A couple of highlights from around the web that made it into our feeds recently.
How on Earth Is There a Syphilis Epidemic in 2024?
Yes, there appears to be an alarming rise in syphilis cases in the United States. Despite the availability of effective treatments, syphilis rates, particularly congenital syphilis, are increasing due to systemic health disparities and a lack of resources. This article highlights the shortcomings of our health system and underscores the importance of public education, robust testing, and timely treatment to combat this preventable disease. (From nytimes.com)
How ECMO Is Redefining Death
This long piece is worth your time. It dives into the fascinating advancements and ethical dilemmas surrounding ECMO (extracorporeal membrane oxygenation). Highlighted by the remarkable story of Shania Arms, a young woman living with cystic fibrosis, ECMO technology has proven to be a life-saving intervention for patients with severe respiratory and cardiac conditions. From its early experimental days to its widespread use during the COVID-19 pandemic, ECMO has evolved significantly. Today, it offers new hope while also presenting complex medical and ethical challenges. (From newyorker.com)
Pain Doesn’t Belong on a Scale of Zero to 10
Sometimes simplicity isn’t the answer, especially when it comes to pain. A valuable exploration of pain management and the evolution of the zero-to-10 pain scale. Through her own experience, a physician shares how this simple question often fails to capture the true nature of pain and the challenges in finding effective treatments. (From theatlantic.com)
How Insurers Use Doctors to Profit off Medical Codes
This fantastic series from Stat News explores the ways insurers like UnitedHealth are exploiting the Medicare Advantage system, leading to challenges for doctors and patients alike. By inflating patients' risk scores, insurers receive larger government subsidies, making more profit while care suffers. The episode is a great primer for understanding the systemic issues and financial incentives within healthcare insurance. (From statnews.com)