Review of Surviving the Business of Healthcare

[Leia Temple]

[Following is a volunteer review of "Surviving the Business of Healthcare" by Barbara Galutia Regis PA-C.]

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5 out of 5 stars

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Transitioning into a new career path is a monumental decision that demands a great deal of perseverance and devotion. "Surviving the "Business" of Healthcare - Knowledge is Power! A Unique Perspective from a 4th Generation Family Practice Provider and Now Cancer Patient," penned by Barbara Galutia Regis, chronicles the author's journey into medicine after a flourishing career in music education. The author chose to tread the same path her father once did and became a certified physician assistant. This transition was considerably more difficult in the late 1990s, when the role of physician assistants was still in a state of flux.

Despite its brevity, this book left no stone unturned in outlining Regis' early encounters with medicine, particularly under the wing of her father. Her father was a physician in their small town during the early 1900s. The book's introduction underscored the importance of health insurance and generic medication in protecting patients from financial loss. The author used her own battle with cancer as a solid example, which further enforced the message. This rare dual perspective, embodying both the patient's and doctor's viewpoints, gave me a better understanding of the circumstances.

Furthermore, Regis' concise writing style would be perfect for readers who may be easily distracted. By deliberately avoiding the use of convoluted medical jargon, the content remained accessible to a broader audience. The informational tone also aligned with the author's to enlighten readers about the healthcare system. Even amidst the depiction of serious scenarios, the focus remained squarely on the factual information being imparted rather than eliciting emotion. Another noteworthy aspect of this book was Regis' advocacy for patients to seek second opinions. As someone who was often encouraged not to, I liked that she highlighted the significance of doing so.

Regis presented a stark contrast between the healthcare practices of the early 1900s and those of the contemporary era. Her father's dissatisfaction with the services provided was understandable. It was implied that modern medicine was more rigid and impersonal compared to that of the past, which I wholeheartedly agreed with. The emotional rapport and empathy that once characterized patient-doctor interactions were dwindling, a sentiment corroborated by studies on physicians' career satisfaction. In addition, Regis broached the often overlooked issue of elder abuse. It was commendable that she identified them as victims of a flawed system.

I had no criticisms for this book and as such, "Surviving the "Business" of Healthcare - Knowledge is Power! A Unique Perspective from a 4th Generation Family Practice Provider and Now Cancer Patient" was given a stellar 5-star rating. It delivered exactly what was promised in the synopsis and even more. The errors were minimal, consisting primarily of missing commas, and it contained no instances of profanity. There was also no sensual content.

"Surviving the "Business" of Healthcare - Knowledge is Power! A Unique Perspective from a 4th Generation Family Practice Provider and Now Cancer Patient" would be an ideal choice for readers who want to learn more about the healthcare system. It could also be a valuable resource for people interested in pursuing a career in the field of medicine.

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Surviving the Business of Healthcare
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[Gerry Steen]

This review summarizes the main elements of this book well. I agree that the concise writing style of the author is easy to follow and keeps the reader engaged. I enjoyed reading the anecdotes regarding the author's father's medical practice from when she was a child. They certainly illustrated, through comparison, how the medical practices of today are lacking the good bedside manner of the old days. Great review, Leia!

[Mfon Ukim]

I can gather that Barbara Galutia Regis writes her book from a dual perspective —as a patient and a medical practitioner. And so, it's clear that the contents of the book is tested and trusted based on her experience. It starts a lot of nerve to venture into healthcare. It's a complicated world. Writing a book based on her experience and medical technician is exemplary and highly commendable.

[Julie Marie Basil]

This sounds like a very interesting read. I too have experienced and disliked the impersonal nature of today's medical system and have found that seeking second and even third opinions can be very helpful when a provider does not seem to be listening well or be best-suited to assist in a particular medical situation. The parts of the book that contrast the medical system of the early 1900s with today's medical system sound fascinating. Keep up the good work!