American Medical NewsMedical news from the newspaper for America's physiciansPatients rarely use online ratings to pick physicians- (Found June 19, 2008 ) But experts say online word-of-mouth is still considered a powerful tool, as people look for personal stories when learning about a new doctor.http://www.ama-assn.org/amednews/2008/06/23/bil10623.htm Senators split on plans to avert pay cuts- (Found June 19, 2008 ) The sponsors of two Medicare bills differ over how to fund the six-month rate freeze and a physician payment increase for next year.http://www.ama-assn.org/amednews/2008/06/23/gvsa0623.htm Most in Massachusetts met individual insurance mandate- (Found June 19, 2008 ) Only 2.5% of tax filers paid a penalty for not having health insurance. But a physician shortage could pose problems for the reform program.http://www.ama-assn.org/amednews/2008/06/23/gvsb0623.htm Texas IPA's contract talks are price-fixing, appeals court rules- (Found June 19, 2008 ) Physicians say the limited analysis by the court and the FTC does not allow them to show the pro-competitive effects of their joint activities.http://www.ama-assn.org/amednews/2008/06/23/gvsc0623.htm Therapeutic thought (book excerpt: The Cure Within)- (Found June 19, 2008 ) Harvard professor Anne Harrington, PhD, explores the mind-body connection in The Cure Within: A History of Mind-Body Medicine.http://www.ama-assn.org/amednews/2008/06/23/prsa0623.htm Medical schools on target to reach enrollment goals- (Found June 19, 2008 ) But with the growth in residency slots lagging behind, the United States will be short 70,000 physicians by 2025.http://www.ama-assn.org/amednews/2008/06/23/prsb0623.htm Minorities underrepresented in California doctor work force- (Found June 19, 2008 ) But 40% of the state's minority physicians are in primary care, compared with 30% of white physicians, medical board data showed.http://www.ama-assn.org/amednews/2008/06/23/prsc0623.htm IMGs, other visa holders in Michigan free to drive again- (Found June 19, 2008 ) The state's medical society lobbied for the change in a law that restricted driver's license privileges.http://www.ama-assn.org/amednews/2008/06/23/prsd0623.htm What's in their wallets Health plan executives bring home the bucks- (Found June 19, 2008 ) Executive pay is still rich, but various pressures might lead it to a decline. Just don't expect that savings to flow to health care or physician reimbursement.http://www.ama-assn.org/amednews/2008/06/23/bisa0623.htm |