It is not an adequate response to what many of us in this room consider a serious problem. When an insurance company wants to practice medicine, it ought to be held to the same standard as others, and that includes malpractice. Dingell agreed that liability is key to successful patient protections. The three issues that make patient protection are internal and external appeals, liability and, above all else, medical necessity. But when doctors come out for their patients, that's an entirely different matter.
Professionalism means being dedicated advocates for our patients.
And managed care will either bury this hallowed hallmark of our profession or our commitment and professionalism can correct many of the problems of managed care. The script was written after workshops with teenagers, and Dr. Sisley said it gets the message across to the targeted audience of sixth through 12th graders. A Spanish-language version is scheduled to begin performances next month. Interlaced with the programs, performances and speeches at the three-day conference were hours of informal networking, which AMA officials said also were key to the conference's mission of promoting communication between leaders. This conference is a wonderful way to enhance communication.