‘Early aggressive hydration’ essential to avoid complications in acute pancreatitis

The initial management for acute pancreatitis should include moderately aggressive fluid resuscitation and close monitoring of vital signs and urine output. A new guideline from the ACG emphasizes that early management is crucial to prevent complications such as organ failure and pancreatic necrosis. Recommendations include using transabdominal ultrasound for evaluation, avoiding prophylactic antibiotics in severe…

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The latest on Novo Nordisk, Alnylam, Apogee

The biotech industry is constantly evolving with new developments in medications and treatments. Novo Nordisk’s Ozempic has shown benefits beyond diabetes, while Alnylam Pharmaceuticals’ zilebesiran has shown promise in lowering blood pressure. However, biotech VC funding is shrinking, with fewer deals and less money being raised. Apogee Therapeutics’ antibody treatment has shown positive results, and…

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Medical apprenticeships: what we know so far, and what happens next

Two amendments have been made to Éabha Lynn’s article (BMJ 2024;384:p2939, doi:10.1136/bmj.p2939) at the request of NHS England and the General Medical Council. Firstly, a sentence regarding GMC accreditation of medical degrees has been replaced with one emphasizing the need for medical schools to provide evidence that their apprenticeship programs meet required learning outcomes. Secondly,…

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Shady bleaching jabs fuel health fears, scams in W. Africa

Skin-whitening practices are popular in Africa and Asia due to the association of fair skin with status and beauty. Despite the risks and scams involved, the market for whitening treatments is growing rapidly. Injections containing whitening agents, such as glutathione, are becoming increasingly popular, despite the significant health risks they pose. Some products are found…

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Whistleblower accuses Aledade, largest US independent primary care network, of Medicare fraud

A Maryland firm, Aledade Inc., is facing a whistleblower lawsuit alleging Medicare fraud by using billing software to make patients appear sicker than they were, resulting in millions of dollars in improper revenues. A senior employee filed the lawsuit, claiming he was fired after objecting to the company’s practices. Aledade denies the allegations. The lawsuit…

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Ways to Change Negative Thinking

Negative thoughts are common and normal, but can become harmful if they persist for a long time. Research shows that repetitive negative thinking can lead to mental and physical health issues. Methods to combat negative thinking include cognitive behavioral therapy, acknowledging emotions, identifying and clarifying negative thoughts, evaluating emotions, and coming at thoughts from a…

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Primary Care Physician’s Next Frontier: Palliative Care

Dr. Jason Black is a family medicine physician at Gilchrist, a hospice and palliative care organization. He focuses on treating frail elderly patients, often in nursing homes or assisted living facilities. He believes in a family-centered approach to care and emphasizes medication reconciliation and deprescribing. Palliative care, which clarifies treatment goals for seriously ill patients,…

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The Top Strategies Healthcare Organizations Can Use to Reduce Denials

Healthcare providers are facing an increase in denials and write-offs, impacting financial stability and patient care. Factors such as changing demographics and payer standards contribute to this issue. To combat denials, providers must adhere to regulations, improve documentation, implement claim scrubbing, analyze denial trends, train staff, and collaborate with payers. By enhancing registration processes, accuracy…

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