I celebrated 30 years of working with and for you in 2019. Here are just a few wise sayings I have learned from various past presidents along the way:
Never, ever give up asking someone if they are ready to change (to quit smoking, to lose weight, to increase exercise, to eat healthier). The next time you do may be the catalyst for change. Stephen Rittmann, MD
See the possibilities in everyone you meet. Carolyn Lopez, MD
You or your replacement will get this done. Bruce Steffens, MD
When things seem bleak and without hope, remember there is as much energy around in dark times as in bright times. Michael Brummer, MD


I think family medicine chose me and I responded in 1989 when I joined IAFP. I chose a new personal physician, William Hulesch, MD, an IAFP and Foundation past president. He continues to care for my family throughout all our patient and ‘no-so-patient’ health adventures. I was in the office of another past president, Raymond Weber, MD, when I received the call that my wife, Patty and I, were approved to adopt our second child.
I’ve been blessed to observe you in practice, from circumcisions to C-sections to daily practice. The framework of my journey as your chapter executive is much like the Academy’s motto: Devoted to Advocacy, Education and Action.

From the FPs in FQHCs Member Interest Group

This “Dialed in on Diabetes” post will wind down National Diabetes Awareness Month. As we post this, it is Thanksgiving week, and the beginning of the holiday season that includes Hanukkah, Kwanzaa, Christmas and runs right on through New Year’s Day. Honestly, it kind of continues on with Valentine’s Day, St. Patrick’s Day and Easter! All these events also coincide with the cold winter and shorter daylight hours. This combination can sabotage diabetes management unless we can offer practical strategies for patients to manage the holidays and all the feasts throughout the season.

Diabetes, Obesity and Cardiovascular Health

The incidence and mortality rates associated with cardiovascular disease are a growing concern. For patients also facing diabetes, heart disease is a serious threat. We can help patients with prediabetes and type 2 diabetes improve their risk factors for cardiovascular disease.

Diabetes and Behavioral Health

Over my 30-year career, I have developed a personal and professional interest in mental health challenges and how they impact health and well-being. Mental health issues affect patients of all ages, races, and socioeconomic groups. When a patient also has a chronic physical condition, mental health issues can even further complicate care. These disorders can negatively impact patients’ ability to manage medications, avoid medication complications, and advocate and care for themselves. I would like to share some simple techniques that can help you address behavioral health issues while improving outcomes for your patients with diabetes.

This is the first post in the series “Dialed in on Diabetes.” Here, we’ll take a big-picture look at type 2 diabetes - as it runs throughout our practices, and yours. Who are the patients in your practice with type 2 diabetes? Are they mostly in a certain age group? What barriers or challenges do they face in taking care of their health? 

Resident Delegate Report

Audrey Hertenstein Perez, MD
PGY-2 West Suburban Medical Center FMRP
IAFP Resident President Elect 2019

Direct Primary Care MIG Blog - July 2019

I am happy to report for the Direct Primary Care (DPC) MIG, fresh from the camaraderie of the AAFP’s DPC Summit, which was June 28-30 in Rosemont. It was so energizing, educational and yes, entertaining, to be among “my people,” those who are “DPC docs,” and those who are considering or already planning to build a DPC practice of their own.

 “With a vote of 34 yeas, 20 nays, and three present, Senate Bill 25 Passes.” Access to safe and legal abortion would remain a protected right in Illinois, even as women’s health care rights continue to crumble all around us in other states. SB 25, specifically House Amendment 1, established the Reproductive Health Act.