The August issue of ACP Hospitalist is online

The August issue of ACP Hospitalist is online and includes stories about the following:

• Patient-centered care: Not just a catchphrase. The Joint Commission began including patient-centered standards in accreditation decisions in July. The benefits of such care include, of course, gains in patient satisfaction, but research also suggests it can reduce readmissions. But what, exactly, does patient-centeredness mean in practice? This cover story looks at the concrete steps hospitals and hospitalists can take to ensure care is focused on the desires and best interests of patients and their families.
• Afib initiative strives to close a quality gap. The connection between atrial fibrillation and stroke is often overlooked, but hospitalists should be aware that having one condition is good reason to check for the other. Our MKSAP Quiz also focuses on atrial fibrillation.
• Present like a pro. It's not covered in medical school, but the ability to give a good presentation can make or break a career. Public speaking guru Scott Litin, MD, MACP, offers tips on how to wow the crowd, whether at a national meeting or in the halls of the hospital during rounds.