Public Diabetes Prevention Initiative
The American Diabetes Association (ADA) has launched CheckUpAmerica, which is aimed at people who are at risk of type 2 diabetes and heart disease. The initiative encourages people older than 40 years to have regular checkups and take steps to reduce their risk. The program includes a nationwide radio media tour by Dr. John Buse of the ADA. An online personal assessment tool will be available later this year. For more information, visit the ADA's Web site,
Quality Reporting Answers Online
More than 50 frequently asked questions about the Physician Quality Reporting Initiative are available on the Web site of the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services. Visit
FDA Guidance on Drug Safety
A new guidance document from the Food and Drug Administration, “Drug Safety Information—FDA's Communication to the Public” facilitates patient and provider access to information about a drug's risks and benefits. It supersedes the draft guidance “FDA's 'Drug Watch' for Emerging Drug Safety Information” and is available at
www.fda.gov/cder/guidance/7477fnl.htm
Doctor-Patient Partnering Guide
The American Medical Association and the American Association of Retired Persons have produced a free pamphlet that outlines shared responsibilities with a goal to improve patient safety by encouraging patients to be partners with physicians in managing their health. For more information, contact the AMA by visiting