President's Message: "Finite Resources "
J. Courtney Clyde MD SCMS President

(June 2009) Our country has faced rising debt
for many years, but now that debt is expanding to the realm of the truly unfathomable. There is much talk about cutting programs and raising taxes but in fact, no significant progress can be made without
widespread and systematic reform of Medicare and Social Security. These programs were started in expansive times when it appeared there would be no limits on what the USA could accomplish. Now, with economic problems bearing down on us, the end of cheap oil, and pressing ecological problems around the world, we are face to face with reality of finite resources. Perhaps framing the discussion of this problem using concept of “The Commons” may be useful in helping us as physicians understand how our profession can help move society towards a more wise use of limited resources. read more

The Challenge of Providing Primary Care Services to Spokane County.

EWU Primary Care StudyA just released study commissioned by the Spokane County Medical Society asked researchers to investigate the Challenge of Providing Primary Care Services to Spokane County. The comprehensive study available for download here was led by D. Patrick Jones, PhD, Executive Director of Eastern Washington University's Institute for Public Policy and Economic Analysis. "This study lays the framework for Spokane County Medical Society, the business and civic communities, hospitals, universities and legislative efforts for the next several years, according to Courtney Clyde, MD, SCMS President. For more information about the study please contact Janet L. Monaco, CEO, at (509) 325-5010.

Clarifying Physician-Patient Relationships.

Establishing clear professional boundaries is an integral part of patient care. Professional boundaries help to maintain the foundation of the doctor-patient relationship – trust and respect. The Spokane County Medical Society has developed a brochure addressing this issue titled "Professional Boundaries in Medicine: Clarifying Physician – Patient Relationships".

For a print copy of this brochure please email or telephone Michelle Caird, Executive Assistant to CEO, 509-325-5010, ext. 25