J Am Board Fam Med
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Social isolation is a risk factor for many diseases and overall increased mortality. Alternatively human connection has been noted to lead to healthier lives and longevity. ⋯ There are many organizations that we can refer our patients to in order to make connections. This lesson is one we as physicians need to embrace ourselves as loneliness during our busy days is affecting us too.
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This issue highlights climate change, its effects on patients, and actions clinicians can take to make a difference for their patients and communities. The issue also includes several reports on current trends in family physician practice patterns and the influence of practice structure. ⋯ Noteworthy among them is the description of an innovative yet simple device that allows patients to safely discard unused opioids. Other research covers adverse childhood experiences (ACEs), smoking cessation programs, and the impact of Medicare reimbursement rates on influenza vaccination.