February 2007
Cover article
Maximum impact: Public office lures DOs seeking direct influence on policy
While many osteopathic physicians engage in political advocacy, activism isn’t enough for some DOs. Spoiling for direct impact on government policy, a number of DOs themselves run for public office.
Other features
AOA helps halt Medicare physician payment cuts
Thanks to an aggressive, yearlong advocacy campaign by the AOA and other healthcare organizations, many DOs participating in the Medicare program will enjoy a stronger bottom line in 2007.
History bureau’s third essay competition encourages exploring profession’s past
To entice osteopathic medical students, interns and residents to study their profession’s past struggles and achievements, the AOA Bureau of Osteopathic History and Identity is conducting its third annual history essay competition.
Departments
Newsbriefs—DO helps launch black history museum in Michigan
The DO speaks with James Jackson, DO, a Muskegon Heights, Mich., family physician who recently co-founded the Muskegon County.
President’s Voice—Educating patients about their health: An accurate, unbiased online resource
AOA President John A. Strosnider, DO, describes an up-to-date, accurate, unbiased, user-friendly source of online medical information for patients.
Executive Director’s Desk—Our strategic plan for greatness: AOA’s cause for all DOs
AOA Executive Director John B. Crosby, JD, previews the AOA’s 2008-10 strategic plan.
To the Point—Telephone talk
Since high-quality patient care depends on good communication, physicians need to pay attention to the uses and abuses of the telephone, writes Arnold Melnick, DO.