Derms using social media must remember to be prompt, professional
Experts say a few clear rules will help physicians effectively engage patients via social media. They
advise making a plan and writing a policy that delineates privacy and other requirements. Avoid postings that sound
like sales pitches, and don't "friend" your patients.
Adding cosmetic procedures can insulate derm practice against sluggish economy
Although setting up a cosmetic practice requires commitment and creativity, such practices can help
insulate dermatologists against the impact of a sluggish economy, an expert says.
Informed consent ensures patients understand risks, benefits of permanent fillers
Clinicians who are using permanent fillers in their practice should take a more exhaustive approach to
the informed consent process with their patients, according to a member of the Ontario council for the Canadian
Medical Protective Association.
Can dermatologists sue to obtain methods for physicians' online rankings?
Two years ago, Dr. Reputation noticed a slowdown in his practice, which he attributed to the poor
national economy. Recently, however, other dermatologists have reported an upturn in their schedules. One day, a
loyal patient tells Dr. Reputation that a popular physician grade website gives Dr. Reputation a failing grade. Can
Dr. Reputation sue to find out the methods used by the website?
Implementation of Red Flags Rule delayed until appeals court rules on lawsuit
Implementation of the Red Flags Rule by the Federal Trade Commission (FTC), which would require
doctors and other businesses to take specific steps to minimize identity theft, has been delayed until a federal
appeals court rules on a lawsuit by the American Bar Association (ABA).
Physician's most important service may be lending patients an eager ear
One of the most difficult lessons that I have had to learn since entering private practice four years
ago is that patients want to have their say. In fact, sometimes this is the main reason for the office visit. If we
do not understand the full motivation of the person seeking our care, we may fail that patient in a very profound
way.
Electronic media offer new channels for savvy derms to connect with patients
Although many dermatologists have not yet embraced social media — such as the wildly
popular Facebook — for their practices, others are finding that these tools can provide a targeted,
cost-efficient and increasingly useful channel for connecting with patients, experts say.
Final rules for EHR incentive program allows some exceptions
Dermatologists may be able to breathe a sigh of relief over the final rules for the government's
electronic health record (EHR) incentive program released July 13 — but only a small sigh. Although
the rules are hardly light reading, understanding them and putting them into operation is essential to successful
participation in the government's bonus payment program for EHRs.
Dermatology physician assistants' ranks, responsibilities grow
Mid-level caregivers are taking on an ever-larger role in dermatologic care. According to professional
organizations, about 11,500 board-certified dermatologists practice in the United States. In addition, there are
about 3,000 dermatology physician assistants and 1,650 nurse practitioners working in dermatology offices
— or the equivalent of about one mid-level dermatologic caregiver for every 2.5
dermatologists.
Underinsured Children More Prevalent Than Uninsured
In the United States, there are more underinsured children than uninsured children, and both groups
have suboptimal health care quality and access, according to research published in the Aug. 26 issue of the New
England Journal of Medicine.