The PMD Critical List: Googling Patients

This week's list of must-read stories includes a healthy of dose of technology, including articles on how Google and Instagram can help or hurt the physician-patient relationship.

• Should Doctors “Google” Patients? (Reuters)

It’s probably the most common online activity—“Googling” someone. However, a Journal of General Internal Medicine report finds that it “can undermine trust among patients and providers.” However, the authors do list “10 situations when physicians are justified” in searching.

• Shorter Hours for Doctors Don't Lead to Expected Improvements (US News & World Report)

Reduction in work hours for medical residents does not improve “doctors' fatigue levels or patient care,” according to a new study. Why? A “doctor who stays a longer time with a patient might be more tuned in to that patient's needs.”

• Online Physician Profiles, Done Right, Help All (MedCityNews)

A digital marketing pro explains that all too often the power of an effective physician digital profile is overlooked. With 60% of Americans unsatisfied with their healthcare shopping experiences, the key is to use “timely real-world content.”

• Growing US Latino Population Needs More Doctors (Fox News Latino)

Physicians looking for a new growth industry might want to consider treating the nation’s Hispanic population. A new UCLA study finds that “there just aren't enough doctors who speak the language or understand the culture."

• Physicians Need Help With HIPAA Training (Association for Talent Development)

It’s a law that “doesn’t specify exact methods” for compliance. Training must focus “only on what physicians need to know” which can save “trainers time, and increase physician engagement.” Five “key areas” are addressed.

• VA Ups Salary for Physicians (ABC News)

In an effort to recruit the "best and brightest,” the US Veterans Health Administration has increased the maximum salary for physicians and dentists. The annual salary bump is in the $20,000 to $35,000 range.

• More Foods Doctors Won’t Eat and Why (The Daily Meal)

Interesting and enlightening list of food items, gleaned via a physician survey, which Americans should try to avoid. On the hit list are: Bacon, Cheetos, Microwave popcorn, 1% or 2% dairy products, and cold cuts.

• Instagram for Doctors Could be the Future (Fox News)

Seeing strange things posted online is the norm, but for physicians that vision might be the key to solving complex medical cases. The concept, properly managed, would allow docs to “share photographs and information about their patients for both learning and diagnosis purposes.”