J Am Board Fam Med
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Basal insulin therapy is a critical part of effective type 2 diabetes (T2D) management for many patients, yet its initiation and titration are often delayed or avoided. Aversion to basal insulin therapy contributes to unnecessary hyperglycemia and poorer outcomes for patients. Primary care physicians often make decisions regarding the initiation of basal insulin in T2D, as they work closely with patients and are well placed to discuss and manage the transition to basal insulin therapy. ⋯ Time concerns can be addressed via group classes and mobile technology and by working with diabetes educators in the community. Hypoglycemia or weight gain can be minimized with proper titration and use of second-generation basal insulins. This article reviews strategies for the initiation of basal insulin therapy, with an emphasis on the characteristics and titration of second-generation basal insulins, introducing current guidelines and offering suggestions for recognizing and overcoming barriers to insulin therapy in the management of T2D.
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Primary care physicians (PCPs) are increasing their role in the fight against the Hepatitis C Virus (HCV). Approximately 3.5 million Americans currently live with chronic HCV with rising incidence among young persons, especially those affected by the opioid epidemic. ⋯ Although treatment with new Direct Acting Antiviral agents ensure cure rates that routinely exceed 95%, as well as cause fewer adverse effects than previously available interferon-based regimens, some states still restrict access to HCV treatment, including by mandating which providers can prescribe and treat HCV. This special communication reviews HCV treatment resources, discusses data demonstrating similar cure rates between PCPs and specialists, and argues that capacity-building among PCPs will be necessary to control the HCV epidemic.