More articles from Commentary
- The perfect storm: An unseasonably early RSV annual epidemic, a severe annual flu epidemic, and a smoldering COVID-19 pandemic
The author presents scenarios illustrating the overlapping clinical manifestations of respiratory viral infections that challenge clinical diagnosis.
- Paternalism in practice: How we create obstacles for sexual, reproductive, and menopausal healthcare despite our best intentions
In theory, we all understand the concept of shared decision-making. But in practice, clinical recommendations are often still dictated rather than discussed.
How does climate change impact our patients?Comprehensive patient health and well-being will benefit from an understanding of the effects of climate change on health.
- The cost of ‘free’: Advising patients about sponsored genetic testing
A breakdown of benefits and drawbacks of sponsored genetic testing that clinicians can use to help patients make informed decisions.
- The constellation of vitamin D, the acute-phase response, and inflammation
An astronomic increase in vitamin D testing and supplementation is happening in the absence of an evidence-based rationale.
- Should ‘daily labs’ be a quality priority in hospital medicine?
Evidence shows that unnecessary daily testing is only a minor contributor to anemia and healthcare costs for most inpatients. The effect on patient experience has not been definitively established.
- Ignore e-cigarettes at your patient’s peril
As patients are already using these products, rather than dismiss the use of e-cigarettes, clinicians should provide accurate information to help patients make the best choices for their health.
- Diversifying medical humanities: The case for Jay-Z
Physicians carry considerable power in the patient-physician relationship. Opening our minds to the viewpoints of others diffuses some of that power and grounds us in the communities we serve.
- Appendicitis management: Is it time for a change?
Antibiotic therapy has been a successful alternative to surgery for more than 60 years, but surgery is still the primary treatment.
- The underappreciated role of documentation in improving COPD care
Despite the importance of providing guideline-concordant care, there are still barriers to implementing evidence-based recommendations in providing care for patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease.