Simplifying the writing process for the novice writer.

Nurses take responsibility for reading information to update their professional knowledge and to meet relicensure requirements. However, nurses are less enthusiastic about writing for professional publication. This article explores the reluctance of nurses to write, the reasons why writing for publication is important to the nursing profession, the importance of mentoring to potential writers, and basic information about simplifying the writing process for novice writers.     

The freelance nurse writer role

Freelance nurse writers are skilled in facilitating a dialogue and writing from the perspective of the group. This article, written by an experienced freelance author, describes efficient methods to incorporate information gleaned from group interviews. The author provides tips on what type of projects to look for, how to develop the role, and even how to charge.     

Healthcare economics for the emergency physician

Although the principles of healthcare economics are not usually part of the fundamental education of emergency physicians, an understanding of these elements will enhance our ability to contribute to improved health-care value. This article introduces the practical aspects of microeconomics, insurance, the supply-and-demand relationship, competition, and costs as they affect the practice of medicine on a daily basis. Being cognizant of how these elements create a dynamic interplay in the health-care industry will allow physicians to better understand the expanded role they need to assume in the ongoing cost and quality debate.     

Antitrust issues for the physician organization

This article will explore three of the most viable approaches to structuring antitrust arrangements: (1) arrangements sharing substantial financial risk; (2) arrangements that will achieve substantial clinical integration in their operations; and (3) participation in a "messenger model" physician (or multiprovider) network.     

The case for the physician assistant

The NHS is facing a crisis from the combination of EWTD, MMC, the ageing population and rising expectations; thus its tradition of high quality care is under pressure. Physician assistants (PAs) are a new profession to the UK, educated to nationally set standards and, working as dependent practitioners, provide care in the medical model. PAs are currently employed by over 20 hospital Trusts as well as in primary care. They offer greater continuity than locum doctors and at considerably lower cost. PAs maintain generic competence and can therefore be utilised as required across different clinical areas. The stability of PAs in the workforce will be an additional resource for junior doctors on brief rotations. For the full benefits of PAs to be realised, and for the safety of the public, statutory registration and prescribing rights are required. Active support from the NHS is now needed to develop the workforce required.     

Wilderness medicine education for the physician

As more Americans venture into the wilderness, physicians will be called upon to provide care in the backcountry or austere setting. Additionally, more isolated regions of the world are becoming accessible for trekking and mountaineering. These facts imply a higher rate of injuries and medical problems within a distinct spectrum of disease that are best treated by the well-prepared and continuously educated physician. This article discusses the educational resources that are currently available for physicians to meet these needs in the United States.