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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 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 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 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 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. 

In this episode of CME on the go, our hosts focus on discussing GLP-1 agonists and their impact on obesity management. They delve into patients' varying perceptions and willingness to use these medications versus non-pharmacologic approaches like lifestyle, integrative, and preventive medicine. The hosts examine different dietary plans, such as the Mediterranean, DASH, and plant-based diets, and their efficacy in weight loss. They stress the importance of shared decision-making, individualized patient care, and considering cultural and socioeconomic factors. The episode concludes with gratitude reflections from the hosts.    After listening to the podcast episode, claim 0.5 AAFP credit by following the provided link.    https://www.aafp.org/assessment/take/19580/e    Learning Objectives   Differentiate between lifestyle, integrative, and preventive medicine approaches in weight management, including their roles in addressing genetic and chronic factors contributing to obesity.   Appraise the current evidence behind popular dietary strategies—such as intermittent fasting, ketogenic, and paleo diets—to effectively respond to common patient inquiries.   Develop patient-centered strategies that incorporate evidence-based practices and practical behavioral details to enhance long-term weight loss success without medication.    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 and a member of the AAFP Advocacy team, reviews the significant advocacy efforts by the Academy and its members in 2025. Highlighting key legislative victories and member participation, Tully underscores the impact of family physicians in shaping health care policy. The episode features an interview with Dr. Adrienne Parad, a family physician and town council member in Ledyard, Connecticut, who shares her journey into public service and how her medical background informs her role in local government. Dr. Parad discusses balancing her professional responsibilities with her personal life and offers advice for family physicians interested in pursuing public office.    Topics By Timestamp  00:00 Introduction and overview  00:36 Advocacy achievements in 2025  01:56 Grassroots advocacy and member engagement  03:04 Political Action and Public Office  03:59 Interview with Dr. Adrienne Parad  10:34 Balancing medicine and public service  13:52 Encouraging more physicians in public service  18:40 Conclusion and resources    Additional Resources  'A Window for Helping My Patients': AAFP Member and California Assembly Member Jasmeet Bains, M.D.  FFFM | Advocacy in Action: Dr. Alex McDonald's Path to Public Service  AAFP Advocacy Ambassadors    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 CME on the Go, Dr. Jason Marker, Dr. Tamaan Osbourne-Roberts, and Dr. Lauren Brown-Berchtold discuss the importance of influenza vaccination. They share personal experiences, outline vaccine recommendations for various age groups, and address common safety concerns and myths about the flu vaccine. They emphasize the role family physicians play in preventing hospitalizations and deaths through effective vaccination campaigns. Listeners are encouraged to incorporate practical strategies for discussing vaccines with patients and to stay informed on the latest vaccine guidelines.  This CME podcast is supported by an educational grant to the AAFP from Seqirus.  After listening to the podcast episode, claim 0.5 AAFP credit by following the provided link.   https://www.aafp.org/assessment/take/19581/e    Learning Objectives:  Discuss common misconceptions about vaccine safety and the actual risk profile of commonly administered vaccines.  Highlight evidence-based recommendations for influenza vaccinations, recommendations, and updates for children, adults, and older adults, including vaccine safety, best practices for shared decision-making, and encouraging timely vaccination against influenza.    Key evidence-based recommendations   Universal recommendation  Annual vaccination for everyone ≥6 months each season (unless specific contraindication). AAFP   Timing  Aim for September–October for most people; earlier (July–August) for some groups can be reasonable, but avoid too-early vaccination in older adults if coverage through season is a concern. September–October balances getting protected before circulation starts and maintaining protection through the season. CDC+1    Children  Kids 6 months–8 years who are receiving influenza vaccine for the first time (or who previously received only 1 dose) need 2 doses at least 4 weeks apart.    FluMist (LAIV) is approved for ages 2–49 but has exclusions (certain medical conditions, recent wheeze/asthma in young children, pregnancy). Use age- and condition-appropriate vaccine choice for kids. CDC+1  Adults & special groups  Pregnancy: Inactivated or recombinant influenza vaccines may be given in any trimester; vaccination protects pregnant person and provides newborn protection by transplacental antibodies. CDC+1  Egg allergy: People with egg allergy may receive any age-appropriate flu vaccine (egg-based or non-egg-based). Severe egg allergy is not a reason to avoid flu vaccine, but observe basic precautions (clinic equipped for allergic reaction). CDC+1  Older adults (≥65 years)  Preferential recommendation: use high-dose (e.g., Fluzone High-Dose), adjuvanted (e.g., Fluad), or recombinant (e.g., Flublok) vaccines because they show improved protection and reduce hospitalizations compared with standard-dose unadjuvanted vaccines. If unavailable, any age-appropriate vaccine is acceptable. CDC+1  Safety & myth-busting   "You cannot get influenza from the inactivated vaccine — the seasonal shot contains killed virus or recombinant proteins; it can cause soreness or low-grade fever for a day or two, but serious reactions are rare." CDC  "Large studies show no increased risk of miscarriage or stillbirth after influenza vaccination in pregnancy; the vaccine is safe at any trimester." CDC  "If you're allergic to eggs, you can still get the flu vaccine; egg allergy alone is not a reason to skip vaccination." CDC  Shared decision-making — practical, 30-second clinician scripts  Use a presumptive + offer approach, then personalize briefly:  Presumptive opener (10–15s): "Today I recommend the flu vaccine for you/your child — it's the best way to reduce risk of serious flu, hospital visits, and to protect infants and older relatives."    If hesitant (10–20s): Ask one focused question: "What worries you most about the flu vaccine?" Listen 15s.  Targeted response (15–30s): Address their specific concern with a brief fact: e.g., "If you're worried about safety in pregnancy — large studies show it's safe and helps protect your baby for several months." Then close: "Would you like to get it now, or talk more about options (high-dose/LAIV/etc.)?"  If true medical uncertainty (e.g., some immunocompromised patients, transplant recipients): use shared decision-making to weigh individual risks and vaccine type (prefer inactivated or recombinant for immunocompromised). (See resources in show notes.) CDC+1  Quick patient-facing lines to encourage timely vaccination  "The best time to get protected before flu starts circulating is now — by late September or October — so schedule your vaccine this month." historyofvaccines.org    "Getting your flu shot protects you and helps protect babies under 6 months who cannot be vaccinated." CDC  "If you're 65 or older, ask for the high dose/adjuvanted/recombinant option for extra protection." CDC  https://www.cdc.gov/flu/highrisk/65over.htm  Between 70 percent and 85 percent of seasonal flu-related deaths have occurred in people 65 years and older, and between 50 percent and 70 percent of seasonal flu-related hospitalizations have occurred among people in this age group.  Specific flu shots for people 65 years and older  CDC and ACIP preferentially recommend the use of higher dose flu vaccines (high-dose inactivated and recombinant) or adjuvanted inactivated flu vaccine over standard-dose unadjuvanted flu vaccines for people 65 years and older. This recommendation is based on a review of available studies which suggests that, in this age group, these vaccines are potentially more effective than standard dose unadjuvanted flu vaccines. If one of these vaccines is not available at the time of administration, people in this age group should get a standard-dose unadjuvanted inactivated flu vaccine instead. There are other flu vaccines approved for use in people 65 years and older. People 65 years and older should not get a nasal spray vaccine.  Pneumococcal pneumonia is an example of a serious flu-related complication that can cause death.  People who are 50 years and older also should be up to date with pneumococcal vaccination. This vaccination helps protect against pneumococcal pneumonia and other serious infections.    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 CME on the Go, our hosts discuss the complexities of diagnosing and treating headaches in primary care. They cover common challenges faced by family physicians, such as differentiating between primary and secondary headaches, the importance of taking thorough patient histories, and the appropriate use of diagnostic tests like MRI and CT scans. The episode offers a deep dive into treatment options for headaches, including pharmacologic and non-pharmacologic methods, with a special focus on managing chronic daily headaches, migraine disorders, and medication overuse headaches. The discussion also touches on the role of cognitive behavioral therapy, osteopathic manipulation, and the efficacy of various medications like NSAIDs, triptans, and beta blockers.     After listening to the podcast episode, claim 0.5 AAFP credit by following the provided link.    https://www.aafp.org/assessment/take/19579/e    Learning Objectives  Apply a standardized, evidence-informed diagnostic and treatment algorithm for evaluating patients with headache, while acknowledging alternative approaches.   Differentiate between appropriate and potentially problematic interventions, including the use of narcotics, in-office procedures, and newer pharmacologic therapies.   Reflect on provider discomfort and fatigue in managing headache complaints, and develop strategies to maintain empathy, clinical consistency, and patient rapport.    References and Resources  Bahra, A., & Evans, R. W. (2021). The secondary headaches. Cephalalgia, 41(4), 427-430.  Jairo Hernandez, Eduardo Molina, Ashley Rodriguez, Samuel Woodford, Andrew Nguyen, Grace Parker, Brandon Lucke-Wold. Headache Disorders: Differentiating Primary and Secondary Etiologies. J. Integr. Neurosci. 2024, 23(2), 43. https://doi.org/10.31083/j.jin2302043  https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S1470211823000052#bib0003  Novel screening tool for secondary headache in acute care—A pilot study.   https://doi.org/10.1016/j.clinme.2023.100005   https://ichd-3.org/    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.     

  As the holiday season approaches, David Tully, VP of Government Relations at the AAFP, recaps the organization's advocacy efforts in November. Key topics include the Medicare physician fee schedule; student loan debt for primary care physicians; and meetings with lawmakers to push for continued telehealth flexibilities, strengthening the primary care workforce and ensuring that the Medicare physician fee schedule is implemented as published. The AAFP also addresses the issue of down coding by health plans and the urgency to extend ACA health care tax credits. Listeners are encouraged to get involved through AAFP's advocacy programs and check the show notes for detailed information.    Topics By Timestamp  00:00 Introduction to the AAFP's advocacy efforts  00:37 Understanding the Medicare physician fee schedule  01:52 Advocating for student loan debt reduction  02:43 Meeting with lawmakers to improve care access  03:40 Addressing downcoding practices  04:24 Ensuring access to affordable health care  04:51 Conclusion and How to Get Involved    Additional Resources  November 2025 FMAR  Speak Out | AAFP  Downcoding letter  Family Physicians Respond to Final 2026 Medicare Physician Fee Schedule | AAFP  Leading Physician Groups: Department of Education's PSLF Rule Will Hurt Patients and Physicians | 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. 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.