A Message from Shelly Voet, MD
June 2021
Hello fellow pediatric providers,
Thanks for taking the time to review Synapse. I am grateful for the opportunity to continue to work with our partners in Physician Outreach and Engagement who produce this newsletter for us each month. This issue has information about the fall mental health symposium, the new Cardiorespiratory Sports Clinic at CCHMC and a new Dermatology provider. Here are my updates:
1. Provider Survey - We spent time this month in our Community Practice Advisory Council reviewing the provider survey completed in the winter. We especially appreciate everyone’s free text comments as they helped us to better understand opportunities for improvement. I am honored to work with Jeff Anderson and Therese Martin in representing you as we discuss the survey with divisions and leadership.
2. New interns! This month brings the arrival of new interns on the wards at CCHMC. Please welcome them as you have the opportunity to speak with them about your patients. Our community advisory group also welcomes Erin McCann, our Chief Resident representative to the Communications Committee.
3. OPAT – Do you know about OPAT? I learned more about this service this month. OPAT (outpatient antibiotic therapy) is a service of ID. On the rare occasion that a patient has to go home on IV antibiotics, ID can manage the PICC line and antibiotics. They will ask the resident team to contact you first, however, to see if you prefer to manage (this rarely occurs except if the patient lives a significant distance AND the PCP is comfortable with managing). The resident may also ask if you would like to partner with ID by being the HOME CARE attending (separate from OPAT) so you are kept in the loop with non-ID issues that may arise.
4. Regarding COVID-19 and related issues:
- CCHMC is gradually unwinding some meeting restrictions and carefully following data. We will continue to update you in the weekly newsletter.
- Since testing volumes have decreased, CCHMC will be closing the Oak drive up testing site effective July 10. Testing will continue to be available at TRCs by appointment.
- AAP recently updated Guidelines for Sports participation can be found HERE. It includes updated guidance on return to play after infection. The CDC also published interim guidance for patients with post-COVID symptoms HERE.
- ACIP is meeting this week (June 23-25) and will include a review of the mild cases of myocarditis occurring in adolescents after COVID19 mRNA vaccines.
- CCHMC was well represented at the Ohio legislature this week as many CCHMC affiliated physicians gave testimony opposing Ohio HB 248. Thank you to all who participated. You can read the testimony and follow the status of this bill HERE.
Thanks for all you do to care for the kids in our region. Enjoy your Fourth of July and stay safe and healthy!
Shelly F. Voet MD
Pediatric Associates PSC
CCHMC Executive Community Physician Leader