Inside Family Medicine

Guest host Karen Johnson, PhD, VP of Practice Advancement for the AAFP, talks with Dr. Tina Philip, DO, a solo family physician in Round Rock, Texas, and AAFP CEO, Shawn Martin, about payer downcoding, where insurers reduce billed evaluation and management levels (e.g., 99214 to 99213), lowering payment and adding administrative burden. Dr. Philip describes how downcoding most often affects moderate-to-high complexity office visits and stresses physicians must monitor claims beyond denials by working with billing/coding staff to confirm expected reimbursement. Martin explains downcoding as an evolution of coding integrity programs amplified by AI-enabled scale and as a less visible cost-control approach than prior authorization, often with limited transparency and historically few appeals.    Topics By Timestamp  01:01 Why Family Medicine  02:32 What Downcoding Means  04:02 Why Payers Downcode  08:40 Spotting It in Practice  10:51 Who Should Investigate  12:07 AAFP Advocacy Efforts  15:17 Undercoding and Appeals  18:04 Tools and Next Steps  20:29 Final Thoughts    Additional Resources   Coding for Evaluation and Management Services: FAQs   Letter template for writing to payers about ending downcoding policies  The AAFP Advocates Against Payer Downcoding Policies and For Improved Primary Care Payment  AAFP urges feds to investigate downcoding as threat to primary care | Advocacy and Government  Cigna's downcoding policy gets pushback from physician groups | AAFP    Disclaimer: Copyright 2026. AAFP. The views presented in this broadcast are the speaker's own and do not represent those of AAFP.  The information presented is for general, educational, or entertainment purposes and should not be considered legal, health, financial, or other advice.  AAFP makes no representation as to the accuracy or completeness of the information and is not responsible for results that may arise from its use.  Consult an appropriate professional concerning your specific situation and respective governing bodies for applicable laws. Reference to any specific product or entity does not constitute an endorsement or recommendation by AAFP unless specifically stated otherwise.  AAFP and the AAFP logo are registered trademarks of American Academy of Family Physicians. 

Host Michael Monroe interviews Dr. Brianna Wynne, a board-certified geriatric medicine physician, about how family physicians can support prevention, screening, and early detection of cognitive aging and Alzheimer's disease. Dr. Wynne distinguishes normal aging (slower processing speed) from mild cognitive impairment (objective test deficits with preserved function) and dementia as a spectrum from mild functional difficulties with instrumental activities to severe end-stage dependence. She describes how concerns typically surface through caregivers or during routine visits such as Medicare annual wellness visits and emphasizes proactive questioning. She highlights practical tools and resources including the Mini-Cog, AAFP shared decision-making guidance to help differentiate dementia types, the Alzheimer's Association for patient and caregiver support, and familydoctor.org for accessible, bite-sized clinical information.     Topics By Timestamp  00:00 Welcome and Guest Intro  00:47 Dr. Wynne Background  01:40 Cognitive Decline Basics  05:11 What Family Docs See  07:05 Starting the Conversation  08:51 Screening Tools and Resources  11:18 CME and Quick References  12:22 Future of Dementia Care  14:38 Wrap Up    Additional Resources  Brain Health: Clinical Guidance and Practice Resources | AAFP  Dementia | Family Doctor  Alzheimer's Disease | Family Doctor  Evaluation of Suspected Dementia | AAFP    Disclaimer: Copyright 2026. AAFP. The views presented in this broadcast are the speaker's own and do not represent those of AAFP.  The information presented is for general, educational, or entertainment purposes and should not be considered legal, health, financial, or other advice.  AAFP makes no representation as to the accuracy or completeness of the information and is not responsible for results that may arise from its use.  Consult an appropriate professional concerning your specific situation and respective governing bodies for applicable laws. Reference to any specific product or entity does not constitute an endorsement or recommendation by AAFP unless specifically stated otherwise.  AAFP and the AAFP logo are registered trademarks of American Academy of Family Physicians. 

Yalda Jabbarpour, MD, of the AAFP's Robert Graham Center, interviews rural family physician Jennifer Bacani McKenney, MD, FAAFP, about the Robert Graham Center's report "Investing in Primary Care: The Missing Strategy in America's Fight Against Chronic Disease," co-funded by the Milbank Memorial Fund and the Physicians Foundation. The report uses national data to show that having a usual source of primary care increases preventive services and screening, reduces emergency department visits and hospitalizations for people with chronic disease and lowers Medicare costs. The discussion highlights rural impacts, policy levers such as Medicare payment improvements and community health center funding, and how data supports advocacy and practice-level resource requests.     Topics by Timestamp  00:00 Introduction  01:20 Meet Dr. Bacani McKenney  01:51 Key findings snapshot  03:24 Rural practice stories  06:29 Scorecard to deep dive  09:13 Policy levers and payment  12:10 Using data for advocacy  19:31 Rural access and ER strain  24:19 Validation and takeaways  25:59 Closing and resources    Additional Resources  The Health of US Primary Care: 2026 Thematic Report  Robert Graham Center Maps, Data, and Tools  Jennifer Bacani McKenney, MD, FAAFP    Disclaimer: Copyright 2026. AAFP. The views presented in this broadcast are the speaker's own and do not represent those of AAFP.  The information presented is for general, educational, or entertainment purposes and should not be considered legal, health, financial, or other advice.  AAFP makes no representation as to the accuracy or completeness of the information and is not responsible for results that may arise from its use.  Consult an appropriate professional concerning your specific situation and respective governing bodies for applicable laws. Reference to any specific product or entity does not constitute an endorsement or recommendation by AAFP unless specifically stated otherwise.  AAFP and the AAFP logo are registered trademarks of American Academy of Family Physicians. 

In this episode of CME On the Go, our hosts revisit menopause through a case of a 51-year-old with seven months of amenorrhea, vasomotor and cognitive symptoms, and osteopenia-range DEXA findings, highlighting that she is perimenopausal. They note the limited role of FSH/LH testing and the need to rule out other causes. The episode focuses on systemic hormone therapy, recommending 17β-estradiol with progesterone for patients with an intact uterus, favoring transdermal routes for lower risk, gradual dose titration, shared decision making, and supportive lifestyle measures.    Learning Objectives  Learn how to select proper dosing and route of administration for estrogen replacement therapy including initiation, adjustments through monitoring, and discontinuation.  Discuss non-medicinal strategies for healthy aging in the menopausal woman including issues around sleep management, general cardiovascular fitness, and dementia.    The AAFP has reviewed Hot Takes and Flashbacks of Menopause and deemed it acceptable for up to 0.50 Enduring Materials, Self-Study AAFP Prescribed credits. Term of Approval is from 03/09/2026 to 6/4/2027. Physicians should claim only the credit commensurate with the extent of their participation in the activity.  The AAFP is accredited by the Accreditation Council for Continuing Medical Education (ACCME) to provide continuing medical education for physicians.  The American Academy of Family Physicians designates this Enduring Materials for a maximum of 0.50 AMA PRA Category 1 credits™. Physicians should claim only the credit commensurate with the extent of their participation in the activity.  CME activities approved for AAFP credit are recognized by the AOA as equivalent to AOA Category 2 credit.    After listening to the podcast episode, claim 0.5 AAFP credit by following the provided link.    https://www.aafp.org/assessment/take/19730/e    References and Resources   Menopause and Perimenopause Livestream: https://www.aafp.org/cme/all/womens/menopause-perimenopause-hrt.html  Menopause Management: When Hormone Therapy Is Appropriate: https://www.aafp.org/pubs/afp/issues/2026/0200/editorials-menopause-management.html  Hormone Therapy for the Primary Prevention of Chronic Conditions in Postmenopausal Women: https://jamanetwork.com/journals/jama/fullarticle/10.1001/jama.2017.16952?utm_source=openevidence&utm_medium=referral  Blog Article: More people than ever are interested in menopause. Family physicians should be, too: https://www.aafp.org/news/blogs/aafp-voices/menopause-perimenopause-education.html  ACOG President Says Label Change on Estrogen Will Increase Access to Hormone Therapy: https://www.acog.org/news/news-releases/2025/11/acog-president-says-label-change-on-estrogen-will-increase-access-to-hormone-therapy  https://www.webmd.com/menopause/which-type-of-estrogen-hormone-therapy-is-right-for-you  https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK493191/  https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC12463494/#:~:text=Estrogen%2C%20with%20or%20without%20progestogen,genitourinary%20symptoms%20after%20medication%20termination.  The NAMS 2017 Hormone Therapy Position Statement Advisory Panel. The 2017 hormone therapy position statement of The North American Menopause Society. Menopause. 2017;24(7):728-753. doi:10.1097/GME.0000000000000921  . Yet, the latest update from WHI showed that HT with CEE + MPA or with CEE alone was not associated with risk of all-cause, cardiovascular or cancer mortality during a cumulative follow-up of 18 years (Manson et al., 2017  Manson JE, Aragaki AK, Rossouw JE, Anderson GL, Prentice RL, LaCroix AZ, Chlebowski RT, Howard BV, Thomson CA, Margolis KLet al. Menopausal hormone therapy and long-term all-cause and cause-specific mortality: the Women's Health Initiative randomized trials. JAMA 2017;318:927–938.  Clare Oliver-Williams, Marija Glisic, Sara Shahzad, Elizabeth Brown, Cristina Pellegrino Baena, Mahmuda Chadni, Rajiv Chowdhury, Oscar H Franco, Taulant Muka, The route of administration, timing, duration and dose of postmenopausal hormone therapy and cardiovascular outcomes in women: a systematic review, Human Reproduction Update, Volume 25, Issue 2, March-April 2019, Pages 257–271, https://doi.org/10.1093/humupd/dmy039    Disclosure: It is the policy of the AAFP that all individuals in a position to control content disclose any relationships with commercial interests upon nomination/invitation of participation. Disclosure documents are reviewed for potential conflicts of interest and, if identified, conflicts are resolved prior to confirmation of participation. Only those participants who had no conflict of interest or who agreed to an identified resolution process prior to their participation were involved in this CME activity.  All individuals in a position to control content for this session have indicated they have no relevant financial relationships to disclose.    Disclaimer: Copyright 2025. AAFP. The views presented in this broadcast are the speaker's own and do not represent those of AAFP.  The information presented is for general, educational, or entertainment purposes and should not be considered legal, health, financial, or other advice.  AAFP makes no representation as to the accuracy or completeness of the information and is not responsible for results that may arise from its use.  Consult an appropriate professional concerning your specific situation and respective governing bodies for applicable laws. Reference to any specific product or entity does not constitute an endorsement or recommendation by AAFP unless specifically stated otherwise. AAFP and the AAFP logo are registered trademarks of American Academy of Family Physicians. 

On this episode of 'Inside Family Medicine', you'll hear from Jered Hunt, president of AAFP Insurance Services, and Eric Muehlbach, disability insurance manager, about why disability insurance is a critical part of a family physician's financial plan. They emphasize protecting a physician's greatest asset, future earning potential, by securing coverage early to lock in insurability due to intensive medical underwriting. The discussion covers how to start by reviewing existing employer benefits, common limitations such as own-occupation caps, monthly benefit caps, offsets, taxation of employer-paid benefits, and poor portability, and how personally owned policies can supplement coverage and travel throughout a career.     Topics by Timestamp  00:32 Meet the Guests  01:09 Why Disability Matters  02:40 How to Get Covered  03:11 Evaluating Employer Plans  05:19 Choosing Coverage Amounts  06:47 Picking the Right Advisor  08:28 Claims and New Benefits  10:25 Career Stage Advice  11:52 Wrap Up and Resources    Additional Resources  Home - AAFP Insurance Program  Individual Disability Income - AAFP Insurance Program  Complimentary Insurance Review - AAFP Insurance Program    Disclaimer: Copyright 2025. AAFP. The views presented in this broadcast are the speaker's own and do not represent those of AAFP.  The information presented is for general, educational, or entertainment purposes and should not be considered legal, health, financial, or other advice.  AAFP makes no representation as to the accuracy or completeness of the information and is not responsible for results that may arise from its use.  Consult an appropriate professional concerning your specific situation and respective governing bodies for applicable laws. Reference to any specific product or entity does not constitute an endorsement or recommendation by AAFP unless specifically stated otherwise.  AAFP and the AAFP logo are registered trademarks of American Academy of Family Physicians. 

David Tully, AAFP vice president of government relations, recaps the Academy's February 2026 advocacy efforts. He highlights passage of a government funding package that keeps agencies operating and includes reauthorization of the Teaching Health Center GME program through 2029, continued funding for community health centers and the National Health Service Corps and a two-year extension of telehealth flexibilities. The episode outlines the AAFP's push for Congress to address Medicare Advantage practices that strain primary care, including downcoding and prior authorization delays; and to pass bipartisan bills to speed decisions, ensure fair payment and protect patients nationwide.    Topics By Timestamp  00:00 February advocacy recap  00:37 Federal funding wins  01:36 Insurance barriers spotlight  03:03 Medicare Advantage oversight  04:32 NHSC loan repayment  05:05 Disability nondiscrimination  05:59 Primary care research findings  07:16 Advocacy Summit invitation  08:00 Get involved and closing    Additional Resources  NHSC Loan Repayment Program | NHSC  https://www.aafp.org/dam/AAFP/documents/advocacy/prevention/equality/LT-HHS-Section504-011926.pdf   AAFP Comments to CMS on CY27 Medicare Advantage Proposed Rule - January 23, 2026  Investing in Primary Care: The Missing Strategy in America's Fight Against Chronic Disease | Milbank Memorial Fund  AAFP Letter for House Hearings with Health Insurance CEOs - January 22, 2026    Disclaimer: Copyright 2026, AAFP. The views presented in this broadcast are the speaker's own and do not represent those of AAFP. The information presented is for general, educational, or entertainment purposes and should not be considered legal, health, financial, or other advice. The AAFP makes no representation as to the accuracy or completeness of the information and is not responsible for results that may arise from its use. Consult an appropriate professional concerning your specific situation and respective governing bodies for applicable laws. Reference to any specific product or entity does not constitute an endorsement or recommendation by AAFP unless specifically stated otherwise. AAFP and the AAFP logo are registered trademarks of American Academy of Family Physicians.    

In this episode of Inside Family Medicine we hear from Dr. Barbara Yawn, a family physician and clinical researcher and former Chief Science Officer at the COPD Foundation, about recognizing and managing COPD exacerbations in primary care. Dr. Yawn explains why COPD is often missed due to gradual symptom onset and patients minimizing symptoms, and stresses asking targeted questions about dyspnea, activity tolerance, chronic cough, sputum changes, and frequent colds. She reviews recognizing exacerbations, instructions to call the office, outpatient treatment with short courses of systemic corticosteroids and antibiotics, and considering alternative diagnoses such as heart failure, pulmonary embolus, and pneumonia.    Topics by Timestamp  01:16 Why Family Medicine  02:20 Spotting Early COPD Signs  04:42 Asking Better Questions  06:44 Guidelines and Acute Exacerbations  09:07 Post Exacerbation Follow Up  10:20 When to Consult Pulmonology  12:40 Preventing Future Exacerbations  15:06 Shared Decision-Making SHARE  18:14 Advanced and Newer Therapies  22:40 Key Takeaways and Wrap Up    Additional Resources  COPD Clinical Guidance | AAFP  COPD | Family Doctor  CME Activities:  ABFM Board Review Self-Study - CME 2025 | AAFP   Care of Chronic Conditions CME | AAFP  Adult Medicine 11th Edition – Online CME | AAFP    Disclaimer: Copyright 2025. AAFP. The views presented in this broadcast are the speaker's own and do not represent those of AAFP.  The information presented is for general, educational, or entertainment purposes and should not be considered legal, health, financial, or other advice.  AAFP makes no representation as to the accuracy or completeness of the information and is not responsible for results that may arise from its use.  Consult an appropriate professional concerning your specific situation and respective governing bodies for applicable laws. Reference to any specific product or entity does not constitute an endorsement or recommendation by AAFP unless specifically stated otherwise.  AAFP and the AAFP logo are registered trademarks of American Academy of Family Physicians. 

Hosted by Dr. Margot Savoy, this episode highlights the AAMC Careers in Medicine "Understanding Yourself" phase and free tools at careersinmedicine.aamc.org. Three board‑certified family physicians share their paths: Anthony Okolo on home‑based care and adaptability during COVID; Chase Mussard on returning to Appalachia for full‑spectrum practice; and Anita Ravi on trauma‑informed, justice‑focused work and policy research, with mentorship support and practical resources for learners.    Topics By Timestamp  00:00 Welcome to Inside Family Medicine & What to Expect  00:12 AAFP Future Conference: Why It's a Big Deal for Students & Residents  01:27 Careers in Medicine Resources & "Understanding Yourself"  02:38 Dr. Anthony Olo: A Home-Visit Origin Story (and the Roots of Family Medicine)  07:07 Dr. Chase Mussard: Coming Back to Appalachia & Community-Based Care  11:40 Imposter Syndrome, Team Support, and Why Patients Need You  14:16 Dr. Anita Ravi: Trauma-Informed Care & Advocating for Survivors  17:28 Not a Traditional Path: Mentors, Identity, and Finding Your "Why"  27:23 Closing Thoughts, Links, and Episode Disclaimers    Additional Resources  Register for FUTURE   Career Options in Family Medicine  AAMC Careers in Medicine    Disclaimer: Copyright 2026, AAFP. The views presented in this broadcast are the speaker's own and do not represent those of AAFP. The information presented is for general, educational, or entertainment purposes and should not be considered legal, health, financial, or other advice. The AAFP makes no representation as to the accuracy or completeness of the information and is not responsible for results that may arise from its use. Consult an appropriate professional concerning your specific situation and respective governing bodies for applicable laws. Reference to any specific product or entity does not constitute an endorsement or recommendation by AAFP unless specifically stated otherwise. AAFP and the AAFP logo are registered trademarks of American Academy of Family Physicians.          

In this episode of CME on the Go, our hosts discuss the integration of psychedelic substances like ketamine, psilocybin, iboga, and various social stimulants into treatment practices. The conversation delves into the therapeutic potential and risks associated with these substances, particularly for treatment-resistant conditions like depression and opioid addiction. The hosts emphasize the importance of setting, intention, and evidence-based practice while navigating the emerging landscape of psychedelics in medicine.    Learning Objectives  Examine the emerging evidence on therapeutic uses and risks of substances like psilocybin, ketamine, and other quasi-illicit drugs, while recognizing historical and cultural influences on their stigma.   Discuss strategies for counseling patients about the actual versus perceived risks of these substances, including legal, safety, and harm reduction considerations.   Recognize the impact of regional attitudes and biases on clinician-patient conversations around quasi-illicit substances and develop approaches to foster open, nonjudgmental dialogue.    The AAFP has reviewed Magic, Microdosing, and Moral Panic: A Primary Care Look at Substances with Abuse Potential and deemed it acceptable for up to 0.50 Enduring Materials, Self-Study AAFP Prescribed credits. Term of Approval is from 02/16/2026 to 6/4/2027. Physicians should claim only the credit commensurate with the extent of their participation in the activity.  The AAFP is accredited by the Accreditation Council for Continuing Medical Education (ACCME) to provide continuing medical education for physicians.  The American Academy of Family Physicians designates this Enduring Materials for a maximum of 0.50 AMA PRA Category 1 credits™. Physicians should claim only the credit commensurate with the extent of their participation in the activity.  CME activities approved for AAFP credit are recognized by the AOA as equivalent to AOA Category 2 credit.    After listening to the podcast episode, claim 0.5 AAFP credit by following the provided link.   https://www.aafp.org/assessment/take/19664/e     References and Resources  National Academies of Sciences, Engineering, and Medicine; Health and Medicine Division; Board on Health Sciences Policy; Forum on Neuroscience and Nervous System Disorders; Stroud C, Posey Norris SM, Matney C, et al., editors. Washington (DC): National Academies Press (US); 2022 Sep 1.  Penn A, Yehuda R. Preventing the Gaps in Psychedelic Research from Becoming Practice Pitfalls: A Translational Research Agenda. Psychedelic Med (New Rochelle). 2023;1(4):198-209. Published 2023 Dec 13. doi:10.1089/psymed.2023.0017  Pollan, Michael. How to Change Your Mind: What the New Science of Psychedelics Teaches Us About Consciousness, Dying, Addiction, Depression, and Transcendence. Penguin Press, 2018.  Smausz R, Neill J, Gigg J. Neural mechanisms underlying psilocybin's therapeutic potential - the need for preclinical in vivo electrophysiology. J Psychopharmacol. 2022;36(7):781-793. doi:10.1177/02698811221092508  Adeyinka D, Forsyth D, Currie S, Faraone N. Neurobiology of psilocybin: a comprehensive overview and comparative analysis of experimental models. Front Syst Neurosci. 2025;19:1585367. Published 2025 Aug 5. doi:10.3389/fnsys.2025.1585367  Matthew W. Johnson, Roland R. Griffiths, Peter S. Hendricks, Jack E. Henningfield. The abuse potential of medical psilocybin according to the 8 factors of the Controlled Substances Act. Neuropharmacology,Volume 142,2018,Pages 143-166,ISSN 0028-3908, https://doi.org/10.1016/j.neuropharm.2018.05.012.  Shah K, Trivedi C, Kamrai D, Akbar M, Tankersley W. Association of Psilocybin Use in Adolescents with Major Depressive Episode. Eur Psychiatry. 2022;65(Suppl 1):S329. Published 2022 Sep 1. doi:10.1192/j.eurpsy.2022.837  https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC9010394/  https://www.nature.com/articles/s41386-023-01629-w  https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37732856/  https://aafp.libsyn.com/cme-psychedelics-and-mental-health-a-new-frontier-for-medicine    Disclosure: It is the policy of the AAFP that all individuals in a position to control content disclose any relationships with commercial interests upon nomination/invitation of participation. Disclosure documents are reviewed for potential conflicts of interest and, if identified, conflicts are resolved prior to confirmation of participation. Only those participants who had no conflict of interest or who agreed to an identified resolution process prior to their participation were involved in this CME activity.  All individuals in a position to control content for this session have indicated they have no relevant financial relationships to disclose.    Disclaimer: Copyright 2025. AAFP. The views presented in this broadcast are the speaker's own and do not represent those of AAFP.  The information presented is for general, educational, or entertainment purposes and should not be considered legal, health, financial, or other advice.  AAFP makes no representation as to the accuracy or completeness of the information and is not responsible for results that may arise from its use.  Consult an appropriate professional concerning your specific situation and respective governing bodies for applicable laws. Reference to any specific product or entity does not constitute an endorsement or recommendation by AAFP unless specifically stated otherwise. AAFP and the AAFP logo are registered trademarks of American Academy of Family Physicians.   

In this episode of Fighting for Family Medicine, you'll hear from Shana Ntiri, MD, MPH, and Patrick Connolly, MD, about their advocacy journeys and their involvement in the AAFP's Advocacy Ambassadors Program. They discuss their experiences advocating for family medicine, the impact of their advocacy at both state and national levels and the importance of engaging new physicians in advocacy from the beginning of their careers. The episode also touches on the integration of AI in health care, the future of advocacy and the Academy's role in supporting family physicians through various challenges.    Topics by Timestamp  00:00 Introduction to Advocacy Ambassadors Program  00:31 Meet the Advocates: Drs. Shana Ntiri and Patrick Connolly  01:05 Dr. Connolly's advocacy journey  02:11 Dr. Naii's advocacy journey  02:53 State vs. federal advocacy  05:06 Pressing issues in health care  08:08 The Advocacy Ambassadors program  12:59 Impactful moments in family medicine  15:22 Advice for new physicians  17:22 The role of AI in family medicine  19:54 Final thoughts and encouragement  21:38 Conclusion and how to get involved    Additional Resources  AAFP Advocacy Ambassadors    Disclaimer: Copyright 2026, AAFP. The views presented in this broadcast are the speaker's own and do not represent those of AAFP. The information presented is for general, educational, or entertainment purposes and should not be considered legal, health, financial, or other advice. The AAFP makes no representation as to the accuracy or completeness of the information and is not responsible for results that may arise from its use. Consult an appropriate professional concerning your specific situation and respective governing bodies for applicable laws. Reference to any specific product or entity does not constitute an endorsement or recommendation by AAFP unless specifically stated otherwise. AAFP and the AAFP logo are registered trademarks of American Academy of Family Physicians.      

In this episode of CME on the Go, Dr. Eddie Needham, MD, an experienced family medicine educator, discusses recent updates in the classification and management of atrial fibrillation. He outlines the new classification system introduced by the American College of Cardiology and the American Heart Association, including risk factors, and the importance of early rhythm control. He emphasizes the important role of lifestyle modifications and the influence of social determinants of health in treating atrial fibrillation. The conversation also includes practical strategies for patient counseling and shared decision-making.     Learning Objectives  Discuss recent updates to the AF clinical guidelines and their impact on health outcomes.  Discuss the influence of social determinants of health on AF patients.  Explore the role of shared decision-making in improving patient outcomes.    The AAFP has reviewed Navigating the Latest in Atrial Fibrillation Guidelines: Bedside Implementation and deemed it acceptable for up to 0.50 Enduring Materials, Self-Study AAFP Prescribed credits. Term of Approval is from 02/02/2026 to 6/4/2027. Physicians should claim only the credit commensurate with the extent of their participation in the activity.  The AAFP is accredited by the Accreditation Council for Continuing Medical Education (ACCME) to provide continuing medical education for physicians.  The American Academy of Family Physicians designates this Enduring Materials for a maximum of 0.50 AMA PRA Category 1 credits™. Physicians should claim only the credit commensurate with the extent of their participation in the activity.  CME activities approved for AAFP credit are recognized by the AOA as equivalent to AOA Category 2 credit.    After listening to the podcast episode, claim 0.5 AAFP credit by following the provided link.   https://www.aafp.org/assessment/take/19663/e    References and Resources  Board Review Express  Hybrid: Offered both in-person (in Atlanta) and livestream   Wednesday, Feb. 18 – Saturday, Feb. 21, 2026 (3.5 days)   www.aafp.org/BRE2026     Disclosure: It is the policy of the AAFP that all individuals in a position to control content disclose any relationships with commercial interests upon nomination/invitation of participation. Disclosure documents are reviewed for potential conflicts of interest and, if identified, conflicts are resolved prior to confirmation of participation. Only those participants who had no conflict of interest or who agreed to an identified resolution process prior to their participation were involved in this CME activity.  All individuals in a position to control content for this session have indicated they have no relevant financial relationships to disclose.    Disclaimer: Copyright 2025. AAFP. The views presented in this broadcast are the speaker's own and do not represent those of AAFP.  The information presented is for general, educational, or entertainment purposes and should not be considered legal, health, financial, or other advice.  AAFP makes no representation as to the accuracy or completeness of the information and is not responsible for results that may arise from its use.  Consult an appropriate professional concerning your specific situation and respective governing bodies for applicable laws. Reference to any specific product or entity does not constitute an endorsement or recommendation by AAFP unless specifically stated otherwise. AAFP and the AAFP logo are registered trademarks of American Academy of Family Physicians. 

In this episode of Fighting for Family Medicine, David Tully, vice president of Government Relations at AAFP, provides an overview of the Academy's advocacy work for family medicine in January. Key topics include urging Congress to improve health care accessibility, advocating for better primary care investments, supporting telehealth policy extensions, opposing changes to childhood vaccine schedules and responding to proposed changes to the public charge rule. Additionally, Tully shares information about how to register for the upcoming Family Medicine Advocacy Summit. The summary concludes with ways to get involved and a reminder to visit the AAFP website for more details.    Topics by Timestamp  00:00 Introduction and overview  00:33 Advocacy efforts in January  01:15 Expanding family medicine training  01:56 Telehealth flexibilities and policies  02:41 Vaccine policy and advocacy  03:55 Immigration and public health  05:00 Modernizing Medicare physician payment  06:06 Family Medicine Advocacy Summit  06:55 Conclusion and call to action    Additional Resources  Immunization Schedules | AAFP  AAFP Comments to DEA on Special Registrations for Telemedicine CS Prescribing PR - March 17, 2025  Joint AAFP-CAFM Comments on FY 2026 IPPS Proposed Rule - June 10, 2025  AAFP Letter to DHS on Public Charge Proposed Rule - December 17, 2025  Sign-on Letter to DHS on Public Charge Proposed Rule - December 19, 2025  Family Medicine Advocacy Summit | AAFP  Joint Letter Requesting Congressional Oversight of New Childhood Vaccine Schedule - January 9, 2026  Joint Letter on US Childhood Immunization Schedule - January 7, 2026  AAFP Letter for Energy and Commerce Hearing on Medicare Legislation - January 8, 2026  AAFP Letter for House Hearings with Health Insurance CEOs - January 22, 2026    Disclaimer: Copyright 2026, AAFP. The views presented in this broadcast are the speaker's own and do not represent those of AAFP. The information presented is for general, educational, or entertainment purposes and should not be considered legal, health, financial, or other advice. The AAFP makes no representation as to the accuracy or completeness of the information and is not responsible for results that may arise from its use. Consult an appropriate professional concerning your specific situation and respective governing bodies for applicable laws. Reference to any specific product or entity does not constitute an endorsement or recommendation by AAFP unless specifically stated otherwise. AAFP and the AAFP logo are registered trademarks of American Academy of Family Physicians.      

In this episode of Inside Family Medicine, we hear from Dr. Alex McDonald and Dr. Alexa Mieses Malchuk. They discuss how family physicians can effectively engage with patients who conduct their own research before appointments. Dr. McDonald and Dr. Mieses Malchuk share their insights on how family medicine has shaped their careers, the importance of building relationships with patients, and strategies for addressing misinformation. The conversation also highlights the American Academy of Family Physicians' (AAFP) patient-facing website, familydoctor.org, and the new features and improvements of familydoctor.org, designed to better serve both physicians and patients in finding credible health information.    Topics by Timestamp  00:00 Introduction to Inside Family Medicine  00:11 Meet the Experts: Dr. McDonald and Dr. Mieses Malchuk  01:31 Choosing Family Medicine: Personal Stories  03:40 Engaging Patients Who Do Their Own Research  05:39 Navigating Online Medical Information  14:50 FamilyDoctor.org: A Valuable Resource  17:56 Final Thoughts and Takeaways  20:48 Closing Remarks and Contact Information    Additional Resources  Visit familydoctor.org    Disclaimer: Copyright 2025. AAFP. The views presented in this broadcast are the speaker's own and do not represent those of AAFP.  The information presented is for general, educational, or entertainment purposes and should not be considered legal, health, financial, or other advice.  AAFP makes no representation as to the accuracy or completeness of the information and is not responsible for results that may arise from its use.  Consult an appropriate professional concerning your specific situation and respective governing bodies for applicable laws. Reference to any specific product or entity does not constitute an endorsement or recommendation by AAFP unless specifically stated otherwise.  AAFP and the AAFP logo are registered trademarks of American Academy of Family Physicians.   

In this episode of CME on the Go, our hosts delve into a variety of topics crucial for the care of pregnant patients. They explore patient queries regarding travel, nutrition, exercise, and common pregnancy symptoms, offering evidence-based advice along the way. The episode also recommends various resources for both patients and healthcare providers, including useful apps and books to navigate the journey of pregnancy  Learning objectives  Describe common but often under-discussed pregnancy-related symptoms—such as round ligament pain, varicose veins, GERD, and sleep disturbances—and their appropriate management strategies.   Differentiate between typical nausea and vomiting in pregnancy and hyperemesis gravidarum, and recommend evidence-based non-pharmacologic treatments.   Summarize lifestyle guidance for pregnant patients, including safe exercise, nutrition, and environmental considerations, to support symptom relief and overall well-being.  The AAFP has reviewed Expecting the Unexpected: The Pregnancy Side Effects Nobody Warned You About and deemed it acceptable for up to 0.50 Enduring Materials, Self-Study AAFP Prescribed credits. Term of Approval is from 1/19/2026 to 6/4/2027. Physicians should claim only the credit commensurate with the extent of their participation in the activity.  The AAFP is accredited by the Accreditation Council for Continuing Medical Education (ACCME) to provide continuing medical education for physicians.  The American Academy of Family Physicians designates this Enduring Materials for a maximum of 0.50 AMA PRA Category 1 credits™. Physicians should claim only the credit commensurate with the extent of their participation in the activity.    After listening to the podcast episode, claim 0.5 AAFP credit by following the provided link.   https://www.aafp.org/assessment/take/19632/e     References and Resources  Fejzo, M., Rocha, N., Cimino, I. et al. GDF15 linked to maternal risk of nausea and vomiting during pregnancy. Nature 625, 760–767 (2024). https://doi.org/10.1038/s41586-023-06921-9  The windsor definition for hyperemesis gravidarum: A multistakeholder international consensus definition Jansen, L.A.W. et al. European Journal of Obstetrics and Gynecology and Reproductive Biology, Volume 266, 15 - 22  Einarson A, Maltepe C, Boskovic R, Koren G. Treatment of nausea and vomiting in pregnancy: an updated algorithm. Can Fam Physician. 2007;53(12):2109-2111  https://www.cdc.gov/niosh/reproductive-health/prevention/heat.html?CDC_AAref_Val=https://www.cdc.gov/niosh/topics/repro/heat.html  https://www.nhs.uk/pregnancy/finding-out/health-things-you-should-know-in-pregnancy/  https://www.acog.org/clinical/clinical-guidance/committee-opinion/articles/2020/04/physical-activity-and-exercise-during-pregnancy-and-the-postpartum-period    Disclosure: It is the policy of the AAFP that all individuals in a position to control content disclose any relationships with commercial interests upon nomination/invitation of participation. Disclosure documents are reviewed for potential conflicts of interest and, if identified, conflicts are resolved prior to confirmation of participation. Only those participants who had no conflict of interest or who agreed to an identified resolution process prior to their participation were involved in this CME activity.  All individuals in a position to control content for this session have indicated they have no relevant financial relationships to disclose.    Disclaimer: Copyright 2025. AAFP. The views presented in this broadcast are the speaker's own and do not represent those of AAFP.  The information presented is for general, educational, or entertainment purposes and should not be considered legal, health, financial, or other advice.  AAFP makes no representation as to the accuracy or completeness of the information and is not responsible for results that may arise from its use.  Consult an appropriate professional concerning your specific situation and respective governing bodies for applicable laws. Reference to any specific product or entity does not constitute an endorsement or recommendation by AAFP unless specifically stated otherwise. AAFP and the AAFP logo are registered trademarks of American Academy of Family Physicians.     

In this episode of Fighting for Family Medicine, David Tully, vice president of Government Relations, talks with Drs. Aaron George and Andrea DeSantis about their experiences at the 2025 Family Medicine Advocacy Summit (FMAS). They discuss the importance of advocacy in family medicine, building relationships with lawmakers and their staff and the significance of personal stories in influencing policy. They also share advice on mentorship, career decisions and how to become active in advocacy.     Registration is now open for the Academy's 2026 FMAS, June 14-16. Details here.    Topics By Timestamp  00:39 Meet the guests: Andrea DeSantis, DO, and Aaron George, DO.  01:16 The Importance of advocacy in family medicine  03:39 Experiences from the Family Medicine Advocacy Summit  04:08 Returning home: impact and reflections  07:50 Encouraging advocacy among family physicians  10:59 Personal stories and their impact on advocacy  15:13 Advice for new physicians  17:46 The Advocacy Ambassador program  19:21 Final thoughts and upcoming events    Additional Resources   AAFP Advocacy Ambassadors  Register for the Family Medicine Advocacy Summit     Disclaimer: Copyright 2025, AAFP. The views presented in this broadcast are the speaker's own and do not represent those of AAFP. The information presented is for general, educational, or entertainment purposes and should not be considered legal, health, financial, or other advice. The AAFP makes no representation as to the accuracy or completeness of the information and is not responsible for results that may arise from its use. Consult an appropriate professional concerning your specific situation and respective governing bodies for applicable laws. Reference to any specific product or entity does not constitute an endorsement or recommendation by AAFP unless specifically stated otherwise. AAFP and the AAFP logo are registered trademarks of American Academy of Family Physicians.    

In this episode of Inside Family Medicine, we hear from Dr. Jason Marker and Dr. Mackenzie Bredbenner about the AAFP Foundation's Emerging Leader Institute (ELI). Dr. Marker, a prominent leader in family medicine, discusses the inception and structure of the ELI program, designed to foster leadership skills in medical students and residents. Dr. Bredbenner shares her personal journey and growth through the ELI, emphasizing how the program's support and structured guidance enabled her to successfully lead a project addressing the needs of the unhoused population in Dover, Delaware. Both guests highlight the program's impact on developing future leaders in family medicine and the importance of mentorship in the process.    Topics By Timestamp 00:11 Meet the Guests: Dr. Jason Marker and Dr. Mackenzie Bredbenner  01:26 Why Choose Family Medicine?  03:23 Founding the Emerging Leader Institute  04:34 Tracks and Opportunities in ELI  05:05 Dr. Bredbenner's Journey with ELI  10:30 Impact of ELI on Family Medicine  12:19 How ELI Supports Its Scholars  18:22 Advice for Future ELI Applicants  21:07 Conclusion    Additional Resources   Family Medicine Leads Emerging Leader Institute | AAFP Foundation    Disclaimer: Copyright 2026. AAFP. The views presented in this broadcast are the speaker's own and do not represent those of AAFP.  The information presented is for general, educational, or entertainment purposes and should not be considered legal, health, financial, or other advice.  AAFP makes no representation as to the accuracy or completeness of the information and is not responsible for results that may arise from its use.  Consult an appropriate professional concerning your specific situation and respective governing bodies for applicable laws. Reference to any specific product or entity does not constitute an endorsement or recommendation by AAFP unless specifically stated otherwise.  AAFP and the AAFP logo are registered trademarks of American Academy of Family Physicians. 

In this episode of CME on the Go, our hosts tackle the nuanced topic of transgender patient care with the help of Dr. Evans Lodge, a specialist in gender affirming care. The discussion covers the basics of gender dysphoria, the importance of compassionate care, building therapeutic relationships, and the practicalities of hormone treatment. Dr. Lodge also touches on the significance of an interdisciplinary approach and the key medical monitoring guidelines for hormone therapies. This episode emphasizes the role of family physicians in providing comprehensive and inclusive care, aiming to reduce fear and promote familiarity with gender affirming practices.    Learning Objectives:   Describe the foundational concepts and terminology related to gender-affirming hormone therapy to improve communication and comfort with transgender patients.   Identify common hormone regimens, dosing considerations, and monitoring strategies for transgender patients, including potential side effects and lab tracking.   Engage in reflective dialogue with clinical experts to increase confidence in supporting transgender patients, even if not directly managing hormone therapy.    The AAFP has reviewed Not a Lecture, just a Conversation: Hormones & Transgender Care and deemed it acceptable for up to 0.50 Enduring Materials, Self-Study AAFP Prescribed credits. Term of Approval is from 1/5/2026 to 6/4/2027. Physicians should claim only the credit commensurate with the extent of their participation in the activity.  The AAFP is accredited by the Accreditation Council for Continuing Medical Education (ACCME) to provide continuing medical education for physicians  The American Academy of Family Physicians designates this Enduring Materials for a maximum of 0.50 AMA PRA Category 1 credits™. Physicians should claim only the credit commensurate with the extent of their participation in the activity.  CME activities approved for AAFP credit are recognized by the AOA as equivalent to AOA Category 2 credit.    After listening to the podcast episode, claim 0.5 AAFP credit by following the provided link.     https://www.aafp.org/assessment/take/19631/e    References and Resources  Guidelines for the Primary and Gender-Affirming Care of Transgender and Gender Nonbinary People. UCSF Gender Affirming Health Program. Guidelines for the Primary and Gender-Affirming Care of Transgender and Gender Nonbinary People | Gender Affirming Health Program  World Professional Association for Transgender Health (WPATH), including their "Standards of Care Version 8." Home - WPATH    Disclosure: It is the policy of the AAFP that all individuals in a position to control content disclose any relationships with commercial interests upon nomination/invitation of participation. Disclosure documents are reviewed for potential conflicts of interest and, if identified, conflicts are resolved prior to confirmation of participation. Only those participants who had no conflict of interest or who agreed to an identified resolution process prior to their participation were involved in this CME activity.  All individuals in a position to control content for this session have indicated they have no relevant financial relationships to disclose.    Disclaimer: Copyright 2026. AAFP. The views presented in this broadcast are the speaker's own and do not represent those of AAFP.  The information presented is for general, educational, or entertainment purposes and should not be considered legal, health, financial, or other advice.  AAFP makes no representation as to the accuracy or completeness of the information and is not responsible for results that may arise from its use.  Consult an appropriate professional concerning your specific situation and respective governing bodies for applicable laws. Reference to any specific product or entity does not constitute an endorsement or recommendation by AAFP unless specifically stated otherwise. AAFP and the AAFP logo are registered trademarks of American Academy of Family Physicians. 

In this special episode of Inside Family Medicine, we revisit the top three most popular episodes of 2025. First, AAFP's Fall Immunization Recommendations for the 2025-2026 respiratory season. Next, Chronic Kidney Disease Care: Essential Insights for Family Physicians, emphasizing early screening and collaboration with nephrologists. Finally, the episode covers the transition from med school to residency, featuring personal stories and valuable tips for navigating this challenging phase. Tune in to relive standout moments and gain practical advice from your peers.    Topics by Timestamp  00:00 Introduction to Inside Family Medicine  00:28 Top Episode: Fall Immunization Recommendations  04:04 Highlight: Chronic Kidney Disease Care  06:14 From Med School to Residency: What We Wish We Knew  08:38 Conclusion and Listener Engagement    Additional Resources  Listen to: AAFP Fall Immunization Recommendations  Listen to: Chronic Kidney Disease Care: Essential Insights for Family Physicians  Listen to: From Med School to Residency: What We Wish We Knew     Disclaimer: Copyright 2025. AAFP. The views presented in this broadcast are the speaker's own and do not represent those of AAFP.  The information presented is for general, educational, or entertainment purposes and should not be considered legal, health, financial, or other advice.  AAFP makes no representation as to the accuracy or completeness of the information and is not responsible for results that may arise from its use.  Consult an appropriate professional concerning your specific situation and respective governing bodies for applicable laws. Reference to any specific product or entity does not constitute an endorsement or recommendation by AAFP unless specifically stated otherwise.  AAFP and the AAFP logo are registered trademarks of American Academy of Family Physicians. 

In this episode of Fighting for Family Medicine, David Tully, Vice President of Government Relations at AAFP, provides a detailed review of the organization's advocacy efforts for December. Topics covered include a new advisory committee vote on Hepatitis B vaccination, the decline in the rural family physician workforce, updates on value-based care models, feedback on AI-enabled medical devices, opposition to proposed HIPAA security rule, the harmful practice of downcoding by health plans, policies to make health care more affordable, IRS updates on health savings accounts for direct primary care services, and the reauthorization of the SUPPORT Act.     Topics by Timestamp  00:00 Introduction and Year-End Advocacy Overview  00:36 Hepatitis B Vaccine Policy Update  01:27 Rural Family Physician Workforce Decline  02:19 Value-Based Care and New Payment Models  02:56 AI in Medical Devices and Cybersecurity Concerns  04:05 Addressing Down Coding and Healthcare Costs  05:51 Direct Primary Care and Health Savings Accounts  06:37 Substance Use Disorder Legislation Success  07:10 Conclusion and How to Get Involved    Additional Resources   AAFP Supports Maintaining Universal Hepatitis B Vaccination at Birth | AAFP  AAFP Letter to Senate HELP Committee in Support of the SUPPORT Reauthorization Act - December 6, 2023  AAFP Statement for the Record for Senate Finance Committee Hearing on Affordability - November 19, 2025  Family Physician Workforce Trends: The Toll on Rural Communities | Annals of Family Medicine  AAFP Letter to DOJ, FTC and CMS on Downcoding - November 21, 2025  Sign-on Letter to HHS on Withdrawing HIPAA Cybersecurity Proposed Rule - December 8, 2025    Disclaimer: Copyright 2025, AAFP. The views presented in this broadcast are the speaker's own and do not represent those of AAFP. The information presented is for general, educational, or entertainment purposes and should not be considered legal, health, financial, or other advice. The AAFP makes no representation as to the accuracy or completeness of the information and is not responsible for results that may arise from its use. Consult an appropriate professional concerning your specific situation and respective governing bodies for applicable laws. Reference to any specific product or entity does not constitute an endorsement or recommendation by AAFP unless specifically stated otherwise. AAFP and the AAFP logo are registered trademarks of American Academy of Family Physicians.      

In this episode of Inside Family Medicine, guest host, Adam Bradley interviews Dr. Kaci Larsen, a regional medical director in Phoenix, Arizona, about her journey in family medicine and her involvement with the American Academy of Family Physicians (AAFP). Dr. Larsen discusses her early introduction to the AAFP, the importance of community and leadership within the organization, and the challenges and rewards of a career in family medicine. She also gives advice for new physicians on staying connected and maintaining work-life balance.     Topics By Timestamp  00:00 Introduction  01:14 Choosing Family Medicine  01:59 Early Involvement with AAFP  03:39 Leadership and Community in Family Medicine  07:35 Career Milestones and Personal Growth  13:37 Balancing Leadership and Clinical Practice  16:54 Impact of AAFP on Practice  22:26 Advice for New Physicians  25:50 Conclusion and Acknowledgements    Additional Resources  Student and Resident Leadership Opportunities | AAFP  FUTURE 2026 | Formerly National Conference for Family Medicine | AAFP  FMX 2026 in Nashville | Family Medicine Conference | AAFP  Family Medicine Compensation and Career Satisfaction Benchmark Dashboard | AAFP  Family Medicine Jobs – AAFP CareerLink  Advocacy Ambassadors | AAFP  Family Medicine Champions | AAFP    Disclaimer: Copyright 2025. AAFP. The views presented in this broadcast are the speaker's own and do not represent those of AAFP.  The information presented is for general, educational, or entertainment purposes and should not be considered legal, health, financial, or other advice.  AAFP makes no representation as to the accuracy or completeness of the information and is not responsible for results that may arise from its use.  Consult an appropriate professional concerning your specific situation and respective governing bodies for applicable laws. Reference to any specific product or entity does not constitute an endorsement or recommendation by AAFP unless specifically stated otherwise.  AAFP and the AAFP logo are registered trademarks of American Academy of Family Physicians.