HJNO Nov/Dec 2019

50 NOV / DEC 2019 I  Healthcare Journal of new orleans column medical society WHAT KEEPS YOU UP AT NIGHT? Orleans and Jefferson Parish Medical Societies Gather Physician Input Perhaps the most thought-provoking question physicians and residents were asked was, "What keeps you up at night?" Not surprisingly, they noted that the chal- lenges they face in providing care to their patients was first and foremost on their minds. These challenges include lack of adequate insurance options for patients, the existence of many public health issues which plague Southeast Louisiana, con- stantly-changing health care regulations and laws, and ever-increasing intrusion in the patient-physician relationship.  The business of healthcare, inadequate Medicaid reimbursement, and social de- terminants of health contribute substan- tially to physician stress. While technology has improved the ability to diagnose and treat patients, and to communicate with patients through electronic medical record portals, physi- cians noted that technology has the po- tential to come between them and their patients. In addition, insurance company Two of Louisiana’s largest parish physician associations began gathering input in August 2019 from physi- cians throughout Southeast Louisiana. This was accomplished by developing a physician needs assessment, and by hosting physician focus groups in September. The purpose of these initiatives was to determine how a proposed new organization can best serve the needs of physicians and those in training. Survey and focus group participants shared issues, concerns, and suggestions for “building a new boat” to best meet their needs. George S. Ellis, Jr., MD President Orleans Parish Medical Society