I just figured that when Jim and Mel go to San Diego, the doc taking call for them would be covering the whole state.
Jon,
When I ran the above numbers I was very surprised to see the similarity in inhabitants per physician in both states.
I never thought I would say this, but with the low population density, and # of inhabitants per physician, telemedicine or video conferencing over a HIPAA compliant modality in a state like Montana, I think is overdue.
I have patients drive over 200 miles to make an appt, and I prefer to see in flesh and blood, however, summer lasting about a month up here, often time makes access to the doc quite difficult, especially for the patients living in those areas with less than 6 people per square mile.
So I would be interested in formal or nonformal discussions about this issue, and also how we as physicians need to start dictating our own destiny, and implementing solutions when there appear to be no solutions at all.
I think the ICD 10 conversion in October is manageable, but just about a week ago, I was not sure how until Donna threw out a rope, I had not seen, but talking through these issues in San Diego, I think can be helpful to all involved.
I am getting excited about the upcoming trip, and need a break from the routine, and will readily be a listener, but will gladly contribute if called upon.
But most importantly we have to find a place to enjoy some gelato!!!
