Rural areas face numerous challenges that are being amplified by the COVID-19 pandemic. In rural America, we have older populations, a larger percentage of minorities, higher rates of comorbidities, more economic disadvantages, and fewer and less sophisticated medical facilities. West Alabama, where I practice, and East Mississippi are at the center of the stroke belt and … [Read more...] about Could Rural Medicine’s Approach to COVID-19 Solve Long-Standing Disparities in American Healthcare?
Leading the Team
Leaders Get the Best from Their Employees
The Clipboard My father was an engineer who designed power plants. His first day of work was an education— one that applies to many fields. We must learn the core features of our business, but why not borrow from things that have worked elsewhere. On my Dad's first day in 1958, he arrived at the power plant in a suit and tie. The plant director didn’t even look up when he … [Read more...] about Leaders Get the Best from Their Employees
Managing Patients and Your Medical Practice During COVID-19
Coping with COVID-19 Life always seems to come at us fast. With the coronavirus pandemic, changes are occurring on a minute-by-minute basis. If we are not able to adapt, we will get left behind. Or worse. Managing patients and your medical practice during COVID-19 has been enormously challenging for everyone. Our patients look to us not only for their health care. They … [Read more...] about Managing Patients and Your Medical Practice During COVID-19
Luck Isn’t a Business Plan
Luck Luck isn’t a business plan. Yet vital aspects of business are left to chance on a daily basis. This is sheer madness. Leaving the business plan to chance occurs in all fields, but seems to happen especially often medicine. This is most obvious when a new procedure becomes available. But even more importantly, how are you managing your existing services? Most of us … [Read more...] about Luck Isn’t a Business Plan
Using Research to Engage Patients
Traditional Engagement for Research Traditionally, basic science research and clinical research have been performed in the university setting. Pharmaceutical and device trials are frequently performed in both the university and private practice settings. The approach to patient engagement as it pertains to research was typically directed towards patient recruitment … [Read more...] about Using Research to Engage Patients