Optimizing Primary Care Practice in the Era of COVID-19

The COVID-19 pandemic has revolutionized the landscape of primary care practice, presenting clinicians with unprecedented challenges in ambulatory environments and virtual medicine. Despite these changes, primary care clinicians must remain committed to delivering high-quality, patient-centered care, focusing on preventive medicine, cardiovascular risk reduction, chronic disease management, women’s health, geriatrics, behavioral medicine, and optimizing diagnostic tests and new medications.

Health disparities and vulnerable patient care are integral components of daily practice, as clinicians strive to maximize quality, safety, equity, and value. Effective collaboration with specialists, inpatient colleagues, and diverse healthcare teams is crucial for delivering comprehensive care to complex patients.

A Comprehensive Review of Outpatient Medicine

This course offers a thorough review of recent developments in outpatient medicine, controversies in primary care practice, and best practices in caring for patients with COVID-19 and common illnesses. The program features:

• Formal lectures and case discussions
• An interactive audience response system
• Questions and answers sessions
• A detailed syllabus and on-demand access to course recordings
• Remote learning opportunities

Target Audience and Objectives

This course, chaired by Dr. Robert B. Baron and taught by UCSF’s esteemed faculty, is designed for practicing internists, family practitioners, advance practice providers, and all healthcare professionals seeking to enhance their primary care skills.

The primary objectives of this course are to:

• Improve clinician competence and practice in primary care
• Enhance skills and strategies for implementing new guidelines in office-based preventive medicine
• Effectively manage common office problems and specialty conditions
• Diagnose and treat women’s health issues, including cancer prevention and family planning
• Understand the impact of COVID-19 on primary care practice and apply best practices in patient care
• Stay informed about changes in health policy and their impact on clinical practice
• Select the most effective diagnostic tests and optimize value in medical practice
• Communicate effectively with patients and engage in shared decision-making
• Advocate for health disparities and equitable care

By the end of this course, participants will be well-equipped to provide high-quality, patient-centered care, navigating the complexities of primary care practice in the era of COVID-19.