I'm retiring from patient care Sep 1, 2016
It's no secret.
I'm turning 65 on September 2, and plan to retire from patient care then. I'll work 75% time in my geek role at the University of Missouri, improving the usability of the software physicians use so they can spend more time with you and less time with the computer in the room.
It’s been a true pleasure and a great honor serving so many of you over the past 34 years here in Columbia. I’ll miss the relationships, but I’ll savor the memories. I’m confident we’re training the next generation of healers well here at the University of Missouri.
What should you do if you are a patient of mine?
Since last September, I've been helping each patient I see pick their next primary care physician (PCP), finding a good match for their particular needs.
What if you have not seen me in the past year?
We’ll send you a letter identifying your new family physician. You’ll have the freedom to make an alternative choice if you prefer. The letters go out in August. The computer listing the identity of your new PCP gets changed September 1.
What should you do if you can’t get an appointment before I retire?
That could happen as September gets closer and the openings get fewer. If you have a need and can’t get an appointment, you can call and leave a message at 573-884-7733, or send a secure message in the online portal, MU Healthe. We’ll find a way to meet your needs, whether it’s simple advice or recommending a visit with a trusted colleague of mine.
What if you want to change your PCP listing now (rather than waiting)?
You really don’t need to do that. I'm still your doctor until I'm gone (that sounds so final – almost fatal). Your new physician at University Physicians Family Medicine has immediate access to your medical records. All my notes about you since I started working there in 2007 are readily available.
Do you need to contact your health insurance to let them know of your new PCP?
Mostly no.
Only if you are leaving our Family Medicine University Physicians group of practices do you need to do that. For instance, if you decide to see one of the doctors who admit to Boone Hospital Center, then you should contact your health insurance company to make that primary care physician change as of September 1, 2016.
Should you request a medical records be sent to your new physician?
No. I suggest you simply see your new physician first.
Then together you’ll discover what information, if any, is needed from your medical record. In many cases, only immunization dates and medication lists are needed. In complex situations, your physician will help select the specific details that they need. My most recent note is likely to have 90% or more of the necessary information your new physician will need.
Please DO NOT request “Send all records”. That's information overload for your new doctor. The needle gets lost in the haystack.
Best wishes with your new physician. I am looking forward to taking Friday's off.