Dartmouth Atlas Takes Aim at Excess Utilization of Medical Resources

The patient was a 12-year-old boy with no major past medical history who presented with a fleshy, polypoid mass completely filling the right nasal cavity and nasopharynx. Imaging studies showed a 3.5-cm tumor located posterior to the right middle turbinate without evidence of intracranial extension. An endoscopic, endonasal approach was used to resect this tumor.

After the tumor was removed, the nasal cavity and sinuses were inspected and no active bleeding was noted. There were no complications from the procedure, and the estimated blood loss was about 25 mL. The patient tolerated the procedure well, was discharged from the hospital the day after surgery, and has shown no evidence of recurrence.

(Laryngoscope 2008;118:1095)

News & Notes

Increasing Demand for Geriatric Care Requires Attention

The rising number of elderly in the nation calls for special health considerations, including geriatric training, policy efforts, and patient diligence, according to a recent statement by the American Medical Association (AMA).

Cecil B. Wilson, MD, an AMA board member, reported that in 12 years there will be more than 70 million seniors in the United States, but with physician and nursing shortages, it will be impossible to train the anticipated 36,000 geriatricians needed to care for the aging population. The AMA is committed to prepare medical students and practicing physicians to care for individuals at all stages of life, including seniors.

Dr. Wilson also announced that the AMA has created a Web site (www.patientsactionnetwork.org ) to promote the Save Medicare Act, which was introduced in the US Senate and is aimed at stopping Medicare payment cuts and preserving seniors’ access to health care. Over nine years, government cuts of Medicare will total about 40%, while practice costs will increase 20%.

Dr. Wilson encouraged a team effort among health care professionals, seniors, and their families for the promotion of seniors’ health. For example, seniors and their caregivers should bring a list of medications to physician appointments, write down care instructions, and seek to understand treatment plans.

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©2008 The Triological Society