Healthcare Musings

Women in Medicine: Challenges and Opportunities

I sat down with three amazing women leaders in the Medical field - Dr. Chia-Shing Yang, Dr. Simran Matta, and April Burke PA - and had a wide-ranging conversation about the challenges facing women in medicine and leadership, and the opportunities they have as well. This is, by far, one of my most favorite episodes. 

“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