Healthcare Musings

“Surgical Consultation Recommended”

I understand why so many Radiologists put this phrase in their reports. It can frequently make things worse, and this is one of the many bad things fear of a malpractice suit has wrought. 

What’s The Deal With Potassium In The ICU

No matter which ICU in which I work, I am asked to keep the potassium levels more than 4. Is there any evidence for this? 

“They Don’t Make Them Like They Used To”: My Conversation With Dr. Richard Abrams

I have railed against some traits and trends of new students and residents these days. My conversation with one of my teachers, Dr. Richard Abrams, taught me a valuable lesson and made me change my attitude. 

The Travesty of “Verbal Denials”

If an insurance payer denies a claim, and we write an appeal. The very least the payer must do is write a letter in response. 

Honoring Our EVS Colleagues

This is Environmental Services Week, where we honor a crucial member of the healthcare community: those who clean hospital rooms. 

Your First Impression Is Your Only Impression

Patients frequently base their relationships with Doctors on their first impression. And research shows that our attire has a lot to do with that first impression. On this week's episode, Dr. Hassaballa reviews the latest evidence on Physician attire and the patient-physician relationship. 
Article: https://bmjopen.bmj.com/content/15/8/e100824

“A Day In The Life”: Telecritical Care With Dr. Eugene Yeh

What’s it like to be a Teleintensivist? I asked one of the best in the business, Dr. Eugene Yeh of Sound Physicians. He gives us an intimate view of being a remote critical care specialist. Dr. Yeh on LinkedIn:
https://www.linkedin.com/in/eugene-yeh-39ba1844/ 

Mixed Feelings On Prior Authorization in Traditional Medicare

CMS unveiled the WISeR Model, a pilot of prior authorization for traditional Medicare beneficiaries. I have mixed feelings about it. 
NYT Article:
https://www.nytimes.com/2025/08/28/health/medicare-prior-approval-health-care.html?smid=nytcore-ios-share&referringSource=articleShare
 
CMS Press Release: https://www.cms.gov/priorities/innovation/innovation-models/wiser 

Americans Are Drinking Less: That’s Amazing News!

Gallup’s recent poll showed that Americans are drinking alcohol at the lowest rate ever. This is something that should be celebrated. 
Poll Link: https://news.gallup.com/poll/693362/drinking-rate-new-low-alcohol-concerns-surge.aspx 

What Doctors Can Do That AI Cannot

Artificial Intelligence can’t get get tired. Artificial Intelligence can’t get burned out. Artificial Intelligence can do a lot. There are things, however, that Doctors do that AI can’t.