Hello! I hope everyone is having a great week and looking forward to the holiday weekend. Our late May weather here in Ohio has been stunning, and I’m soaking it up! We are headed to a family lake house in Michigan for the weekend, and I can’t wait for pontoon boat rides, s’mores, and lots of cousin playtime.

Here’s what I’m reading and thinking about this week.

In the News

This is a fascinating article about Ozempic, its rampant use in big cities like NYC and LA, social media’s influence and patient perspectives. GLP-1 agonists have changed my practice for the better. It’s amazing to have another tool in the toolkit for treating obesity, however, there is still so much to learn here.

In Your Practice

I love this tip from Dr. Kittleson via Twitter.

Having a detailed plan is helpful for your colleagues who might be taking a call for you and referring to your notes, and it’s also helpful to a patient who is reviewing your notes after their visit.

In Your Heart

Our healthcare organization dropped masks in patient care settings a little over a month ago. Honestly, I was shocked at how different I felt that first visit without a mask. Naked! Exposed! Like I needed to rush out and buy a new tube of lipstick. (Just kidding…but not really 🙂).

Over the past 3 years, masks have provided a sense of security, not only from an infectious disease standpoint, but also from an emotional one. It was easier to hide reactions and feelings behind a mask. Navigating patient visits now maskless, I feel more vulnerable but also more connected. It is a breath of fresh air.

I’m leaning into these moments during my time with patients. I’m trying to spend a couple extra minutes asking questions about family, about recent trips, about family pets. Without a mask, these conversations feel a little deeper, a little more honest. This emotional connection - it is what primary care is all about.

Here’s to full-faced smiles, smirks, laughter, tears, and even new lipstick.

Have a wonderful weekend and Happy Memorial Day!

Ashley