News for August 1 to August 8, 2012

In the News

Pediatric specialty shortages cause long waits for care - According to amednews.com, (07August2012), "For primary care physicians, the shortages create difficulties in trying to refer young patients for specialty care. Sixty-four percent of surveyed hospitals said physician shortages have caused them to lose patient referrals, and 78% said they have delayed or lost clinic visits." TO READ MORE, CLICK HERE. Aging baby boomers face home health care challenge - According to the Associated Press, Cleveland, (06August2012), "The U.S. Labor Department projects that home health and personal care aides will be among the fastest-growing jobs over the next decade, adding 1.3 million positions and increasing at a rate higher than any other occupation." TO READ MORE, CLICK HERE. Study Examines Hospitalist Growth and Possible Workforce Implications - According to the Association of American Medical Colleges, (06August2012) "In a study on hospitalists growth, "the greatest number specialize in general internal medicine and are under the age of 45. Hospitalists in this age group are also 1.5 times more likely to be male. The authors suggest that hospitalists contribute to increased patient satisfaction, but additional coordination may be needed to ensure continuity of care between the hospital and a patient’s primary care physician."TO READ MORE, CLICK HERE.