Many people are happy to see 2017 in their rearview mirror. As a cup-is-half-full kind of gal, I’m less worried about getting the old year behind me and more concerned with where 2018 may take me. Starting my own business has become a reality. Imagining where I’ll be in the development process by the end of this calendar year, is certainly an interesting exercise. Growing the business is definitely on my mind.

I do believe that the key to success will be found through efficiently reaching out to potential clients. The Internet is certainly an effective platform to educate people. A goal of my business is to provide consultation to law practices who advise on a variety of legal matters related to the physical or mental health of individuals or groups. I love to write, so blogging in this fashion seems the perfect business opportunity.

The Greek philosopher, Heraclitus said, “Change is the only constant in life.” We see this at work in our lives every day. It’s my intent to regularly share information regarding changing healthcare issues that may be of interest to you in your practice and assist you as you develop cases. I also hope to give you insight into what a certified legal nurse consultant can add to your team.

In the coming weeks and months look for a variety of information to improve your understanding of current issues affecting healthcare where they may intersect with legal practice. Counselor, did you know . . .

• A recent case in Florida shows an increasing interest by the Federal Government in compounding pharmacies;
• The teen suicide rate is second only to the accident rate as the cause of death in the 15 to 19 age group;
• Recent studies show that older Americans are taking many unneeded drugs;
• Apple has become involved in cardiac research through the development of an EKG watch with a goal of learning more  about the cardiac arrhythmia atrial fibrillation;
• Benzodiazepines increase mortality risk associated with Alzheimer’s by 41%; and,
• New US hypertension guidelines have become more conservative.

I hope that delving into and educating yourself on these types of current issues, will be food for thought. For example, imagine the information that will be available via the Apple EKG watch and how that could potentially be of use in case development.

If you have a nurse on your team, use this blog as a starting point for discussion about what information may be useful to your firm. If you don’t have a nurse on your team, give me a call and I’ll be glad to discuss what we can do for you.

Wishing you all a very happy and health 2018.

Terri Chabaud, RN, CLNC
Terri Chabaud & Associates