Expert Interviews

Family Medicine is Where Mental Health Care Starts, With Teresa Lovins, MD
August 26, 2025

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."

Obesity and Venous Disease: Risk Factors and Key Diagnostic Challenges
August 21, 2025

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

With Medical Societies "Uninvited" From ACIP Vaccine Working Groups, Is There Any Hope for Harmonized Schedules?
August 21, 2025

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

How to Talk to Patients About Respiratory Virus Vaccines This Year? The Same Way We Always Do
August 20, 2025

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.

Back-to-School Pediatric Vaccination: A Family Physician’s Perspective on Boosting Rates, Countering Misinformation
August 19, 2025

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

Shifts in CDC Policy on COVID-19 Vaccination for Children Dilute Protection for the Vulnerable Population, ID Specialist Warns
August 19, 2025

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.

Vaccine Policy Shifts, Public Trust, and Countering Misinformation
August 18, 2025

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

The ACIP's Rich History of Debate is in Jeopardy, Not A Good Sign for Science, ID Expert Says
August 18, 2025

"The foundation of science in the new iteration of the ACIP is uncertain at best," William Schaffner, MD, observed. He is concerned about where that might lead.

How Would You Advise An Infectious Disease Resident About a Career Path Today? This Expert Isn't Sure
August 14, 2025

William Schaffner, MD, a veteran infectious disease expert and public health thought leader is concerned that rapidly shifting federal policy could impact future options.

How to Streamline Pediatric Vaccine Coadministration During High-Demand Seasons
August 13, 2025

Family physician Sarah Sams, MD, shares how to improve pediatric vaccine coadministration using pre‑visit planning and staff coordination.