My Hopes for 2022

L. Allen Dobson Jr., MD, FAAFP, is a family physician and Editor-in-Chief of Medical Economics® who wrote the article below titled, “My Hopes for 2022”.

“I am hopeful that all our trusted physicians and other health care clinicians will rediscover their voice and connection to their patients. We have been sidelined too long and need to be the voice of truth and reason on subjects of health.

I am hopeful that we will begin to address our country’s mental health needs and recognize that mental health services are indeed key primary care services and belongs integrated in our primary care system.

I am hopeful that we will evaluate any improvements in outcomes that are promised by value- based contracting and will strive to simplify and standardize the rules and metrics of value-based care. And while we’re at it, let’s look at the impact of consolidation and venture capital on our health care system.

Finally, am I hopeful or just wishful? I am hopeful because I see in our new residents and young graduates a passion for service, energy and professionalism that will rise above the politics and business of medicine that often get in the way of true change. Here’s to 2022 being the year that we begin to make significant strides in improving the US health care system.”