I liked the publisher”s observations in Saturday”s edition. I think there should be a lot of the AMA”s goals, attitudes and philosophies such that they might act more for the benefit of our medical system than to protect MDs themselves. I also like his references to his wife, the nurse, although knowing him, I think he should have added “tolerant” and “long-suffering” to her credits!
I feel that medical costs could be materially lowered if the AMA”s adamant refusal to give middle-level medical personnel more responsibility could be changed. These professionals; nurse practitioners, physician”s assistants, RNs, MSNs and such are very good at what they do, which is to deal with the human body for most things that do not need surgery or very specialist knowledge.
The armed services have long known the value of these mid-level people. By the time a medic gets to be first class or chief they have the knowledge to deal with almost anything ? and are allowed to do so. I”m prejudiced (PhM), but I recall that many service men and their families preferred this type of treatment.
Lake County has some very good mid-level people. For those who may be concerned and think an MD is the only way to go, I suggest that they get to know mid-level professionals. They will be impressed.
Guthrie Worth
Lakeport
