2023 AAFP National Conference Resident Delegate's Report

Representing Illinois as a resident delegate to the AAFP National Conference was a remarkable experience. I was able to meet residents and medical students who were not only passionate about family medicine but eager to engage in meaningful discussions on how to improve our health care system for patients and providers alike. Jennifer Caudle DO, was the AAFP's National Conference’s keynote speaker. She delivered an inspirational speech reminding us of the reasons why family medicine is such a rewarding specialty such as continuity of care, work life balance, and fulfilling relationships with patients from all walks of life. 

To say attending this year’s American Academy of Family Physician’s (AAFP) National Conference was a life-changing experience for me would be an under-statement. I have never left a conference feeling more engaged, inspired, and galvanized than I am today after attending this conference.  I am indebted to the tireless efforts of those who led and organized this truly spectacular event. As the Illinois Resident Delegate, I was honored to represent our state and delegation, IN PERSON, at the 47^th annual AAFP National Conference in Kansas City, Missouri. Though this was my first AAFP National Conference, I was comforted by the hundreds of other medical students and Family Medicine residents who were also new to this 3-day gathering. I was even more enchanted when I ran into four of my former classmates from medical school (The Larner College of Medicine at the University of Vermont) who were at the conference representing their respective family medicine residency programs.

Dr. Hirschfeld is an IAFP member who practices at Erie Family Health Center
Follow her on Twitter @Ahirschfeld5 #Protect340B

Addressing Anxiety and Opiate Use Disorder Together

The following blog post can serve as a template letter for physicians to explain applications where discontinuing benzodiazepine would not be advised. 

As family medicine physicians and members of society, we grieve the death of George Floyd. His death, along with the deaths of hundreds of black people killed by police officers each year, is a tragic reminder of the unjust treatment of African Americans in our country. The protests across the world are a response to this event and the many injustices suffered by black people at the hands of institutions that hold power in our country.

(Editor's Note) This blog originally appeared on KevinMD.com on March 1.  Dr. Wheat has given her permission to re-post here. 

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 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? 

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.