This week, we bring you a glimpse of proposed competency guidelines for older physicians and a new app slated to make clinicians’ time with patients more efficient, which will, in turn, yield improved care.
- Next time you’re packing for a locum tenens assignment, check your carry-on bag. The International Air Transport Association recently declared the optimum size to be 21.5 inches by 13.5 inches by 7.5 inches, and urges bags meeting these parameters be labeled “Cabin OK” and given priority to stay on board a full flight, when others must be gate-checked, as shared by The New York Times.
- Remedy, a new app currently in beta testing, aims to connect primary care physicians with specialists during patients’ exams, saving valuable time and money. As reported by ABC7 News, doctors can use their smartphones to log in, share photos and even video chat while a patient is still in the exam room.
- The American Medical Association will begin developing competency guidelines to assess whether aging physicians can provide safe and effective care. According to the Associated Press, the testing will include an evaluation of physical and mental health and a review of doctors’ treatment of patients.
- In a U.S. Senate health committee hearing last week, health information technology (IT) experts recommended avoiding legislation to fix concerns with the federal health IT program. Instead, they urged Congress to use its influence to modify existing programs, such as “Meaningful Use,” reports Modern Healthcare.
- Nearly one in four U.S. hospitals still need to improve hand-hygiene practices, according to a report by The Leapfrog Group. While urban hospitals outperformed rural hospitals, the results varied widely by state.
Have a great weekend!
