Vol XXXI, May `07

As always, the program opened attendees' eyes about the possibilities for their future. As Holly Cranston, MD, said, "The Futures Program gave me insight into how other physicians practice long term care. As a fellow, I have been involved in the care of nursing home patients, but I hadn't been exposed to such a wide variety of physicians who practice extensively or exclusively in this setting." She added, "It was exciting to hear these colleagues give a snapshot of how their medical practices work in this care setting. I now have new ideas to infuse into my future practice."

The AMDA Foundation extends its thanks to Janssen, L.P. for sponsoring this important and popular program.

E-News: Did your experiences at the Futures Program influence your thoughts/plans regarding your future career?

Holly Cranston: Yes. I plan to go back to Kansas and start up a private practice. I plan on becoming a medical director at a facility in that area, probably starting out on the Alzheimer's unit of one facility and progressing from there to other homes. I think that the Futures Program has given me more insight into how surveys work and how to avoid the common pitfalls associated with surveys and the medical director's role in that process.

I am considering working with my fellowship program on a few research or outreach projects for underserved areas in Kansas to help alleviate some of the strain that is occurring at nursing homes in the Western portion of our state. Before the Futures Program, I had not really given a lot of thought to doing research, but now I am excited about the possibilities.

E-News: What did you learn about long term care that surprised you?

Haroon Haque, MD: I was surprised to learn how medical directors do the multi-tasking and integrate good old medicine with present day needs and regulations. And, along with all that, they manage to deliver quality health care to the residents.