July

An “impressive tool for change” is how Dr Judy Dercksen des­cribes group visits—one of four modules offered by the General Practice Services Committee’s Practice Support Program (PSP). 

I am a lawyer. Initially, I was a bit uncomfortable with the idea of writing about MRIs for an audience of doctors. However, I believe this discomfort arises from an issue that should be addressed.

I find Dr Ian MacDonald’s comments in the letter published in the April issue of the BCMJ resonate with my own [2008;50:123-124], and more particularly with my own experience both in treatment/management of an addict during my general practice, and later, after a residency year in psychiatry, during my tenure as clinical director of the Narcotic Addiction Foundation in 1974–75. 

Dr Appleton seems to be confused in his response to my letter in the May issue of the BCMJ[2008;50:185]. Although video- conferencing clearly should be the long-term goal for the association, audioconferencing is available now and is neither expensive nor difficult. The information I passed on to the BCMA was in regard to audioconferencing.

I was concerned with some of the BCCA guidelines listed on page 199 (Breast cancer screening and diagnosis in British Columbia, BCMJ 2008;50:198-205). They are out of date, and do not include use of Breast Imaging Reporting and Data Systems (BIRADS) final assessment categories or current standards for further investigation and follow-up.