that they have a high concentration of dense breast tissue do not necessarily have an increased understanding of the clinical implications Image by andresr

Making more sense of breast density

Internists are constantly pressed for time during visits, so when discussing breast density, a couple of quick talking points can help alleviate anxiety.

Raising vaccine rates requires some selling

Physicians and others in their practice can boost their odds of vaccination success by the way they frame conversations with patients.

Getting to the new normal

A new way of conducting office visits in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic seems frightening at first, but the precautions taken instill in patients confidence that they are safe visiting their doctor.

When will it be safe to resume economic and social activities?

ACP's guidance on easing social distancing suggests that “Is it time to reopen the economy?” is the wrong question to ask.

ADHD more than a ‘condition of childhood’

Untreated adult patients with attention deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) have a higher rate of consequences that may result in underachievement. Proper detection can give internists a way to improve their patients' quality of life.

Get comfortable with pain assessment

There are many methods for evaluating pain in the primary care setting, many of which can be completed by patients in the waiting room and have diagnostic value during the clinical encounter.

Treating skin ulcers in the office

In addition to five principles of wound care, an expert addresses pearls that can aid with all types of skin healing and antimicrobial efforts.

COVID-19 vaccine development must balance speed, safety

Multiple methods and numerous trials are underway in an attempt to develop a vaccine to end the COVID-19 pandemic.

Testing offers hope, no panacea for COVID-19 control

A Q&A offers expert advice on the latest information about testing for COVID-19 from Elisa I. Choi, MD, FACP, Governor for ACP's Massachusetts Chapter and a fellow of the Infectious Diseases Society of America.

Ranitidine pulled from market; COVID-19 updates

This column reviews details on recent recalls, warnings, and approvals.

Latest updates on ACP's priorities, initiatives

ACP Spotlight offers readers a look at ACP's current top priorities and initiatives, as well as highlights from our e-newsletter, ACP Internist Weekly.

MKSAP Quiz: 2-day history of painful rash

A 22-year-old man is evaluated in the emergency department for a 2-day history of painful rash on the left side of his posterior chest. Medical history is unremarkable, and he takes no medications. Following a physical exam, what is the most appropriate test to perform next?

Following up on breast density

This issue also covers vaccination practices and resources for managing the COVID-19 pandemic.