Another Medicare paycut — this one, an average 5.4 percent — is looming for 2009, as well as rule changes affecting the ability of dermatologists to provide diagnostic tests for patients without running afoul of federal physician self-referral and anti-markup prohibitions.

You don't need to read another article telling you how terrible the malpractice crisis is. You already know that lawsuits are on the rise, jury awards are out of control, malpractice premiums are escalating to the point of being unaffordable, and the practice of medicine as we know it is severely threatened.

Both sides of the aisle are talking about making healthcare a campaign issue in the upcoming national elections.

Dr. Gift has practiced dermatology for 15 years and has enjoyed a long-term relationship with many of his pharmaceutical representatives. For years, he has enjoyed lavish dinners and sporting events; his staff has enjoyed wonderful lunches and dinners. At all such events, both he and his staff learned something.

The subprime mortgage crunch is rippling through our economy in a variety of different ways. Many homeowners are postponing plans to sell until the market stabilizes; others, with hopes for trading up to a bigger home, are opting to stay put, turning instead to remodeling or enlarging.

Dr. Photo has lectured at numerous American Academy of Dermatology meetings. His lectures are well-attended and receive the highest attendee rankings. His PowerPoint presentations are always noted for their exceptional clarity.

Government reimbursements for dermatologic procedures are shrinking, while the number of cases of skin cancer continue to rise.

The other day, I was visiting with my doctor following my annual checkup, and I asked him about the key concerns that he faces in his regional, three-physician practice in the Baltimore, Md., suburbs.

I recently read a short newspaper story (USA Today, May 27, 2008) from California, where it was reported that "two lawmakers want greater protection for cosmetic surgery patients."