ACP Internist: Current Contents

Rethinking the value of the annual exam

Fri, 15 Jan 2010 08:00:00 EST

Patients expect it and internists won't let it go. But does the evidence support the need for the periodic health exam? Data say routine lab tests are of little or no use, but experts weigh in on the value of regularly seeing patients for preventive screening.

Expert explains thyroid diagnosis, treatment and common red flags

Fri, 15 Jan 2010 08:00:00 EST

The estimate that 25 million people have thyroid problems would double if the normal range for thyroid-stimulating hormone was adjusted, as some medical societies suggest. In this Web-only feature, Victor Bernet, FACP, the author of MKSAP 15's chapter on disorders of the thyroid gland, offers his insights into management.

Influenza featured at infectious disease meeting

Fri, 15 Jan 2010 08:00:00 EST

A digest of information on seasonal and H1N1 influenza, mandatory vaccines for health care workers, and new rapid diagnostic tests for the flu from the Infectious Diseases Society of America's meeting.

Clinicians crucial to avoiding coding errors

Fri, 15 Jan 2010 08:00:00 EST

Beware believing that coding isn't an important part of an internist's job. What gets overlooked could cost a significant amount if errors go unchecked, especially in the era of Recovery Audit Contractors.

Get time on your side: expert tips to eliminate waiting

Fri, 15 Jan 2010 08:00:00 EST

Resolve to solve the waiting-room back-ups. Find out where the practice falls behind and implement solutions, including time studies, prior preparation and using medical assistants to their highest level of practice.

Ketorolac, Liposyn recalled for particulate contamination

Fri, 15 Jan 2010 08:00:00 EST

A summary of approvals, recalls, warnings and alerts digested by ACP Internist from the Food and Drug Administration's alerts.

What to do when one expects everything to fit, but it doesn't

Fri, 15 Jan 2010 08:00:00 EST

James Hennessey, FACP, reports on a young woman's elevated testosterone level, and how he made a diagnosis even though the lab results and imaging conflicted. Our diagnostic experts consider confirmation bias and how this internist sidestepped being misled.

A better Board of Regents for a better health care system

Fri, 15 Jan 2010 08:00:00 EST

ACP's Board of Regents will reorganize to meet the future needs of the organization.

Political perils of cost control complicate health care reform

Fri, 15 Jan 2010 08:00:00 EST

Even if health reform passes, the problem of rising costs will not go away. And politicians cannot confront the fundamental issue that Americans can't have all the health care they want.

Beyond the annual physical

Fri, 15 Jan 2010 08:00:00 EST

It's a new year, and promises to be an exciting one in health care. But concepts such as bundled payments, comparative effectiveness and the patient-centered medical home seem certain to remain center stage.

CMS dramatically changes CPT consultation billing for 2010

Fri, 15 Jan 2010 08:00:00 EST

CMS no longer recognizes CPT consultation codes 99241-99255 for consultations. ACP's practice management staff explain how to bill for outpatient and inpatient visit codes.

Chapters honor Members, Fellows and Masters

Fri, 15 Jan 2010 08:00:00 EST

In recognition of their outstanding service, these exceptional individuals received chapter awards in November and December 2010.