Social media has revolutionized my practice. I stay current with Twitter content from other rheumatologists, patient organizations and medical journals. I am also an active member of the international Twitter-based rheumatology journal club, #RheumJC. Still, I was recently surprised when my patient’s name appeared in a friend request. This same patient was following me on…
Intimacy & Rheumatic Conditions
The side effects of rheumatic conditions and their treatments can cause symptoms some may find awkward or embarrassing to discuss with their physicians. But Ara Dikranian, MD, says rheumatologists must address intimacy issues, both physical and emotional, with all patients…
How to Thrive—Not Just Survive—as a New Manager, Part 1
The transition from employee to manager in a rheumatology practice can be daunting. But according to experts, setting clear roles and responsibilities and cultivating professional relationships with your employees ultimately help make you and the practice successful…
How to Handle Conflict in Physician–Patient Relationships
Studies suggest that physicians rate between 10 and 15% of patient visits “difficult.”1 This is important for a variety of reasons: Patient satisfaction is a frequently measured parameter, and poor interactions may lead to bad ratings. Personal satisfaction on the part of the provider is also an issue, and frustrating interviews can leave the physician…