AMA launches flu Web site for physicians, patients

The American Medical Association (AMA) has launched AMAfluhelp.org to improve physician-patient communication and the coordination of care.

The Web site asks patients a series of questions to determine the severity of their flu symptoms based on the latest guidelines from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, then patients can choose to share their information with their physicians. The site also includes a set of online tools to help physicians monitor their patients’ symptoms, facilitate care and treatment decisions, and manage their practices’ patient flow.

“With both seasonal flu and H1N1 circulating this year, physician offices are already busier than normal,” said Mary Anne McCaffree, MD, a member of the AMA’s board, in a prepared statement. “This resource allows patients to assess their symptoms and determine when to seek care for themselves or their loved ones. To prevent the spread of influenza, this site also helps determine when it is safe for those who have been sick to return to work or school.”