Sleepless in Seattle: 10 Tips to a Peaceful Night’s Sleep

April 20, 2012 — WSMA Doc Talk
David Chang, MD

David Chang, MD

By David Chang, MD and Gina H. Chen, MD
The Polyclinic Sleep Medicine Center

It’s often noted that you spend a third of your life sleeping, but for many, that’s wishful thinking. Trouble sleeping is one of the most common complaints people have. Whether the problem is falling asleep, staying asleep, or not feeling rested when waking up, sleep deprivation can wreak havoc on your body, mind and health.

Here are 10 tips to help you improve sleep. (These suggestions are intended for “typical” adults, but not necessarily for children or persons experiencing medical problems.)

1. Maintain a regular bed and wake time schedule including weekends.
Our sleep-wake cycle is regulated by a “circadian clock” in our brain and the body’s need to balance both sleep time and wake time. A regular waking time in the morning strengthens the circadian function and can help with sleep onset at night.

Gina H. Chen, MD

Gina H. Chen, MD

2. Establish a regular, relaxing bedtime routine such as soaking in a hot bath or hot tub and then reading a book or listening to soothing music.
Avoid arousing activities before bedtime like working, paying bills, engaging in competitive games or family problem-solving. If you are unable to avoid tension and stress, it may be helpful to learn relaxation therapy from a trained professional. Finally, avoid exposure to bright light before bedtime because it signals the neurons that help control the sleep-wake cycle that it is time to awaken, not to sleep.

3. Create a sleep-conducive environment that is dark, quiet, comfortable and cool.
Design your sleep environment to establish the conditions you need for sleep. Consider using blackout curtains, eye shades, ear plugs, “white noise,” humidifiers, fans and other devices.

4. Sleep on a comfortable mattress and pillows.
The mattress you have been using for years may have exceeded its life expectancy—about 9 or 10 years for most good quality mattresses. Have comfortable pillows that are free of allergens that might affect you.

5. Use your bedroom only for sleep and sex.
It is best to take work materials, computers and televisions out of the sleeping environment. Use your bed only for sleep and sex to strengthen the association between bed and sleep.

6. Finish eating at least 2-3 hours before your regular bedtime.
Eating or drinking too much may make you less comfortable when settling down for bed. Try to restrict fluids close to bedtime to prevent nighttime awakenings to go to the bathroom, though some people find milk or herbal, non-caffeinated teas to be soothing and a helpful part of a bedtime routine.

7. Exercise regularly. It is best to complete your workout at least a few hours before bedtime.
In general, exercising regularly makes it easier to fall asleep and contributes to sounder sleep. However, exercising right before going to bed will make falling asleep more difficult.

8. Avoid caffeine (e.g. coffee, tea, soft drinks, chocolate) close to bedtime.
Caffeine products, such as coffee, tea, colas and chocolate, remain in the body on average from 3 to 5 hours, but they can affect some people up to 12 hours later. Avoiding caffeine within 6-8 hours of going to bed can help improve sleep quality.

9. Avoid nicotine (e.g. cigarettes, tobacco products). Used close to bedtime, it can lead to poor sleep.
Nicotine is also a stimulant, so it can cause difficulty falling asleep, problems waking in the morning, and may also cause nightmares. When smokers go to sleep, they experience withdrawal symptoms from nicotine, which also cause sleep problems.

10. Avoid alcohol close to bedtime.
Although many people think of alcohol as a sedative, it actually disrupts sleep, causing nighttime awakenings. Consuming alcohol leads to a night of less restful sleep.

If you continue to have sleep problems, try keeping a sleep diary. Note when and how your sleep is disturbed, what substances you’ve consumed and when, and note your daily activities, then look for patterns. If problems continue, see your doctor and bring your sleep diary. There may be an underlying cause that you will want to be properly diagnosed. Your doctor will help treat the problem or may refer you to see a sleep specialist.

Dr. Chang and Dr. Chen practice at The Polyclinic Sleep Medicine Center. They work closely with each patient to evaluate lifestyle and sleep patterns with the goal of developing an effective and thorough treatment plan. Dr. Chang was recently featured on the radio show Patient Power. To listen: “Sleep Disorders: Obstructive Sleep Apnea and Snoring.”

Posted in Insomnia, Sleep Disorders, Sleep Medicine. Tags: , , . Leave a Comment »

12-Point Check Could Save Your Young Athlete’s Life

March 9, 2012 — WSMA Doc Talk
Jack Salerno, MD

Jack Salerno, MD

By Jack Salerno, MD, FACC, FHRS
Director, Electrophysiology and Pacing Services
Associate Professor, Pediatrics, University of Washington School of Medicine
Seattle Children’s Hospital
Medical Advisory Board, Nick of Time Foundation
WSMA Member

In 2004, a young, strong, high school football player—with his entire life ahead of him—died from Sudden Cardiac Arrest (SCA). His name was Nick Varrenti. It’s every parent’s worst nightmare. One minute your seemingly healthy child is on top of the world competing in a sport they love. The next minute their heart suddenly stops. We’ve all heard stories in the news—the sudden death of young, competitive athletes due to cardiovascular disease which is often undetected. So how can we effectively screen young athletes for cardiovascular abnormalities and try to prevent these sudden deaths?

First, it’s important for student athletes and parents to work hand-in-hand with physicians to detect potential “red-flags” prior to competing in sports. The American Heart Association recommends a 12-Element Pre-Participation Cardiovascular Screening of Competitive Athletes that includes three sections of screening—Personal Medical History, Family History, and Physical Examination. A positive response to one or more of the 12 items may be a sufficient trigger for further testing.

Personal Medical History – Five checks important to find out if there have been any symptoms including exertional chest pain/discomfort, unexplained fainting, excessive fatigue associated with exercise, prior heart murmur, or elevated blood pressure.

Family History – Three very important questions including family history of sudden death before 50 years of age, since heart disease can run in families. Parents should verify responses with the student athletes.

Physical Examination – Four checks performed by a qualified medical professional.

There has been much debate in the medical community about pre-participation screening for athletes and how extensive they should be. Some have called for the use of an electrocardiogram (ECG), which records the electrical signals in the heart, as a screening tool. However, with more than five million kids participating in high school sports each year (and countless more at other levels), performing extensive cardiac testing of all athletes would be impractical and expensive and unless modern criteria are used they may lead to “false positives” which may require additional evaluation. The recommended practice in Washington state is that all athletes complete the Preparticipation Physical Evaluation, edition 4 [PDF] to better identify “at risk” kids. (Organizations that sanctioned the PPE4 are on the bottom of the form.)

Nick Varrenti’s family has turned their grief into action by launching the Nick of Time Foundation and shining a light on this important issue so other families won’t experience their same heartache.  Tell us what you think about pre-participation screening in the comments section below.

Additional comments:

There currently is no uniform body of law in the United States that clearly defines the legal duties of sports governing bodies and educational institutions with regard to the mass preparticipation screening of competitive athletes. In the state of Washington, the Washington Interscholastic Activities Association (WIAA) has taken the lead role and maintains the recommended sports clearance form on their website.

Posted in Cardiovascular Disease, Parenting, Physical Exam, Preventative Medicine, Sports Medicine. Tags: , , , , . Leave a Comment »

Key Medical Appointments to Schedule to Kick Off Your Good Health in 2012

January 10, 2012 — WSMA Doc Talk
Roy Gondo, MD

Roy Gondo, MD

by Roy E. Gondo, MD
Family Physician and Medical Director, Gondo Laser & Aesthetic Medicine Institute
Secretary-Treasurer, Yakima County Medical Society
Trustee, Washington State Medical Association (WSMA)

Whether you like to schedule all of your health appointments for the same week or you would rather spread them out, January is a great time to plan ahead. Make sure you get those important check-ups/tests and preventative health counseling for you and your family so they don’t fall through the cracks.

While it may be tempting to try the latest health care “fad” you read about in a magazine, or a new supplement your friend recommended, it’s important to remember that physicians—with their extensive training—are uniquely qualified to provide personalized medical and preventative care for you and your family. Patients should establish a “medical home” to develop a strong relationship with a physician they trust and who knows their medical history. Health exams should be tailored to the age, health risks, and preferences of each patient, and it’s easier to do that if you have a medical home.

To establish a medical home and find a family physician near you, check out the WSMA Physician Locator.

Check with your physician on what appointments or screenings they recommend for you and your family members. Here are some suggestions:

Children – Schedule a child wellness exam. This is more than a “sports participation” exam. Your child’s growth and development will be discussed along with screenings for issues such as learning disorders, social relations, and academic achievements. Some counseling may be provided at these wellness visits.

Adults – Men and women should schedule appointments with their physicians to discuss recommended immunizations, along with various screenings reflecting their unique medical history, social history and family history. Since no two people are identical, a personalized wellness visit is most helpful.

Seniors – For seniors in the first year of Medicare coverage, schedule a “Welcome to Medicare Physical Examination” to obtain a comprehensive evaluation. After the first year of Medicare coverage, I recommend a “Medicare Wellness Visit” to review your medical history, family history, social history, allergies and other pertinent information. In addition, your physician will discuss various screening tests (depression, alcohol use, cholesterol, memory, hypertension, vision, hearing, immunizations, colon cancer, PAP smear, mammography, advanced directives, carotid stenosis, etc). This overall review will give your physician a holistic evaluation to work with you on the best plan for your health moving forward. Both of these visits are covered benefits without need for co-pay or deductible.

We’d love to hear from you on how you plan to improve your health in 2012. Please leave a comment below.

Dr. Gondo has been a prominent family physician in Yakima for nearly 15 years, treating patients of all ages. He is committed to improving the health of people in the communities he serves. He is also actively involved in the Yakima County Medical Society and the Washington State Medical Association. In addition to family practice, Dr. Gondo is Medical Director of the Gondo Laser & Aesthetic Medicine Institute, and is involved in youth activities.

For additional information on health and wellness, check out the following websites.

http://www.medicare.gov/welcometomedicare/visit.html

http://www.medicare.gov/navigation/manage-your-health/preventive-services/medicare-physical-exam.aspx

http://www.medicare.gov/navigation/manage-your-health/preventive-services/preventive-service-overview.aspx

 

Posted in Immunization, Medical Home, Medicare, Parenting, Preventative Medicine, Wellness Exam, Women's Health. Tags: , , , , , . Leave a Comment »

6 Simple Steps to Keep Your Holiday Merry

December 15, 2011 — WSMA Doc Talk

Nathan Schlicher, MD

by Nathan Schlicher, MD, JD
Emergency Physician and Associate Medical Director, St. Joseph Medical Center
Health Care Attorney
Member, Washington State Medical Association (WSMA)

Don’t Drink and Drive

Just last week people in western Washington heard the tragic news that a bicyclist riding home from work was struck and killed by a drunk driver. And just this summer a suspected drunk driver slammed into another car, killing a three-month old boy.

I have witnessed firsthand the devastation and destruction caused by drinking and driving. I will never forget a woman in her twenties who was about 16 weeks pregnant showed up in the emergency room with severe injuries caused by a drunk driver. Despite our best efforts the woman and her unborn child died in the emergency room.

Each year more than 10,000 people will die in drunk driving accidents—one every 50 minutes. Mothers Against Drunk Driving (MADD) conducted a survey that ranked Washington among the worst states—# 48—for percentage of traffic deaths that are DUI-related. The study showed that 42% of traffic deaths in Washington state are DUI-related. That’s shameful. And it’s all preventable.

The holidays are a time when family and friends gather—often with refreshments—and share the joy of the season. Here are a few simple things you can do to make sure your holiday celebrations are heartwarming and not heartbreaking.

  1. ALWAYS have a designated driver. If you have many events with family and friends, perhaps you can rotate. But decide in advance who will be the driver.
  2. Always wear a seat belt and make sure any children in the car are in child safety seats. This can reduce injuries by as much as 70%.
  3. Never ride in a car operated by someone who has been drinking. Call a cab or ask a friend (who has not been drinking) for a ride home.
  4. Monitor traffic around you and decrease your own distractions. Avoid talking on your cell phone, texting, and even consider not having music playing if there is a concern for distractions.
  5. Keep a safe distance from anyone driving erratically.
  6. Report drunk drivers to law enforcement.

Dr. Schlicher is associate medical director and emergency physician at St. Joseph Medical Center in Tacoma. In addition, he is legislative affairs chairman and member of the board of directors for the Washington Chapter of the American College of Emergency Physicians. He is a tireless advocate for patient safety issues in Washington and nationally.

Posted in Alcohol, Holiday Season. Tags: , . Leave a Comment »

Alcohol and Breast Cancer: What’s the Risk?

November 16, 2011 — WSMA Doc Talk
Julie Gralow, MD

Julie Gralow, MD

by Julie Gralow, MD
Director of Breast Medical Oncology at Seattle Cancer Care Alliance
Professor of Medicine at University of Washington School of Medicine
WSMA Member

A recent publication from the Nurses’ Health Study (Chen W et al., JAMA, 2011) has once again generated discussion regarding the association between alcohol and breast cancer risk. The observation of an association between alcohol intake and breast cancer is not new—what’s caught the attention of the press and the public is that the current study reports that as few as 3-6 drinks per week can increase breast cancer risk.

Numerous previous studies have reported that the association between alcohol and breast cancer risk is dose-dependent, and that the degree of risk falls along a linear continuum—heavier levels of alcohol intake are associated with greater breast cancer incidence.  All of these studies have, by necessity, been observational and relied on self-reported alcohol consumption—we’ll never have a study that randomizes people to differing levels of alcohol intake, for good reason. Some prior studies have reported that the effect of alcohol on breast cancer risk appears higher in women taking post-menopausal hormone replacement therapy (HRT). The Nurses’ Health Study investigators, as well as others, have previously reported that folate is a potential moderator of the effects of alcohol on breast cancer risk, although that’s not included in the current analysis (Zheng SM et al., Cancer Epidemiol Biomarkers Prev 2005).

How big is the increase in breast cancer risk in light drinkers?

The accompanying editorial (Narod S et al., JAMA 2011) calculates that an average woman who consumes one alcoholic drink per day would see her 10-year risk of developing breast cancer increase from 2.8 percent to 3.5 percent. For women with a higher baseline risk for breast cancer due to family history or other factors, the potential benefit from abstaining from all alcohol may be worth it. However, no data exists in any study to show that giving up alcohol after years of use will reduce breast cancer risk.

It’s important to view the breast cancer risk associated with alcohol in the bigger picture of overall health. While a nightly glass of wine slightly increases breast cancer risk, it may very well  result in a larger reduction in even more common health risks, including cardiovascular disease.  A recent meta-analysis on alcohol and cardiovascular disease concludes that light to moderate alcohol consumption, including levels of < 1 drink per day,  is associated with reduced risk of coronary heart disease and stroke. (Ronksley PE et al., BMJ 2011) For the average American woman, cardiovascular disease is a bigger health risk than breast cancer.

How do we put this all in perspective?

I would never encourage a woman who doesn’t consume alcohol to consider doing so for health purposes. And there are lots of issues associated with moderate-heavy alcohol consumption that should warrant recommendations against excessive alcohol intake. Each woman should consider the risks and benefits of alcohol consumption to make the best personal choice. Encouraging a healthy lifestyle that includes physical activity, healthy diet and maintaining a good body weight, as well as minimizing postmenopausal HRT use and alcohol intake, can help our patients take control of their modifiable breast cancer risk factors and optimize overall health and well-being.

Let us know your thoughts on the issue of alcohol and breast cancer risk.  Did the study—and the extensive media attention—change your habits?

Dr. Julie Gralow is an internationally-known breast cancer physician at Seattle Cancer Care Alliance and has dedicated her life to fighting breast cancer. She is committed to improving the quality of life for her cancer patients through education, exercise and diet and promoting breast cancer awareness in the community. Follow her on Twitter @JRGralow or on the Seattle Cancer Care Alliance website.

Posted in Alcohol, Breast Cancer, Cancer, Preventative Medicine, Women's Health. Tags: , , , , . Leave a Comment »

Top 5 Flu Prevention Tips

November 9, 2011 — WSMA Doc Talk
Donald Benz, MD

Donald Benz, MD

Donald Benz, MD
Family Physician
Vancouver, Washington
WSMA Member

It’s that time of year when I see lots of patients who feel downright miserable—congestion, aches, pains, fever, coughs, fatigue. Cold and flu season is here.

While there is no cure for the flu, there are some treatments to help ease symptoms. Most people with milder flu will feel better in a few days. But for those who get very sick or are at high risk for health problems from the flu, doctors may prescribe antiviral medicines. These medicines may shorten the duration of symptoms by about a day, but must be started within two days of first symptoms to be most effective.

Unfortunately, there really aren’t good treatments for the common cold. Here is a great review from USA Today of some common treatments for a cold.

The good news is there are several things you can do to prevent getting the cold or flu in the first place.

Top 5 Flu Prevention Tips

  1. Get a flu shot. Experts say this is the single most important thing you can do to help prevent the flu. And contrary to public opinion, you cannot get the flu from the flu shot.
  2. Wash your hands and use hand sanitizer. Your mother was right—wash your hands! Although it’s always important to wash your hands, this is a particularly “germy” time of year. Don’t have soap and water nearby? Use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer.
  3. Avoid touching your face, your eyes and biting your nails. This spreads germs directly into your body through your mouth, your nose, and your eyes. Yuck!
  4. Disinfect your gadgets. Phones, iPods, iPads, remote controls. Most people don’t take the time to disinfect these things, yet they are among the most-touched items.
  5. Boost your immune system. Sleeping (8 hours/night) plays an important immune-boosting role. And a well-balanced diet rich in fruits and vegetables can help boost your immune system. In addition, drink plenty of fluids, and avoid alcohol and excessive caffeine.

Finally, don’t spread it—if you are sick, stay home. While you may think it’s impossible for people to get by without you, they are definitely better off without your germs.

We’d love to hear your feedback. Please leave a comment below.

Posted in Common Cold, Flu, Immunization, Preventative Medicine. Tags: , , , . Leave a Comment »

Physician View on Privatizing Liquor Sales

October 27, 2011 — WSMA Doc Talk

Doug Myers, MD

by Doug Myers, MD
President, Washington State Medical Association
Private Practice, Otolaryngology
Vancouver, Washington

It’s only October and we are already barraged with election ads. Thankfully there is a light at the end of the tunnel with Election Day on November 8. One issue in particular is getting a lot of the attention – Initiative 1183, privatization of alcohol sales. Both sides are plastering the airwaves, mailboxes, and newspapers with information. It’s hard to break through the clutter to understand the serious consequences of this initiative.

But I urge you to step back from the noise, take a deep breath, and consider the issue from the physician point of view. After all, we are the ones who see first-hand the consequences of alcohol-related accidents.

The #1 rule of medicine is “first, do no harm.” For that reason, the physicians of Washington state strongly oppose the privatization of alcohol sales and we urge you to vote No on 1183.

Data from the U.S. Community Preventive Services Task Force noted that when other areas have privatized alcohol sales, they have seen increases in consumption. In addition, several such jurisdictions documented increases in the frequency of car crashes that are most likely to be alcohol-related. Increases in alcohol outlet density lead to increased alcohol consumption and may lead to increases in alcohol-related traffic crashes.

It is clear to the Washington State Medical Association and physicians in our state that the consequences of this initiative are just too big. We’d love to hear from you—click on the comment link below and let us know what you think.

Background information from the U.S. Community Preventive Services Task Force.

Posted in Alcohol. Tags: . 2 Comments »

6 Essential Ways All Women Can Reduce Their Risk of Breast Cancer

October 19, 2011 — WSMA Doc Talk
Dr. Kristi Harrington

Kristi Harrington, MD Ph.D

Kristi Harrington, M.D. Ph.D.
Breast Surgeon and Chair of Overlake Breast Cancer Program
Overlake Breast Associates
WSMA Member

Yes, there is something you can do to reduce your risk of breast cancer.

“Many women feel there is little they can do to help prevent breast cancer,” said Krist Harrington, M.D. Ph.D. “But lifestyle can play an important role in reducing one’s risk for breast cancer.”

  1. Realize that ALL women are at risk for breast cancer. Even if you have no family history of breast cancer, you are at risk for developing breast cancer. The commonly quoted “1 in 8 women will get breast cancer in their lifetime” statistic is for the average woman. Women with a family history are at higher risk.
  2. Maintain (or achieve) a normal body weight for your size. If you don’t know what your normal body weight is, calculate your BMI. A BMI over 25 is overweight. Obesity has long been known to increase the risk of “estrogen-fueled”, or estrogen receptor positive, breast cancers. However, a recent study showed that obesity (and a sedentary lifestyle) increased the risk of “triple negative” breast cancers.
  3. Exercise! At least 2 hours a week is recommended if you are age 30-39. Regular, moderate exercise lowers estrogen levels and reduces other hormones and growth factors that can cause cancerous changes in breast cells. Exercise has many beneficial effects on other major health problems as well, including heart disease (the leading cause of death in women), diabetes, dementia and other types of cancer.
  4. Don’t smoke. If you are a smoker, STOP! Smoking has (finally) been identified as a factor increasing a woman’s risk for breast cancer. Plus, it is a major risk factor for lung cancer and heart disease—do we need any more reasons to put out those butts??
  5. Alcohol in moderation, please! On average, one alcoholic beverage per day for women is advised by the American Cancer Society. Compared with non-drinkers, women who have one alcoholic drink per day have a very small increase in their risk of developing breast cancer. However, women who have 2-5 drinks per day, increase their risk 1.5 times the risk of women non-drinkers.
  6. And, of course, realizing that #1 is a fact, leads to the next most important thing that you can do—IF YOU ARE 40 OR OLDER, GET A MAMMOGRAM EVERY YEAR. And see your healthcare provider for a clinical exam. If you have questions about starting earlier, or when it is appropriate to stop, talk to your healthcare provider or a breast healthcare specialist.

 

 

 

Posted in Breast Cancer, Cancer, Preventative Medicine, Women's Health. Tags: , , . Leave a Comment »

6 Simple Steps to Prevent Medication Errors

October 6, 2011 — WSMA Doc Talk
Mary G. Gregg, MD

Mary G. Gregg, MD

by Mary G. Gregg, MD, FACS, MHA
Director, Quality and Patient Safety, Cardiac Surgeon
Swedish Health Services

Medications fight illnesses, prevent disease and help improve quality of life. But it’s important to take them safely and as directed.

As a cardiac surgeon, I’ve seen the consequences of not taking medications properly. I once had a heart attack patient come to the hospital. After a successful surgery inserting a stent to prevent blockage in his artery, he was discharged with a prescription for a medication to prevent clots. For one reason or another, the patient didn’t fill his prescription as instructed for several days and he ended up in the ER for emergency heart surgery.

  • 82% of US adults and 56% of children take at least one medicine daily. (Boston University, 2006)
  • Half of all potential major drug-drug interactions involve a non-prescription medicine. (Journal of the American Medical Association 2002)
Some easy simple steps to prevent medication errors:
  1. Give your medications a check-up. Taken as directed, medications are safe, helpful tools to ensure good health. However, because medications can be so powerful, taking incorrect dosages, mixing different products or using out-dated medications can be dangerous.
  1. Make a Medication List. Make a list of all medications you take—this includes all prescriptions, over-the-counter medicines, herbals, supplements, minerals, ointments, and vitamins. The Washington Patient Safety Coalition has some helpful tips for making your list (mymedicinelist.org).
  1. Share the list with your doctor. Along with your list, put all medications you take regularly in a bag—including all prescriptions and non-prescriptions. Bring the bag to your next doctor visit and review your medications with your physician to check for outdated items, dangerous combinations, and improper dosages.
  1. Ask questions!  As you review the items with your doctor, make sure you ask questions and really understand the answers. Nodding your head when you do not fully understand doesn’t benefit you or your doctor. Questions to ask:
    • What is the medication’s name and what is it supposed to do?
    • How often and how long should I take the medication?
    • Are there potential side effects? Which side effects should I report?
    • Should the medication be taken until it’s finished or just until I feel better?
    • Should I avoid particular foods, beverages, medicines or activities while taking this medication?
    • Is a generic equivalent available and appropriate?
  1. Don’t take any one else’s medication and don’t share yours with anyone else. Your friend’s medication may interact with your current medications or an underlying medical condition. In addition, the dose may be wrong for your body size and you may develop an allergic reaction or serious side effect. Sharing medications is never safe.
  1. Don’t take medication after it has expired. Over time medications lose their potency and may be harmful to your health. Always check the expiration dates before taking medication.
Be an active partner in your health care. Make the right choices about your medications. And take them only as directed by your physician. These simple steps can make health care safer, more effective, and can even save a life.

For more information visit the medication management page on the Washington State Medical Association’s website.

Posted in Health Care Safety, Medication Management, Medications. Tags: , , . Leave a Comment »

Repeal the flawed Medicare payment formula

September 29, 2011 — WSMA Doc Talk

Doug Myers, MD

by Doug Myers, MD
President, Washington State Medical Association
Private Practice, Otolaryngology
Vancouver, Washington

As a physician dedicated to treating patients in Washington state, and as the president of the Washington State Medical Association, I am disheartened and frustrated at the prospect that many seniors will have more difficulty finding physicians to treat them. But this is the reality we face.

For years Congress has “kicked the can” down the road on coming up with a serious and permanent solution to a flawed Medicare payment system, known as the Sustainable Growth Rate (SGR) formula. Unless a permanent solution is found, many physicians won’t be able to afford to treat Medicare patients, leaving seniors with limited access to health care.

Congress has intervened 12 times over the past decade—four times just last year—with temporary patches to this growing problem. But their actions—or inactions—have caused a deficit in the Medicare payment system that continues to grow. It’s like paying the minimum on a credit card. You never really pay it off and the debt just continues to grow. So now, the cut to physician payments scheduled for January 1, 2012 has ballooned to an astounding 29.5 percent. Most agree this will disrupt access to health care for Medicare patients.

Congress can fix this problem. But the longer they wait the more expensive a solution becomes. The time to act is now.

Senator Patty Murray (D-WA) is co-chair of the Joint Select Committee on Deficit Reduction (“Super Committee”) that is tasked with finding $1.2 trillion in deficit reduction spending over a 10-year period. Any serious proposal to confront the fiscal challenges facing our nation, and the Medicare program in particular, must address the massive shortfall in funding for Medicare payments for physician services. Not only is it the fiscally responsible thing to do, it will help preserve access to health care for our seniors.

Unless a permanent fix is made, Medicare patients will face increased difficulty accessing physicians to treat them. Repealing the flawed Medicare payment formula (SGR) needs to happen. And it needs to happen now. If you want continued access to health care for our seniors, please contact your legislators and contact Senator Murray and tell them what you think.

For additional information and ways to make your voice heard check out wsma.org. Also, let us know your thoughts in the comments below. Are you a senior worried about losing access to your doctor? Were you aware these severe cuts to Medicare payments were happening? What are your thoughts on the issue? We’d love to hear from you—click on the comment link below and let us know what you think.

Posted in Medicare, Physician Access, SGR Medicare Payment Formula. Tags: , , . 1 Comment »
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