AMDA Foundation - Futures Participants Learn to Channel Passion into Quality Care

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Futures Participants Learn to Channel Passion into Quality Care

Vol XXXIV, Apr '08

Participants at the 2008 AMDA Foundation Futures Program brought enthusiasm and curiosity, and they went home with new tools and knowledge to enable them to be effective long term care practitioners. During the day-long program held at AMDA’s 2008 Annual Symposium, they heard AMDA leaders talk about risk management, practical approaches to long term care, niche professional areas such as research, and what a medical director’s typical day involves. “I knew a little when I came here, but I know a great deal more now,” said Raj Gopalraj, MD, a participant from Hazard, KY. “I have a much better sense of how rewarding this type of practice is and issues such as how to establish and maintain relationships with families. The program has exceeded my expectations.”

Among the widely hailed sessions was a discussion of risk management by Jeffery Kerr, DO, CMD. Dr. Kerr gave the group practical tips for working successfully with nurses and attending physicians, communicating with families, and addressing complaints and problems. He also emphasized the importance of documentation and how, what, and when to document information about various issues such as pressure ulcers. After the presentation, Jennifer Hoppe, DO, of Lansing, MI, said, “I now feel much more empowered to deal with these issues and how to make long term care medicine a team effort.”

This year, 56 residents and fellows attended the program. The 2008 Futures Program was made possible by a generous donation by Wyeth. In addition, all donations received at the 2008 Wall of Caring will support the Futures Program.