Expert Interviews

Teresa Lovins, MD, highlights a study that showed a 14% increase in rates of safety planning within 2 weeks of a negative screening led to a 25% decrease in attempted suicides.

Infectious disease and family medicine experts share guidance on vaccine policy changes, patient communication, and boosting vaccine confidence.

Teresa Lovins, MD, sees at least 1 or 2 patients a week who have suicidal ideation. Too many of them are at risk for an attempt within a month of those visits.

Mental health issues affect half the population at some point during a lifetime. Teresa Lovins, MD, says FPs are often the first to learn that "something is going on."

Shagun Bindlish, MD, board member of the American Diabetes Association, discusses challenges to diagnosing and treating venous disease in patients with obesity.

William Schaffner, MD, a long-time liaison from the NFID to the ACIP working groups, is concerned about fragmentation of US vaccine recommendations.

William Schaffner, MD, advises first and foremost to stay away from politics, to acknowledge and normalize patient fear and concern, and to answer quickly and with confidence.

Sarah Sams, MD, emphasizes education, empathy, and proactive communication to support families and protect public health.

William Schaffner, MD, ID specialist and vaccine expert, advises following state guidance on back-to-school shots and thinking through new guidance on COVID shots for kids.

Infectious disease expert Amesh Adalja, MD, discusses new vaccine policies, misinformation, and how PCPs can build confidence during National Immunization Awareness Month.