2014: Year of the Family Physician (Part V)
by Ronald L. Fong, MD, MPH In colonial times, the local tavern served as a gathering place for the community to discuss politics. Some taverns functioned as makeshift post offices or local government offices. The modern day descendent of the tavern is the coffee shop. Coffee shops have captured the third space appeal, where people bond outside of work and home. To ingratiate themselves with their service community, coffee shops...
2014: Year of the Family Physician (Part IV)
by Ronald L. Fong, MD, MPH In a previous blog, I discussed the “what,” “how,” and “why” of a movement. I neglected to include the “who” in a movement. Although I envision every profession and discipline contributing to #2014yearfp, family physicians will have to plant the seeds. I hope you will incorporate enterprise farmer into your vast and varied identities. Indeed, take inventory of your functions and roles. As a physician,...
2014: Year of the Family Physician (Part III)
Color matters. Think back to autumn, where a sea of burnt orange or a tide of crimson identifies college campuses on Saturdays. Green became a banner of change and solidarity during the Arab Spring. Movements need a flag, a rallying image to draw the eyes of the next recruit. Once the image catches the eye, it needs to capture the heart. To advance 2014 as the Year of the Family Physician, I suggest that family physicians modify...
2014: Year of the Family Physician (Part II)
In my last blog, I proposed that “we prepare throughout 2013 to anoint 2014 as the Year of the Family Physician.” Now, I offer some strategy and direction. Sustained meaningful and valued movements depend on individual connections at the most basic level. We move along a path from touch to grasp to embrace. An attitude of gratitude conveys acknowledgement, acceptance and affirmation to those we serve. Hold open discussions with...
2014: Year of the Family Physician (Part I)
The Affordable Care Act will facilitate health insurance coverage for 30 million additional family members, neighbors, and co-workers by 2014. Unfortunately, they will compete for access to a primary care pool with a projected 30,000 provider shortfall. Family physicians number 100,000 in the United States. But, are we 100,000 strong? Can we elevate our diversity into unity and assume the lead responsibility in addressing this...